Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days | 6 Nights.

7 Days / 6 Nights
5 Stars

Tour Overview

The Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek (7 Days) is one of the most epic and complete routes in Peru. It is a challenging hike designed for travelers seeking a deep connection with history, raw nature, and a significant physical test. This journey connects the two most impressive Inca cities: Choquequirao (known as the "Sacred Sister" of Machu Picchu) and the marvelous Machu Picchu itself.

Along the way, we traverse deep canyons (Apurimac), cross high mountain passes, and shift from arid Andean landscapes to the lush high jungle. Exploring archaeological sites that few tourists ever see, this trek offers an authentic experience, solitude, spectacular views, and an unforgettable adventure in the Peruvian Andes.

Meals Included: 6 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 Dinners.

7 Days / 6 Nights
PRICE FROM $1.215,00 per person
Places to visit: Cusco
Trip starts in: Hotel, Airbnb, or specific location in Cusco.
Physical Level: Difficult
Travel Style: Mixed
Group Size: 5 to 12 People
Total Distance: 95 km
Meals Included: 6 Breakfast(s), 6 Lunch(es), 6 Dinner(s)
Departures: Daily Departures

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Day 1

Day 1: Cusco – Cachora – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca

Our Guiding Cusco team will pick you up at your hotel at 4:30 a.m. and take you by minibus for 4 hours to the start of the trail at the viewpoint of Capuliyoc (2,885 masl / 9,465 ft). Here you will have 40 minutes to get ready, both travellers and workers such as cooks and muleteers. After all this we will be ready to appreciate the Inca city of Choquequirao and the Apurimac Canyon. The first 3 hours of trekking will be downhill to Chikiska, where we will start the trek into the highlands towards the Apurimac Canyon, where the climate is warmer. Lunch will be served by your mountain chef using fresh local products. The second part of the day is a 2.30 hour hike down 30 minutes to Rosalina Beach at an altitude of 1,500 masl/4,920 ft. Then it is uphill to lower Santa Rosa Camp (1,914 masl/6,280 ft). This is a 2 hour pure ascent and we will do this part in the afternoon when it is cooler.

Day 2
Day 2

Day 2: Chiquisca – Rosalina Beach – Marampata – Choquequirao

After an early breakfast, you will start the most challenging part of the trek. The hike starts with a 3 hours zigzag ascent to Marampata (2,850 m.a.s.l. / 9,350 ft.). From here you will be able to see Choquequirao and you can also buy some soda or chocolates as this is the last village before Choquequirao. After all this we will continue to Choquequirao camp (3,000 masl/9,840 ft). Another 2 hours more lunch will be waiting for us ready and it is here that we will spend the night as we also have lunch. After a lunch from our mountain chef in the afternoon you will have time to visit this place less visited by tourists and your guide will be able to explain in detail about the history and you will be able to have a sunset in Inca city like the Incas. explore all the Inca city its temples, terraces and more than all llamas sector do not miss. Fantastic view of the mountains and a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Day 3
Day 3

Day 3: Choquequirao – Pinchaunuyoc – Rio Blanco – Maizal

Wake up with a hot cup of tea in your tent while enjoying the view of the Andes. Then you will have breakfast with your trekking team and continue with the excursion. This day you will have another opportunity to visit the Inca city Choquequirao in the morning and observe the sunrise of the same Inca city. After all this you will continue to your destination until Choquequirao pass will be an hour of ascent. In Choquequirao pass you will have a majestic view where you will find yourself alone with your equipment in a pure connection with nature. Afterwards you will start with a 2 hour descent to Pinchayunuyoc. This place is another place of pure terraces with water springs, continuing with a descent to Rio Blanco (1,880 masl / 6,167 ft) for another hour. Lunch will be served here and you can also take a dip in the river as the weather will be perfect for an open air bath. Be sure to bring a good mosquito repellent. After lunch it will be a 4 hour zigzag ascent to a place called maizal (2,891 masl / 9,488 ft). There we will stay with a local family, the Perez family. That’s all for this difficult day.

Day 4
Day 4

Day 4: Maizal – San Juan Pass (Victoria) – Yanama – Colpapampa

After breakfast, you will continue the excursion, today you will find a 5 hours climb up to Victoria PASS, the first part is a gradual ascent with an impressive view of mountains around as well as tunnels that the Inca miners worked and the last part will be Inca steps or zigzag path all the way to Victoria PASS (4,210 masl / 13,549 ft.). where you can see mountains like Pumacillo, Padreyoc, etc. After the photos a descent of 1 hour and a half to the Yanama community (3,700 masl / 12,139 ft.). where you will have lunch. After lunch you will pack your things to continue with a small truck to Qollpapampa place (2,900 masl / 9,514 ft.) camping place for tonight day 4 will also be the time to say good bye to a member of the group (arriero), and in Qollpapampa you will meet many trekkers who will be doing Salkantay trail.

Day 5
Day 5

Day 5: Colpapampa – La Playa Sahuayaco – Lucmabamba

After breakfast you will continue with the hike like the other Salkantay trekkers for them day 3 and for you professional trekkers day 5 with a gradual descent having another type of vegetation like orchids. It will also be a more relaxing day finding plantations like granadilla, avocado, coffee, and etc. With a duration of 5 hours of pure relaxation on this day you will have lunch at Playa Sahuayaco (2,100 masl/6,880 ft) after lunch if you want your guide will be able to process your organic coffee from beans to your own coffee. In this place you have the option to visit the hot springs of Cocalmayo which will not be included if you want you can visit together with your guide the price would be no more than 60 soles. but all this is optional.

Day 6
Day 6

Day 6: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

Wake up among coffee and avocado trees. Then, you will continue for 3 hours along an ancient Inca Trail to Llaqtapata (2,814 masl/9,232 ft). You will have the first and best view of the Great Inca City of Machu Picchu. After enjoying the views, you will also find a small Inca construction where your guide will be able to tell you more. Then zigzag dow to ahobamba valley. Where hidroelectric place and luch.

After lunch you will have another 3 hours walk along the side of the train tracks to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m.a.s.l./6,690 ft.). Overnight in a Hotel in Aguas Calientes, with hot shower and wifi after several days over mountains civilization again.

Day 7
Day 7

Day 7: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Today will be the most important day of your 7 days tour, today you will get up very early as every day, you will take the first bus to Machu Picchu to enter before sunrise. First you will go up to the top where the classic photo is taken and then you will start the guided tour, exploring the most important streets, squares and temples of the citadel of Machu Picchu. After the guided tour, you will have time to explore on your own or hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain (additional hikes other than the citadel). In the afternoon, take the 14:55 expedition train back to Ollantaytambo then to Cusco. Return to your hotel around 7.00pm, where the trek from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu ends

Inclusions & Exclusions

Included

  • Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco.
  • Guide: Professional English-speaking Native Guide.
  • Staff: Mountain Chef and Muleteers (Arrieros).
  • Mules: To carry camping gear, food, and up to 7kg of your personal belongings.
  • Meals: All meals included (Except Day 1 Breakfast and Day 7 Lunch/Dinner).
  • Water: Boiled water provided daily (except Day 7).
  • Camping Gear: 4-season tents, dining tent, tables, chairs, portable toilet.
  • Accommodation: 5 Nights Camping + 1 Night Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
  • Tickets: Entrance fees to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.
  • Transport:
    • Private transport Cusco to Capuliyoc.
    • Bus Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu (One way/Round trip - Verify operator standard).
    • Expedition Train (Return).
  • Safety: First aid kit and Oxygen bottle.

Not Included

  • Breakfast Day 1, Lunch/Dinner Day 7.
  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
  • Travel Insurance (Mandatory for this risk level).
  • Tips for staff (Guide, Chef, Muleteers).

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

Tour Map

Want to take this map with you?
Download PDF Map

Travel Tips & Recommendations

Essential Travel Info

Please read these recommendations carefully to prepare for your trip.

Physical preparation is mandatory. Bring high-quality trekking boots (broken in), insect repellent (essential for the canyon), and layers for extreme heat and cold.

Book This Tour

Price per person $1,215.00
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
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Arnaldo g profile picture
Arnaldo g
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Cosmopolitan382563 profile picture
Cosmopolitan382563
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
H B profile picture
H B
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
onialias profile picture
onialias
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
ali profile picture
ali
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Rainbow mountain and Machu-Picchu experience was great. Amazing experience. Lisbet and Edwin were great.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
travelover100000 profile picture
travelover100000
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Kane S profile picture
Kane S
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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

What is the difficulty level of this trek?

This is a Challenging/Strenuous trek. It is strictly recommended for travelers in excellent physical condition with previous long-distance hiking experience. The route involves steep vertical hiking (dropping into and climbing out of canyons twice) and high altitude passes. Physical preparation is mandatory.

Is acclimatization necessary?

Yes. We recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco before starting this adventure. If you are not acclimated, the physical exertion combined with altitude can be dangerous.

What type of accommodation is included?

For the first 5 nights, you will sleep in high-quality camping tents set up by our staff. On the 6th night, you will stay in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes with a private bathroom and hot shower.

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
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Arnaldo g profile picture
Arnaldo g
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Cosmopolitan382563 profile picture
Cosmopolitan382563
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
H B profile picture
H B
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
onialias profile picture
onialias
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
ali profile picture
ali
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Rainbow mountain and Machu-Picchu experience was great. Amazing experience. Lisbet and Edwin were great.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
travelover100000 profile picture
travelover100000
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Kane S profile picture
Kane S
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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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