Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days in Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru

Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days

Outty Ranking 83 5.0 · 260 traveler reviews120 hoursFrom $480
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Outty Ranking

83/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 260 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days worth booking?

Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days is a 120-hour experience in Cusco, Peru, from $480 per person. It scores 83 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 260 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
83 / 100
Rating
5/5 (260)
Duration
120 hours
From
$480 per person

This unique tour is perfect for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike, offering an unforgettable journey that combines challenging trekking across the breathtaking Ausangate mountain range with the exploration of sacred Inca trails leading to the legendary Machu Picchu. Ideal for those who crave both physical and spiritual discovery, this adventure immerses you in the stunning contrasts of Peru’s rugged landscapes and ancient traditions, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those looking to truly connect with the Andean world.

What you get

    About this experience

    This unique tour is perfect for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike, offering an unforgettable journey that combines challenging trekking across the breathtaking Ausangate mountain range with the exploration of sacred Inca trails leading to the legendary Machu Picchu. Ideal for those who crave both physical and spiritual discovery, this adventure immerses you in the stunning contrasts of Peru’s rugged landscapes and ancient traditions, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those looking to truly connect with the Andean world.

    What's included

    Included

    • Emergency horse (Soraypampa - Chaullay)
    • Vegetarian meal options available
    • Lunch
    • Private transportation from Cusco to Mollepata (Challacancha)
    • Dinner
    • Breakfast
    • Professional bilingual tour guide
    • Pre briefing session at 17 pm in our office 2 days before your activity day
    • Entrance ticket to Salkantay and Machu Picchu
    • Hotel with private room and bathroom in Aguas Calientes, breakfast included
    • Transportation Lucmabamba - Hydroelectric Station (just for the equipment and everyone's bag)
    • First aid kit and oxygen bottle
    • Tea and snack time every day
    • Horseman and mules (up to 7kg) for customer's personal equipment
    • Sky Domes in campsites 3 nights
    • Tourist train ticket from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo, and bus to Cusco Historic Center.

    Not included

    • Breakfast of the 1st day and lunch of the last day in Aguas Calientes ($30.00 each meal)
    • Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes ($12.00)
    • Sleeping Bag ($20.00)
    • Private transportation

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Cusco

    If your hotel is outside the center of Cusco City, we will meet you at the main square, Plaza de Armas. Wait for us next to the water fountain at the Plaza de Armas.

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    If your hotel is outside the center of Cusco City, we will meet you at the main square, Plaza de Armas. Wait for us next to the water fountain at the Plaza de Armas.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 9 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Xtreme Tourbulencia

    Know before you go

    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

    Photos

    Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days in Cusco, photo 2Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days in Cusco, photo 3Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days in Cusco, photo 4Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days in Cusco, photo 5Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days in Cusco, photo 6Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days in Cusco, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 261 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    9 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Food and drink

    5 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    4 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    4 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Physical effort

    4 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Organization

    3 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Traveler reviews

    261 verified traveler reviews for Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    250
    4 star
    9
    3 star
    2
    2 star
    0
    1 star
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    Sort
    51zuzannac · October 2026

    Trail of adventures

    Great adventure that will be remembered for years to come. Our guide Ronny had excellent organization skills and chill attitude that created a comfortable atmosphere - just what our group needed for the challenges of the trail. A lot of useful and interesting information, both historical/cultural and practical for hiking. Cook Raul and his helper impressed us with their cooking skills despite being on a trail. Full recommendation!

    via Tripadvisor

    natalia_L4834NC · October 2026

    Beautiful views!

    The views were absolutely breathtaking, and the mountains were majestic. At night, the sky was filled with stars all the way to the horizon. I highly recommend this place to anyone who enjoys hiking in the mountains.

    via Tripadvisor

    achwalu · October 2026

    An unforgettable Salkantay Trek experience – great guide and exceptional cook!

    We had an incredible experience on the Salkantay Trek, and a huge part of it was thanks to our fantastic tour guide Ronny and the amazing cook Raul who accompanied us throughout the journey. Our tour guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive to our group’s needs. The trek was challenging at times, especially with the altitude, long hiking days, and steep descents, but we always felt well taken care of. One thing we particularly appreciated was his flexibility and willingness to offer alternatives. On the third day, instead of the planned hike, he suggested a zip-line adventure. We decided to go for it, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip! It was so much fun and added a completely different experience to our adventure. We also enjoyed the coffee plantation visit and the beautiful variety of landscapes along the way, from snow-capped mountains to tropical cloud forests. And the food… absolutely incredible! We honestly couldn’t believe how delicious every single meal was. Our private cook - Raul prepared wonderful dishes using simple, local ingredients, and somehow managed to surprise us with something delicious every time. We had freshly prepared soups, a variety of local dishes, and generous meals that were exactly what we needed after hours of hiking. Vegetarian options were also available, and the cook made sure everyone had something delicious to eat. What made this even more impressive was seeing the conditions in which he worked. The cooking facilities were very basic, sometimes little more than a simple shelter in the middle of nowhere, yet he managed to prepare meals that exceeded all our expectations. He was incredibly talented, and his passion for cooking really showed. We also appreciated the entire support team, including the muleteer who transported our bags and the cook’s assistant. They worked behind the scenes to make sure everything was ready when we arrived at each campsite, which made a huge difference to our experience. Overall, this was an amazing adventure, made even more special by the people who took care of us along the way. We are incredibly grateful to our guide, cook, and the entire team for their hard work, flexibility, hospitality, and dedication. Highly recommended! If you’re considering the Salkantay Trek, having a team like this makes all the difference. And to our cook Raul: thank you for the unforgettable meals — we will genuinely miss your cooking!

    via Tripadvisor

    272marcinh · October 2026

    XTreme fun with xtreme tourbulencia

    I was really looking forward to this part of my Peru visit, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the trek. Ronny is an amazing guide, full of knowledge and interesting facts about Peru. But most importantly he is doing everything to make the experience fun for us. Not one part of this trek was disappointing or boring and the food… every day we were spoiled by the great chef Raul, highly recommended!

    via Tripadvisor

    paulinarP7466UE · October 2026

    An Unforgettable Adventure with the Best Team! ❤️�

    The Salkantay Trek was an absolutely amazing experience and a truly unforgettable adventure! The breathtaking views made every bit of the challenging hike worth it. Our guide, Ronny, was fantastic — always supportive, motivating, and making sure we were doing well. And the icing on the cake was Raul’s incredible cooking! Despite the very basic conditions, the whole team took such wonderful care of us that I honestly felt like a princess. ❤️ I couldn’t recommend this experience enough — an adventure of a lifetime with an amazing team!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    120 hours
    Free cancellation
    Non-refundable
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    91
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Why this scores 83

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)99
    Review evidence (18% weight)91
    Booking momentum (14% weight)89
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)73
    Local standing (8% weight)68
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cusco.

    How much does Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days cost?

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    Prices start at $480 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cusco usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days take?

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    Plan for about 120 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Cusco is not rushed.

    Is Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 83 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 260 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable outdoors in Cusco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days?

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    No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.

    Is Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 120-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days?

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    Around 91 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Cusco can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Cusco and add a light layer if any part of the 120-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Cusco within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Cusco?

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    On Outty we rank every Cusco experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Sacred Valley Full Day Tour, Full-Day Humantay Lake Trek (Meals Included), Cusco: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Premium Day Trip with Meals. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Cusco?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Cusco?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days?

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    Included: Emergency horse (Soraypampa - Chaullay); Vegetarian meal options available; Lunch; Private transportation from Cusco to Mollepata (Challacancha); and Dinner. Not included: Breakfast of the 1st day and lunch of the last day in Aguas Calientes ($30.00 each meal); Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes ($12.00); Sleeping Bag ($20.00); and Private transportation. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 82 listed pickup locations in and around Cusco. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days offered in?

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    It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Cusco. Standard cancellation terms apply.

    What do travelers say about Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days?

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    Across 260 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

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