group of hikers in mountains on sunny day on salkantay trek to macchu picchu
local spiritual leader performing blessing on salkantay trek to machu picchu
several hikers and a horse approach ridge on salkantay trek to machu picchu
approaching machu picchu on salkantay trek land tour
group shot of hikers on salkantay trek to machu picchu peru land tour
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South America Peru Land Tour

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

This 7- or 9-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu lodge-to-lodge private trekking experience follows a historic section of the Inca trail through 15 different eco-systems, traversing a mountain pass over 15,000 feet in elevation and exploring villages where locals still maintain age-old traditions. 

The journey starts and ends via the XO Art House in Cusco, Peru (former capital of the Inca empire) at 11,000 feet. Follow a little-known route through the Vilcabamba range, a spellbinding region of misty foothills blanketed in lush greenery and high Andes peaks cloaked in white. Cross a mountain pass at nearly 15,000 feet, marvel at hidden ruins and visit isolated communities where traditions of pre-Columbian cultures still thrive. Complete the journey by rediscovering the mystical beauty of Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca Empire, with a special stay at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Each day’s trek ends with a hot shower in a cozy private lodge within the Salkantay collection of Mountain Lodges of Peru, complemented by a massage or a dip in an outdoor jacuzzi, followed by a gourmet meal with select wines and highly personalized service by local staff. The Salkantay experience goes beyond deluxe lodges and a great trek; it is a unique opportunity to experience ancient history in the Land of the Incas, as well as the most interesting and exotic variety of flora and fauna, all in the company of new friends and like-minded souls—or make it private with just your own friends and family. Spend evenings unwinding at a variety of mountain trekking lodges, each offering a full bar, hot tub and views of snow-clad peaks or subtropical hillsides.

AdventureSmith’s Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is typically booked as a complete 9-day Peru travel package. However, the 7-day trek-only itinerary (and trekking portion of the full 9-day itinerary) consists of 6 days (2 days the hikes are optional) of moderate to strenuous hiking at elevations of 6,600 to 15,000 feet and up to 6 miles per day along diverse trails that range from flat and grassy to steep and rocky slopes.

Read on to view the 9-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Full Itinerary, which includes pre- and post-trek accommodations in Cusco, as well as a guided city tour. There is also a 7-day Lodge-to-Lodge Equestrian Adventure that includes 5 days of horseback riding on fine American Quarter Horses from top farms in Uruguay and 1 day hiking (as horses cannot travel over the Llactapacta Trail). Please call AdventureSmith Explorations for pricing and more details. 

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Peru tours, Peru travel and best Machu Picchu tours.



Itinerary

9-Day Full Itinerary

The 9-day full itinerary includes pre- and post-trek accommodations and a half-day guided city tour of Cusco, for an all-inclusive experience. This itinerary also offers an optional full-day Sacred Valley tour.

Route map of Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, operating in the Andes mountains, roundtrip from Cusco, Peru with stops at Salkantay Lodge, Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, the Santa Teresa River Valley, Llactapata Pass and Machu Picchu.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Cusco, Peru

Upon arrival at the Cusco airport, be transferred by a local representative to your accommodations. Cusco, at 10,856 feet, is the center of the Inca Empire. Embark on an afternoon guided orientation of Cusco’s Spanish churches and ancient Inca sites, including the fortress of Sacsayhuaman with its megalithic stone terraces. Enjoy a briefing at your Cusco hotel and then have time to relax before your trek. Overnight in Cusco at 10,856 feet.

Optional Full-day Sacred Valley Tour

For an additional cost, choose to begin your trek a day earlier and add a full-day guided excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Tour the picturesque village of Pisac, best known for its well-preserved Inca ruins, impressive agricultural terraces and open-air markets on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch in Urubamba, a small town located by the eponymous river under the snowcapped peaks of Mount Chicon. Then visit the town of Ollantaytambo, which dates from the late 15th century and has some of the oldest continuously occupied dwellings in South America. Before returning to Cusco, visit the town of Chinchero, which comprises mainly mud brick (adobe) houses and where locals go about their business in traditional dress.

Accommodations

XO Art House (or similar)

Meals

n/a

Read More
Day 2
Cusco to Salkantay Lodge

After an early breakfast, be picked up by your tour guide and driver at your hotel in Cusco. Visit the Quillarumiyoc archaeological site first. Then stop in the mountain village of Mollepata and visit El Pedregal, a beautiful farmhouse, to learn about local agriculture and livestock.

After lunch, take a scenic ride on the winding mountain road to a site called Challacancha and begin your hike to Soraypampa along a picturesque path called the “Camino Real” (Royal Path). Begin to acclimate to the higher altitude. Around the final turn of the Camino Real, the Salkantay Lodge will come into view. Guests who do not wish to trek may be transported to the lodge by vehicle. Overnight at Salkantay Lodge at 12,690 feet.

Trekking Time
: approximately 3 hours, including lunch at organic Farm El Pedregal
Hiking Level: easy to moderate

Accommodations

Salkantay Lodge (12,690 feet)

Meals

lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Hike to Humantay Lake

Day 3 presents another opportunity to gauge your altitude acclimatization with a half-day hike to Lake Humantay. After breakfast, begin the ascent up the slopes that border the plateau behind the Salkantay Lodge. An hour and a half later, see the stunning turquoise water of the lake and the glacier looming overhead. Relax, enjoy a snack, meditate in the tranquility of this magical spot and be part of a traditional offering to “Pachamama” (Mother Earth). The morning’s hike to Lake Humantay is optional, but participation is strongly recommended to prepare for tomorrow’s strenuous hike.

After descending back to the lodge, staff are awaiting with a hot lunch. Spend the second half of the day at leisure: soak in the outdoor Jacuzzi, indulge in a relaxing massage or take a long nap. Overnight at Salkantay Lodge at 12,690 feet.

Trekking Time: approximately 4 hours
Hiking Level: easy to moderate

Optional Activities

Chakana excursion (subject to additional cost): Horseback/hiking combo up the steep hills adjacent the lodge. The destination—a dramatic lookout point over the Salkantay River Valley marked by an oversized Inca Chakana (cross). This excursion will replace the hike to the glacier lake.
Duration: approximately 5 hours (1.5 – 2 hours on horseback)

Horseback riding (subject to additional cost): After lunch, spend a leisurely afternoon exploring Soraypampa on horseback.
Duration: approximately 2 hours

Accommodations

Salkantay Lodge (12,690 feet)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Crossing Salkantay Pass

After an early start, hike up the Rio Blanco valley, circling Humantay Peak. Gradually make your way up the mountain trails and encounter expansive plateaus dotted with boulders of varying sizes, the remnants of a valley that was once bisected by a fast-flowing river. The final and most challenging part of the ascent is conquering the mountain switchbacks that take you to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point on the trek at 15,213 feet. What follows is a dramatic descent through fields of giant boulders, often shrouded in fog.

Have some time to rest and enjoy some trail mix before the final hike through the area’s bucolic countryside; its rolling hills will eventually lead you through marsh-like plateaus to the Wayra Lodge at Wayraccmachay, where you can wash away the trail dirt and have a great hot and tasty lunch. In the afternoon, relax in the Jacuzzi or enjoy the great and impressive views of surroundings high snowed peaks. Overnight at Wayra Lodge at 12,812 feet.

Trekking Time: approximately 6 hours
Hiking Level: challenging

Accommodations

Wayra Lodge (12,812 feet)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Descending into the Cloud Forest

After a leisurely breakfast at the Wayra Lodge, continue the descent along the banks of the Salkantay River through increasingly verdant scenery. Encounter local people, as the trail passes their simple homes and makeshift fences. Arrive at Colpa Lodge, located on a high promontory at the confluence of three rivers. Be greeted by the staff with a Pachamanca lunch, a traditional Peruvian meal cooked in the earth by hot stones that create a natural underground oven. After lunch, spend the afternoon lounging in the sun or relaxing in the outdoor Jacuzzi while taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding lush green mountains. Overnight at Colpa Lodge at 9,414 feet.

Trekking Time: approximately 3-4 hours
Hiking Level: easy to moderate

Accommodations

Colpa Lodge (9,414 feet)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Following the Santa Teresa River Valley

Today, hike in the Santa Teresa River Valley along a rolling trail that crosses fertile fruit orchards and bisects
streams originating from glacier-fed waterfalls. Rest alongside the river, then continue hiking for 1 more hour before meeting a vehicle to take a short drive to the beginning of the Llactapata Inca Trail, which leads to Lucma Lodge. Enjoy a great lunch at the lodge and afterwards, visit an organic coffee plantation, one of many in the area that produces some of the best organic coffee in the world. In Lucmabamba, the hot air and increased humidity indicate your proximity to the edge of the Amazon Jungle. Overnight at Lucma Lodge at 7,003 feet.

Trekking Time
: approximately 5.5 hours, including lunch
Hiking Level: moderate to challenging

Accommodations

Lucma Lodge (7,003 feet)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
First Views of Machu Picchu from Llactapata Pass

After breakfast, depart from Lucma Lodge and embark on a 2-3 hour climb through the cloud forest up a path mostly comprised of original Inca steps. A lush tree line creates green canopies overhead and the constant sound of rushing water suggests that the river is nearby. Today’s first milestone will be the top of the peak, the last one before descending to the Aobamba River Valley that connects to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival at the Llactapata Pass (8,974 feet), delight in a southeast view of Machu Picchu, a sight few travelers get the chance to admire.

After exploring Llactapata, the Inca tambo (fort) that marks the pass, enjoy a picnic lunch at a mountain lookout point with panoramic views. The final descent along a trail that zigzags down to the roaring Aobamba River leads through lush bamboo forests, varied fruit orchards and more coffee plantations. Celebrate while crossing the bridge over the river and take the final steps of the trek en route to the Hidroelectrica train station for a scenic 1-hour train ride to the town of Aguas Calientes, on the banks of the Urubamba River at the base of Machu Picchu. Overnight at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel at 6,693 feet.

Trekking Time
: approximately 4-6 hours
Hiking Level: moderate to challenging

Accommodations

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (6,693 feet)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
The Citadel of Machu Picchu

At dawn, begin the journey to Machu Picchu with a short and rollicking uphill bus ride. Prepare to be awed by the imposing and skillful architecture of the Watchtower, the Temple of the Sun, and the royal Inca residences, among many others. After a two-hour guided tour, you will have free time to explore on your own. At some point, be sure to take a moment and sit quietly–listen to the wind, meditate and absorb the mystical energy that envelops you.

Next, consider a hike to Huayna Picchu (added cost), the iconic towering mountain often seen in photographs. Note that entrance to Huayna Picchu is 10:00am or 10:30am and requires permits, which are subject to availability and should be confirmed during your trip reservation. In the event that Huayna Picchu permits are not available for your desired date, Machu Picchu Mountain (the second peak within the sanctuary) permits will be secured instead, at added cost.

After, have lunch in Aguas Calientes beforea scenic Vistadome train ride to Ollantaytambo (~1.5 hours) and then a transfer by vehicle (~1.5 hours) back to Cusco. As night falls and you arrive at your hotel amidst the hustle and bustle of Cusco, and recall the feeling of peace and rejuvenation that will linger long after the return journey home.

Trekking Time: approximately 4 hours
Hiking Level: challenging

Optional Additional Day at Machu Picchu

For an additional cost, choose to extend your trip and spend an extra day in Machu Picchu. Even though there is enough time to see the core of Machu Picchu Sanctuary during the regular guided tour, most guests realize they would have liked to stay a little longer since there is so much to explore. Tell your Adventure Specialist at the time of reservation if you would like to add this optional day.

Accommodations

XO Art House (or similar)

Meals

breakfast, lunch

Read More
Day 9
Depart Cusco, Peru

After a final breakfast at your Cusco hotel, transfer to the airport for your flight or to continue on to other adventures.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All transportation services for the duration of the standard detailed itineraries; 8 nights of accommodations in lodges and affiliate hotels; all meals and beverages including soft drinks and a house selection of beer, wine, and spirits (at Salkantay, Wayra, Copla and Lucma Lodges only); fully guided bilingual activities and excursions, except for scheduled times marked as leisure; transfer services; entrance fees and permits to touristic and archaeological sites; all gratuities for staff, excluding guides (to be determined at guests’ discretion); wireless internet access (Wi-Fi) at all lodges and hotels; half-day guided city tour in Cusco; all airport-hotel transfers.

Exclusions

Airfare; excess baggage charges; airport departure tax from Peru; optional activities (optional extra day in Sacred Valley, etc.); items of a personal nature like bottled water and sports drinks, massage/spa services, laundry fees and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of $500 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 30 days – 25% of total trip cost
29 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 9-day full itinerary begins and ends in Cusco, Peru (CUZ). Arrive in Cusco by 2:00pm on Day 1 to accommodate your Cusco city tour this afternoon (or in time for an evening briefing prior to Day 1). Depart from Cusco at any time of day on Day 9. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

The Peru Mountain Lodge Trek requires good physical conditioning. Travelers hike up to 6 miles each day with elevation gains of over 15,000 feet. Spending 1 or 2 nights in Cusco, Peru, at 10,856 feet in elevation prior to departure will help with acclimating to the altitude. Included adventure activities may include hiking and glacier viewing. Additional cost activities may include horseback riding.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at a 50% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select rooms upon availability. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select rooms free of charge. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Due to the high altitude in the Cusco region and the physically demanding nature of the Salkantay Trek, minimum age for this trip is 12 years old.

Travel Insurance

This trip requires proof of insurance coverage as a minimum for Medical Emergency Treatment and Evacuation; please be sure that your policy includes Adventure Travel Activities or similar when purchasing. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, National Park regulation or at the guides’ discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of adventure travel unique.

7-Day Trek Only Itinerary

The 7-day trek only itinerary focuses purely on the trekking portion of the 9-day itinerary, providing flexibility for pre- and post-trek options to be booked on your own.

Route map of Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, operating in the Andes mountains, roundtrip from Cusco, Peru with stops at Salkantay Lodge, Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, the Santa Teresa River Valley, Llactapata Pass and Machu Picchu.
Read More
Day 1
Cusco to Salkantay Lodge, Peru

After an early breakfast, be picked up by your tour guide and driver at your hotel in Cusco. Visit the Quillarumiyoc archaeological site first. Then stop in the mountain village of Mollepata and visit El Pedregal, a beautiful farmhouse, to learn about local agriculture and livestock.

After lunch, take a scenic ride on the winding mountain road to a site called Challacancha and begin your hike to Soraypampa along a picturesque path called the “Camino Real” (Royal Path). Begin to acclimate to the higher altitude. Around the final turn of the Camino Real, the Salkantay Lodge will come into view. Guests who do not wish to trek may be transported to the lodge by vehicle. Overnight at Salkantay Lodge at 12,690 feet.

Trekking Time
: approximately 3 hours, including lunch at organic Farm El Pedregal
Hiking Level: easy to moderate

Accommodations

Salkantay Lodge (12,690 feet)

Meals

lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 2
Hike to Humantay Lake

Day 3 presents another opportunity to gauge your altitude acclimatization with a half-day hike to Lake Humantay. After breakfast, begin the ascent up the slopes that border the plateau behind the Salkantay Lodge. An hour and a half later, see the stunning turquoise water of the lake and the glacier looming overhead. Relax, enjoy a snack, meditate in the tranquility of this magical spot and be part of a traditional offering to “Pachamama” (Mother Earth). The morning’s hike to Lake Humantay is optional, but participation is strongly recommended to prepare for tomorrow’s strenuous hike.

After descending back to the lodge, staff are awaiting with a hot lunch. Spend the second half of the day at leisure: soak in the outdoor Jacuzzi, indulge in a relaxing massage or take a long nap. Overnight at Salkantay Lodge at 12,690 feet.

Trekking Time: approximately 4 hours
Hiking Level: easy to moderate

Optional Activities

Chakana excursion (subject to additional cost): Horseback/hiking combo up the steep hills adjacent the lodge. The destination—a dramatic lookout point over the Salkantay River Valley marked by an oversized Inca Chakana (cross). This excursion will replace the hike to the glacier lake.
Duration: approximately 5 hours (1.5 – 2 hours on horseback)

Horseback riding (subject to additional cost): After lunch, spend a leisurely afternoon exploring Soraypampa on horseback.
Duration: approximately 2 hours

Accommodations

Salkantay Lodge (12,690 feet)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Crossing Salkantay Pass

After an early start, hike up the Rio Blanco valley, circling Humantay Peak. Gradually make your way up the mountain trails and encounter expansive plateaus dotted with boulders of varying sizes, the remnants of a valley that was once bisected by a fast-flowing river. The final and most challenging part of the ascent is conquering the mountain switchbacks that take you to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point on the trek at 15,213 feet. What follows is a dramatic descent through fields of giant boulders, often shrouded in fog.

Have some time to rest and enjoy some trail mix before the final hike through the area’s bucolic countryside; its rolling hills will eventually lead you through marsh-like plateaus to the Wayra Lodge at Wayraccmachay, where you can wash away the trail dirt and have a great hot and tasty lunch. In the afternoon, relax in the Jacuzzi or enjoy the great and impressive views of surroundings high snowed peaks. Overnight at Wayra Lodge at 12,812 feet.

Trekking Time: approximately 6 hours
Hiking Level: challenging

Accommodations

Wayra Lodge (12,812 feet)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Descending into the Cloud Forest

After a leisurely breakfast at the Wayra Lodge, continue the descent along the banks of the Salkantay River through increasingly verdant scenery. Encounter local people, as the trail passes their simple homes and makeshift fences. Arrive at Colpa Lodge, located on a high promontory at the confluence of three rivers. Be greeted by the staff with a Pachamanca lunch, a traditional Peruvian meal cooked in the earth by hot stones that create a natural underground oven. After lunch, spend the afternoon lounging in the sun or relaxing in the outdoor Jacuzzi while taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding lush green mountains. Overnight at Colpa Lodge at 9,414 feet.

Trekking Time: approximately 3-4 hours approximately
Hiking Level: easy to moderate

Accommodations

Colpa Lodge (9,414 feet)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Following the Santa Teresa River Valley

Today, hike in the Santa Teresa River Valley along a rolling trail that crosses fertile fruit orchards and bisects
streams originating from glacier-fed waterfalls. Rest alongside the river, then continue hiking for 1 more hour before meeting a vehicle to take a short drive to the beginning of the Llactapata Inca Trail, which leads to Lucma Lodge. Enjoy a great lunch at the lodge and afterwards, visit an organic coffee plantation, one of many in the area that produces some of the best organic coffee in the world. In Lucmabamba, the hot air and increased humidity indicate your proximity to the edge of the Amazon Jungle. Overnight at Lucma Lodge at 7,003 feet.

Trekking Time
: approximately 5.5 hours, including lunch
Hiking Level: moderate to challenging

Accommodations

Lucma Lodge (7,003 feet)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
First Views of Machu Picchu from Llactapata Pass

After breakfast, depart from Lucma Lodge and embark on a 2-3 hour climb through the cloud forest up a path mostly comprised of original Inca steps. A lush tree line creates green canopies overhead and the constant sound of rushing water suggests that the river is nearby. Today’s first milestone will be the top of the peak, the last one before descending to the Aobamba River Valley that connects to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival at the Llactapata Pass (8,974 feet), delight in a southeast view of Machu Picchu, a sight few travelers get the chance to admire.

After exploring Llactapata, the Inca tambo (fort) that marks the pass, enjoy a picnic lunch at a mountain lookout point with panoramic views. The final descent along a trail that zigzags down to the roaring Aobamba River leads through lush bamboo forests, varied fruit orchards and more coffee plantations. Celebrate while crossing the bridge over the river and take the final steps of the trek en route to the Hidroelectrica train station for a scenic 1-hour train ride to the town of Aguas Calientes, on the banks of the Urubamba River at the base of Machu Picchu. Overnight at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel at 6,693 feet.

Trekking Time
: approximately 4-6 hours
Hiking Level: moderate to challenging

Accommodations

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (6,693 feet)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
The Citadel of Machu Picchu & Cusco, Peru

At dawn, begin the journey to Machu Picchu with a short and rollicking uphill bus ride. Prepare to be awed by the imposing and skillful architecture of the Watchtower, the Temple of the Sun, and the royal Inca residences, among many others. After a two-hour guided tour, you will have free time to explore on your own. At some point, be sure to take a moment and sit quietly–listen to the wind, meditate and absorb the mystical energy that envelops you.

Next, consider a hike to Huayna Picchu (added cost), the iconic towering mountain often seen in photographs. Note that entrance to Huayna Picchu is 10:00am or 10:30am and requires permits, which are subject to availability and should be confirmed during your trip reservation. In the event that Huayna Picchu permits are not available for your desired date, Machu Picchu Mountain (the second peak within the sanctuary) permits will be secured instead, at added cost.

After, have lunch in Aguas Calientes beforea scenic Vistadome train ride to Ollantaytambo (~1.5 hours) and then a transfer by vehicle (~1.5 hours) back to Cusco. As night falls and you arrive at your hotel amidst the hustle and bustle of Cusco, and recall the feeling of peace and rejuvenation that will linger long after the return journey home.

Trekking Time: approximately 4 hours
Hiking Level: challenging

Optional Additional Day at Machu Picchu

For an additional cost, choose to extend your trip and spend an extra day in Machu Picchu. Even though there is enough time to see the core of Machu Picchu Sanctuary during the regular guided tour, most guests realize they would have liked to stay a little longer since there is so much to explore. Tell your Adventure Specialist at the time of reservation if you would like to add this optional day.

Accommodations

XO Art House (or similar)

Meals

breakfast, lunch

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All transportation services for the duration of the standard detailed itineraries; 6 nights of accommodations in lodges and affiliate hotels; all meals and beverages including soft drinks and a house selection of beer, wine, and spirits (at Salkantay, Wayra, Copla and Lucma Lodges only); fully guided bilingual activities and excursions, except for scheduled times marked as leisure; transfer services; entrance fees and permits to touristic and archaeological sites; all gratuities for staff, excluding guides (to be determined at guests’ discretion); wireless internet access (Wi-Fi) at all lodges and hotels; all airport-hotel transfers.

Exclusions

Airfare; excess baggage charges; airport departure tax from Peru; optional activities; items of a personal nature like bottled water and sports drinks, massage/spa services, laundry fees and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of $500 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 30 days – 25% of total trip cost
29 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 7-day trek only itinerary begins and ends in Cusco, Peru (CUZ). Arrive in Cusco in time for an evening briefing prior to Day 1. Depart from Cusco at any time of day on Day 8. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

The Peru Mountain Lodge Trek requires good physical conditioning. Travelers hike up to 6 miles each day with elevation gains of over 15,000 feet. Spending 1 or 2 nights in Cusco, Peru, at 10,856 feet in elevation prior to departure will help with acclimating to the altitude. Included adventure activities may include hiking and glacier viewing. Additional cost activities may include horseback riding.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at a 50% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select rooms upon availability. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select rooms free of charge. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Due to the high altitude in the Cusco region and the physically demanding nature of the Salkantay Trek, minimum age for this trip is 12 years old.

Travel Insurance

This trip requires proof of insurance coverage as a minimum for Medical Emergency Treatment and Evacuation; please be sure that your policy includes Adventure Travel Activities or similar when purchasing. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, National Park regulation or at the guides’ discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of adventure travel unique.

Rates & Dates

Trip Rates & Details

High Season rates apply April 1-October 31 and December 15-31. Low Season rates apply March 1-31 and November 1-December 14.

Departures available daily, March through December. Contact us for current rates and availability.

Accommodations

Learn About the Lodges & Hotels on Your Itinerary

Lodge
Mountain Lodges of Peru - Salkantay Trek

Mountain Lodges of Peru operates four distinct lodges along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: Salkantay, Wayra, Colpa and Lucma Lodges.

Lodge
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

At the luxury Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel in lovely Aguas Calientes you are only minutes away by bus from Machu Picchu, the premier archeological adventure of the Inca Empire.

Hotel
XO Art House

The XO Art House is a boutique hotel in Cusco, Peru, with the feel of an art gallery. This converted casona offers 7 unique rooms, round-the-clock concierge service and upscale amenities in a central location.

Testimonials

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"This Was My Best Holiday Ever"

This was my best holiday ever, I loved it and it was made so easy by Andrew and AdventureSmith because I didn't have to worry about finding accommodation or transfers from airports etc, it was sooooooooooo relaxing for me. All the accommodation was first class and the food was amazing.

Overall
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Accommodations
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Meals
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"Truly One of the Best Trips We've Ever Taken"

We felt like it was designed to accommodate participants' varied abilities and levels of fitness. It truly was one of the best trips we've ever taken. Lodges were spectacular, food was amazing and our guide was not only well qualified and knowledgeable, but also wonderful company for the entire week.

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"It Was a Wonderful Trip!"

It was a wonderful trip! We had good accommodations in Cuzco and the lodges were fantastic! As difficult as some of the treks were for me, I really enjoyed the variety of places where we trekked and the information (history, nature, etc.) I learned along the way. This trip was put together well.

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100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Land Tour

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4 - 5 Day Cruise
Delfin I Amazon River Cruise

The 8-guest Delfin I is one of the most intimate, luxurious and active vessels in which to experience the Peruvian Amazon. Choose from carefully crafted 4- or 5-day itineraries that allow you to kayak, stand-up paddleboard and visit local communities.

From $4600USD
Year Round
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4 - 5 Day Cruise
Legend Galapagos Cruises

Galapagos Legend small ship cruises bring luxury, quality and service in a casual setting. The 100-passenger Galapagos Legend is known for being affordable, stable and great for family travelers who want to see wildlife, hike and snorkel in the Galapagos.

From $1939USD
Year Round
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5 Day Land Tour
Peru Amazon Adventure

Combine your Peru travels with an extension to the Amazon. Visit Lake Sandoval and Tambopata while staying at the famed Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica lodge. Birds, primates, extraordinary landscapes and breathtaking scenery await.

From $795USD
Year Round
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