The Ultimate Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (Deposit price shown)

from £288.50

Take the road less travelled and experience Peru in its purest form, wild, raw, unforgettable. This is not your average bucket list tick. This is an 11-day odyssey through the beating heart of the Andes.

Our Ultimate Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is built for adventurers who want more than just a photo at the top. You’ll hike across glacial valleys, stand beneath snow-capped giants, and watch the clouds drift over ancient stone citadels. But this isn’t just about the destination — it’s about the journey.

Your adventure begins in the vibrant streets of Lima, where colonial cathedrals meet Pacific surf, before flying into the sacred heartland of the Inca Empire: Cusco. Here, we slow things down- giving your body time to acclimatise, while immersing you in the stories, rituals and ruins that define the region. You’ll wander cobbled streets, visit Inca temples, and explore sacred ruins like Sacsayhuaman — a masterpiece of megalithic engineering perched above the city.

Then comes the main event: the Salkantay Trek.

Remote, dramatic, and staggeringly beautiful, the Salkantay route is the quieter, more scenic alternative to the Inca Trail. Over four epic days, you’ll summit high mountain passes, trek through cloud forest, and camp in places most travellers will never lay eyes on. You’ll reach the glacial-blue Humantay Lake, cross the mighty Salkantay Pass at 4,650m, and descend into the high jungle where hummingbirds dart through coffee plantations and waterfalls cascade across the trail.

Along the way, our expert team of guides, cooks, and muleteers take care of every detail - so you can focus on the views, the camaraderie, and the moment.

From the jungle, we travel by train to Aguas Calientes, ready for one of the most iconic moments in travel: sunrise at Machu Picchu. After a private guided tour through its ancient streets and temples, you’ll have the chance to climb further still — up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, if you’re up for it.

And because we believe in going out with a bang, we’ve saved one final adventure. Your last day offers the option to hike to the mesmerising Rainbow Mountain, a technicolour geological marvel hidden high in the Andes.

This trip isn’t just about visiting Peru. It’s about feeling Peru — in your lungs, your legs, your soul. It’s a challenge and an experience that will stay with you long after your boots are off.

If you’re looking for an adventure with depth, meaning, and moments that make you feel truly alive- this is it.

Dates:

Take the road less travelled and experience Peru in its purest form, wild, raw, unforgettable. This is not your average bucket list tick. This is an 11-day odyssey through the beating heart of the Andes.

Our Ultimate Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is built for adventurers who want more than just a photo at the top. You’ll hike across glacial valleys, stand beneath snow-capped giants, and watch the clouds drift over ancient stone citadels. But this isn’t just about the destination — it’s about the journey.

Your adventure begins in the vibrant streets of Lima, where colonial cathedrals meet Pacific surf, before flying into the sacred heartland of the Inca Empire: Cusco. Here, we slow things down- giving your body time to acclimatise, while immersing you in the stories, rituals and ruins that define the region. You’ll wander cobbled streets, visit Inca temples, and explore sacred ruins like Sacsayhuaman — a masterpiece of megalithic engineering perched above the city.

Then comes the main event: the Salkantay Trek.

Remote, dramatic, and staggeringly beautiful, the Salkantay route is the quieter, more scenic alternative to the Inca Trail. Over four epic days, you’ll summit high mountain passes, trek through cloud forest, and camp in places most travellers will never lay eyes on. You’ll reach the glacial-blue Humantay Lake, cross the mighty Salkantay Pass at 4,650m, and descend into the high jungle where hummingbirds dart through coffee plantations and waterfalls cascade across the trail.

Along the way, our expert team of guides, cooks, and muleteers take care of every detail - so you can focus on the views, the camaraderie, and the moment.

From the jungle, we travel by train to Aguas Calientes, ready for one of the most iconic moments in travel: sunrise at Machu Picchu. After a private guided tour through its ancient streets and temples, you’ll have the chance to climb further still — up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, if you’re up for it.

And because we believe in going out with a bang, we’ve saved one final adventure. Your last day offers the option to hike to the mesmerising Rainbow Mountain, a technicolour geological marvel hidden high in the Andes.

This trip isn’t just about visiting Peru. It’s about feeling Peru — in your lungs, your legs, your soul. It’s a challenge and an experience that will stay with you long after your boots are off.

If you’re looking for an adventure with depth, meaning, and moments that make you feel truly alive- this is it.

Itinerary:

  • • Arrive in Lima, transfer to your hotel in the vibrant Miraflores district.

    • Free time to rest or take in the coastal vibes.

    Meals: None

    Accommodation: Hotel in Lima

  • • Private guided tour of Lima including Miraflores, Barranco, San Martin Square, catacombs, and the Cathedral.

    • Afternoon free to explore Larcomar and oceanfront cafés.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Accommodation: Hotel in Lima

  • • Morning flight to Cusco with private transfer to hotel.

    • Gentle walking tour exploring Koricancha, Cusco Cathedral, Inca palaces, and ancient streets.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco

  • • Half-day guided visit to sacred sites just outside Cusco.

    • Free afternoon. Evening briefing for the trek.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco

  • • Scenic drive to Soraypampa trailhead. Hike up to turquoise Humantay Lake.

    • Continue to Salkantaypampa camp at 4,100m.

    Meals: Lunch, Dinner

    Accommodation: Camping

    Distance: 12km

  • • Trek over the mighty Salkantay Pass.

    • Descend to Chaullay in the cloud forest – waterfalls and jungle vibes.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Accommodation: Camping

    Distance: 22km

  • • Gentle hike to Lucmabamba coffee farm.

    • Optional visit to nearby natural hot springs.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Accommodation: Camping

    Distance: 15km

  • • Climb ancient stone steps to Llaqtapata for your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.

    • Descend to Hidroelectrica for lunch then board the train to Aguas Calientes.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

    Distance: 11km

  • • Early bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the Lost City.

    • Afternoon train + private transfer to Cusco.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco

  • • Early start for a private hike to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain (5,100m).

    • Or relax and explore Cusco’s artisan markets and cafés.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco

  • • Private transfer to the airport for flight to Lima and onward connection.

    Meals: Breakfast

  • Included:

    • 7 nights hotel accommodation (Lima, Cusco, Aguas Calientes)

    • 3 nights camping with equipment, inflatable mattress & porter service (7kg personal gear)

    • All internal flights (Lima–Cusco–Lima)

    • Private guided tours: Lima city, Cusco ruins, Rainbow Mountain

    • 4-day Salkantay Trek with professional guides, mules, porters & chef

    • Train tickets: Hidroelectrica → Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo

    • Bus tickets: Aguas Calientes ↔ Machu Picchu

    • Entrance fees to all listed sites including Machu Picchu

    • Drinking water on the trek

    • All transfers and ground transportation

    • 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners

    Excluded:

    • International flights to/from Peru

    • Personal travel insurance (required)

    • Sleeping bag (available to hire for £20)

    • Tips for guides, cooks & porters

    • Meals not listed (e.g. dinner on Day 2, lunch on Day 9)

    • Personal expenses, snacks & drinks

  • How fit do I need to be for this trek?You’ll need a good level of fitness and a sense of adventure. The Salcantay Trek includes several long hiking days, some steep ascents, and high-altitude terrain the highest point being 4,650m. You don’t need to be an elite athlete, but regular hillwalkers, gym-goers, or weekend hikers will do great. We provide a detailed training plan after booking to help you prepare.

    Is this harder than the Inca Trail?

    The Salkantay route is generally considered slightly more physically challenging than the Inca Trail due to the higher altitude and longer daily distances. But it’s also more remote, less crowded, and more scenic — so many find it more rewarding.

    When is the best time to go?

    The best trekking conditions run from May to October. We’ve chosen departure dates in Peru’s dry season, when skies are clear, trails are dry, and mountain views are at their best. June to August are peak months, while May, September and early October offer quieter trails.

    Will altitude be a problem?

    You’ll be trekking at high altitude, so mild symptoms are common — things like shortness of breath or headaches. That’s why we build in two full days in Cusco before the trek to help you acclimatise. Your guides carry oxygen and a first aid kit, and we’ll also send out tips for altitude preparation in advance.

    Where do we sleep?

    You’ll stay in 3-star boutique hotels in Lima, Cusco and Aguas Calientes all handpicked for comfort, location, and vibe. On the trek itself, you’ll be camping in two-person tents, fully set up by our support crew. We include inflatable mattresses and porterage for up to 7kg of your personal gear.

    What are the food options like?

    Excellent! On the trek, our expedition chef prepares fresh, hearty meals including local dishes and western-style favourites. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or other dietary needs? No problem just let us know when you book. In cities, breakfasts are included, and you’ll have the freedom to explore the local food scene.

    Is the trip guided?

    Yes this is a fully guided trip. You’ll be with expert local guides throughout, including city guides in Lima and Cusco, and a professional mountain team on the trek. Our guides are bilingual, experienced, and trained in mountain first aid.

    What gear do I need?

    We’ll send you a full kit list, but in short: you’ll need a decent daypack, hiking boots, warm layers, and a sleeping bag (which can be hired for £20). We provide tents, mattresses, meals, and porters to carry your main bag. You carry just your daypack.

    How do I get to Peru?

    International flights are not included in the package. You’ll need to book a return flight to Lima, Peru (LIM). We recommend arriving early on Day 1 or the night before. We include domestic flights from Lima–Cusco–Lima as part of the trip.

    How do I book?

    It’s easy. Secure your place with a 10% deposit. You can then pay the balance in instalments. We’ll send you a welcome email, a full preparation guide, and everything you need to get adventure-ready.