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Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days

4 days
Start and end in Cusco
4.8
22 traveler reviews
Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days - TreXperience
  • Hiking & Trekking
  • Family
  • Custom
  • Mountain Hikes
  • Group
  • Fully Guided
  • Personalized
  • Christmas & New Year
Fully Guided
An experienced guide will be with you for the entire tour
Medium Intensity
Travelers should be comfortable with somewhat-demanding activities
Guided in English, Spanish
Group Size 1 - 16
Age range 12 to 65

Highlights

  • Challenge yourself and hike the Salkantay Inca Trail
  • Trek through the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley
  • Celebrate your victory with 'that' photo of Machu Picchu
  • Journey through the picturesque scenery of the Andes
Map

Itinerary

Expand All
  1. Introduction
  1. Day 1 Cusco hotel – Humantay Lake – Salkantay basecamp
  2. Day 2 Salkantay basecamp - Hayrajpunku – Collpapampa
  3. Day 3 Collpapampa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
  4. Day 4 Machu Picchu (The Lost City of the Incas) – Cusco
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What's Included

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  • Accommodation
  • Guide
  • Meals
  • Additional Services
  • Transport
  • Free eSIM
    TourRadar offers the lead traveler (the person who booked) a free 1GB eSIM for the trip. The eSIM is redeemable only through the TourRadar app 72 hours before departure.

What's Not Included

  • Flights
  • Insurance
  • Optional
  • Additional Services

Customer Photos

Operated by

TreXperience

Number of tours

49

Age Range

1 to 80 years old

Response time

7 hours

Response rate

100%

We are a 100% local tour operator and our aim is to maximize the positive...

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Customer Reviews

  • Overall Rating
    Excellent
    4.8
  • Itinerary
    Excellent
    4.8
  • Guide
    Excellent
    4.6
  • Transport
    Excellent
    4.6
  • Accommodation
    Excellent
    4.6
  • Food
    Excellent
    4.9
  • 4.9
  • Most Recent
  • Most Popular
  • Highest First
  • Lowest First
  • Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days reviewer 1
    · November 11th, 2024
    The trek was really good. Frank was nice with us. The cookers were incredible, the food was really good!
    Show more
    Trip date: November 2024
  • Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days reviewer 2
    · September 8th, 2024
    A fantastic experience. It was tough but rewarding to climb to up the Salkantay pass. The first night was by far the hardest - cold camping just under the pass, but we were given many blankets and a hot water bottle, and woken up with hot tea first thing in the morning. Many thanks to our guide Roger for making sure no one felt left behind and being very informative and helpful throughout (and thanks to the chefs lead by Eulogio)
    Show more
    Trip date: August 2024
  • Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days reviewer 3
    · June 6th, 2024
    Thanks to the breathtaking beauty of the region and the excellence of TreXPerience guides, the Salkantay Trek is the adventure of a lifetime. Seamlessly blending adventure and awe-inspiring landscapes, this trek offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and natural grandeur of the Peruvian Andes. Led by excellent guides, every step is a journey through diverse terrain, from lush, low-winding valleys to towering mountain peaks. With their patience and professionalism, the guides elevate the journey, ensuring safety and fostering camaraderie among my trekking group. This trek exceeds expectations, and I have absolutely no regrets that I chose TreXPerience.
    Show more
    Trip date: April 2024
  • DC
    · June 1st, 2024
    Absolutely loved this tour! The sites were stunning and all meals delicious and fresh. The trek is beautiful but was made even better by our guides. I’d recommend this to anyone
    Show more
    Trip date: May 2024
  • Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days reviewer 5
    · April 19th, 2024
    Very well timed and organized, the distances were really well dispatched every day. The service and the food were amazing (different peruvian meal each day) !! The guide was friendly, professional and had lots of stories to tell
    Show more
    Trip date: April 2024
  • AG
    · April 19th, 2024
    Amazing experience with our guide Roger ! The trek was an unforgettable experience. Great food also everyday thanks to our chef Alejandro !
    Show more
    Trip date: April 2024
  • AM
    · December 17th, 2022
    Well, where to start with this review! I originally had booked onto the 5 day Ultimate Salkantay Trek but 2 weeks before I was advised that no one else had booked onto the tour so needed to go onto the classic 4 day Salkantay trip to Machu Pichu, I was disappointed but I was refunded the difference in Tours and the extra day allowed me to book a rainbow mountain tour! (Every cloud). I arrived in Cusco and there were whispers of protests given the political climate in Peru at the moment. Trekexpierence then advised me that the route to Salkantay was blocked with protests and there was no way for us to get through to the starting point, the offered me 2 options, to wait and see if tensions calmed between the protestors and the government or I could do the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour which would be departing the same day. Unfortunately given time constraints I had to take the other tour. I was very disappointment and at this point was already thinking about how this review was going to be a negative one, how wrong was I. During our evening brief the day before Pepe our tour guide briefed us on what to expect and that we would be leaving earlier than originally planned to avoid and potential road blockades by the protestors (3:00am), I am so glad we did because on the way we did see protestors using machines to start blocking the roads to stop people getting to kilometre 82 (the start of the Inca trail). We arrived safely and started our trek, it was absolutely fantastic, Pepe was a great tour guide and the porters were all really supportive. The food was brilliant and they always made sure that you had enough snacks and water for the day. We always felt safe and very well looked after. Due to the protests we were one of the last groups able to get onto the Inca trail which meant that when we arrived at Machu Picchu we were the only ones in the city, it was incredible. I would highly recommend trekexpirence and would just like to reiterate my thanks to Pepe for being a great tour guide, the team of porters for working so hard in carrying all of our equipment up the mountains and the chef for cooking us delicious food for 4 days. Thanks to all at trekexperience for a once in a lifetime experience. Anthony
    Show more
    Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days customer review photo 1Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days customer review photo 2Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days customer review photo 3Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days customer review photo 4Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days customer review photo 5Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days customer review photo 6
    Trip date: December 2022
  • Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days reviewer 8
    · July 1st, 2022
    This is an incredible tour. You need to be ready to do some serious mountain hiking at high altitude before you sign up for this. Our tour guide, Carlos, spoke fantastic English and did an excellent job motivating us and keeping us going during some of the more challenging parts of the hike My only complaint is the tipping. The review of the tour is very misleading about the tipping. The website lists some general tip amounts which we were ready to give. On day zero, our tour guide then gave us a discussion on his recommended tips, while reminding us that they are optional. He also told us that we would only need to tip at the end, and that we would give one consolidated tip that would go to all the services. This seemed reasonable. However, after the first day we were asked to tip the driver who drive us three hours and we were all confused. We awkwardly handed over some money and started hiking. The second day our tour guide again told us recommended tips amounts. We were then asked to tip the mule driver, who stood standing nearby awaiting a tip. Again, very awkward. That night during dinner, Carlos again talked about recommended tips for the cooks and we finally told him that this was seriously awkward and that we felt guilt ridden to repeatedly tip. An uncomfortable conversation ensued where he feigned surprise at our discomfort. The third day we were asked to tip the cooks. By this time, all the participants had decided what to tip everyone so we gave our group tip to the cooks before we said goodbye. We handled them a bundle of bills to keep it discreet, but Carlos directly asked us in front of them how much we gave. We told him 300 soles, then the cooks (who we thought we wouldn't see again) got in the van with us for the next hour. Thankfully, our tip was fairly generous otherwise this would have been monumentally awkward The last day we gave Carlos a large tip, because ultimately we felt he kind of got screwed only getting three customers for a very physically challenging tour, but we cannot understate for awkward the tipping was the entire time.
    Show more
    Trip date: June 2022
  • MG
    · June 28th, 2022
    5 stars all around. Would highly recommend this experience. Our guide, Monolo was excellent. As a descendant of the Incans, he gave us a rich understanding of the culture and history of the Andes. Despite what Monolo might tell you, his English was great and it was easy to understand. The hiking and the views were fantastic and the treks on each day are well thought out. There are a couple of difficult treks in terms of altitude and incline but our guide was essential in motivating our journey. The food was exceptional. The chefs are professional and the food is better than what you can buy at a restaurant. Throughout the experience we had a chance to talk to other tourists and based on our conversations, this group was very immersive. We learned so much and had a great time. Overall we would highly recommend.
    Show more
    TreXperience commented on this review
    Dear traveler, thank you for your kind comments! They help us to improve every day. We are really happy you enjoyed this adventure with us.
    Trip date: June 2022
  • K
    · June 7th, 2022
    100% do this tour, it will be the best thing you ever do
    Show more
    Trip date: June 2022

Dates & Availability

4 days
Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4 Days
From Cusco to Cusco

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What our customers ask about this tour

The content in our FAQ section is subject to change.
All questions
  • B

    Brandon

    Asked on March 3rd, 2025

    Could u please send me pics of tents and campsites, food offered/cooked so i have a better idea if i want to book this trip? Also my daughter doesn't eat red meat so what meat options do u offer?

    Accommodation
    Meals
    Tour Details
    • TreXperienceOperatorWritten March 2025

      All meals are prepared with fresh local ingredients, including a Pachamanca barbecue. Accommodation: 2 nights glamping/camping + 1 night in a 3-star hotel.

    • B

      Brandon

      TravelerWritten March 2025

      I asked what meat options do you offer besides chicken but cant eat red meat?

    • TreXperienceOperatorWritten March 2025

      Yes, we also offer seafood.

    • B
      2 more answers
  • J

    Jorge

    Asked on February 26th, 2025

    What do I need to bring for the trek in terms of gear?

    Tour Details
    • TreXperienceOperatorWritten February 2025

      You should bring a small daypack, plenty of water, and waterproof clothing for the trek. Rental options for sleeping bags and trekking poles are also available.

  • M

    Marc

    Asked on February 4th, 2025

    can I book for two adults from my account? Is there availability leaving cusco on may 30th 2025(29th could also be an option). how big are the tents? (how many people?). Are there WC tents included - or can you add this option? what gear do you recommend to take? (hike boots, or trail shoes? wet weather gear etc?). can you recommend hotels in cusco for day before and day after the tour? 3 or 4* with private bathroom prefferred. which entrance ticket is included to Machu Picchu? does it makes sense to purchase the additional machu picchu entrance tickets? what is the difference in the two other entrance ticket types? what is the cost difference if we make the tour privately?

    Accommodation
    Group size
    Price / Availability
    Tour Details
    Transport
    • TreXperienceOperatorWritten February 2025

      Yes, you can book for two people using your account. We have a confirmed group departure on May 27. For May 29 or 30, we can organize a private tour. We use Eureka tents designed to fit four people, but for comfort, we assign them to two participants per tent. We provide a portable toilet tent. For May, we recommend mountain trekking boots with good grip. We can arrange 3-star hotels for $95 USD per night. The package includes Machu Picchu – Circuit 2. Additional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain cost $75 USD per person. A private service costs $1,390 USD per person.

    • M

      Marc

      TravelerWritten February 2025

      When would you know if the group tour will take place on May 29 or 30th? We can maybe push forward our itinerary to start on May 28th. I am concerned about cutting short our acclimatization time in cusco. We prefer the group tour. I want to know about the entrance time regulations and train schedule back to Cusco.

    • TreXperienceOperatorWritten February 2025

      To confirm a group for May 29 or 30, we would need to place your reservation on the waiting list. The safest option is May 27. You can stay in Machu Picchu for about 2.5 to 3 hours. The train back is usually booked between 14:55 and 15:20, arriving in Cusco between 19:00 and 19:30. It's best to book train tickets 2 to 3 months in advance.

    • M

      Marc

      TravelerWritten February 2025

      I have booked for 2 people on the tour for 27 May. I would appreciate if you can put us on the waiting list for both 29 and 30 May. We are hoping to preserve our acclimatization time.

    • TreXperienceOperatorWritten February 2025

      We have confirmed your booking for May 27th and purchased your Machu Picchu (Circuit 2) entry ticket. We will notify you about availability for May 29 or 30. Changing dates would require a penalty as Machu Picchu tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.

    • M
      4 more answers
  • C

    Cassandra

    Asked on January 19th, 2025

    Do we have the pass for Machu Picchu? What is exactly Huayna Picchu Mountain / Machu Picchu Mountain? If I take one of these, is there a difference during the trek or my group? Have you ever done this trek? Do you maybe have a request for me to do in Peru?

    Tour Details
    • TreXperienceOperatorWritten January 2025

      Yes, the package already includes the Machu Picchu citadel entrance tickets. Huayna Picchu mountain and Machu Picchu Mountain are extra hikes that you can do after the guided tour in Machu Picchu citadel. Huayna Picchu is the iconic peak behind Machu Picchu, a steep, adventurous hike (2-3 hours) with narrow trails and stunning close-up views. Machu Picchu Mountain is a taller, less steep mountain on the opposite side. The hike is longer (3-4 hours) but offers panoramic views of the citadel and surrounding valleys. You will have time just for one of the mountains. If you do not do the extra hikes, other people can explore Aguas Calientes and wait for lunch there.

  • L

    Larissa

    Asked on September 3rd, 2024

    What is included in the meals during the trek?

    Meals
    • TreXperienceOperatorWritten September 2024

      All meals are included during the trek, consisting of breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day.

  • N

    Nicole

    Asked on August 6th, 2024

    Are there any health recommendations for the trek?

    Other
    • TreXperienceOperatorWritten August 2024

      Consult your doctor regarding vaccinations, such as for yellow fever and rabies, especially if traveling to other regions.

  • H

    Helen

    Asked on July 27th, 2024

    Could you state the daily elevation changes that will be covered? This is the key parameter to estimate the effort on the hike.

    Tour Details
    • TreXperienceOperatorWritten July 2024

      Below is the daily elevation change for the 4-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu: Day 1: Cusco to Wayllabamba Uphill: 400 meters (1312 feet) Downhill: None Highest Point: 3000 meters (9843 feet). Day 2: Wayllabamba to Pacaymayo Uphill: 1200 meters (3937 feet) Downhill: 600 meters (1969 feet) Highest Point: 4200 meters (13780 feet). Day 3: Pacaymayo to Wiñay Wayna Uphill: 400 meters (1312 feet) Downhill: 1000 meters (3281 feet) Highest Point: 3600 meters (11811 feet). Day 4: Wiñay Wayna to Machu Picchu Uphill: 200 meters (656 feet) Downhill: 300 meters (984 feet) Highest Point: 2730 meters (8957 feet).

  • L

    Lesley

    Asked on June 13th, 2024

    What is the accommodation during the trek?

    Accommodation
    • TreXperienceOperatorWritten June 2024

      You will be camping in tents for the first two nights, while the last night will be spent in a hotel.

  • T

    Tom

    Asked on May 28th, 2024

    How do I book the optional services for the trek?

    Travel Support
    • TreXperienceOperatorWritten May 2024

      You can pay for optional services, such as renting equipment, through the provided payment links when booking your trek.

  • M

    Mareike

    Asked on May 5th, 2024

    What should I do if I need medical assistance during the trek?

    Travel Support
    • TreXperienceOperatorWritten May 2024

      During the trek, our guides are trained to handle emergencies and will take you to a medical post if needed.

Can’t find the answer to your question?
Reach out to the experts at TreXperience with your enquiry, they usually respond within 7 hours.

Good to Know

Tour ID: 133099

  • Currency
    S/.
    Sol
    Peru
  • Plugs & Adapters

  • Vaccines
    • These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
    • Typhoid - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
    • Hepatitis A - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
    • Tuberculosis - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 3 months before travel.
    • Hepatitis B - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 2 months before travel.
    • Rabies - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 1 month before travel.
    • Yellow fever - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 10 days before travel.
  • Visa
    • Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
    • Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
  • Payment information
    • For any tour departing before June 8th, 2025 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after June 8th, 2025, a minimum payment of $340 is required to confirm your booking with TreXperience. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 6 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
    • Some departure dates and prices may vary and TreXperience will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
    • The following cards are accepted for "TreXperience" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
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    Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveler, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team, who are ready and waiting to help you.

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