Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu – Salkantay Trek Cusco 5 Days – 4 Nights

5 Days / 4 Nights
5 Stars

Tour Overview

Our Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu will offer an unforgettable 5-day adventure through diverse Andean landscapes. We will start in high-altitude valleys and gradually descend toward lush tropical forests. We will witness glaciers, lakes, and mountains that showcase Peru’s natural grandeur.

During the Salkantay Trek Cusco, we will pass traditional Andean communities. We will taste fresh tropical fruits like bananas and papaya along the route. We will visit coffee plantations and savor authentic Arabic coffee grown by local farmers. We will also spot colorful orchids and unique wildlife in their natural habitats.

On the 5 Day Salkantay Trek, we will reach the iconic Llactapata Inca trail section. We will see Machu Picchu from a distant viewpoint before entering the ancient citadel. We will experience the natural hot springs of Cocalmayo for relaxation. We will conclude our trek at Machu Picchu, exploring its history and incredible scenery.

We will travel with confidence and flexibility through this Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, the second most popular trek in Peru. We will enjoy a rich journey connecting high mountains, tropical landscapes, and Inca heritage. We will create memories of nature, culture, and adventure that last a lifetime.

5 Days / 4 Nights
PRICE FROM $605,00 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: 73 km
Meals Included: 4 Breakfast(s), 4 Lunch(es), 4 Dinner(s)
Departures: Daily Departures

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Day 1

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa

We will start the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu by picking you up from your hotel at 4:30 AM. We will drive for 2 hours to Mollepata, where we will enjoy a hearty breakfast. Then, we will continue one hour to the trailhead to meet our muleteers and cooking team.
The first hike follows an ancient Inca canal for about 3 hours until Soraypampa (3,800 meters above sea level). We will have a welcome lunch prepared by our mountain chef. Later, we will hike 2 more hours to the turquoise Humantay Lake (4,200 meters above sea level) and enjoy spectacular views. Then, we will walk 2 more hours through streams and valleys to reach Salkantaypampa campsite.
At camp, we will admire Salkantay Mountain (6,271 meters above sea level) and the star-filled sky. We will have dinner and rest for the next day.

Day 1 Statistics:

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

Day 2
Day 2

Day 2: Salkantaypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay – Collpapampa

We will wake up early with hot coffee or coca tea and admire the snow-capped peaks. After breakfast, we will hike 2 hours to Salkantay Pass (4,630 meters above sea level), the highest point of the trek. We will take photos and explore the surroundings, including the lake at the base of Salkantay Mountain.
We will descend for 3 hours to Wayracmachay (3,800 meters above sea level) for lunch. On the way, we will spot Vizcachas, unique Peruvian chinchilla-like rodents. Then, we will continue 3 hours down to the lush cloud forest and camp near Collpapampa. The scenery changes rapidly from cold highlands to tropical greenery.

Day 2 Statistics:

Hiking distance: 19 km
Duration: 9 hours
Camp altitude: 2,800 meters above sea level
Maximum altitude: 4,630 meters above sea level
Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea, dinner
Lodging: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3
Day 3

Day 3: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Playa

We will begin the day with breakfast and enjoy mountain views from Collpapampa. We will hike along narrow trails beside rivers, cross wooden bridges, and pass waterfalls. The trail continues through banana plantations until reaching the village of Playa (2,000 meters above sea level).
After lunch, we will visit a local coffee farm and taste freshly roasted coffee. We will learn the coffee-making process from beans to cup and explore organic plantations. Later, we will have the option to relax at the nearby Cocalmayo hot springs.

Day 3 statistics:

Hiking distance: 16 km
Duration: 6 hours
Camp altitude: 2,750 meters above sea level
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4
Day 4

Day 4: Playa – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

Today will be demanding with a 24 km hike. We will hike 3 hours uphill to Llactapata, part of the original Inca Trail. We will enjoy spectacular views of Machu Picchu from this vantage point.
We will continue to Ahobamba valley for lunch at a local family home. Then, we will walk along the railroad tracks to Hydroelectric and reach Aguas Calientes. We will check into our 3-star hotel, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the Machu Picchu visit.

Day 4 statistics:

Hiking distance: 24 km
Duration: 9 hours
Maximum altitude: 2,840 meters above sea level
Camp/Hotel altitude: 2,000 meters above sea level
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: 3-star hotel
Difficulty: Challenging

Day 5
Day 5

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

We will wake up early and take the first bus to Machu Picchu at dawn. We will explore temples, palaces, plazas, and Inca enclosures with our expert guide. We will have the option to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if tickets are available.
After the guided tour, we will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch. We will take the train to Ollantaytambo and private transport back to Cusco, arriving around 7:30 PM. We will celebrate completing the Salkantay Trek Cusco 5D/4N.

Day 5 statistics:

Machu Picchu visit: 3 hours
Altitude: 2,430 meters above sea level
Meals: Breakfast
Lodging: N/A
Difficulty: Easy

Inclusions & Exclusions

Included

  • Night-before briefing with our professional guide about your Salkantay Trek Cusco 5D/4N.
  • Private minivan from Cusco to the trailhead.
  • Expedition tourist train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
  • Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco with Guiding Cusco in a comfortable minivan.
  • Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
  • Professional bilingual guide, trained in local culture and Inca history.
  • 2-hour guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel.
  • Machu Picchu entry tickets.
  • Humantay Lake entrance tickets.
  • Salkantay Pass entrance tickets.
  • 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners.
  • Meals adapted to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or special dietary needs.
  • Cold boiled water provided to fill your travel containers.
  • First aid kit available throughout the trek.
  • Duffle bag for 5 kg (11 lbs) of personal items including clothing and sandals.
  • Cooking team and muleteers to carry camping and cooking equipment along the trek.

Not Included

  • Last lunch outside the trek package.
  • Personal expenses during the tour.
  • Bottled water (cold boiled water is provided at camps).
  • Walking sticks (available for rent).
  • Sleeping bag (available for rent).
  • Air mattress (available for rent).
  • Tips for staff on the trail (optional but appreciated; important for cooks and 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

Travel Tips & Recommendations

Essential Travel Info

Please read these recommendations carefully to prepare for your trip.

  • Essentials for Your Backpack (Day Hikes):
  • Original passport.
  • Small, comfortable backpack (recommended ≤25 liters).
  • Water storage: Camelbak or 2-liter water bottle (bring 2 liters for first morning).
  • Comfortable hiking boots with good soles.
  • 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.
  • Toilet paper and wet wipes.
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips.
  • Items for Your Duffel Bag (Porters Carry up to 5 kg / 11 lbs):
  • 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.

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 2025 – 2026:
  • Group Price: US$ 530.00 per person
  • Required Prepayment: US$ 265.00 per person
  • Balance in Cusco: US$ 265.00, usually paid 2–3 days before the trek starts
  • Small group adventure guaranteed to operate with just 2 people
  • Payment Options:
  • Online payment via 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
  • Inflatable mattress: 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

Book This Tour

Price per person $605.00
EXCELLENT
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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.
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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.
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H B profile picture
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 profile picture
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

What is the best time to do the Salkantay Trek Cusco 5D/4N?

We recommend trekking between May and September when the weather is dry and skies are clear.

How difficult is the 5 Day Salkantay Trek?

We will hike challenging mountain trails, including high altitudes up to 4,630 meters above sea level. You should be in good physical condition.

Do I need prior experience for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?

We will guide you step by step. No prior experience is required, but fitness improves your enjoyment.

What should I bring for the trek?

We will carry small backpacks for daily items and provide porters for your duffel bag (up to 5 kg). Bring water, sun protection, warm clothing, and personal hygiene items.

Are meals included on the Salkantay Trek Cusco 5D/4N?

We will provide 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners, including options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.

Will I see Machu Picchu at the end of the trek?

We will take you to Machu Picchu for a guided 2-hour tour, and you can climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if tickets are available.

Do you provide accommodation and camping equipment?

We will provide tents and basic camping gear. You can rent sleeping bags and air mattresses from Guiding Cusco if needed.

How do I protect myself from altitude sickness?

We will advise on acclimatization, drink plenty of water, and take breaks during hikes. Coca tea is also available at camps.

Are tips included in the price?

Tips are not included. We will recommend tipping staff based on your satisfaction for porters and cooks.

How do I reach the starting point in Cusco?

We will pick you up at your hotel in a private minivan early in the morning, usually around 4:30 AM.

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
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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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