- 5 Days & 4 Nigths
- Up to 12
The Love in the Andes Romantic Trek to Machu Picchu Hey there love birds! They say that your honeymoon should be an experience you’ll never forget, so why not pair it with the most unforgettable adventure in the world? The Salkantay Trek is…
The Love in the Andes Romantic Trek to Machu Picchu
Hey there love birds! They say that your honeymoon should be an experience you’ll never forget, so why not pair it with the most unforgettable adventure in the world? The Salkantay Trek is listed as one of the 25 best treks in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine and is the best alternative route to the New Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu. We guarantee that you and the person you love most in the world will have a life-changing experience as you hike amongst the mountains and celebrate with some of our beloved Andean wedding traditions. We’ll do everything we can to accommodate you to ensure you receive all the comfort and privacy you desire!
Day-by-day information for this experience.
Tour of the Incredible Incan Metropolis: Machu Picchu
Today’s the day you’ve been waiting for since you left Cusco; you’re visiting Machu Picchu! You’ll wake up very early to beat the crowds and enjoy the site with fewer tourists around. The Inca citadel entrance is between 6:00 a.m – 5:00 p.m. We’ll board the bus to Machu Picchu and enter the Royal city of the Incas to get there first thing in the morning.
You’ll enjoy a guided tour of approximately two hours by the most important places of this incredible ancient metropolis and you will see: temples, palaces, priestly houses, crop fields, among others. Then, you’ll be able to climb Huayna Picchu mountain or Machu Picchu mountain (book tickets in advance); these tours will take you one hour and a half and three hours up and down, respectively.
After marveling at being in this sacred place, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes. There, you’ll have some time for lunch and then head to the train station to return home on the exclusive Vistadome Observatory train. Once you arrive in Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will pick you up and take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
It’s time to rest your feet now and relax after your exciting adventure. We can assure you that your heart will be soaring for weeks, months, or even years to come!
Important: For reservations in 2026, we are enhancing your travel experience. We have optimized the return service to Cusco, providing transportation on either the PeruRail Vistadome Observatory or The Prime Machupicchu by Inca Rail (assigned based on operational availability), both of which offer unparalleled panoramic views during the journey. In addition, you will spend your third night staying in our exclusive Sacred Jungle Lodges, a space designed for rest, comfort, and connection with nature.
Every detail has been thought out to provide you with a more complete, safe, and memorable experience from start to finish.
DAY FACTS
The Perfect Wedding Ceremony Beside the Jewel in the Mountains
Today, you’ll be picked up at 4:30 a.m. from your accommodation, from where we’ll transport you to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft). After enjoying an energetic breakfast to fuel you for the hike, we’ll begin our journey up to a gorgeous lake at the bottom of Humantay Mountain.
You’ll witness some stunning views of glaciers come into view as you get closer. Once you reach Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), you’ll be overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of the turquoise jewel-like water against the snowy mountain backdrop. You’ll spend some time taking in the astonishing scenery before you head back down to our campsite.
Ready and waiting for you back at camp is your Andean wedding ceremony, which will be set up while you’re away. It’ll take place in the middle of the natural environment, with Salkantay Mountain towering above you. An Andean priest is in charge of the ceremony, and he’ll conduct the service according to Andean traditions and rituals.
Once the ceremony is complete, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch before spending a relaxing afternoon doing whatever you like in this amazing place and having dinner. You’ll be able to cuddle up together and watch the sun go down as the clear, starry Andean sky at night appears. Enjoy staring at the constellations from the comfort of your Sky Camp igloo as you drift off to sleep.
Our dazzling SKY CAMP is located in front of the impressive mountains Humantay and Salkantay. This campsite creates the perfect union of sky and earth. It allows you to sleep calmly under a clear sky starred with an exceptional view of the cons - tellations. At the same time, you can enjoy all the comforts of a first-class vacation home.
DAY FACTS
The Stunning Salkantay Pass and Descent through the Cloud Forest
After an early wake-up call at 5:30 a.m. and another fueling breakfast, we’ll begin the ascent to the highest point of our trek, the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft). The distance is only 7 km (4.34 mi), but it’s a challenging hike that takes around 4 hours to complete on a winding path from the rocky valley up to the magnificent Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m / 20,574 ft).
Once we’re at the top, we’ll take in the spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and imposing peaks and glaciers of Salkantay, Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo mountains. Salkantay Mountain is the second-highest mountain in the Cusco region and one of the Inca gods known as “Apu.” After enjoying the views, we’ll start the 7 km walk downhill to the lunch spot.
This part of the hike is along a serpent-shaped, rocky, gravel path that takes us to Wayracmachay for lunch. We can rest on the way down at a perfect lookout across the absolutely stunning valley below.
After our meal, we’ll be entering the upper part of the tropical jungle valley known as the “cloud forest.” This hike has a distance of 9.5 km / 5.9 miles and lasts approximately three and a half hours. Along this section, you’ll notice the landscape changes dramatically as well as the energy of the earth as we move from the Andes to the Amazon.
This hike is truly beautiful; the hills are decorated with colorful scenery, unique wildlife, and native plants. The forests are warm and tropical most of the year with temperate climates. At the end of this exceptional trek, we will arrive at Collpapampa (2,950 m / 9,678 ft) for a well-deserved rest from our long day of hiking. At night, we will sleep in our exclusive Mountain Sky View surrounded by valleys, rushing rivers and lots of vegetation.
Our campsite Mountain Sky View is a warm mountain accommodation and our novelty this year, and it’s with great pleasure that we prepa - red 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.
DAY FACTS
Rainforest Adventure and Coffee Experience Today begins at 6:00 a.m. with a warm cup of tea and a hearty breakfast at camp. We’ll then set out on a scenic hike through the Santa Teresa Valley, following a gently descending trail that offers spectacular views of rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and plantations of banana, coffee, and avocado. Keep your eyes open—if we’re lucky, we might spot the iconic Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Peru’s national bird.
Upon reaching Zona Propiedad, a 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, learn about the cultivation process, and finish by roasting, grinding, and brewing our very own cup.
After this enriching activity, we’ll continue by vehicle to Lucmabamba (2,000 m / 6,562 ft), where a delicious lunch awaits before settling into our exclusive Sacred Jungle Lodges. Nestled in the heart of the jungle, this luxurious retreat has been designed to offer maximum comfort after a day on the trail.
In the afternoon, we’ll head to the nearby Cocalmayo hot springs—included in this exclusive package— where crystal-clear, mineral-rich pools provide the perfect setting to relax and soothe tired muscles and joints.
Finally, we’ll return to Lucmabamba for a delicious dinner and a well-deserved night of rest. As you unwind, let the harmonious sounds of the surrounding nature embrace you and reconnect with the spirit of Mother Earth.
The Day of Your First Glance at Machu Picchu
This morning, you’ll be woken up with a hot cup of coca tea served to your Sacred Jungle Lodges. While you enjoy your last delicious breakfast made by the cooks, you’ll get ready to head off for the day. We’ll set off early again and start walking on a piece of the original Inca Trail; exciting stuff! After climbing for 3 hours and overlooking some stunning landscapes of the Santa Teresa Valley, we’ll arrive at Llaqtapata Inca archaeological site that sits right in front of Machu Picchu.
This site is the first spot from where we can catch a glimpse of the Lost City of the Incas, and it’s a really special place to spend some time. You can also see Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, two dominant parts of Machu Picchu Inca citadel. We’ll explore Llaqtapata with our guide to listen to a history lesson about the ancient civilization and this beautiful country. You can also take all the photos you want.
After the visit, we’ll continue our hike with a oneand-a-half-hour walk downhill until we reach our lunch spot at Aobamba, enjoying the views of Machu Picchu all the way.
After eating, we’ll continue to our next stop at Hidroelectrica. Once there, you will board the train that will take you to Aguas Calientes, appreciating the best scenery along the way. After arriving at Aguas Calientes, the town at Machu Picchu’s base, you’ll enjoy dinner in a restaurant and head to bed early at your hotel for your early start to see Machu Picchu, Wonder of the World, in the morning.
Note: For safety reasons, hiking the Llactapata trail during the rainy season is not 100% guaranteed. When there are frequent heavy rains, this trail can become very dangerous.
We offer a selecon 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!
DAY FACTS
Services included and excluded from the trip.
What Is Included?
Permits & Entrance Tickets
Day 1: Entry Ticket to Humantay Lake & the Salkantay Trek
Day 3: Entry to Cocalmayo Hot Springs
Entry Ticket 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 guide for an orientation the evening before the trek. The meeting is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. at our main office in Cusco, but if you prefer, we’ll be happy to meet you at your hotel.
Experienced Tour Guide
Our official tour guides speak English and Spanish and are professionally trained and certified in safety and quality service. Chosen for their experience, responsibility, and passion for exploration, they take pride in sharing our culture and history. With their guidance, you’ll stay informed, safe, and comfortable, ensuring a worry-free adventure and an unforgettable experience of a lifetime.
One Duffle Bag
For the trek, you’ll receive a duffel bag to pack your personal belongings, with a maximum weight limit of 10 kg (22 lb), which will be carried by our staff.
Sleeping Bag
Our sleeping bags are durable and designed to keep you warm in temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F). They feature a mummy shape and include a sleeping liner for added warmth. Each bag is thoroughly cleaned and carefully maintained after every use.
Trekking Poles
Trekking poles enhance stability on hard terrain while minimizing impact on joints.
Medical Kit or First AID Kit
All Salkantay Trekking guides have specialized first aid training and attend mandatory training sessions every February. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit and oxygen to handle basic emergencies (altitude sickness, diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.). If needed, we will evacuate you from the trail as quickly as possible and ensure you arrive at a clinic for treatment.
Backpack Cover
Our attention to detail sets us apart. You’ll receive a cover to protect your backpack.
Day 2: One emergency horse available for your group from Soraypampa to Salkantay Pass
Professional long-range walkie-talkies
Walkie-talkies optimize communication, ensuring quick response and coordination in key situations and locations.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Exclusive Campsites
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.
Campsites Facilities
Our campsites are designed for your comfort and convenience:
Day 4: Superior 3-Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes Enjoy your final night in a comfortable hotel, featuring double, matrimonial, or triple rooms with a private bathroom, hot shower, WiFi, breakfast, and luggage storage while you explore Machu Picchu.
Ceremony
Andean Wedding Ceremony
Your wedding ceremony will be set up in a unique natural environment, with the towering Salkantay Mountain high up above the valley, making for the perfect backdrop. An Andean priest is in charge of the ceremony who conducts the service according to the local Andean rituals and traditions.
Paqo or Alto Misayoc
In the Andean tradition, an Alto Misayoq is a very high-level shaman, and they are usually described as Paqos with incredible abilities.
Filmmaker & Photographer for the Andean Wedding
After your experience with us, you’ll receive carefully selected photos of your Andean ceremony, along with a short video capturing the most meaningful moments of your union, with the mountains as your witness.
Meals
5 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, and 4 Dinners
We’ll provide boiled, warm water during your hike, from your lunch in Soraypampa to your breakfast in Lucmabamba. Make sure to bring an empty water bottle or camel bag for refilling—we recommend a 2-liter capacity.
Water on the trail
Every morning at the campsites, you’ll wake up to a hot cup of coca tea, delivered straight to your bed—perfect for warming up before you start the day.
Wake up tea
You’ll wake up every morning at the camp with a cup of hot coca tea! It’ll be brought to your tent so you can warm up before you start the day.
Tea Time or Happy Hour
During the trek, every afternoon before dinner, our cooks will serve popcorn, cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, tea, and hot water. After a long day of hiking, you won’t have to wait until dinner to unwind, warm up, and enjoy a tasty treat!
Daily snacks on the trail
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
We’ll provide you with a cloth bag for your snacks—perfect for storing wrappers and keeping the environment clean. Feel free to use it throughout your trek!
Transportation
Transfers
Private Transportation for the Salkantay Trek: Door-to-Door, Hassle-Free Service
Train Tickets
Personal Belongings Transportation
What Is Not Included?
Huayna Picchu Mountain
Up for a challenge? Climb Huayna Picchu, the iconic mountain behind Machu Picchu. This 45-minute uphill trek rewards you with breathtaking views and a profound sense of achievement. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but if you’re afraid of heights, push through—the reward is truly worth it!
Machu Picchu Mountain
Machu Picchu Mountain is one of the breathtaking peaks that surround the archaeological site. Its trails are less steep, wider, and less intimidating than those of Huayna Picchu, making it an excellent option for those seeking a more relaxed climb. Reaching the summit takes approximately 1.5 hours and offers unforgettable panoramic views. This hike requires an entrance ticket, which we can secure for you in advance upon request.
Dinner in Cusco (Day 5)
Optional Horseback Ride from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake (Day 1)
Personal Hiking Clothes and Gear
Travel Insurance
Tips for our staff
While our team receives fair salaries, any additional gesture is always appreciated in recognition of their hard work and dedication. Participants often choose to pool their tips and present them directly to the hiking team or through their guide.
Additional costs or delays beyond our control
Landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to a safety concern, illness, pandemic, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, acts of God, etc.
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.
Is it for me?
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail trek and better suited for more adventurous trekkers who can handle higher altitudes and longer distances. Ascending to reach the famous Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) isn’t too strenuous nor very steep since it’s at the beginning of the trek. Still, it does require stamina and a little time in Cusco to acclimatize to the altitude before beginning the trek.
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:
Briefing or Informative Meeting
All briefing meetings are held at 5:00 p.m. in our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) the day before the tour. The meeting lasts between 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re unable to attend, you’ll need to arrange a different time by email, phone, or by visiting the Salkantay Trekking office.
Tour Balance Payment
The tour has to be paid in full at most 2 days before your departure. Otherwise, your reservation will not be confirmed. It would be greatly appreciated if you pay the tour balance (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco. You can withdraw money from several ATMs located in the historical center. We also accept payments by CARD or PAYPAL online, but please note this is subject to a 5% fee (charged by Niubiz and PayPal). We do not accept bank checks or traveler’s checks as payment methods.
Duffle Bag or Travel Bag
The evening before the trek, we’ll provide you with a duffle bag to pack your clothes and personal gear needed for the trip. Our horsemen will carry it on the route and hand it to you once you get to each camp. Please note that you will not have access to your items in the bag until the end of each day. The maximum weight allowed is 7 kg / 15.4 lb, including the weight of your sleeping bag, clothes, and other personal items. They measure 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.4 x 8.7 in).
Can I store my luggage at your office?
Of course! During the trip, you can store your main luggage for free at our office (arrange it with us on the briefing day or by email).
You can also safely keep any equipment you won’t need for the tour in your hotel. Almost every hotel offers this service. Please do not leave valuable items in your bags; put them in the hotel safe and ask for an itemized receipt (in the unlikely case of theft, many insurance companies require that you have a copy of the receipt). For extra peace of mind, place items like credit cards inside a sealed and signed envelope.
Pick up of guests
Please note:
Return to Cusco
Returning from Machu Picchu requires quite a bit of logistics, but don’t worry. Everything is included in your tour!
Group tours
Group tours are made up of different people with varying physical conditions and ages. By agreeing to be part of a group tour, you acknowledge that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, each person can go at their own pace on the route.
In some cases, a group may want to modify the tour; however, the guide will be the one who decides, after consulting with all participants, whether such changes are possible.
Strikes and demonstrations
Strikes and demonstrations are usually common in Peru, which may interrupt some of our tours. Roads and train tracks can be blocked or taken over. However, we will try to keep your trip as originally planned, even if it means leaving the night before the scheduled date.
In case of changes or cancellations, our operations department will coordinate everything with you. Your safety is our highest priority, and we will make our decisions to protect it.
Lost objects
Please pay attention to where you leave your belongings and remember to take everything once you leave a place or a transport. You’re the only one responsible for your objects during the tour.
Recommended items for a comfortable and well-prepared trip.
Rates and important commercial information for this tour.
per person
General travel information for Inja Expeditions guests.