Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days with Andean Cooking Experience

5 Days / 4 Nights
5 Stars

Tour Overview

5 Days / 4 Nights
PRICE FROM $650,00 per person
Places to visit: Cusco
Trip starts in: Cusco
Physical Level: Moderate
Travel Style: Hiking
Group Size: 1 to 10 People
Total Distance: 71 km
Meals Included: 4 Breakfast(s), 4 Lunch(es), 4 Dinner(s)
Departures: Daily Departures

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Day 1

Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa.

This day marks the beginning of our great adventure to the wonderful Salkantay. We will pick you up from your respective hotels between 4:15 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. and our transportation will take us to the stopping point, where we will have breakfast (Mollepata) at a local restaurant. After breakfast, we will continue for 45 to 55 minutes to the Devil’s Balcony. We will begin our hike at the Devil’s Balcony, the starting point for Humantay Mountain (5,381 meters above sea level). Humantay Lake is at an altitude of 4,200 meters above sea level. The distance to reach this destination is 7 km/5 miles (ascent only). The hike takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and physical condition. Once we arrive at Humantay Lake, we will have time to explore it, get to know it, and enjoy the majestic turquoise lake. We will then return to Soraypampa, where we will have lunch and time to relax in the afternoon, appreciating the natural beauty of our Soraypampa canyon. We will have dinner, receive information for the next day, and rest up for the great challenge ahead.

Hiking distance: 14 km
Duration: 6 hours
Camp altitude: 4,150 msnm
Maximum altitude: 4,200 msnm
Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea, dinner
Lodging: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging

Day 2
Day 2

Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay – Chaullay.

This is the most impressive day of the trek to Salkantay. We wake up very early with a delicious cup of coca tea at 5:00 a.m. Breakfast will be at 5:30 a.m. After breakfast, we will receive our final instructions and set off on the Salkantay Trail with sure steps and great confidence for approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on your physical condition. We will make a few stops for short breaks to acclimatize gradually. After an arduous journey, we will arrive at the Salkantay Pass, and it is here where we will have the best time to enjoy this wonder of nature, the snow-capped Salkantay (6,435 meters above sea level), the highest point. Here we will have time to explore and learn more about this snow-capped mountain of Salkantay, the Salkantay Pass (4,634 meters above sea level). And it is here that we will ask permission to pass through its trail and continue on our way to our lunch spot, Wayracmachay, where we will also have our cooking class presented by our professional high mountain chef. Each person will prepare their own lunch, which is a unique and great cooking experience in the mountains on the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. After finishing our cooking class and enjoying our lunch, we will continue descending at our own pace, witnessing the beautiful sights of our natural surroundings. Each point of descent is impressive. This trail will be our route until we reach our camp in Chaullay (2,900 meters above sea level), where a delicious dinner prepared by our mountain chef awaits us. We will also receive information about the next day. After dinner, we will rest up for the next challenge.

Hiking distance: 19 km
Duration: 9 hours
Camp altitude: 2,800 msnm.
Maximum altitude: 4,630 msnm.
Meals: Breakfast, snacks, Cooking Classes – Lunch, tea, dinner.
Lodging: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3
Day 3

Day 3: Chaullay – Lucmabamba – Loreta.

We will wake up early today and have an energy-packed breakfast to fuel us for the day, although it will be a gentler, more relaxing day. We will go on moderate hikes, where we will observe the Santa Teresa Valley, with its wonderful flora and fauna, arriving at our camp for lunch. We will relax and have time to learn about the production and processing of organic coffee and cacao and taste them. If we still have time, we can visit the Cocalmayo hot springs (transportation to Colcamayo can be arranged with your guide and other travelers who wish to visit this relaxing place). If you visit the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, please make sure to return for dinner, which will be served at 7:00 p.m., where we will also receive information for the following day.

Hiking distance: 16 km
Duration: 6 hours
Camp altitude: 2,750 msnm.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4
Day 4

Day 4: Loreta– Llactapata – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes.

This fourth day is the longest. We don’t get up early, but we recharge our batteries with the last breakfast prepared by our mountain chef. We say goodbye to them and set off on the Inca Trail, as we will have to climb up to the archaeological center and viewpoint of Llactapata. We will have an uphill hike of approximately 3 to 3.5 hours to the Machu Picchu viewpoint, where we will be able to see the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, Huayna Picchu Mountain, and Machu Picchu Mountain. After visiting Llactapata, we will carefully descend using our walking sticks to the hydroelectric plant, where we will have lunch.
After lunch, we will relax for a moment and continue with the last leg of our hike from the hydroelectric plant to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). This hike takes approximately 3 hours along the side of the railroad tracks, although you also have the option of taking the train. Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, we will head to our 3-star hotel to rest, take a relaxing shower, and continue with our itinerary. We will have dinner at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes and receive instructions from our guide for the following day.

Hiking distance: 24 km
Duration: 9 hours
Maximum altitude: 2,840 msnm.
Camp/Hotel altitude: 2,000 msnm.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: 3-star hotel
Difficulty: Moderate

Day 5
Day 5

Day 5: Explore Machu Picchu – Cusco.

This is the best day and the most eagerly awaited by all travelers: our visit to the great world wonder, the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. Depending on the time on your entrance ticket to the citadel of Machu Picchu, you can board the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu citadel, present your entrance ticket, and visit every beautiful place in this majestic world wonder. The guide will accompany you throughout the tour for approximately 2 hours, showing you everything Machu Picchu has to offer, from its temples and guardians to its complete history. Once the visit is over and we have taken millions of photos and videos in Machu Picchu, it is time to return to the town of Aguas Calientes. You have two options: return by bus (12 soles per ticket) or continue walking for approximately two more hours. We arrive at the town of Aguas Calientes, have lunch at the place mentioned by the guide, receive final instructions and our train ticket, and head to the train station to board the train to Ollantaytambo, where the company’s transport will be waiting to take us to Cusco for approximately 2 hours.

Machu Picchu visit: 3 hours
Altitude: 2,430 mesnm
Meals: Breakfast
Lodging: N/A
Difficulty: Easy

Inclusions & Exclusions

Included

Pre-Trek & Logistics

  • Pre-Trek Briefing:
    • Time & Place: 5:00 PM the day before the trek at your hotel.
    • Agenda: Meet the guide and group, receive technical details, confirm pickup times.
    • Duffel Bag: You will receive a duffel bag for personal items (transported by horses). Note: See discrepancy below regarding weight.
    • Documents: Receive printed train and Machu Picchu tickets.
    • Payments & Gear: Pay outstanding balances and confirm if you have your own sleeping bag/poles or need to rent them. Luggage storage guidance provided.
  • Pickup Service:
    • Time: Between 4:15 AM and 4:30 AM.
    • Location: Directly from your Hotel or Airbnb (address required).
  • Transportation to Trailhead:
    • Private transport from Cusco to Soraypampa.
    • Duration: Approx. 3 hours.

Team & Support Staff

  • Professional Tour Guides:
    • Certified by Ministry of Culture/Gercetur.
    • Bilingual (English/Spanish).
    • Expertise in high mountain excursions and first aid (carry oxygen tank + kit).
  • High Mountain Chefs:
    • Professional team dedicated to preparing all meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
    • Capable of handling dietary requirements (Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, etc.).
  • Mule Drivers & Horses:
    • Transport food, camping supplies, and the client's duffel bag.
  • Oxygen tank and fully stocked first-aid kit.

Accommodation & Meals

  • Meals Included:
    • 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners.
    • Special activity: Cooking class in the Salkantay mountains.
    • Dietary Note: Please inform us of any allergies or restrictions in advance.
  • Accommodation:
    • Night 1  Dome or Rustic huts for  cold weather—after a strenuous hike, we deserve to rest in a comfortable, warm place (the cabins are built with natural thatch, which helps retain heat while preserving the natural environment).
    • Night  2 Hinging Nest On the second night, we'll stay in these glass structures, which include showers and bathrooms in the accommodations, with an incredible view of the Sahuayaco Valley.
    • Night 3: We have jungle domes, built from biodegradable materials (wood), offering views of nature where you’ll enjoy the charm of the rich biodiversity. This is where we’ll stay (this camp features hot showers and private bathrooms in the rooms).
    • Night 4: 3-Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
    • Camping Gear: Mattresses, blankets, and pillows included in camps.
    • Rooming: Double occupancy. Larger groups/couples accommodated together based on availability.

Entrances & Guided Tours

  • Entrance Fees Included:
    • Humantay Lake.
    • Salkantay Mountain (Pass).
    • Machu Picchu Citadel: Circuit 2 (Llacta / Classic Route) or Lower Terrace (subject to booking 3-4 months in advance).
  • Guided Tour: Comprehensive guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel.

Return Logistics (Machu Picchu to Cusco)

  • Bus to Machu Picchu:
    • 2 Bus ticket included ( Aguas Calientes Town  to Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes Town).
  • Train Return:
    • Route: Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
    • Service: Peru Rail  (Vistadome  time 12.45 Pm Machupicchu - Ollantaytambo).
    •  Important Notes First Aid: Guides carry a main kit, but bringing a personal kit for specific conditions is advisable.
    • Luggage: Extra luggage can be stored at your Cusco accommodation or our office.

Not Included

  • SLEEPING BAG
    •  Sleeping bags must be suitable for high temperatures in the mountains to withstand cold temperatures below 10°C. Guiding Cusco Expeditions has sleeping bags designed for these types of altitudes and cold weather. If you do not have one, you can rent one from Guiding Cusco Expeditions.
  • TREKKING POLES
    •  On the 5-day Salkantay Trek route, trekking poles are very important as our geography is variable, and we will need them to support ourselves on the descents from Laguna Humantay, the pass from Salkantay to Chaullay, and the following days known as the challenges.

EXTRA EXPENSES

  • EMERGENCY HORSES
    •  Emergency horses are important whenever you need them, due to the altitude, as this route requires a lot of energy and physical fitness. Therefore, if you lack the energy to ascend Humantay and Salkantay, these emergency horses can help you reach your destination.
  • TIPS FOR STAFF ON THE ROUTE
    •  On the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, tips are important as many of the staff consider this a huge contribution and a great help for the work they do during the time they accompany you (10%).

Why Choose Us

Why Choose Guiding Cusco?

Discover what makes this experience unique and why travelers love it.

Why Choose Guiding Cusco?

Travel With Confidence. Experience Peru Differently.

At Guiding Cusco, we believe the best journeys are personal, meaningful, and thoughtfully designed.

Personalized Small Groups
We keep our groups small so you receive genuine, attentive service throughout your journey. Every experience is designed with your comfort, interests, and pace in mind.

Supporting Our Local Community
We work closely with local guides, cooks, drivers, families, and small businesses, helping create employment and keeping the benefits of tourism within our communities. We also support people and families with limited resources, because we believe tourism can make a positive difference beyond travel.

Licensed & Trustworthy
Guiding Cusco is a formally established and authorized Peruvian tour operator, operating in accordance with the requirements of the relevant Peruvian authorities. Your safety, comfort, and peace of mind are an essential part of every journey we organize.

A More Meaningful Way to Travel
When you travel with Guiding Cusco, you experience Peru with a local team that genuinely cares about its people, culture, and landscapes.

Personal attention. Local connection. Meaningful experiences.

Local Passionate Experts

Our team is made up of passionate local professionals who know Peru beyond the guidebooks. With years of experience and a genuine love for our culture, history, and landscapes, we create meaningful travel experiences that connect you with the authentic spirit of Cusco and its surrounding regions while promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.

Licensed & Secure

Travel with confidence knowing that Guiding Cusco is a fully licensed Peru tour operator committed to the highest standards of safety, reliability, and service. From carefully selected guides and transportation to well-planned itineraries and secure operations, every aspect of your journey is designed to provide peace of mind and a worry-free experience.

Bespoke & 24/7 Support

Every traveler is unique, which is why we create personalized itineraries tailored to your interests, travel style, and schedule. Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, luxury, or a combination of experiences, our team is available before, during, and after your trip with dedicated 24/7 support to ensure a seamless and memorable journey.

Packing List

To make your trip as comfortable as possible, we recommend bringing the following items:

Essentials & Documents

Local money

Local money

Medical kit

Medical kit

Passport

Passport

Sunscreen

Sunscreen

Water

Water

Clothing & Footwear

Cap and hat

Cap and hat

Tennis and boots

Tennis and boots

Waterproof

Waterproof

Waterproof jacket

Waterproof jacket

Equipment & Gear

Camera and cell phone

Camera and cell phone

Portable charger

Portable charger

Small backpack

Small backpack

Sunglasses

Sunglasses

Recommended Extras

Gel alcohol

Gel alcohol

Lanches snacks

Lanches snacks

Lip balm

Lip balm

Travel Tips & Recommendations

Essential Travel Info

Please read these recommendations carefully to prepare for your trip.

WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR BACKPACK FOR THE 5-DAY SALKANTAY TREK

Our recommendation for the Salkantay trek is a small 25- to 35-liter backpack for the daily hikes. Large backpacks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu. Your belongings, which you will pack in the duffel bag, will be transported by the Cusco Expeditions guiding team using mules and muleteers.

Essentials for Your Backpack (Day Hikes):

  • Original passport.
  • Water storage: Camelbak or 2-liter water bottle (bring 2 liters for first morning).
  • Trekking poles.
  • Rain gear: jacket, pants, waterproof gloves, poncho.
  • Sun protection: sunscreen, sun hat.
  • Warm hat and gloves for cold mornings and nights.
  • Camera, extra batteries, and memory cards.
  • Alcohol gel and hand sanitizer.
  • Extra toilet paper. (Guiding Cusco will provide toilet paper and a bag for your waste)
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips.

Items for Your Duffel Bag (Porters Carry up to 7 kg / 15 lbs): Included Sleeping bag.

  • 4–5 long-sleeve or absorbent t-shirts.
  • 3 comfortable hiking/walking pants.
  • 5 sets of underwear.
  • 5 pairs of hiking socks.
  • 1 warm jacket for cold nights.
  • Comfortable camping shoes or sandals.
  • Quick-drying camping towel; small hand towel.
  • Soap in a sealed container.
  • Battery charger sufficient for 6 days.
  • Plastic bags to separate clean and dirty clothes.
  • Sleeping bag (-10°C / 14°F) – bring your own or rent from Guiding Cusco.
  • Earplugs for better sleep at night.
  • Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, personal hygiene items.
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Personal medication.
  • First aid kit: Band-Aids, moleskin, etc.
  • Comfortable hiking boots with good soles.

 

Optional Upgrades

Customize Your Experience

Enhance your trip with these optional upgrades available upon request.

  • Availability:
    • The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu operates any day from March through January.
    • We stop operating in February for the rainy season, route maintenance, and campsite upkeep.
  • Standard Price 2026:
    • Group Price: US$ 620.00 per person
    • Required Prepayment: US$ 310.00 per person
    • Balance in Cusco: US$ 310.00, usually paid 2–3 days before the trek starts
    • Small group adventure guaranteed to operate with just 2 people
  • Peoples Price per person Private 
    • 02 – 04   USD 980.00
    • 05 – 08   USD 880.00
    • 09 – 12    USD 780.00
  • Payment Options:
    • Online payment via We - Tavel (8% additional charge).
    • Olso you can Us Credit Card o Debit Card by Openpay (5% Additional charge).
    • Payment in Cusco or directly to staff with no additional charge.
  • Accommodation in Aguas Calientes:
    • The last night is in a 3-star hotel, shared room in Aguas Calientes (instead of camping).
    • Upgrades available for single rooms or higher hotel standards for an extra fee.
  • Extra Hikes Around Machu Picchu (Optional Upgrades):
    • Huayna Picchu Mountain: US$ 70.00
    • Machu Picchu Mountain: US$ 70.00
    • Huchuy Picchu Mountain: US$ 50.00
    • Single room supplement in Aguas Calientes: US$ 35.00
    • Extra night in Aguas Calientes: US$ 60.00
    • Vistadome train (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo): US$ 70.00
  • Extra Equipment Rental for the Trek:
    • Sleeping bag: US$ 20.00
    • Trekking poles (1 pair): US$ 20.00
  • Price Guarantee:
    • Once your booking is confirmed, the price is guaranteed and will not increase.
  • Student Discount:
    • Students 17 years or younger receive US$ 20.00 off
    • Valid passport copy or photo required at booking
  • Extensions and Additional Treks
  • Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain: US$ 50.00
  • Ausangate 7 Lakes: US$ 50.00
  • Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain: US$ 50.00

HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE IN THE GROUP?

The maximum group size is 10 travelers. Our groups typically consist of between 2 and 6 people. Guiding Cusco Expeditions specializes in SMALL and PRIVATE groups, offering personalized service.

 

 

Book This Tour

Price per person $650.00
EXCELLENT
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Based on 28 reviews
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Trek11142408297 profile picture
Trek11142408297
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
zuverlässige und individuelle Betreuung Wir hatten von Anfang an direkten Kontakt mit unserem Guide und waren mit seiner Betreuung rundum sehr zufrieden. Er war ausgesprochen zuvorkommend, flexibel und ist jederzeit auf unsere Wünsche eingegangen. Besonders hilfreich war seine Beratung bei der Auswahl der Tour: Aufgrund seiner Erfahrung hat er uns eine Route empfohlen, auf der deutlich weniger Menschen unterwegs waren und die sehr gut zu uns gepasst hat. Auch während der Tour selbst haben wir uns bei ihm bestens aufgehoben gefühlt. Er hat uns mit viel Erfahrung und Umsicht den Berg hinauf und wieder sicher hinunter begleitet. Insgesamt war die gesamte Dienstleistung – von der Planung über die persönliche Betreuung bis zur Durchführung – mehr als zufriedenstellend.
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Marjorie Ocampos profile picture
Marjorie Ocampos
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An amazing Salkantay Trek experience I did the 5 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Guiding Cusco as a solo traveller and had such a great experience. I felt comfortable and well looked after throughout the trek, and the group quickly became good company. The scenary was incredible and reaching Machu Picchu at the enf made all those challenging hiking dayscompletely worth it. So glad i decided to do this.
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Skyle A profile picture
Skyle A
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Amazing 5 day Trek. We had an incredible trek to Machu Picchu with Lisbeth from Guiding Cusco. Everything was well organized, from the beautiful mountain scenery to the journey toward Machu Picchu. The team was friendly, professional, and always helpful. A challenging but unforgettable experience and definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Peru. Highly recommended.
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Arnaldo g
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Five days of hiking in Cusco.! Amazing experience! The smoll group made the Salkantay Trek feel very personal and relaxed. The guides were friendly, supportive, and the views were absolutely unforgettable. Reaching Machupicchu after five days of hiking was truly special.
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Cosmopolitan382563
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Incredible Trek, Incredible Guide! We did the 5 day/4 night Salktanay trek and it was awesome! Edwin is a local celebrity on the trail-- he knows every guide and all the community members along the trail. He was able to seamlessly resolve little the inevitable little hiccups (arranging cars, etc) and even helped us snag some Circuit 2 (the best circuit) Machu Picchu tickets when we arrived in Aquas Calientes. One thing that's special about Guiding Cusco Expeditions is that it's a smaller outfit and they do things a little differently from the two big trekking companies. Edwin knew different trails that were less crowded (both people and mules) that were far more beautiful than the mainline trails that we could see the other group taking across the valley. Edwin is also extremely knowledgable about the local ecology, plants, and birds. After going over the Salktanay pass and dropping into the cloud forest, he pointed out all the different species of flowers and even the wild orchids along the trail. I also have to give a special shout out to Nassario, the mountain chef who accompanied us for most of the trek-- every day he put together these incredible meals that were diverse, full of local flavor, and perfect for a long day of trekking. He even taught us how to make lomo saltado one afternoon. We had a fantastic experience and wouldn't hesitate to recommend Guiding Cusco Expedition-- they're a really awesome outfit who were a pleasure to work with at every step of the journey and we had an absolute blast.
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H B
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Six Stars for Guiding Cusco Expeditions Outstanding Trip! Pick Guiding Cusco Expeditions. We just completed the 5 day / 4 night Salkantay Trek with Guiding Cusco Expeditions led by expert guide Edwin and chef Nosario. I cannot recommend Guiding Cusco more highly. First of all, the trek is spectacular. Every day is a completely new ecological environment, from high alpine peaks to a rainforest full of wild orchids and half a dozen different species of hummingbirds. Guiding Cusco Expeditions is a particularly good guide company. Coordinating with Lisbet over WhatsApp prior to the trip was easy and efficient. Edwin has over a decade of experience guiding in the Andes and he and Lisbet recently started Guiding Cusco. The entire trip was both safe, fun, and exceeded anything I could have organized myself. Edwin is extremely knowledgeable about history, geography, and the natural world and a true pleasure to learn from. Edwin also made our hike absolutely seamless, from the hotel pickup to the pass at 15,000 feet, to the 45th mile. He is able to juggle many logistics while making everything seem effortless (certainly felt that way to us). The accommodations were really great. Edwin knows the region very well and our hike benefited from his expertise. For example, there were several parts of the trek where we would see other companies walking along the road whereas Edwin would take us on forested trails with waterfalls and wildlife. I also have a severe food allergy and Guiding Cusco Expeditions expertly accommodated this throughout the entire trip. Guiding Cusco Expeditions was extremely diligent. They even led a cooking class one day on the trail! It was spectacular to cook classic Peruvian cuisine surrounded by the peaks of the Andes. If you want to support a local business and enjoy hiking in small groups with great vibes, pick Guiding Cusco Expeditions. You'll have an amazing time.
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onialias
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Ausangate 4d3n + Rainbow Mountain I went with Guiding Cusco for a private Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain trip organised by Lisbet and guided by Edwin at the end of April 2026. They are amazing team and has been the easiest and professional operator to deal with. Lisbet is extremely responsive on Whatsapp communication and went above and beyond to help me in my last minute travel plan. Edwin and his team looked after me very well during the trek. Vegetarian food prepared by Nazario was amazing and you will never ever go hungry! Any extra food is shared with local community so nothing goes to waste. Guiding Cusco is the operator to go with particularly if you are looking for experienced local guide for your trekking around Cusco.
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ali
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Rainbow mountain and Machu-Picchu experience was great. Amazing experience. Lisbet and Edwin were great.
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travelover100000
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Macchu Picchu and rainbow mountain I can’t recommend our guides Lisbet and Edwin from the Cusco team highly enough! Despite our last-minute planning and Machu Picchu’s popular circuits being fully booked, they came up with an out-of-the-box solution that let us explore two circuits anyway. We squeezed in both Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu in just two days—Lisbet and Edwin even met us at 7:30 PM to brief us on the tours, so we could hit the ground running without any stress. The logistics were seamless: pickup at 4:30 AM for Rainbow Mountain, then a smooth handoff to Olantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, with another team member waiting right at the train station. Their care, responsibility, and attention to every detail made the whole experience mind-blowing. Thank you, Lisbet, Edwin, and the entire team—you’re absolute stars!
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Kane S
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Experience of lifetime We did the four-day Salkantay trek with this company and were extremely pleased with the overall experience. Everything was very well organized, from transportation and accommodations to meals and daily logistics, which made the hike feel smooth and stress-free. Our guide, Edwin, was outstanding. He was knowledgeable, calm, attentive, and clearly very experienced. He kept a close eye on everyone, shared insight into the landscape and local culture, and struck a great balance between professionalism and warmth. His steady presence made a challenging trek feel both safe and enjoyable. We would happily recommend this company to anyone considering the Salkantay hike.
Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?

The Salkantay Trek is considered a moderate to challenging hike due to its high altitude and mountain terrain. The highest point, Salkantay Pass, reaches 4,630 meters (15,190 feet). While previous trekking experience is helpful, travelers with a reasonable level of fitness can successfully complete the trek with proper acclimatization in Cusco.

Testimonials

What Our Guests Say

EXCELLENT
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5
Based on 28 reviews
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Trek11142408297 profile picture
Trek11142408297
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
zuverlässige und individuelle Betreuung Wir hatten von Anfang an direkten Kontakt mit unserem Guide und waren mit seiner Betreuung rundum sehr zufrieden. Er war ausgesprochen zuvorkommend, flexibel und ist jederzeit auf unsere Wünsche eingegangen. Besonders hilfreich war seine Beratung bei der Auswahl der Tour: Aufgrund seiner Erfahrung hat er uns eine Route empfohlen, auf der deutlich weniger Menschen unterwegs waren und die sehr gut zu uns gepasst hat. Auch während der Tour selbst haben wir uns bei ihm bestens aufgehoben gefühlt. Er hat uns mit viel Erfahrung und Umsicht den Berg hinauf und wieder sicher hinunter begleitet. Insgesamt war die gesamte Dienstleistung – von der Planung über die persönliche Betreuung bis zur Durchführung – mehr als zufriedenstellend.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Marjorie Ocampos profile picture
Marjorie Ocampos
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
An amazing Salkantay Trek experience I did the 5 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Guiding Cusco as a solo traveller and had such a great experience. I felt comfortable and well looked after throughout the trek, and the group quickly became good company. The scenary was incredible and reaching Machu Picchu at the enf made all those challenging hiking dayscompletely worth it. So glad i decided to do this.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Skyle A profile picture
Skyle A
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Amazing 5 day Trek. We had an incredible trek to Machu Picchu with Lisbeth from Guiding Cusco. Everything was well organized, from the beautiful mountain scenery to the journey toward Machu Picchu. The team was friendly, professional, and always helpful. A challenging but unforgettable experience and definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Peru. Highly recommended.
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Arnaldo g
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Five days of hiking in Cusco.! Amazing experience! The smoll group made the Salkantay Trek feel very personal and relaxed. The guides were friendly, supportive, and the views were absolutely unforgettable. Reaching Machupicchu after five days of hiking was truly special.
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Cosmopolitan382563
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Incredible Trek, Incredible Guide! We did the 5 day/4 night Salktanay trek and it was awesome! Edwin is a local celebrity on the trail-- he knows every guide and all the community members along the trail. He was able to seamlessly resolve little the inevitable little hiccups (arranging cars, etc) and even helped us snag some Circuit 2 (the best circuit) Machu Picchu tickets when we arrived in Aquas Calientes. One thing that's special about Guiding Cusco Expeditions is that it's a smaller outfit and they do things a little differently from the two big trekking companies. Edwin knew different trails that were less crowded (both people and mules) that were far more beautiful than the mainline trails that we could see the other group taking across the valley. Edwin is also extremely knowledgable about the local ecology, plants, and birds. After going over the Salktanay pass and dropping into the cloud forest, he pointed out all the different species of flowers and even the wild orchids along the trail. I also have to give a special shout out to Nassario, the mountain chef who accompanied us for most of the trek-- every day he put together these incredible meals that were diverse, full of local flavor, and perfect for a long day of trekking. He even taught us how to make lomo saltado one afternoon. We had a fantastic experience and wouldn't hesitate to recommend Guiding Cusco Expedition-- they're a really awesome outfit who were a pleasure to work with at every step of the journey and we had an absolute blast.
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H B
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Six Stars for Guiding Cusco Expeditions Outstanding Trip! Pick Guiding Cusco Expeditions. We just completed the 5 day / 4 night Salkantay Trek with Guiding Cusco Expeditions led by expert guide Edwin and chef Nosario. I cannot recommend Guiding Cusco more highly. First of all, the trek is spectacular. Every day is a completely new ecological environment, from high alpine peaks to a rainforest full of wild orchids and half a dozen different species of hummingbirds. Guiding Cusco Expeditions is a particularly good guide company. Coordinating with Lisbet over WhatsApp prior to the trip was easy and efficient. Edwin has over a decade of experience guiding in the Andes and he and Lisbet recently started Guiding Cusco. The entire trip was both safe, fun, and exceeded anything I could have organized myself. Edwin is extremely knowledgeable about history, geography, and the natural world and a true pleasure to learn from. Edwin also made our hike absolutely seamless, from the hotel pickup to the pass at 15,000 feet, to the 45th mile. He is able to juggle many logistics while making everything seem effortless (certainly felt that way to us). The accommodations were really great. Edwin knows the region very well and our hike benefited from his expertise. For example, there were several parts of the trek where we would see other companies walking along the road whereas Edwin would take us on forested trails with waterfalls and wildlife. I also have a severe food allergy and Guiding Cusco Expeditions expertly accommodated this throughout the entire trip. Guiding Cusco Expeditions was extremely diligent. They even led a cooking class one day on the trail! It was spectacular to cook classic Peruvian cuisine surrounded by the peaks of the Andes. If you want to support a local business and enjoy hiking in small groups with great vibes, pick Guiding Cusco Expeditions. You'll have an amazing time.
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onialias
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Ausangate 4d3n + Rainbow Mountain I went with Guiding Cusco for a private Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain trip organised by Lisbet and guided by Edwin at the end of April 2026. They are amazing team and has been the easiest and professional operator to deal with. Lisbet is extremely responsive on Whatsapp communication and went above and beyond to help me in my last minute travel plan. Edwin and his team looked after me very well during the trek. Vegetarian food prepared by Nazario was amazing and you will never ever go hungry! Any extra food is shared with local community so nothing goes to waste. Guiding Cusco is the operator to go with particularly if you are looking for experienced local guide for your trekking around Cusco.
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ali
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Rainbow mountain and Machu-Picchu experience was great. Amazing experience. Lisbet and Edwin were great.
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travelover100000
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Macchu Picchu and rainbow mountain I can’t recommend our guides Lisbet and Edwin from the Cusco team highly enough! Despite our last-minute planning and Machu Picchu’s popular circuits being fully booked, they came up with an out-of-the-box solution that let us explore two circuits anyway. We squeezed in both Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu in just two days—Lisbet and Edwin even met us at 7:30 PM to brief us on the tours, so we could hit the ground running without any stress. The logistics were seamless: pickup at 4:30 AM for Rainbow Mountain, then a smooth handoff to Olantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, with another team member waiting right at the train station. Their care, responsibility, and attention to every detail made the whole experience mind-blowing. Thank you, Lisbet, Edwin, and the entire team—you’re absolute stars!
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Kane S
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Experience of lifetime We did the four-day Salkantay trek with this company and were extremely pleased with the overall experience. Everything was very well organized, from transportation and accommodations to meals and daily logistics, which made the hike feel smooth and stress-free. Our guide, Edwin, was outstanding. He was knowledgeable, calm, attentive, and clearly very experienced. He kept a close eye on everyone, shared insight into the landscape and local culture, and struck a great balance between professionalism and warmth. His steady presence made a challenging trek feel both safe and enjoyable. We would happily recommend this company to anyone considering the Salkantay hike.












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