Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days | 4 Nights

5 Days / 4 Nights
5 Stars

Tour Overview

The Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail (5 Days) is one of the most exciting combinations available. It perfectly blends nature, living culture, and history. The first part takes you through the Lares Valley, famous for its hot springs, high-altitude lakes, and indigenous weaving communities that maintain their ancestral traditions. The journey concludes by connecting with the Short Inca Trail (Km 104), allowing you to walk the original Inca path to the Sun Gate. Ideal for travelers seeking authenticity, solitude in the mountains, and the classic Inca entrance to Machu Picchu.

CUSTOMIZED TOURISM IN SMALL GROUPS

Meals Included: 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners.

5 Days / 4 Nights
PRICE FROM $821,00 per person
Places to visit: Cusco
Trip starts in: Hotel, Airbnb, or specific location in Cusco.
Physical Level: Moderate
Travel Style: Mixed
Group Size: 5 to 12 People
Total Distance: 75 km
Meals Included: 4 Breakfast(s), 4 Lunch(es), 4 Dinner(s)
Departures: Daily Departures

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Day 1

Day 1: Cusco – Calca – Lares Hot Springs – Cuncani Community

This wonderful adventure begins with the pick up from your hotel in Cusco at 5.30am and then transport you to Calca where you can see the market products in Calca if you wish it will be the place where you can have breakfast or coffee and then continue 2 hours more to the thermal baths of Lares. Once you arrive you will have 2 hours to enjoy the thermal medicinal waters of Lares (3,250m/10,662ft). After lunch you will start your hike in the direction of Cuncani (3,800m/12,467ft) where you will camp. From the thermal baths the trail begins with a 3 hour ascent to the camp of Cuncani, where you will spend the night in the middle of local people’s houses.

Distance: 8km / 4.9 miles
Approximate walking time: 3 hours.
Camp Elevation: (3,800m/12,467ft)
Difficulty: easy
Meals: lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: Camping

Day 2
Day 2

Day 2: Cuncani – Sicllaqasa Pass – Pacchayoc

Today day 2 you will wake up with a coca tea in your room service tent with different sounds such as: birds, alpacas. That will transport you to the world of the Incas. And later, just before you start walking, you will be able to see children going to school in their local uniform. Those will be a reason to know how happy they live even though they don’t live in the same condition of life as other city children. Afterwards we will drive uphill to the Sicllacassa pass (4.800m/15,748ft) passing several lakes and mountains with glaciers that will fill you with pure energy and the total silence of the cars, only the birds singing will fill you with energy. After the apacheta pass you will have a 40 minutes descent where you will have lunch in a qeuña forest (native plants of the area). After a siesta you will continue your trek downhill for another hour to the campsite pacchayoc (3600m/11,800ft), where you will spend the night in a different environment.

Distance: 14km / 8.7miles
Approximate walking time: 8hours.
Camp Elevation: (3600m/11,800ft).
Difficulty: Moderate – dificult.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: Camping

Day 3
Day 3

Day 3: Pacchayoc – Pumahuanca – Ollantaytambo

This day you will wake up with the singing of birds and our trekking team will wake you up with coca tea. To continue your journey after a healthy breakfast your morning will start with a 2 hours descent to Pumahuanca community where you will have lunch where the transport will arrive to continue with your itinerary. After lunch it will be the last place to say goodbye to the mountain chef because after this moment the next meals will be in a restaurant. When you are ready you will continue towards the salt mines of Maras where your guide will explain about this natural attraction, then the journey continues to Ollantaytambo (2,790m/9,150ft) where you will spend the night. Ollantaytambo is an ancient village since Inca times and part of the sacred valley.

Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles
Approximate walking time: 2hours.
Camp Elevation: (3600m/11,800ft).
Difficulty: easy.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: hotel

Day 4
Day 4

Day 4: Ollantaytambo – Km 104 (Inca Trail) – Sun Gate – Aguas Calientes

Today will be another day of great importance breakfast at the hotel then continue towards the train station our train will be one of the first train the train from Ollantaytambo to km.104 Chachabamba where the short Inca trail starts here is where you will have to show your tiket which we will give you, also your original passport. as first archaeological centre will be Chachabamba after exploring the place 2 hours climb to next archaeological center Wiñaywayna where you will spend more time exploring as well as getting full of history that your guide will tell you where you can also have your box lunch. Then we continue for another 1 hour to Puerta del Sol (Intipunku). This is the first point from where you will be able to see Machu Picchu from the top of a mountain. After all the photos, another 45 minutes more to Machu Picchu to take the classic photo and finish your day. Then you will leave Machupicchu and take a transport from Machupicchu to Aguas Calientes town where you will spend the night. Dinner in a tourist restaurant. Rest and get to know Machupicchu.

Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Approximate walking time: 5 hours.
Camp Elevation: 2000 m / 6560 ft.
Difficulty: Moderate
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: hotel

Day 5
Day 5

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Tour – Cusco

Day that everyone dreams to reach Machupicchu is the magical energetic place and there are no words to describe it is the day where you will be able to spend about two hours with your guide receiving the necessary information about this beautiful wonder then this mountain if you want to explore a little more please ask for a more Huayna picchu tiket which is highly recommended. After all this you will return to the town of Aguas Calientes where you will take the train back to Ollantaytambo and then take a minivan to Cusco, where our service ends.

Distance: 3km / 1.8 miles(exploring machupicchu)
Approximate walking time: 2 hours.
Difficulty: easy
Meals: Breakfast.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Included

  • Transfers: Door-to-door service (Hotel pick-up/drop-off).
  • Guide: Professional licensed local guide.
  • Permits: Entrance tickets to Lares route, Short Inca Trail (Km 104), and Machu Picchu.
  • Transport: Private bus (Days 1-3), Train to Km 104, Return Expedition Train, Buses to/from Machu Picchu (Round trip Day 5, Downward Day 4).
  • Accommodation:
    • 2 Nights Camping (Lares).
    • 2 Nights Hotel (1 in Ollantaytambo, 1 in Aguas Calientes) - 3-star standard.
  • Camping Gear: 4-person tents (for 2 pax), sleeping mats, dining tent, chairs.
  • Staff: Mountain Chef, Muleteers, Mules (for Lares section only).
  • Luggage: Duffel bag provided for up to 7kg of personal items (Carried by mules Days 1-3; transferred to hotel Day 4).
  • Meals: Gourmet mountain cuisine (4B, 4L, 4D).
  • Safety: First aid kit, Oxygen tank.

Not Included

  • First breakfast, last lunch.
  • Rentals: Trekking poles, Sleeping bag.
  • Tips: For the guide, cook, and muleteers.
  • Travel Insurance.

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.

Bring gifts for the local children in Lares (fruits or school supplies, not candy). Prepare for cold nights in Lares and humid heat on the Inca Trail.

Optional Upgrades

Customize Your Experience

Enhance your trip with these optional upgrades available upon request.

Vistadome Train.

Book This Tour

Price per person $821.00
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

Can I do this tour alone?

Yes, solo travelers are welcome. You can join an existing group (we group you with other travelers). If you are the only person booking, please contact us to check availability, as we require a minimum of 2 people to open a new departure date.

How far in advance should I book?

Because Day 4 involves the Short Inca Trail, you must book 4-6 months in advance. Permits for the Inca Trail (Km 104) are limited by the government and sell out quickly, especially for dates between May and September.

What is the accommodation like?

Days 1-2: High-quality camping equipment (North Face or similar tents).

Days 3-4: Clean, comfortable 3-star hotels in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes with private bathrooms, hot showers, and Wi-Fi.

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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