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Embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure through Peru, blending rich culture, ancient history, and breathtaking landscapes with the Lima, Cusco, and Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Begin your journey in the vibrant capital, Lima, where you’ll explore its colonial architecture, delicious cuisine, and lively atmosphere. Then, head to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, where you’ll immerse yourself in its unique blend of indigenous and Spanish heritage, and visit the nearby Sacred Valley. From there, set off on the Salkantay Trek, one of the most scenic and challenging hiking routes to Machu Picchu. Over the next four days, you’ll trek through diverse ecosystems, from snow-capped peaks to lush cloud forests, before arriving at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. This journey offers the perfect combination of adventure, history, and natural beauty, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
8 Days 7 Nights
50km
Moderate
4600 msnm
02 - 10 Ppl Max
Embark on an extraordinary 8-day journey through Peru, combining the vibrant culture of Lima, the historic charm of Cusco, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Your adventure begins in Lima, where you’ll explore the city’s rich colonial history, visit fascinating museums, and indulge in world-class Peruvian cuisine. Then, travel to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, and discover its incredible blend of indigenous culture and Spanish influence. Explore the sacred Sacred Valley, home to stunning ruins and traditional markets. The highlight of your journey is the Salkantay Trek, a challenging 5-day hike that takes you through diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and picturesque valleys, all leading to the legendary Machu Picchu. Enjoy breathtaking views, encounter unique wildlife, and witness the majesty of one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. This adventure offers the perfect mix of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences.
Arrive in Lima and transfer to your hotel. If arriving during the day, your hotel will be in the neighborhood of Miraflores, with good shopping and restaurants, and you’ll have an included city tour in the afternoon. If arriving late at night, you’ll be close to the airport for a bit more to sleep before your next day’s flight.
Upon arrival to Cusco Airport. Reception and transportation to the Hotel where you will receive an aromatic coca tea to stimulating for the height, will have the free morning to rest and also we suggest you have a light lunch in either your hotel or in one of the surrounded; in the afternoon we will depart on a City tour (entrance to the archaeological centers and museums including) we will visit the Main square, Cathedral, the Koricancha (temple of the sun) and in addition we will make a route bordering archaeological centers like Sacsayhuaman Fortress, Q’enko, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay, tour finishes 6:30pm approximately at the main square in order you can take dinner in one of the exquisite restaurants in the area, then overnight. (No meals included)
Breakfast. You will be picked up at 8:15 am. Full day excursion to the Urubamba Valley visiting: the colorful Indian market in Pisac where a mixture of color and tradition will be able appreciated besides will have a good opportunity to try our bargain skills on the free time to interact with the local craftsmen to purchase their hand-made souvenirs. The Valley has a distance of 31 km (19 miles) of Cusco, and an altitude of 2,970 ms (9,700 p), Pisac is located to the entrance of the Sacred Valley and followed by Ollantaytambo, the older town continuously occupied of the American continent. The narrow streets of Ollantaytambo, along with their channels that have not varied from the time Inca, evoke their ancestral inheritance, lunch in a typical restaurant and after we explore Ollantaytambo we take the train at Ollantaytambo train station 2 hours to get Aguas Calientes where we do overnight (B, L)
We pick you up from your hotel at 4:30 a.m. to drive for about 3 hours to Mollepata where we start ourSalkantay trek . As soon as we are at mollepata while you have breakfast the cook and the horseman will pack all the camping equipment and cooking stuff and we start hiking the first 3 hours will be a little bit uphill to get Cruzpata where we will have lunch with panoramic views of beautiful snow-capped mountains (Humantay; 4120m/13500ft and Salkantay; 6271m/20575ft) – just the start! We will begin our Salkantay trek towards Soraypampa, our first Salkantay Trek camping spot (3800 m/11750ft; the highest and coldest campsite of the trip) we will be very close to the second highest Salkantay snow capped -mountain of Cusco.
1ST DAY:Total distance: 15 km (aprox.)
Estimated walking time: 7-8 hours
Maximum altitude point: 3,800 m (aprox.)
Campsite altitude: 3,800 m (aprox.)
After having our Salkantay Trek breakfast we start walking about 5:30 am ,because this day will be the longest day the first 4 hours is uphill to get the highest point of the Salkantay Trek (4650m/15200ft) located halfway between 2 huge mountains; Salkantay on the right and Tucarhuay on the left. From the pass, the views of the 2 snow-capped mountains are incredible. There is a possibility of snow here.
After a rest, we will continue our walk (downhill) through a dramatic cloud forest towards Huayracpunku, where we will have lunch. We hike again after lunch in the direction of the start of the jungle until we reach our second Salkantay Trek camping spot of chaullay or Colcapampa (3000m/9800ft).
2ND DAY:Total distance: 19 km (aprox.)
Estimated walking time: 8 – 9 hours
Maximum altitude point: 4,650 m (aprox.)
Campsite altitude: 2,750 m (aprox.)
After breakfast, at 6.30am, we start walking through the upper jungle crossing the Lluskamayo River and a variety of little brooks to reach La Playa walking about 6 hours. Today we will pass through valleys and have wonderful views of waterfalls, tropical fruits ,plants and as soon as we are at la playa place horses will go back to Mollepata on taking the same Salkantay Trek and after haing lunch we Take a local car to get Hydroelectric station to start walking 2 more hours by taking the rail road to Aguas Calientes.
3RD DAY:Total distance: 16 km (aprox.)
Estimated walking time: 6-7 hours
Maximum altitude point: 2,750 m (aprox.)
Campsite altitude: 1,600 m (aprox.)
Today we visit the remarkable Machu Picchu. There is no way to describe the feeling of the first views of Machu Picchu, as the mist rises off the mountains early in the morning and the famous ruin appears in front of you. It may be called the Sun Gate but bear in mind we are in the cloud forest and sometimes “Cloud Gate” would be a more suitable name. The morning is dedicated to exploring the extraordinary site of Machu Picchu, where your guide will be on hand to explain and give you an insight into the life of the Incas at Machu Picchu. For the keen, there’s also the opportunity to climb the sacred peak of Huaya Picchu. In the afternoon, we take the train from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco. Approx. walking time 2 hours.(HOTEL)
Breakfast and according time, transportation will be provided to go the airport (B). END OF THE SERVICE.
Add on the Nazca Lines, the Amazon Rainforest, Colca Canyon, and other extension tours or treks. Let us know.
Domestic Airfares
– Lima – Cusco
– Cusco – Lima Airfare
Salkantay 4/D 3/N
(Group size 02 to 06 ppl average; Max 10 person)
Hotel Nights ( breakfast included ) (Lodging)
Cusco Tours: / City Tour & Sacred Valley
Transfers:
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Whilst we expect that the tour will run as per the itinerary, participants should accept that there is the possibility of changes being necessary subject to local conditions eg. strikes and natural disaster these changes may be at the discretion of your tour company.
Please, Note: All our Tours in Cusco & Lima are (Small Groups 02-06ppl – 08ppl Maximum) We are not going to pass you onto a Big Rushed Tour Groups. What most agencies do here.
We want you to have a Memorable Lifetime Trip!
and if you choose Bed & Breakfast you will stay in our Quechuas Guesthouse Homestay. Private rooms with private shower and bathroom (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. Shared Group Service
Prices shown Below are per person, based on Twin bed room occupancy and in US$ Dollars.
If you are a group over 06 people let us know to give you a discount
Bed & Breakfast – Hostel/ US$1350
3 Stars Hotel/ US$1650
4 Stars Hotel/ Upon Request
5 Stars Hotel/ Upon Request
We need at least 02 of you and Leave any day you suit. All Departures 100% Guaranteed If You’re Booked, You are Going !!! To Confirm and Secure the Permits. Send us the filled out booking form as well as a deposit of 30% and you are ready to go. Please, (Click here to see method of payments)
LIMA (HOTEL)
3-star la Faraona (Miraflores), El Carmel (Miraflores),Casa Andina (Miraflores), Best Western Embajadores Hotel or similar.
4-star San Agustin Exclusive or Sol de Oro (Casa Andina Select Miraflores opening May 2011)
5-star Casa Andina PC, Radisson Decapolis or similar.
Airport Ramada Costa del Sol airport hotel.
Deluxe Miraflores Park Plaza (Orient Express), JW Marriott, Lima Country Club or similar.
AREQUIPA (HOTEL)
3-star Casa Andina Ciudad Blanca or similar.
4-star Posada del Inca Arequipa, Cabildo or similar.
5-star Libertador Arequipa, Casa Andina Private Collection or similar.
CUSCO (HOTEL)
B&B Quechuas Guesthouse(Homestay)
B&B- El Virrey, Amaru I, El Triunfo
3-star Mirador Apu Hotel, Casona Real Cusco, Hatun Wasi or Similar
3-star Casa Andina Classic, San Agustin El Dorado, similar.
4-star Costa del Sol Picoaga, Novotel, Casa Andina Private Collection (oxygen available) or similar.
5-star Casa Cartagena, Libertador, or Suite at the Casa Andina Private Collection inc. oxygen, matrimonial beds only, or similar.
Deluxe Monasterio (Orient Express), Inkaterra La Casona or similar.
Machu Picchu (AGUAS CALIENTES) (HOTEL)
B&B- Pumas Inn, Sumaq Muyurina
3-star La cabaña, El MaPi (ex Machu Picchu Inn), Machupicchu Green Nature, Intipunku or similar.
4-star Hatuchay Tower or similar; includes dinner at Hatuchay Tower.
5-star Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, Sumaq Machu Picchu or similar.
Deluxe Sanctuary Lodge (Orient Express – includes all meals), or Suite at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo.
PUNO (Lake Titicaca) (HOTEL)
3-star Casa Andina Plaza, Puñuypampa Inn or similar.
4-star Casa Andina Private Collection (oxygen available), Sonesta Posadas del Inca or similar.
5-star Libertador Lago Titicaca or Casa Andina Private Collection (oxygen inc) or similar.
Deluxe 1 night Deluxe hotel. Hotel Titilaka. Includes accommodation in a Dawn Suite; choice of excursions in and around Titicaca Lake with bilingual (Spanish and English) guide; all meals.
ISLAND OF THE SUN (HOTEL)
Standard Posada del Inca Eco Lodge, Inca Utama or similar
LA PAZ (HOTEL)
3-star Rosario or similar.
4-star Rey Palace or similar.
5-star Radisson Plaza, Europa or similar.
COLCA CANYON (HOTEL)
3-star Pozo del Cielo or similar.
4-star Casa Andina or similar.
5-star Libertador Colca Lodge or similar
Deluxe 1 night deluxe accommodations (individual casitas) in Orient Express Casitas del Colca. Includes: Buffet Breakfast A la carte lunch A la carte dinner Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages excluding premium alcoholic brands and special wines Full Mini-bar A la carte activities such as Peruvian Paso horse riding, hiking tours, painting lessons, fly fishing lessons, cooking lessons and pisco sour lessons. 10% service charge
NAZCA (HOTEL)
3-star Casa Andina or similar.
4-star Nazca Lines or similar.
PARACAS (HOTEL)
3 Star Hotel La Posada del Emancipador or similar
4 Star La Hacienda Bahia Paracas or similar
5 Star Doubletree Guest Suite (weekend rate w/ view of pool) or similar
Deluxe Hotel Paracas (Garden View) or similar
Please Note: Walking and journey times are approximate and the package includes Classic Inca Trail see availability first.
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.
Pre-Trip & Planning
How far in advance should I book this trip?
It’s recommended to book at least 2-3 months in advance, especially for the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek, as permits are limited.
What is the best time to visit Lima, Cusco, and the Salkantay Trek?
The best time is during the dry season, from May to September. This is the peak trekking season.
Do I need a visa to visit Peru?
Citizens from many countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. However, check the specific visa requirements for your nationality.
What vaccinations are required or recommended for the trip?
Recommended vaccines include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever (for Amazon visits), and routine vaccinations. Check with your healthcare provider.
What is the currency used in Peru?
The local currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN), though US dollars are also widely accepted in tourist areas.
Should I bring cash or use cards?
It’s best to bring cash (in Soles) for smaller purchases. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most cities and major hotels.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
While many people in tourist areas speak English, knowing some basic Spanish will be helpful in more rural or remote areas.
What should I pack for this trip?
Pack layers for varying climates. Essentials include trekking boots, lightweight clothing, waterproof jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, water bottle, hat, and camera.
Can I leave luggage at the hotel during the trek?
Yes, your hotel in Cusco can store your excess luggage while you complete the trek.
What kind of travel insurance do I need?
You’ll need comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking, medical emergencies, and cancellations.
Lima & Cusco
What is there to do in Lima?
Explore Lima’s historic center, San Francisco Monastery, Barranco district, and indulge in its world-famous gastronomy.
How long should I stay in Cusco?
It’s recommended to stay at least 2-3 days in Cusco to acclimate to the altitude and explore the city’s many attractions, including Sacsayhuamán and Qorikancha.
Can I visit the Sacred Valley?
Yes, the Sacred Valley is a must-visit, with sites like Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Moray, and you can visit on the way to the Inca Trail.
How do I get from Lima to Cusco?
You can take a domestic flight from Lima to Cusco (around 1 hour), or opt for a longer bus ride (around 20-24 hours).
What altitude is Cusco?
Cusco sits at an elevation of 3,400 meters (11,200 feet), so it’s important to acclimate before trekking.
Do I need altitude sickness medication?
It’s recommended to take precautions for altitude sickness. Consult a doctor for medication and drink plenty of water while in Cusco.
Is Cusco safe for tourists?
Yes, Cusco is generally safe for tourists. Be mindful of your belongings, especially in busy areas like markets or plazas.
Are there any cultural customs I should know about?
Peruvians are friendly and polite. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and ask permission before taking photos, especially of locals.
Salkantay Trek
What is the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day, 71-kilometer (44-mile) route to Machu Picchu, passing through diverse ecosystems, from glaciers to cloud forests.
What is the highest point on the Salkantay Trek?
The highest point is Salkantay Pass, at 4,630 meters (15,190 feet), where you’ll enjoy panoramic views.
Is the Salkantay Trek difficult?
The trek is moderate to challenging, with steep ascents and high-altitude hiking. Proper preparation and fitness are important.
How much weight can I carry on the trek?
You’re allowed a 7kg (15 lb) duffel bag, which will be carried by porters. You’ll carry a small daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a camera.
What kind of food is served on the Salkantay Trek?
You’ll enjoy nutritious meals, including soups, rice, pasta, vegetables, and proteins, with options to cater to vegetarian or dietary restrictions.
What are the accommodations like on the trek?
Camping is the primary accommodation, with tents set up at designated campsites. Some tours offer glamping-style tents for added comfort.
How do I prepare for high-altitude hiking?
Spend time acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek, and take things slowly during the hike.
Are there rest days during the trek?
The Salkantay Trek does not have official rest days, but the trail is divided into manageable daily sections for proper recovery.
What is the weather like during the trek?
Weather can vary widely. Days are often sunny, but nights can be cold, especially at higher altitudes. Be prepared for rain.
Machu Picchu
How do I get to Machu Picchu from the Salkantay Trek?
The final leg of the Salkantay Trek brings you to Aguas Calientes, from where you’ll take a bus to Machu Picchu.
Can I visit Machu Picchu on my own?
While you can visit independently, guided tours are highly recommended to help you understand the history and significance of the site.
Is there a limit on the number of visitors to Machu Picchu?
Yes, visitor numbers are limited each day to help preserve the site. It’s essential to book tickets in advance, especially for the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek.
Book Now with Quechuas Expeditions
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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