Salkantay Luxury Trek
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.
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Hightlights
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.
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.
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
- Flights to Cusco
- Personal expenses
- Last day dinner in Cusco
- Travel Insurance
Additional Information:
Only private tours are available.
You can upgrade the trains to the Luxury Hiram Bingham or First Class service.
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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