- 4 Days & 3 Nigths
- Up to 12
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View Itinerary
CHOQUEQUIRAO TREKS TO MACHU PICCHU 8 DAYS
The Challenging Route of the Incas This exhilarating expedition will take you to two of Peru’s most famous and significant archeological sites: Choquequirao e Machu Picchu. Both of these ancient cities were considered towns of nobles and pr…
Duration
8 Days & 7 Nigths
Group Size
Up to 12
Distance
55.3 mi / 89 km
Difficulty
Challenging
Departures
Daily departures
Ideal For
For Everyone
THE EXPERIENCE
CHOQUEQUIRAO TREKS TO MACHU PICCHU 8 DAYS
ALTERNATIVE PERU TREKS · Cusco, Peru
The Challenging Route of the Incas
This exhilarating expedition will take you to two of Peru’s most famous and significant archeological sites: Choquequirao e Machu Picchu. Both of these ancient cities were considered towns of nobles and priests, and this meant that they were of great importance to the Incas.
On this epic adventure, you’ll get the chance to learn about the legends and treasures left behind by the Inca and listen to the stories the majestic mountains are aching to share with you. These towns marked the beginning of the end of the Inca empire and were abandoned before the Spanish conquerors were able to follow them there and exploit their treasures. Join us on this trek to experience untouched beauty, revel in fascinating history, and hike in the final steps of one of the world’s most influential ancient cultures—the Incas.
Itinerary
Day-by-day information for this experience.
Day 01: Cusco | Capuliyoc - Chiquisca
Begin Your Adventure Descending Into the Valley
Today we will pick you up to begin the adventure of a lifetime. We will travel in our private transportation for four hours from Cusco to Cachora, where we will stop to walk through its picturesque streets. Here we will have lunch and meet the rest of the team that will accompany us along the route: the muleteer and the chef. They will help make the logistics of our trip perfect and comfortable.
We will begin our adventure at the Capuliyoc Pass (2,890 m / 9,482 ft). We will descend for three hours to our campsite at Chiquisca (1,900 m / 6,234 ft), on the way, we will have a great view of the Apurimac Canyon and we will be able to experience the lush microclimate of the valley.
Finally, we arrive at Cocamasana, where we will stop for a while to rest, hydrate and enjoy the exquisite natural beauty offered by the impressive Apurimac Canyon, one of the deepest in South America, perhaps we can also appreciate the majestic flight of the condor.
After a break, we will descend on the road until we reach the warm hamlet of Chiquisca, a beautiful place that is characterized by its warm temperature and lush vegetation, especially for its rich plantation of the tropical fruit of the guanabana. We will spend the night in this green place full of natural life.
DAY FACTS
- MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- ACCOMMODATION: Camp
- DIFFICULTY: Moderate
- WALKING DISTANCE: 10 km / 6.21 mi
- HIGHEST ELEVATION: 2,890 m / 9,482 ft
- CAMP ELEVATION: 1,500 m / 4,921 ft
Day 02: Chiquisca | Playa Rosalinas - Marampata
See Choquequirao for the First Time
Every day, after breakfast, you will be given a bag of snacks to snack on during the day. This will help you maintain your energy levels until the next meal. The first part of our hike consists of a descent of almost an hour and a half until we reach the banks of the Apurimac River.
We will arrive at Rosalinas Beach located at the lowest point of the hike (1,500 m / 4,921 ft). There we will have in front of us the pedestrian bridge that we will cross to then start with a six-hour ascent through a narrow path to the top. After three hours, we will arrive at Santa Rosa (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), a small town where you can rest, enjoy a snack and visit a hacienda house where you can taste Cambray, a traditional liquor of the area, a product resulting from the distillation of sugar cane.
After savoring a delicious lunch, we will continue our ascent through a path that winds through the mountain until we reach the community of Marampata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft.). You will undoubtedly be amazed with the first views of the Choquequirao archaeological complex.
Once settled in our campsites, we will visit the village to learn a little more about the history, culture, and customs. We will enjoy the sunset views of the canyon which is truly spectacular. You may also have the opportunity to see the Andean condors flying among the mountains, considered the largest flying bird in the world. Tonight, we will enjoy another delicious dinner at the Marampata camp.
DAY FACTS
- MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- ACCOMMODATION: Camp
- DIFFICULTY: Challenging
- WALKING DISTANCE: 11 km / 6.83 mi
- HIGHEST ELEVATION: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
- CAMP ELEVATION: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Day 03: Marampata - Choquequirao - Pinchaunuyoc
Explore the Last Post of the Incas
We recommend that you get up early to appreciate the magnificent sunrise from a picturesque spot not far from the camp. It will be the highlight of your trip if you go the extra mile. We have breakfast at 6:00 a.m. and then begin our adventure, hiking for an hour and a half until we finally reach the magnificent citadel of Choquequirao (3,050 m / 10,007 ft.). Your expert guide will tell you everything he knows about this incredible site and you will discover many secrets of the Incas.
Later, we will explore all the important sections that are allowed: palaces, ceremonial temples, fountains where spiritual water ceremonies were performed, the incredible usno (ceremonial platform) and agricultural terraces; in addition, we will descend to explore the section of the terraces where the sun flames are, we will enjoy a picnic lunch that our cook will make us reach. Finally, we will head to the canal sector, from where we will begin our ascent to the next camp.
We will ascend through cloud forests, mountains and valleys to reach the Choquequirao Pass (3,270 m / 10,782 ft). It is a very scenic route. After a few hours of hiking, we will arrive at Pinchaunuyoc which means “water jumping forward” (2,420 m / 7,940 ft). This place is a system of ancient agricultural terraces that will surely fascinate you.
Once at our campsite in Pinchaunuyoc, you will be able to relax surrounded by the beauty of the nearby canyons. We will explore this fascinating place, before enjoying a cup of coffee contemplating the beautiful scenery,
DAY FACTS
- MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
- ACCOMMODATION: Camp
- DIFFICULTY: Moderate
- WALKING DISTANCE: 8 km / 4.97 mi
- HIGHEST ELEVATION: 3,270 m / 10,728 ft
- CAMP ELEVATION: 2,420 m / 7,940 ft
Day 04: Pinchaunuyoc - Maizal - Minas Victoria - Abra San Juan - Yanama
A Change of Scenery
After recharging our energy with another nourishing breakfast, we’ll continue our way down to the bottom of the canyon until we reach the Blanco River. Then, we´ll ascend to where the landscape becomes lush and full of green vegetation. If the sky is clear, we´ll be able to enjoy the beautiful snow-capped mountains that surround us. Otherwise, we will see the clouds falling down the valley below us. In both cases, the view becomes incredibly beautiful, so don’t worry too much about the weather.
Later, we´ll continue ascending until we reach the summit. One of our favorite parts of the fourth day is waking up to the rhythmic sounds of the forest and birds. It is a truly fantastic experience that will strengthen your bond with mother nature.
After three and a half hours of pure ascent, we´ll arrive at Maizal (3,000 m / 9,843 ft), a beautiful hamlet in the middle of beautiful valleys. We´ll continue ascending, and this part of the trail is historically significant due to the large presence of Inca trails. We´ll pass by the impressive Inca mines, called Minas Victoria, from which silver used to be extracted. Next, we´ll head towards the San Juan Pass (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). We´ll have lunch while enjoying the views of the snow-capped peaks of Choquetakarpo and Padreyoc. If you were not able to see the condors before this point, you may have the opportunity here, depending on the season.
Finally, we´ll descend to our campsite at Yanama (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), a small settlement at the bottom of a long valley surrounded by mountains. Another delicious dinner and a well-deserved night’s sleep awaits you.
DAY FACTS
- MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
- ACCOMMODATION: Camp
- DIFFICULTY: Challenging
- WALKING DISTANCE: 18 km / 11.18 mi
- HIGHEST ELEVATION: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
- CAMP ELEVATION: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
Day 05: Yanama - Abra Yanama - Totora - Collpapampa (Mountain Sky View)
Spot Sacred Salkantay in the Distance
Yanama, where you slept last night, is a remote indigenous community that’s nestled in the hills of the Andes. You’ll find that when you start your day this morning, we’re joined by excited local children and serenaded by the sounds of the jungle and a rushing waterfall.
After breakfast, we’ll begin hiking uphill for 5 hours to the highest part of our entire trek, the Yanama Pass (4,650 m / 15,256 ft). As we walk, we’ll be able to observe Andean villagers farming their potatoes in the terraced valley hills. Potatoes are native to this part of the world, and it shows with the many varieties on offer and the diverse ways of cooking them. Here, we’ll have a fantastic view of the Saqsarayoc and Padreyoc mountain ranges.
The morning’s climb will bring us into a new environment—depending on the season, and we could be walking through snow at this point of the trek. It’s here that we’ll get the first view of the Salkantay Mountain, one of the ancient Inca gods, also known as an Apu.
Afterward, we’ll descend on a long, foggy path through grassy fields, bushy areas, and crossing bridges on the way to the community of Totora. Along this stretch, we‘ll have a break for lunch and rest to recuperate. Then, we’ll continue for one hour more until we reach our campsite in Collpapampa. In total, we’ll descend for 4 hours. We’ll spend the night in tents, surrounded by this warm and welcoming community and outstanding natural beauty.
Our campsite Mountain Sky View is a warm mountain accommodation and our novelty this year, and it’s with great pleasure that we prepared this place for all those looking for a glamping experience surrounded by nature. Each one of its individual Andean Sky Huts counts with a private bath besides spectacular tropical mountain views. You’ll find peace under the shining stars listening to the voices of wildlife and the whispers of the river in the valley.
- 16 Sky huts
- 2 people per hut
- Dining room and kitchen
- Toilets and Warm Shower
- Optional:
- Warm shower
DAY FACTS
- MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- ACCOMMODATION: Camp
- DIFFICULTY: Challenging
- WALKING DISTANCE: 15 km / 9.32 mi
- HIGHEST ELEVATION: 4,650 m / 15,256 ft
- CAMP ELEVATION: 3,360 m / 11,024 ft
Day 06: Collpapampa | Wiñay Pocco - La Playa - Lucmabamba (Super Jungle Domes)
Jungle Adventure and Coffee Experience
Today we’ll begin the day at 6:00 a.m. with a hot cup of tea and a nourishing breakfast at camp. We’ll then set out on a scenic hike through the Santa Teresa Valley, following a gently descending trail that rewards us with spectacular views of rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and plantations of bananas, coffee, and avocados. Keep your eyes open—if we’re lucky, we may spot the iconic Andean cock-of-the-rock, Peru’s national bird. Upon reaching Zona Propiedad, our private vehicle will be waiting to transfer us to La Playa, allowing us to arrive with more energy and time to enjoy an authentic coffee experience. Here we’ll explore the coffee fields, take part in the cultivation process, and finally roast, grind, and brew our own cup.
After this enriching activity, we’ll continue by private transport to Lucmabamba (2,000 m / 6,562 ft), where we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch and settle into our exclusive Super Jungle Domes. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore the surroundings or visit the nearby Cocalmayo hot springs if you wish (not included in the package).
In the evening, we’ll return to Lucmabamba for a restorative dinner before resting in your lodge surrounded by the sounds of nature. The night ends in the comfort of your lodge, where the gentle murmur of the forest becomes the perfect soundtrack for a deep and peaceful sleep.
Today, continue your adventure with a hike through the jungle of the Santa Teresa Valley, where you will see lush landscapes of rivers, waterfalls, orchids, fruit tree plantations, and enjoy a wonderful coffee experience. You will arrive at our Super Jungle Domes camp to enjoy a delicious lunch, then have the afternoon free to explore the surroundings. In the evening, you will rest while listening to the sounds of nature.
From the comfort of our domes, you get to be in intimate contact with the surrounding nature. As you hear the voices of the wind, rain, and flora and fauna in the area, immerse yourself in this green environment.
- 17 domes
- 2 people per dome
- Dining room and kitchen
- Toilets and Hot shower
- Opcional:
- Wi-Fi
DAY FACTS
- MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- ACCOMMODATION: Super Jungle Domes
- DIFFICULTY: Moderate
- WALKING DISTANCE: 10.3 km / 6.4 mi
- WALKING TIME: 4 hours
- HIGHEST ELEVATION: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
- CAMP ELEVATION: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft
Day 07: Lucmabamba | Llactapata - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes
Follow the Tracks to Aguas Calientes
The last day of actual hiking has arrived. We’ll walk 3 hours after breakfast uphill on a section of the original Inca Trail. Along this stretch, you can see the incredible landscape of Santa Teresa valley and some coffee and passion fruit plantations below.
Once we reach the top of that mountain, we’ll find the fabulous Inca site of Llactapata, from where you’ll get to enjoy your first views of the Inca city of Machu Picchu. You’ll also tour the site and learn all about it from your guide.
Afterward, we’ll descend for an hour and a half to our lunch place in Aobamba. Once you’re full and refreshed, we’ll continue to Hidroelectrica from where we’ll follow the railway for three more hours to the small town of Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft). If you’re tired at this point, you can also take the train for this last part.
When you get to the town, you’ll check into a comfortable hotel and have some time to relax. Before dinner, you’ll have the option to visit the thermo-medicinal waters, the reason why the town is known as Aguas Calientes. This is another fantastic chance to rest your tired muscles.
Tonight, we’ll have dinner in a restaurant. Then a night of well-deserved rest awaits you because the next morning, you’ll need to wake up before dawn to go to the incredible archaeological complex of Machu Picchu.
We offer a selection of well-located hotels in the town with very comfortable and tasteful decorated rooms. You’ll find them impeccable with clean rooms and beds as well as adequate toilets and showers. It’s a perfect place to rest before the most important day of your trip!
- Single, Double, Matrimonial, and Triple
- Dining room and kitchen
- Toilets and warm showers
- Wi-Fi
DAY FACTS
- MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
- ACCOMMODATION: Hotel
- DIFFICULTY: Challenging
- WALKING DISTANCE: 25 km / 15.53 mi
- HIGHEST ELEVATION: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
- HOTEL ELEVATION: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft
Day 08: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco
Discover the Hidden Secrets of Machu Picchu
Your excitement for our visit to Machu Picchu will be huge this morning as we awake bright and early in the morning. After a nourishing breakfast at your hotel, we’ll take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu entrance checkpoint which is open from 6:00 am until 17:00 pm.
You´ll arrive when the sun rises and shines its beautiful morning light on the huge rocks. After enjoying the spectacular view, you´ll have time to explore this Wonder of the World while touring the citadel on a guided tour of approximately two hours to some of the important sectors: temples, terraces, palaces, houses, fields, among others. You´ll be impressed by the engineering of the Incas, which was far ahead of its time and to this day remains a mystery.
Then, you can choose to climb Huayna Picchu mountain or Machu Picchu mountain (if you have tickets booked in advance). You´ll be able to get an incredible view of the whole site. Don’t forget to take good pictures in this sacred place.
Once back in the town, you’ll have time to find a restaurant you want to have lunch in before you have to catch the train at 4:22 pm (subject to availability) to Ollantaytambo. There, our private transport will pick up your group and drop you off at your accommodation in Cusco at around 8:00 pm. Rest your feet and your body now because we can assure you your heart will still be soaring for weeks and years to come with the rhythm of the Andes.
DAY FACTS
- MEALS: Breakfast
- DIFFICULTY: Easy
- ACTIVITY DURATION: 2 - 5 hours exploring
- MACHU PICCHU CITADEL ELEVATION: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN ELEVATION: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft
- HUAYNA PICCHU MOUNTAIN ELEVATION: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
- OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES: Moderate to Challenging (2 - 4 hours)
Inclusions
Services included and excluded from the trip.
What is Included?
Permits & Entrance Tickets
Entrance Ticket for Choquequirao Trek
Entry to Machu Picchu Archaeological
Site Machu Picchu Circuit 2 offers the most complete and popular route through the citadel, making it the most requested. Although included in this experience, availability is limited, so we strongly recommend booking at least three months in advance.
If Circuit 2 is unavailable, we will arrange Circuit 3-B, which explores the lower area of the citadel, including the urban sector and key ceremonial sites. If this is also sold out, Circuit 1-B will be arranged, covering mainly the upper panoramic area with the iconic postcard viewpoint.
High Quality Service & Safety
Pre-departure Briefing
You’ll meet your trekking guide and group in our office for an orientation before your trek. There, we’ll provide you with the duffle bags, which our horses will carry. The meeting will be at 5:00 pm the evening before the trip begins.
Experienced Tour Guide
English and spanish speaking official tour guide. All our guides are graduates of the professional career of Tourism of the National University San Antonio Abad of Cusco. We choose them for their professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness, unbridled passion for exploring, and sincere desire to proudly share in our culture and history. He or she will keep you safe, sound, and comfortable on your trek so that you can enjoy your time worry-free!
Private Camping Equipment
You’ll have spacious dining and kitchen tents where you can enjoy your food without problems. All our equipment like tables, chairs, cooking equipment, etc., will be carried by our horses.
Portable Travel Toilet
One Duffle Bag
On the trek, you can carry your personal belongings up to a maximum weight of 7 kg / 15.4 lb (this weight includes your sleeping bag).
Inflatable mattress
Our camping mattresses will help you sleep comfortably whilst camping!
Medical Kit or First AID Kit
All Salkantay Trekking guides have received specialized training in first aid. We hold mandatory training sessions with our guides every February. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit to face basic emergencies (altitude sickness, travelers’ diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) as well as oxygen. If necessary, we’ll evacuate you from the path as quickly as possible and ensure that you arrive at a clinic for treatment.
Extras Included in our Service
We make a difference in the small details. That’s why, we include a waterproof cover that will protect your backpack from the rain throughout the entire hike.
24/7 Customer Service
We have telephone service available 24 hours/day for ease of communication with Salkantay Trekking leading up to your trek.
Satellite Phone
Our main priority will always be the tranquillity of our clients. All of our guides are prepared for emergencies in the mountains; however, being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps you feel more secure. For this reason, each Salkantay Trekking guide has a satellite phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to call anywhere in the world in case of an emergency.
Accommodation
Like our ancestors, we’re very considerate of the Pachamama (Mother Earth). For this reason, our campsites and lodges are adapted to the environment to avoid generating negative impacts.
Day 5: You’ll spend the night in our deluxe Mountain Sky View cabins.
Day 6: You’ll spend the night in our exclusive and comfortable Super Jungle Domes with a double room.
5 Nights Accommodation in Tents
Salkantay Trekking uses the best equipment to ensure your safety and comfort. Every 2 people will share Eureka Timberline or Mountai Hard Wear tents with a capacity for 4 people.
Accommodation in Private Campsites
Day 6: You’ll spend the night in our exclusive and comfortable Jungle Domes with a double room.
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 7: The last night of this trek is spent in a 2-star hotel in Aguas Calientes with a matrimonial, double or triple room, private bathroom, hot shower, wifi, breakfast, and luggage storage while you visit Machu Picchu.
Meals
8 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, and 7 Dinners
Our chef prepares the best dishes in the middle of the mountain. Our passengers love our food! We respect all diets (vegetarian, vegan, or special menus are available at no extra cost), so let us know if you have any particular allergies or restrictions on your reservation form and remind your guide during the briefing. You’ll enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, in addition to hot drinks and snacks.
Water on the trail
We’ll provide you boiled, filtered, and cooled water during your trek. For this, you need to bring a camel bag or an empty bottle (we recommend a capacity of 2 liters).
Wake up tea
Every morning at the campsite, you’ll be woken up with a cup of hot coca tea. Our staff will provide you the tea in your tent so that you will be warm from inside out before you start your day.
Tea Time or Happy Hour
Every afternoon before dinner, the cooks will provide you popcorn, biscuits/cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, teas, hot water, etc. After a long day of hiking, you won’t have to wait until dinner to relax, warm-up, and enjoy a bite to eat!
Snacks on the trail daily
Before starting your trekking, your tour guide will provide you a cloth bag with local fruits, cookies, chocolate, caramels, etc. Every morning, we’ll refill it so that you can enjoy your snacks during the walk.
One cloth snack bag per person
To avoid the usage of plastic bags that contaminate our environment, we’ll give you a cloth bag for your snacks.
Hygiene Products
You’ll be provided with a small towel and soap before each meal to clean your hands.
Transportation
Transport
- Day 1: You’ll be picked up from your hotel in the morning and will travel in our private transportation to Capuliyoc, the trek’s starting point.
- Day 6: Private transportation from Zona Propiedad to Lucmabamba.
- Day 8: Private transport from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
Train Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Day 8) PeruRail Expedition Service
One-Way Consettur Bus Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Day 8)
Cargo Mules
Cargo mules will carry all the camping equipment and your baggage allowance (7 kg / 15.4 lb). Muleteers will be responsible for your duffle bag and personal items.
What Is Not Included?
Sleeping Bag
You can rent one from our company if you don’t have your own. Our sleeping bags are effective and durable to protect you from temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F). They are mummy-form and include a sleeping liner. The bags are cleaned after every use and have a maximum usage of 30 trips.
- US$ 40.00 per person
Walking Sticks
Walking Sticks (with rubber tips) can be very useful on rough terrain and for ascending and descending. You can rent a set from our company if you’d like.
- US$ 40.00 per person
Huayna Picchu Mountain
You can climb the famous mountain you always see in the photos behind the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It’s 45 minutes uphill, and coming back down can be scary if you fear heights. You can take this excursion once your guided tour to Machu Picchu ends. The permit must be issued at least one month in advance due to high demand. Consider that there could be changes to protect your integrity, mainly due to weather conditions.
- The ticket for Huayna Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person.
Machu Picchu Mountain
Machu Picchu Mountain is another of the mountains that surround the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It offers less steep, wider, and visually less frightening trails than Huayna Picchu, and it takes 1.5 hours to reach the top. This walk requires an entrance ticket which we can secure for you if we have time in advance.
- The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person.
Lunch in Aguas Calientes and Dinner in Cusco (Day 8)
Hiking Clothes & Gear
Travel Insurance
Tips for our staff Tipping is the norm on any excursion to Machu Picchu. Although we pay good salaries to our entire team, something extra is always welcome, especially considering the hard work they do. Typically, group participants collect their tips to hand out to the horsemen and chefs together.
Additional costs or delays beyond our control
Landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to a safety concern, illness, pandemia, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, act of God, etc.
Before You Go
Practical information to help you prepare for the journey.
We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as carefree as possible. In this section, you’ll find the answers to all the questions you have about traveling with Salkantay Trekking in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services. Have another question that we haven’t answered here? Drop us a line and we will get back to you asap!
How many days do I need to acclimate in Cusco before the Trek?
It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before exerting yourself on a trek. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the trek starts to help you adjust and avoid possible problems with altitude sickness while on the trek.
You might have already been in another area of Peru at a high altitude before arriving in Cusco. In that case, we still recommend you have a whole day in Cusco to rest, recover from your travel, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Cusco before departing for the trek.
Here some suggestions for activities to do in the Cusco vicinity before starting your adventure trek:
- City Tour
- Valley Sacred
- Maras Moray
Briefing or Informative Meeting
All information meetings and briefings are held in our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm, one night before the tour begins. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re unable to attend, you must coordinate another time by email, by phone or at the Salkantay Trekking office.
Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)
If you still have a pending balance, you must pay it 2 days before your hike/tour. Otherwise, your trip reservation will not be confirmed.
If possible, it would be greatly appreciated if you could settle the remaining balance for the trek/tour in cash, either in US dollars or the local currency, at our office in Cusco. You can withdraw funds from various ATMs located along Avenida Sol, offering both US dollars and Peruvian Soles. Alternatively, you have the option to pay using a credit/debit card or PAYPAL, either online or in person, but please note that a 5% service charge will be applied by our payment gateway (Niubiz) and PAYPAL. We regret to inform you that we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler’s checks as forms of payment for the balance.
Duffel Bag or Canvas Case
You’ll receive a canvas case or duffel bag during your briefing. Our horses will carry them, and the horsemen will hand them to you when you get to each camp. They measure 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in).
A maximum of 7 kg / 15.4 lb is allowed for each duffel bag, including the weight of your sleeping bag, sleeping mat, clothes, and other personal items.
Can I store my luggage at your office?
Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office (you can organize it with us on the briefing day or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Any equipment that you won’t need on the trek can be stored safely in your hotel. Nearly every hotel will provide this service. Don’t leave items of value with your bags; put them in the hotel safe and obtain an itemized receipt (in the unlikely case of theft, many insurance companies require that you have a copy of the receipt itemizing everything). It’s best to put items such as credit cards inside a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.
Pick up of guests
Salkantay Trekking can pick you up from your hotel, as long as it’s in the Historical Center of Cusco. Your guide will coordinate the pickup time in the briefing session, but please keep in mind that the time may vary between 30 and 45 minutes due to traffic.
Cusco is an old city, meaning it has many narrow cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs may be located on streets without access to cars or on long, steep slopes, making it difficult to transport luggage. We strongly recommend that you book accommodation with good access.
Return to Cusco
Returning from Machu Picchu requires quite a bit of logistics, but don’t worry. Everything is included in your tour!
- In Machu Picchu, you’ll board a bus that’ll take you for 25 minutes to the small city of Aguas Calientes. The buses are boarded according to arrival.
- In Aguas Calientes, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo. Your guide will give you the train tickets where the boarding time will be shown. Make sure you’re on the platform 30 minutes early. The train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo takes 1:45 hours.
- Once you arrive at the station, our representative, identified with the Salkantay Trekking clothing, will be waiting to transfer you to Cusco or directly to your hotel. The trip from Ollantaytambo to Cusco takes 1:30 hours.
- In Cusco, depending on your hotel’s location, we’ll take you to a smaller car from our company (Hyundai H1) to transfer you faster to your hotel.
Note: Your tour includes a One-Way Consettur Bus Ticket Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu, so you can choose to use it from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu or from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes. If you want a round-trip bus ticket, you’ll need to pay an extra of US$ 12.00.
Group Tours
Group tours are made up of different types of people, then physical conditions and ages can vary. By agreeing to be part of a group tour, you also accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, each person can go at their own pace on the route.
It may be the case that a group wishes to modify the tour; however, the guide will be the one who decides, after consulting with all the participants, if such modifications are possible.
Strikes and demonstrations
Strikes and demonstrations are common in Peru, and this may interrupt some of our tours. Roads can be blocked, and train tracks can be taken over. However, we will try to keep your trip as originally planned, even if it means leaving the night before the scheduled date.
Under these circumstances, tours may also be canceled. In case of changes or cancellations, everything will be coordinated with you by our operations department. Your safety is our highest priority, and our decisions will be made to protect it.
Lost objects
Please pay attention to where you leave your things and remember to take everything once you leave our transport, tents or restaurants. You’re the only one responsible for your objects during the tour.
Packing List
Recommended items for a comfortable and well-prepared trip.
- Valid Passport
- Extra money (recommended soles)
- Personal medication
- Water bottle or CamelBak – (optional water purifying pills)
- Sunblock: factor 70 or more
- Insect repellent
- Personal Care Products
- Hiking boots or shoes (preferably waterproof)
- Light footwear or sandals
- Trekking pants (*)
- Trekking socks
- Pair of thermal pants
- Shorts
- Waterproof gaiter
- Long sleeve t-shirts
- Warm jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Raincoat or rain poncho
- Waterproof or wool gloves
- Sun hat to protect neck and face
- Wool hat for the cold
- Neck gaiter or buff
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sleeping bag (-15°C)
- Trekking poles
- Medium trekking backpack (15 - 25 liter)
- Camera and charger
- Power bank
- Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, candies, dried fruits, etc.
- Bathing suit
- Towel
- Flashlight
Pricing
Rates and important commercial information for this tour.
Starting From
US$ 1,300
per person
Frequently Asked Questions
General travel information for Inja Expeditions guests.
Booking with Inja Expeditions is simple. First, choose the tour or trekking experience you are interested in and send us your travel details, preferred date and number of passengers. Our team will confirm availability and provide the corresponding booking instructions. Once the required deposit or payment has been received, we will send you a confirmation with the details of your reservation. We recommend checking all passenger information carefully after receiving your confirmation.
For multi-day treks, the briefing allows you to meet your guide and review the most important details before departure. We will explain the itinerary, weather conditions, recommended equipment, pickup time, luggage arrangements and any specific considerations for your route. It is also a good opportunity to ask last-minute questions and make sure you are fully prepared for the experience.
For selected multi-day programs, luggage storage can be coordinated before departure. Travelers normally take only the items required for the trek and leave their main luggage securely stored until they return. Please confirm this service with our team before your departure, as arrangements may vary depending on the itinerary.
Water arrangements depend on the specific itinerary. For many multi-day treks, travelers should begin the first day with their own drinking water and additional safe water is provided or made available during the route. Your trip briefing will explain exactly how water is managed on your chosen trek. We strongly recommend carrying a reusable water bottle or hydration system.
Yes. We recommend carrying some Peruvian soles in cash, especially on trekking routes and in remote areas where cards may not be accepted. You may need cash for snacks, drinks, optional activities, local services, hot springs, tips or unexpected transportation. The amount you need will depend on the length and type of your trip.
Tips are completely optional and should reflect your satisfaction with the service you receive. If you feel your guide, cook, muleteers or support team provided excellent service, a gratuity is always appreciated. There is no mandatory amount, and our team can provide general guidance during the pre-trip briefing if you wish.
Group size depends on the tour, season and number of confirmed travelers. Inja Expeditions aims to keep groups comfortable so guides can provide personal attention and travelers can enjoy the experience without feeling part of an excessively large group. The expected group size can be confirmed before you book.
For trekking programs, you should carry a small daypack with the personal items you need during the day, such as water, sunscreen, rain protection, a warm layer, camera and snacks. Depending on the trek, Inja Expeditions may also provide or coordinate a duffel bag for additional belongings transported by the support team. Weight limits vary by route and will be explained before departure.
Electricity and internet access vary considerably between routes and campsites. Some accommodations or camps may offer charging points and limited Wi-Fi, sometimes for an additional fee, while remote sections may have no connectivity at all. We recommend bringing a fully charged power bank and downloading any important information before leaving Cusco.
A group tour allows you to share the experience with other travelers who have booked the same departure, making it a social and generally more economical option. A private tour is reserved exclusively for you and your companions, allowing greater flexibility with pace, attention from the guide and certain logistical details. Private tours are especially suitable for couples, families and groups of friends looking for a more personalized experience.
Bathroom and shower facilities depend on the route and the type of accommodation used each night. Some campsites provide basic bathroom facilities, while certain locations may offer hot showers for an additional local fee. On routes that include a hotel night, standard bathroom and shower facilities will normally be available. Please review your specific itinerary for exact details.
On certain trekking routes, especially Salkantay and Ausangate, horses may be available for assistance on specific sections of the trail. Availability depends on location, weather and local operators, so this service cannot always be guaranteed at every point of the trek. If you are concerned about your fitness or altitude, please let us know before departure so we can explain the available options.
Visual journey
Gallery
Why you'll love it
Tour Highlights
Make your way to two of the most important Inca sites around: Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.
You’ll trek along ancient paths and retrace Inca footsteps as you visit other small archaeological complexes.
Hike through biodiverse climates that constantly change around you and enjoy the drastic changes along the route.
On the trek to Choquequirao, enjoy all the peace and quiet you can and explore the site in peace.
Join other trekkers on the trail to Machu Picchu—one of the most popular trekking routes in the world.
Immerse yourself in stunning landscapes and get to know Apurimac and its beautiful canyon, river, and valley.
KEEP EXPLORING
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