Salkantay Luxury Trek
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Accommodation
- Camping & Glamping
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Group Size
- Private Tour
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Max Altitude
- 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
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Physical Level
- Challenging
The Salkantay Luxury Trek offers an extraordinary experience in itself for guests traveling to Machu Picchu. This re-imagined trekking concept showcases the most spectacular landscapes of Peru, as well as world-class service. This luxurious experience combines nature, culture, and luxury into a seamlessly unforgettable travel experience.
During five remarkable days, guests enjoy experiencing crossing through dramatic glacial valleys, exploring lush cloud forests, and following ancient Incan trails toward the iconic Incan citadel. Guests enjoy exclusive accommodations, including well-designed and cozy luxury camps for moments of relaxation, as well as a scenic mountain lodge with breathtaking views of Machu Picchu.
You can expect every detail of the Salkantay Luxury Trek to focus on your comfort. You will taste gourmet food made by expert chefs, be pampered by staff, and look at sweeping views of the Andes from every direction. In addition to the beauty of nature, you will begin to appreciate Andean cultures through tradition and stories that bring this area to life.
This is not merely a hike it is a curated luxury expedition through iconic landscapes in Peru. For a traveler who has dreamed of an adventure with luxury, the Salkantay Luxury Trek to Machu Picchu will be unlike any other.
US$ 1,700 / person
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The most luxurious way to experience the Salkantay Trekking
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Andes in comfort and style on this 5-day Salkantay Luxury Trek to Machu Picchu. Designed for adventure seekers who appreciate exclusivity, this route combines high mountain trails, lush cloud forests, and ancient Inca paths with premium camping, gourmet meals, and handpicked lodges. Each day reveals a new wonder culminating with a guided exploration of Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca Empire.
The Most Comfortable Way to Experience the Salkantay Trek
The Salkantay route is considered one of the world’s most beautiful alternative treks to Machu Picchu, offering extraordinary scenery without following the Classic Inca Trail. Our luxury version enhances this incredible adventure with premium accommodations, exceptional cuisine, and personalized service, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience while recovering comfortably each evening.
Every aspect of your journey has been carefully designed to balance adventure and relaxation. Professional guides, experienced chefs, attentive staff, and thoughtfully selected accommodations ensure that every day is both exciting and comfortable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a premium trekking experience, this is the finest way to discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.
Tour Highlights
- Luxury five-day trek through the spectacular Salkantay region.
- Visit the breathtaking Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass.
- Luxury camps with spacious accommodations and premium amenities.
- Exclusive mountain lodge overlooking Machu Picchu.
- Gourmet meals prepared daily by professional chefs.
- Personalized service and expert bilingual mountain guides.
- Scenic journey through glaciers, cloud forests, and tropical valleys.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Return aboard the panoramic Vistadome Train.
Salkantay Luxury Trek at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Humantay Lake – Salkantay Basecamp
Begin your adventure with a scenic drive to Challacancha, followed by a gentle hike to Soraypampa for lunch. In the afternoon, explore the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, then continue to your luxury campsite beneath the majestic Salkantay Mountain.
Day 2: Basecamp – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa
Conquer the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m, the highest point of the trek, and take part in a traditional offering to Pachamama. Descend through dramatic landscapes to the cloud forest and unwind at a deluxe campsite in Collpapampa with massages and hot showers.
Day 3: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Llaqtapata
Hike through lush tropical forests and coffee plantations to Lucmabamba, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Pachamanca lunch. Later, walk along an ancient Inca Trail to Llaqtapata for your first view of Machu Picchu, spending the night in a rustic lodge.
Day 4: Llaqtapata – Aguas Calientes
Wake up to a stunning sunrise over Machu Picchu, then descend to Aguas Calientes, visiting Mandor Gardens and the Sundial at Hidroelectrica along the way. Relax in a 4-star hotel before your final day.
Day 5: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Take the early bus to Machu Picchu and enjoy a guided tour of the Inca citadel. Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain available. After lunch at Sanctuary Lodge, board the Vistadome train back to Cusco.
Why Book with Uros Expeditions?
Our Luxury Salkantay Trek has been carefully designed for travelers seeking more than just an adventure. We combine expert logistics, personalized attention, luxury accommodations, and exceptional gastronomy to create a premium experience from beginning to end. Every member of our team is dedicated to delivering outstanding service, allowing you to fully enjoy the beauty of the Andes while we take care of every detail.
- Luxury camps and exclusive mountain lodge accommodations.
- Official Machu Picchu entrance tickets included.
- Professional bilingual mountain guides.
- Gourmet meals prepared by experienced chefs.
- Comfortable private transportation throughout the itinerary.
- Premium camping equipment and personalized service.
- Scenic return aboard the panoramic Vistadome Train.
- Experienced support staff throughout the trek.
- Emergency oxygen, first aid equipment, and complete safety protocols.
- Small groups for a more personalized luxury experience.
- Complete logistical coordination from beginning to end.
- 24/7 assistance from the Uros Expeditions team.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Humantay Lake – Salkantay Basecamp
Your journey begins with an early pickup at 4:30 am from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic 3.5-hour drive to Challacancha. There, you’ll enjoy a nourishing breakfast prepared by your private trekking chef, setting the tone for the days ahead.
You’ll then start a gentle 3-hour hike to Soraypampa (3800 m / 12,467 ft), surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. A gourmet lunch awaits you here, crafted with fresh local ingredients. In the afternoon, continue for 2 hours uphill to the stunning Humantay Lake, where you’ll have time to explore its crystal-clear turquoise waters and peaceful surroundings.
From the lake, a final 1-hour walk brings you to the exclusive Salkantay Basecamp (3900 m / 12,795 ft), set beneath the towering snow-capped peak. Upon arrival, your luxury tent will be ready complete with hot showers and the option of a relaxing massage. Enjoy a glass of wine or your favorite drink as the sun sets over the Andes, and indulge in a chef-prepared dinner under the stars.
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Accommodation: Luxury campsite with hot showers and massage
- Drinks available: Wine, beer, sodas
- Hiking hours: 6 hours
- Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Salkantay Basecamp – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa
Wake up to breathtaking mountain views and a warm cup of coca tea delivered to your tent. After a hearty breakfast, prepare for the most demanding yet rewarding day of the journey. You’ll begin a steady ascent to the legendary Salkantay Pass at 4630 m / 15,190 ft, the highest point of the trek.
At the summit, take time to absorb the dramatic scenery of towering glaciers and jagged peaks. Here, a traditional Andean ceremony led by your shaman will honor Pachamama (Mother Earth), offering a spiritual connection to the mountains.
Following the pass, descend for two hours to the village of Wayraqmachay, where a gourmet lunch will be served in the heart of the high Andes. In the afternoon, continue on a 3-hour descent into the lush cloud forest, where the climate turns warmer and greener.
Tonight’s luxury campsite is set in Collpapampa (2800 m / 9,186 ft), nestled among waterfalls and tropical vegetation. Unwind with a hot shower or Inca massage, toast with a glass of wine or champagne, and enjoy a chef-prepared dinner surrounded by the soothing sounds of the forest.
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Accommodation: Luxury campsite with hot showers and massage
- Drinks available: Wine, champagne, beer, sodas
- Hiking hours: 9 hours
- Distance: 18 km / 11.1 miles
- Difficulty: Challenging
Day 3: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Llaqtapata
Begin your day with a fresh breakfast in the village before entering the heart of the Cloud Forest. Over the next three hours, you’ll hike through vibrant landscapes filled with waterfalls, river crossings, granadilla and banana plantations, and lush tropical flora until you reach the village of Lucmabamba.
Here, you’ll take part in a unique culinary experience: a traditional Pachamanca lunch cooked with hot stones—an ancient Andean technique. You’ll actively join in preparing this festive meal before enjoying its rich flavors in the open air. After lunch, visit an organic coffee farm, where you’ll learn the process from bean to cup and prepare your own fresh brew.
In the afternoon, continue with a 3-hour scenic hike along an original Inca Trail. As you reach the archaeological site of Llaqtapata, you’ll be rewarded with your first dramatic view of Machu Picchu from a unique angle. Spend the night in a rustic mountain lodge surrounded by cloud forest, directly facing the iconic citadel.
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Accommodation: Rustic lodge facing Machu Picchu
- Hiking hours: 6 hours
- Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
- Highlights: Cloud Forest, Pachamanca experience, coffee farm, Llaqtapata ruins, first view of Machu Picchu
Day 4: Llaqtapata – Aguas Calientes
Wake up to breathtaking views of Machu Picchu at sunrise, a rare and unforgettable sight from the mountainside lodge at Llaqtapata. After a relaxed breakfast with your trekking team, begin your final day of hiking with a gentle 5-hour descent to the town of Aguas Calientes.
Along the way, visit the fascinating Sundial at Hidroelectrica and explore the lush Mandor Botanical Gardens—once visited by explorer Hiram Bingham III during his journey to discover Machu Picchu. This serene trail takes you through tropical forest and along the base of Machu Picchu Mountain.
Arrive in Aguas Calientes and check in to a comfortable 4-star hotel where you can unwind and prepare for your visit to the Inca citadel the next day.
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: El Mapi by Inkaterra or similar (4-star hotel)
- Hiking hours: 5 hours
- Distance: 14 km / 8.6 miles
- Highlights: Llaqtapata sunrise, Mandor Gardens, historic trail, arrival in Aguas Calientes
Day 5: Machu Picchu – The Lost City of the Incas
Rise early and take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise over the legendary citadel—an awe-inspiring moment that marks the grand finale of your journey. Enjoy a 3 to 4-hour private guided tour exploring the most iconic landmarks: temples, terraces, ceremonial centers, and royal residences.
You’ll also have free time to continue exploring or opt for an optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability and prior booking). After your visit, indulge in a gourmet lunch at the exclusive Sanctuary Lodge, located just outside the entrance to Machu Picchu.
Later in the afternoon, board the Vistadome panoramic train, offering comfort and spectacular Andean views, as you return to Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch at Sanctuary Lodge
- Accommodation: Not included (you will arrive in Cusco in the evening)
- Transportation: Vistadome panoramic train
- Highlights: Sunrise at Machu Picchu, guided tour, optional hike, luxury lunch
Included/Not Included
Included
- Pre-departure briefing in your hotel
- Pick up and drop off from your hotel
- Entrance ticket to Salkantay, Machu Picchu
- Three nights camping with luxury equipment
- 1-night 4-star hotel in Aguas Calientes ( El Mapi or similar)
- Peruvian gourmet meals with fresh local products
- Massage Sessions during the 3-nights of camping
- Hot Showers and portable private toilets
- Top-qualified tour guides
- Highly trained chefs prepare fresh meals
- Porters to carry equipment and food
- Personal Porter for up to 15 kilos of your staff
- Oxygen tank, Satellite phones, First Aid Kit
- Bus up and down to Machu Picchu
- Lunch in Machu Picchu Hotel
- Vistadome Panoramic Train back to Cusco
Not Included
- International flights.
- Domestic flights.
- Breakfast on the first day if arrival timing does not allow it.
- Lunch or dinner not specified in the itinerary.
- Sleeping bag rental if not stated.
- Trekking poles if not stated.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guides, porters, and staff.
- Optional upgrades not mentioned in the final itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
Additional Information:
Only private tours are available.
You can upgrade the trains to the Luxury Hiram Bingham or First Class service.
- Arrive in Cusco at least 1 to 2 days before the trek to acclimatize.
- Pack light but bring enough warm clothing for high-altitude nights.
- Book early during high season because luxury lodges and Machu Picchu tickets sell out fast.
- Keep your passport safe, since it is required for all official checkpoints.
- Choose this route if you want a more comfortable trek without losing the adventure factor.
Packing List
- Original passport.
- Hiking boots with good grip.
- Warm layers for cold nights.
- Lightweight clothing for daytime.
- Rain jacket or poncho.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Trekking poles.
- Refillable water bottle.
- Personal medication.
- Headlamp or flashlight.
- Small backpack.
- Cash in Peruvian soles.
Salkantay Luxury Trek Prices
Our Salkantay trek luxury tour is exclusively available as a private experience, providing guests with exceptional service, the utmost comfort, and a flexible itinerary. Scheduled group tours are not offered by us for this luxury trip. We do operate with the price list based on the size of the group. As more travelers join the tour in a group, the price to be paid per traveler goes down.
This private journey is ideal for couples, families, and close groups of friends because it maximizes the benefits of Salkantay trek along with premium services, high-quality accommodations, and delicious meals. The major goal of this trip is to organize everything in such a way that travelers can enjoy beautiful landscapes, visit Machu Picchu, and travel at their own pace.
- 1 Person 3900 USD
- 2 People 2500 USD
- 3 People 2300 USD
- 4 People 2100 USD
- 5 People 2000 USD
- 6 People 1900 USD
- 7 or more People BEST VALUE 1700 USD
Our private Salkantay Luxury Trek is reserved exclusively for you and your group. From the moment your adventure begins, your private guide, chefs, horsemen, drivers, and support team are dedicated entirely to your experience, providing attentive service and taking care of every detail along the route.
Hike at the pace that feels right for you, take breaks whenever you wish, and spend as much time as you like enjoying the incredible scenery. After each day on the trail, relax in carefully selected luxury accommodations, enjoy gourmet meals prepared especially for your group, and experience one of the most comfortable and personalized ways to reach Machu Picchu.
Reservation Payment
- A deposit of 50% OFF per person is required to secure your booking. The remaining balance can be paid online before your trip or in our Cusco office using a credit card, We travel, or bank transfer. If you require a different payment method, please contact us and we will be happy to assist.
- To process permits and entrance tickets, we require the following information for each traveler: full name exactly as shown on the passport, passport number, nationality, date of birth, and passport expiration date. Please ensure all details are accurate, as changes may incur additional fees or affect permit availability.
Student & Child Discount
- A US$30 discount is available for children under 17 years old and students under 25 years old. Child discounts are applied automatically at the time of booking.
- Students must provide a valid university ID card showing:
- the student’s name
- photograph
- university name
- valid expiration date.
Expired student IDs and ISIC cards are not accepted. To receive the discount, please send a copy of your student ID when making your reservation.
If the document does not meet the requirements established by the Peruvian authorities, the standard adult rate will apply. For assistance, contact us at info@urosexpeditions.com
Luxury itineraries often pair the trek with upgraded train service and better hotel categories in Cusco or Aguas Calientes.
If the route includes a train back from Aguas Calientes, a panoramic upgrade should be offered as a premium add on.
Take a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley and enjoy wider windows, more comfort, and a smoother travel experience.
For a more premium journey, upgrade to a panoramic service when available.
Luxury lodge-style stays are one of the main selling points of this trek.
Your hotel or lodge text should emphasize comfort, hot showers, better food, private rooms when available, and stunning mountain surroundings.
In Aguas Calientes, choose centrally located accommodations for easier access to Machu Picchu the next morning.
Travel info salkantay trek luxury
Traveler Information – Salkantay Luxury Trek to Machu Picchu
The Salkantay Luxury Trek is designed for travelers who want to combine adventure, nature, and comfort in an unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu. Below, you’ll find important information to help you prepare for this extraordinary experience.
Physical Level and Difficulty
This trek is considered moderate to challenging, as you will hike for several days through mountain terrain, including high passes and uneven trails. You don’t need to be an athlete, but a good level of fitness and comfort with long walks is important. The reward is breathtaking scenery at every stage of the journey.
Altitude and Acclimatization
The trek reaches high elevations in the Andes, so it is recommended to spend at least 2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting. This helps your body adjust to the altitude and reduces the chance of discomfort. Staying well hydrated and walking at a steady pace are also key during the trek.
Accommodation Along the Route
Throughout the journey, you will stay in fully equipped luxury camps designed to provide comfort in the heart of nature. The tents are spacious and cozy, and you will also spend a night in an exclusive mountain lodge with spectacular views. Each night offers a chance to rest and recharge for the next day’s adventure.
Meals and Service
One of the highlights of this experience is the gourmet cuisine in the middle of the Andes. Expert chefs prepare fresh and varied meals, and dietary requirements can be accommodated. A professional and attentive team takes care of logistics, camp setup, and every service detail to ensure a seamless journey.
Luggage and Logistical Support
You won’t need to carry all your belongings while hiking. The trekking team manages the transport of your main luggage and camping equipment. You’ll only carry a daypack with personal essentials such as water, a camera, extra layers, and small personal items.
Weather and Trail Conditions
Weather in the Andes can change quickly. You may experience sun, wind, cold temperatures, and even rain in a single day. Dressing in layers, bringing waterproof gear, and using sun protection are highly recommended. Our guides are prepared to handle varying weather conditions and prioritize your safety at all times.
Cultural Experience
Beyond the landscapes, this journey connects you with Andean history and culture. Along the way, guides share stories, traditions, and insights into Andean beliefs and the spiritual significance of these sacred mountains.
Who Is This Trek For?
This program is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic adventure with a high level of comfort. It’s perfect for those who want to challenge themselves, witness extraordinary scenery, and still enjoy restful nights and quality service in remote natural settings.
The Salkantay Luxury Trek is not just a hike — it is a luxury expedition through some of Peru’s most iconic landscapes, designed to help you experience Machu Picchu in a deep, exclusive, and unforgettable way.
Salkantay trek luxury Faq's
Who is the Salkantay Luxury Trek designed for?
This trek is designed for travelers who want a true high-Andean adventure without giving up comfort, privacy, and thoughtful service. It is ideal for those who enjoy nature at its most dramatic but prefer to return each evening to a warm bed, excellent food, and a sense of calm rather than fatigue.
How challenging is the Salkantay Luxury Trek?
While the trek still crosses high mountain terrain and includes long walking days, the experience is carefully designed to manage effort and recovery. Challenging sections are approached at a steady pace, with proper acclimatization and support, allowing most travelers in good physical condition to enjoy the journey without feeling overwhelmed.
What are the accommodations like during the trek?
Accommodations are a defining feature of this experience. You will stay in carefully designed luxury camps with proper beds, private dining areas, and warm, welcoming spaces to relax. One night is spent in a scenic mountain lodge with direct views toward Machu Picchu, offering a rare blend of wilderness and comfort.
How does this trek connect travelers to Andean culture?
Along the route, your guide shares stories, traditions, and local perspectives that help you understand the cultural significance of the landscapes you cross. This cultural context transforms the trek from a physical journey into a deeper experience rooted in Andean history and worldview.
How is the luxury version of the Salkantay Trek different from the standard route?
The difference is in how the journey feels. The luxury version focuses on pacing, space, and care. Instead of basic camps, you stay in elegant luxury tents and a scenic mountain lodge. Meals are prepared by professional chefs, and every transition along the trail is designed to feel smooth, unrushed, and intentional.
What kind of landscapes will we experience during the trek?
The landscapes change dramatically from day to day. You move from glacial valleys beneath towering peaks to green cloud forests filled with life and sound. Snowcapped mountains, turquoise lakes, and wide Andean valleys unfold in every direction, creating a constant sense of movement and wonder.
What can I expect from the food on the Salkantay Luxury Trek?
Dining on this trek goes far beyond standard trail meals. Expert chefs prepare gourmet dishes using fresh, local ingredients, served in beautiful settings. Meals are designed to nourish your body after a day of walking while also becoming moments to slow down, share stories, and enjoy the surroundings.
What makes the Salkantay Luxury Trek a truly unique experience?
This trek is not just about reaching Machu Picchu; it is about how you get there. The combination of powerful landscapes, refined comfort, and attentive service creates an experience that feels curated rather than demanding. Many travelers describe it as a journey where adventure and elegance finally meet in balance.
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