Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu in Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru

Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu

Outty Ranking 69 4.8 · 11 traveler reviews96 hoursFrom $360
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Outty Ranking

69/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 11 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu worth booking?

Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu is a 96-hour experience in Cusco, Peru, from $360 per person. It scores 69 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 11 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
69 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (11)
Duration
96 hours
From
$360 per person

The Outty verdict

It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 69. At $360 it sits above the typical similar option ($43), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and couples.

Prices and availability checked

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the best alternative trekking routes to the Inca Citadel. Perfect for adventure seekers, this 4-day, 3-night trek takes you through stunning Andean landscapes, ancient Inca history, and unforgettable experiences. Unlike the Inca Trail, it does not require a special permit, making it an ideal option for travelers looking for adventure, flexibility, and a unique way to reach Machu Picchu.

What you get

    About this experience

    The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the best alternative trekking routes to the Inca Citadel. Perfect for adventure seekers, this 4-day, 3-night trek takes you through stunning Andean landscapes, ancient Inca history, and unforgettable experiences. Unlike the Inca Trail, it does not require a special permit, making it an ideal option for travelers looking for adventure, flexibility, and a unique way to reach Machu Picchu.

    What's included

    Included

    • Entrance fee to Machu picchu
    • Professional guide
    • 3 nights accommodation
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Hotel pickup
    • Breakfast
    • Food 3 breakfast, 3 lunches , 3 dinners )
    • Transport by private vehicle

    Not included

    • Breakfast on the first morning
    • lunch on the last day after machu picchu
    • Return Train
    • Hotel drop - off

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    Returns to the starting point

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    pt, en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    PERU TRAVEL COMPANY

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
    • Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
    • A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

    Photos

    La Playa Sayhuyaco, Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu in Cuscosalkantay mountain, Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu in Cuscosalkantay mountain, Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu in Cuscosalkantay mountain, Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu in Cuscosalkantay snow mountain, Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu in CuscoHumantay lake, Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu in Cusco

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 11 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

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

    Food and drink

    6 mentions

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

    Organization

    3 mentions

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

    Physical effort

    3 mentions

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

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    11 verified traveler reviews for Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

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    Aranka W · July 2024

    Spicy and fantastic hike

    Prior to the trip William provided us with the info we needed. William is easily accessible by Whatsapp, but he may sometimes respond a bit later than you are normally used to. You can also make arrangements to speak to him in person at the Dragonfly hostel in Cusco. The tour was further conducted by KB travel with two good guides present who kept the Mood high in the group. The food we got was fine and there was also good consideration for dietary needs. Make sure you bring enough money, you have to buy water during the trip and sometimes there are certain options for which you have to pay extra. We were also informed about this by William in advance. When we fell ill with altitude sickness, the guides were able to help us get back to Cusco and William helped us to rejoin the group later. The first nights are very cold, make sure you have enough warming (e.g. thermo) clothing. Also make sure you have a ticket for Machupicchu before you leave, this will sometimes go wrong. A must is also to go home by train instead of the bus. It is a very nice trek for walking and definitely recommended. We have done the 5 day trek that includes the thermal baths and this is also highly recommended.

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Philip H · July 2023

    Unforgettable experiences on the salkantaytrek

    We did the salkantay trek with Machu Picchu as a 4 day tour. Our group consisted of nine people. We were accompanied by a guide, a cook and a human for the horses. It was all top organized and adapted to the needs. Our companion was the best. The chef has always conjured up a great meal and also had a vegetarian version ready. Our guide always looked for good solutions for all of us and also spontaneously made things possible. He inspired us very much for the Inca culture and explained everyone very well and interestingly. We were traveling with our four children aged 7-18. Physical fitness is absolutely necessary. For my two little ones we used a horse for the long climb to the pass at 4600m. Overall, our guide has managed to create an unforgettable experience for all of us with his lovable nature. Thank you!

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    ramistoteles · May 2023

    Excellent everything!

    Excellent tour company! I did the salkantay trek. Everything worked amazing. Guides, food and accomodation excellent. They also have competetive prices. I can highly recommend this travel company!

    via Tripadvisor

    יובל א · July 2022

    Four days hiking and the last day was the Macho Picchu. The hike was pretty difficult but the guides were really patient

    Really nice people and really nice tour. Good guides that took care of us all the way. The guy at the agency was really nice and took care of us as well.

    via Tripadvisor

    Jakobmunch · May 2022

    Perfect.

    We had a 5 day trip which was perfect. Good food, really good guide and everything was well prepared! Can only recommend this company

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Good to know

    Duration
    96 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    4
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Why this scores 69

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)88
    Review evidence (18% weight)40
    Booking momentum (14% weight)32
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)70
    Local standing (8% weight)48
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu: questions travelers ask

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

    How does Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu compare to similar tours in Cusco?

    +

    It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 69. At $360 it sits above the typical similar option ($43), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and couples.

    Who is Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu best for?

    +

    It suits families and couples best, based on its 96-hour length, all-ages access and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

    Is Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu good value?

    +

    It is a premium pick. It starts at $360, above the $43 typical for similar experiences in Cusco.

    How much does Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu cost?

    +

    Prices start at $360 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 Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu take?

    +

    Plan for about 96 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 Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 69 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 11 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Cusco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 96-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu?

    +

    Around 4 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 96-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu start and how do I get there?

    +

    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?

    +

    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), Full-Day Rainbow Mountain Trek (Meals Included). 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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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 Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu?

    +

    Included: Entrance fee to Machu picchu; Professional guide; 3 nights accommodation; Lunch; and Dinner. Not included: Breakfast on the first morning; lunch on the last day after machu picchu; Return Train; and Hotel drop - off. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 29 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 Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu offered in?

    +

    It is offered in Portuguese, 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 Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu?

    +

    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 Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Cusco. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Salkantay 4 days trek to Machu Picchu?

    +

    Across 11 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink, organization. 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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