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Nestled along the western edge of South America, Peru is a land of extraordinary contrasts—where ancient civilizations, colonial heritage, and vibrant modern culture seamlessly intertwine. From the majestic peaks of the Andes to the lush Amazon Rainforest, this country offers a truly unforgettable cultural and natural experience.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast exploring Incan ruins, an adventurer trekking high-altitude trails, or a nature lover seeking wildlife in remote jungles, Peru offers something for every kind of traveler. It’s no wonder that its iconic archaeological treasures, breathtaking landscapes, and exceptional biodiversity draw visitors from across the globe.
With abundant natural resources and world-renowned destinations like Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, the Salkantay Trail, and the Tambopata Reserve, Peru continues to captivate the hearts of those who seek both wonder and authenticity.
As we like to say—Peru truly has it all.
9 Days 8 Nights
9 Days
Intermediate
3600 m.a.s.l
Trekking Nature & Culture
Group Service
Experience the best of Peru’s natural and cultural diversity with two unforgettable adventures. The Salkantay Trek is a high-altitude journey through the Andes, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, cloud forests, and the grand finale—Machu Picchu. Ideal for those seeking a scenic and less-crowded alternative to the Inca Trail.
In contrast, the Tambopata National Reserve immerses you in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest. Explore rich biodiversity, from macaw clay licks to giant river otters at Lake Sandoval, guided by expert naturalists. This pristine ecosystem is one of the most biologically diverse on Earth.
Together, these two destinations showcase Peru’s extraordinary range—from mountain to jungle, culture to wildlife—offering a perfect balance of adventure, nature, and discovery.
Salkantay Trek – Top 5 Highlights:
Tambopata Reserve Zone (Lake Sandoval and Monkey Island) – Top 5 Highlights:
Your epic 9 day journey begins with an early morning transfer from your hotel in Cusco. We will be picking you up between 0430 and 0500 in the morning and embark you on a two hours drive to Mollepata. You can wink a nap in the vehicle so you arrive fresh to start hiking the emblematic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
Mollepata is a remote Andean town at 2803 meters above sea level (9196 ft). We will be stopping for breakfast at a local restaurant here. Our local expert will be sharing some essential tips that would help you for the trek.
After breakfast, we will be driving further to Challacancha to start the trek. Here we will be meeting our support crew, chef and muleteers who will be assisting us.
After ensuring that all the gears are intact, we will begin with a gradual uphill hike to Soraypampa. It nestles at 3900 m/ 12795ft. Soraypampa houses our Signature Skydomes. Quechuas Expeditions is a pioneer in introducing Skydomes on this route.
Our luxurious sky domes are designed to offer seamless comfort during your stay.
The trek from Challacancha starts with a hike through a flat surface with a sight of different Andean glaciers at a distance. We will be hiking through a restored Inca Canal which the locals use even today.
The trek gets a bit steeper as we will get closer to our signature campsite. Our crew will welcome you with a cup of freshly brewed Peruvian coffee or tea. Once you have settled in your respective Skydomes, we will meet for lunch.
We will be serving a freshly cooked meal using ingredients from the Cusco region. Our Andean chefs are renowned for their delectable meals.
After lunch, we will be hiking up the hill to the enigmatic turquoise glacier lake, Lake Humantay. It nestles at 4200 meters above sea level (13780 feet). It is about three kilometers (1.86 miles) from our campsite. The round trip takes around three hours.
However, we do recommend that you trek at your own pace immersing yourself in the beauty of the Andes. Once we get to the shores of Humantay Lake you will have plenty of time to contemplate the view as our guide will be explaining its prominence in the Andean mythology.
Once you have enjoyed it thoroughly, we will be hiking down the hill, back to the campsite where our crew will be serving dinner after witnessing the sunset.
After dinner, you can settle in your Sky Dome and fall asleep under the constellation of stars shining in the dark Andean sky.
Another epic day on the Salkantay Trekking experience. You will be waking up to the golden rays of the rising sun beaming through the walls of your SkyDome through the mighty Salkantay Peak.
We will be serving you a cup of coffee or tea followed by a traditional Andean breakfast. The protein-rich breakfast would energize you to embark on a hike to the highest point of Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, Salkantay Pass at 4630 meters above sea level (15190 feet).
We will be hiking through the iconic “Trail of the seven snakes”. The route is named after the seven switchbacks that take you to the summit. This section of the trek is somewhat challenging because of the altitude. We will take it real slow so you can catch up with your breath and relish the views of the Andean peaks.
Salkantay Peak is the second-highest peak in the Cusco region and is one of the sacred entities in Andean mythology. Locals refer to it as “Apus” which means Father in Quechua. Even today they perform several sacred rituals including K’intu, seeking blessings using three Coca Leaves. Our guide will be sharing them with you.
We will have plenty of time at the summit to contemplate the view of Humantay, Taucarhuay, and Pumasillo peaks. Once you have had your fill of the view and feel ready to continue the hike, we will be hiking down the hill for another 7kms. (4.35 miles) to our lunch camp in Huacarmachay (3850 meters/ 12631 feet). Our lunch camp is located in a valley snuggled by snow-cappedkm views.
Our crew will be serving a freshly cooked Andean meal here.
After lunch, we will be leaving the Andes and entering the Peruvian Amazon Jungle. We will be covering the 8 kms (4.97 miles) stretch in three hours at a normal pace.
You will be witnessing a drastic change in the topography as we will be hiking down the hill. It would get slightly warmer. Our tour guide will explain about different plant, animal and bird species, most native to the region.
Once we reach our campsite in Chaullay (2900 meters / 9514 ft.) our crew will assist you to your respective Sky Dome where you will be spending the night. We will be meeting for dinner.
Our crew will be waking you up with a knock at the door of your Skydome at 0600 AM. After a cup of morning coffee, we will be serving breakfast.
The third day of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu experience is relatively easier. We will be hiking through Santa Teresa Valley, home to different farms. We will begin the trek after crossing the Lluscamayo river towards La Playa for about six hours.
The route is dotted with several waterfalls. The region is home to avocado, banana and coffee farms. Often trekkers have spotted the emblematic Andean Cock of the Rock here. It is the Peruvian National Bird.
We will be stopping for lunch at our campsite in La Playa. Our crew will be serving lunch.
After lunch, we will be visiting some farms here where we will give you a guided tour. Optionally you can spend the evening soaking in the natural hot springs of Ccocalmayo.
We will be serving dinner later in the evening before you get back to your respective Sky Domes for a sound sleep.
At 0800 AM, we will be serving breakfast. After breakfast, we will begin the hike through the section of the Original Inca Trail with a sight of Machu Picchu in the distance. This is the most beautiful spot to see Machu Picchu from.
We will be hiking up the hill to allure one of the most beautiful Inca complexes, Llactapata. It nestles at 2700m / 8858 ft. You will have a much closer sight of Machu Picchu complex from here.
This is the first Inca archaeological site that you will be visiting on Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Our local expert will give you a guided tour of the complex, soaking you in the history an Andean culture.
We will be walking down the hill for an hour and a half with the sight of Machu Picchu peak in the distance. We will be stopping for lunch in Hidro Electrica (1800 meters / 5096 ft). The place is named after the artificial waterfall here which is used to generate electricity.
If you prefer hiking, which we highly recommend, you will also have the opportunity to see Intihuatana. It is a sundial rock that the Incas used to read the winter solstice. This rock worked together with the stone in Machu Picchu citadel which you will be visiting on the following day.
Once in Aguas Calientes, we will be accommodating you in an ensuite hotel room for the night. We will be meeting later in the evening for dinner.
Aguas Calientes, as the name suggests, is home to hot springs. You can spend the evening taking a refreshing dip in the thermal waters here.
Early in the morning, after breakfast at the hotel, we will be taking a 25-minute bus ride up the hill to the entrance of Machu Picchu citadel. Your original passport will be verified here against your Machu Picchu ticket so make sure to carry the passport.
As you enter the citadel, you will witness the golden rays of the morning sun beaming on the walls of Machu Picchu as the blanket of clouds would unveil the citadel to you. We will be giving you a brief introduction of the Inca empire.
We will be visiting different prominent sites of the citadel. This includes the ceremonial site, farming sector, remains of the royal quarters, and more.
After the guided tour, you will have some time to soak in the views of the Inca citadel. If you have booked to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu peak, our guide will be guiding you to the respective trailhead.
Alternatively, you can hike to the Sungate. You won’t need to pay an entrance fee. Sungate or Inti Punku is the point of entry to the citadel for those hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It offers a panoramic view of Machu Picchu citadel.
Once you have thoroughly enjoyed the sight, we will be exiting the citadel and taking the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. You will have some free time here for lunch or to walk around the town.
Later in the evening, we will be boarding an Ollantaytambo-bound train. Our representative will meet you at the train station and will transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco. We will be reaching Cusco and taking our Overnight Bus at 8:30pm from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado.
PM.
Upon the arrival of your flight or bus to Puerto Maldonado, our guides or staff will meet you at the airport or bus station and transfer you to our office to make registration.
Your excess luggage will be stored safely in our office in Puerto Maldonado and then we will continue to the Capitania port. We take our motor boat along the Madre de Dios River for approximately – 40 minutes to Amazon Garden Lodge. A cool welcome drink awaits you.
The start of the adventure circuit has reached a tower and stairway that ascends to the treetops where a platform marks the start of the zip-line almost 200mts long, the breathtaking views are only matched by the excitement of overcoming our fears and the adrenaline that courses through us as we leap off the platform supported by the high-security harnesses that connect us to the zip- line cable to a platform 27mts high. The 75mts long of log walkway, hanging 27m above the floor, leads off this platform, a risky balancing act, and takes us to the platform at the start of the second zip line, a 160m fly back to the tower and stairwell that descends to the forest floor. And then Return to the Amazon Garden Lodge
After a well-deserved lunch, we take the kayaks to the river, well protected with high-quality life jackets, and accompanied by a motor boat that guarantees extra security; this level-one activity is relaxing and accessible for all. Getting Monkey Island you will be
able to appreciate a great diversity of monkeys such as the: capuchin, Camarines y squirrel monkeys we will put on a show of swinging through the treetops charging down the trunks of the large trees that form their home in order to accept food from your hand.
Return to Amazon Garden Lodge. Nocturnal activities are available this night we have the caiman spotting.
After a great breakfast, and distributed to each traveler lunch and snacks we’ll take the boat to get to the control of Tambopata National Reserve Zone, after 1 and half hour walking trhough the rainforest we are approaching to the famous Sandoval Lake. DIts way by immense ancient trees and entangled vines; we will be able to see multihued flower and fauna including: Giant Otters, birds, coloured butterflies, turtles, and variety of fish. We will spend few hours in canoe on this one of the most beautiful lakes in region. Return to Amazon Garden Lodge, dinner and rest.
we take to the majestic Madre de Dios River and set course downstream for an hour for the Native Community of Ese´Ejas, the largest Ese Eja community numbering about 200 families, of which we will be visiting two. The Project “Rescuing Cultural Values“, situated on Gamitana Island, is working with two families who will show us the culture of their ancestors, their language and customs, clothing and dances.
In our modern, civilized world we have all but forgotten the existence of ancestral cultures and traditions. An ancient indigenous tradition
like the Ese´Eja reveals to us the customs and way of life of indigenous peoples. They gift us with the opportunity to have a direct contact with a people of ancient warriors and hunters and to share their ancestral ways.and at 1.pm lunch.
By the afternoon we have time to do roustic fishing in Madre de Dios river, where with some luck we’ll have chance to catch some species like pictus cat fish, small mouth,armored cat fish and red eye piranha. Back to the lodge, dinner an rest.
Parrots and parakeets need to eat rich clay that provides them with the salts and minerals necessary to metabolize and neutralize the toxins and acids of the flowers, fruits, and seeds upon which they feed. Early each day, therefore, they congregate at the salt licks, and clay walls along the rivers and streams in the Madre de Dios region of the Amazon rainforest.
At about 8:00 am we back to the lodge, have breakfast, and return to Puerto Maldonado at 11:30 am and then free time to explore Puerto Maldonado City and after Overnight Bus back to Cusco arriving about 7:30am.
Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We won’t Cancel your Trip !!!
We want you to have a Memorable Lifetime Experience Trip!
and if you choose Bed & Breakfast you will stay in our Quechuas Guesthouse Homestay. Private rooms with private showers and bathrooms (in Cusco only) and includes Shuttle transportation to go to the town square.(Please a detailed page of Quechuas Guesthouse above)
Double Room, Matrimonial(Twin Beds Room) Occupancy.
Prices shown Below are per person, based on Twin bedroom occupancy and in US$ Dollars.
(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities): From 04 Persons to 16 Persons (Maximum)
Recommended for Honeymooners, Families with children & Groups of Friends (02 Person Minimum)
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.
What is the Salkantay Trek?
It’s a scenic, high-altitude alternative trek to Machu Picchu, passing through the Andes and cloud forests.
How long is the Salkantay Trek?
Typically 4 to 5 days, covering approximately 60–72 km (37–45 miles).
Do I need a permit for the Salkantay Trek?
No Inca Trail permit is needed, but Machu Picchu entry tickets must be reserved in advance.
What is the highest point on the trek?
The Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters (15,255 feet) above sea level.
What is the best time to do the trek?
From April to October, during the dry season.
Is the Salkantay Trek difficult?
Yes, it is moderately to highly challenging due to altitude and long hiking days.
How do I acclimate for the trek?
Spend 2–3 days in Cusco or a nearby high-altitude area before starting the trek.
What kind of accommodation is provided?
Campsites or mountain lodges depending on the tour package.
Can I do the trek independently?
It’s possible, but most prefer guided tours for safety, logistics, and cultural context.
Are there mules or horses for gear?
Yes, mules carry luggage up to a weight limit; you usually carry only your daypack.
Is it safe to hike the Salkantay Trail?
Yes, with proper preparation and by following guide instructions.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes, especially at higher elevations. Hydration, rest, and coca tea help mitigate symptoms.
What gear do I need?
Layered clothing, hiking boots, rain gear, sleeping bag (if camping), and sun protection.
How is the food on the trek?
Most tours provide hearty, locally inspired meals prepared by cooks along the route.
Does the trek end at Machu Picchu?
Yes, it typically finishes with a visit to Machu Picchu via Aguas Calientes.
Where is Tambopata located?
In southeastern Peru’s Madre de Dios region, near the town of Puerto Maldonado.
What is the Tambopata National Reserve?
A protected area of Amazon rainforest known for exceptional biodiversity.
What is Lake Sandoval?
A large oxbow lake within the reserve, famous for wildlife like giant otters and black caimans.
How do I get to Tambopata?
Most travelers fly to Puerto Maldonado and take a boat or hike to lodges in the reserve.
When is the best time to visit?
From May to October (dry season) for easier access and better wildlife viewing.
What wildlife can I see?
Macaws, parrots, monkeys, giant otters, caimans, sloths, capybaras, and more.
Do I need a guide in Tambopata?
Yes, guided tours are required to enter protected areas and enhance safety and experience.
Is it safe to visit the Amazon in Tambopata?
Yes, when traveling with reputable lodges and guides.
What are macaw clay licks?
Mineral-rich riverbanks where parrots and macaws gather in colorful flocks to eat clay.
Are vaccinations required?
Yellow fever vaccination is recommended, and some may take malaria prophylaxis (consult a doctor).
What should I pack?
Lightweight long-sleeves, insect repellent, binoculars, waterproof boots, and sunscreen.
Is there electricity and Wi-Fi in lodges?
Some eco-lodges offer limited electricity and Wi-Fi; others are fully off-grid.
Can I swim in Lake Sandoval?
It’s not advised due to caimans and piranhas—canoeing is the preferred activity.
How long should I stay in Tambopata?
3 to 4 days is ideal for lake visits, wildlife observation, and forest hikes.
What makes Sandoval Lake special?
Its rich wildlife density, easy access, and calm waters make it one of the most visited and scenic areas in Tambopata.
Traveler2024-02-28Verified Salkantay survivors We did the 5 days-salkantay trek to Machupicchu uin the rain season february, everything was awe-some, food, landscapes, tour services, the amazing guide Fernando, this guys Is actually amazing i recommend to him to every-body Spencer O2024-02-28Verified 5 Day Salkantay Hike to Machu Picchu It was a great time. Really enjoyed the experience with friends, something to cherish for the rest of my life. If you go I highly recommend you ask for Fernando. He was our guide for the entire trip. Extremely knowledgeable and made the experience that much more memorable. He started the trip as a guide and by the end became a friend, the time you spend on the trek, you really want someone who fits with your group and I can't imagine a better person who could fit better in anyone's group. As well, the trek itself was difficult but very enjoyable, something to push yourself to your limits. Every day was extremely rewarding, not to mention the hot springs was well worth it. Ted2024-02-24Verified Best Peru Experience Had an amazing trip. Fernando the tour guide was the highlight, and made our experience fantastic. I would recommend the trip simply for the quality of the guide. Tyrell T2024-01-27Verified Spectacular hike We had the opportunity to do the Inca trail to Machu Picchu with (QUECHUA EXPEDITIONS). Fantastic and absolutely recommended. They offer a very interesting package both for the price and for the service. Our guide Fernando Illapa taught us a lot about Inca history and the Andean way of life. He and our cook were very attentive and cordial throughout the experience. Our food was amazing and the camping equipment in perfect condition. D r2024-01-27Verified an unforgettable experience It was a wonderful experience. From the beginning Wayra gave us all the information, always attentive and answering all our questions. During the trip we had Fernando Illapa as our guide. We must say that he is a great professional, thoroughly knowledgeable about the path and with a great sense of humor and a lot of patience, which made everything easier in the most demanding moments of the Inca trail. The accompanying team is very organized and I must say that the food exceeded our expectations. Dishes that could well be served in a restaurant and extremely abundant. We did the road with my husband and there were very difficult sections of great physical demand, but the impressive landscapes and discovering archaeological sites along the way make it worth it. We were also fortunate to have excellent travel companions. An unforgettable experience with the help of a professional team that paid attention to all the details. Agnieszka Z2024-01-25Verified A must in Peru The whole experience was amazing! The trek can be tough but it’s doable even for not super fit people. The views are breathtaking! Thanks a lot to our super nice guide Jose and amazing chef Armando who made the whole tour even better. T D2024-01-18Verified we would do it again The trip and itinerary that they organized for us was incredible! Very organized, excellent guide named Fernando Illapa, who made us feel at home. Very attentive, smiling and charismatic. Everything was a dream trip. We visited the mountain of seven colors, we did the 4-day Inca trail, we went to the Puerta del Sol, to MachuPicchu, wayna picchu, to the hot springs of Machupicchu town, gampling; Anyway, we did everything and it was an unforgettable trip. Zach S2024-01-18Verified Una muy buena experiencia, gracias Hay muchas opciones de trekking para el Camino Inka, ¡pero no busques más que aquí! Cada persona en la organización es amable, profesional y servicial. ¡Nuestro guía, Fernando, fue fantástico! Fue informativo, paciente y nos guió de manera experta a lo largo del hermoso Camino Inka a Machu Picchu sin un solo problema. ¡Tener un guía que hable perfecto inglés y español es extremadamente necesario y tiene la experiencia para hacer que tu experiencia sea inolvidable! Zach S2024-01-18Verified What an otherworldly experience. We had an amazing experiencies with a great team in the inka trail, in Cusco there are many trekking options for the Inka Trail, but look no further than here! Every person in the organization is friendly, professional and helpful. Our guide, Fernando, was fantastic! He was patient and expertly guided us along the beautiful Inka Trail to Machu Picchu without a single problem. Having a guide who speaks perfect English and Spanish is extremely necessary and has the experience to make your experience unforgettable! Rachel Z2024-01-13Verified INCREDIBLE!! This tour company is truly the best. They took amazing care of us ensuring that we had everything we needed and made sure to help provide what we forgot to bring. The guide - Fernando - was so kind and knowledgeable. If you’re looking to hike to Machu Picchu this is the place to book!!! I can’t recommend them enough we had and amazing time.
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