Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights in Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru

Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights

Outty Ranking 69 5.0 · 89 traveler reviews120 hoursFrom $1,920
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Outty Ranking

69/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 89 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights worth booking?

Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights is a 120-hour experience in Cusco, Peru, from $1,920 per person. It scores 69 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 89 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
69 / 100
Rating
5/5 (89)
Duration
120 hours
From
$1,920 per person

The Outty verdict

It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 69. At $1,920 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

Experience the Salkantay Trek in the most exclusive way possible. This 5-day private journey is designed for travelers who want more than just a trek, it’s a fully personalized mountain experience with a dedicated guide, private service, and carefully selected premium camps. Unlike standard group departures, this experience gives you total flexibility, personalized pacing, and full attention from your team. From the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake to the breathtaking Salkantay Pass and the unique view of Machu Picchu from Llactapata, every moment is crafted around you. You’ll enjoy tranquility, comfort, and seamless logistics from start to finish, including an expert guided tour of Machu Picchu. If you’re looking for adventure without crowds, stress, or compromises, this is the ultimate way to experience the Andes.

What you get

    About this experience

    Experience the Salkantay Trek in the most exclusive way possible. This 5-day private journey is designed for travelers who want more than just a trek, it’s a fully personalized mountain experience with a dedicated guide, private service, and carefully selected premium camps. Unlike standard group departures, this experience gives you total flexibility, personalized pacing, and full attention from your team. From the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake to the breathtaking Salkantay Pass and the unique view of Machu Picchu from Llactapata, every moment is crafted around you. You’ll enjoy tranquility, comfort, and seamless logistics from start to finish, including an expert guided tour of Machu Picchu. If you’re looking for adventure without crowds, stress, or compromises, this is the ultimate way to experience the Andes.

    What's included

    Included

    • Walkie-talkies, oxygen, and first aid kit available at all times
    • Pre-departure briefing
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • Experienced Mountain Guide
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • 1 night in a superior 3-star hotel at Aguas Calientes
    • Breakfast
    • Entrance to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2 for 5-month bookings; if unavailable, Circuit 3, then Circuit 1)
    • Basic hiking equipment: Sleeping bag, trekking poles, backpack cover, and hand towel.
    • All private transport and transfers during the tour
    • Cultural immersion at a local coffee farm
    • An emergency horse available from Soraypampa to Abra Salkantay
    • Private Camping Facilities & Equipment
    • Entry fees to Salkantay Trek, Humantay lake, and Cocalmayo Hot Springs
    • Water, Tea Time, and daily snacks on the trail
    • Transportation of personal belongings
    • Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo tourist train (Vistadome Observatory or The Prime Machu Picchu)
    • Expert chef, porters, and horsemen
    • Personal duffel bag (up to 10 kg / 22 lb) for your travel gear
    • Train Transfer from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes
    • Round-trip bus between Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu
    • 3 nights camping accommodation (Sky Camp, Mountain Sky View, Sacred Jungle Lodge)

    Not included

    • Optional horseback ride from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake (Day 1)(paid on-site to local providers)
    • Clothing and personal hiking equipment
    • Travel Insurance (Recommended)
    • Gratuities for the staff (Optional)
    • Dinner in Cusco (Day 5)

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.

    Options you can book

    • Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu -5 Days / 4 Nights

      Pickup included

    • With Huchuy Picchu Mountain

      Huchuy Picchu Mountain Ticket Pickup included

    • With Huayna Picchu Mountain

      Huayna Picchu Mountain Ticket Pickup included

    • With Machu Picchu Mountain

      Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket Pickup included

    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 12 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Salkantay Trekking

    Know before you go

    • Service animals allowed
    • 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
    • It's recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude.
    • Spots at Machu Picchu sell out quickly. Book this trip at least five months in advance to secure spaces.
    • Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
    • Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
    • Children aged 12 and over may participate and must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
    • Keep in mind this hike is a challenging trek. travellers have to be in good health and physical shape to fully enjoy every moment of this adventure.
    • Vegetarian or, vegan options are available, please advise at time of booking if required

    Photos

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

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 80 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

    5 mentions

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

    Photo opportunities

    3 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    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

    80 verified traveler reviews for Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    80
    4 star
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    3 star
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    Sort
    L7625NYamberk · October 2026

    All Hail Carlos, the Mountain King! 👑🏔️

    Five unforgettable days trekking through the breathtaking mountains and jungle with Salkantay Trekking, made all the more memorable thanks to our incredible guide, Carlos the Mountain King! Carlos was everything you could hope for in a guide and more. His knowledge of the mountains, local culture and history was incredible, and his ability to patiently answer our never-ending questions (and there were A LOT!) was seriously impressive. What really sets Carlos apart is his infectious laugh, endless enthusiasm and genuine passion for what he does. Even during the toughest stretches of the trek, his positivity, encouragement and motivation kept everyone’s spirits high. He has an amazing ability to make you feel capable of anything, while ensuring the whole group is having the best possible experience. Beyond being an exceptional guide, Carlos is just a genuinely wonderful person. Funny, kind, thoughtful and always looking out for everyone. By the end of the five days, he felt more like a friend than a guide. The scenery was spectacular, the trek was an adventure of a lifetime, but Carlos was truly the highlight. If you’re lucky enough to have the Mountain King leading your way, you’re in for something special! Long live the King! 👑

    via Tripadvisor

    joshualZ3501HM · October 2026

    You must do this!!

    The best experience ever and truly an unforgettable experience with the best guide, Carlos the mountain king!!

    via Tripadvisor

    richyrich2022 · October 2026

    AMAZING

    My family and I had an absolutely awesome experience doing this trek. It was our first time doing a trip/hike this big and the planning/execution of it was incredible. Our tour guide (Cesar Qy), I truly believe made the experience unforgettable and even more enjoyable!

    via Tripadvisor

    W8823CEjenniferm · October 2026

    Salkantay trek is great.

    The Salkantay trek was very challenging and enjoyable. It was a great experience for the price. We stayed 5 days and 4 nights during the trek. The atmosphere was very encouraging and delightful. The group size was perfect for the trek length. Ramiro was a great guide. We learned so much from him. We would highly recommend this tour.

    via Tripadvisor

    Z5047CAsamuelh · October 2026

    Franz is the goat

    Great everything was good especially the food and our tour guide franz

    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
    Price range
    $1,920 to $2,040
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    31
    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)98
    Review evidence (18% weight)73
    Booking momentum (14% weight)68
    Value for money (12% weight)25
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)66
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights: questions travelers ask

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

    How does Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights 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 $1,920 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 Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights best for?

    +

    It suits families and couples best, based on its 120-hour length, all-ages access and non-refundable terms.

    Is Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights good value?

    +

    It is a premium pick. It starts at $1,920, above the $43 typical for similar experiences in Cusco.

    How much does Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights cost?

    +

    Prices start at $1,920 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 Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights 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 Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 69 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 89 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable culture & history in Cusco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights?

    +

    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 Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights suitable for kids and families?

    +

    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 Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights?

    +

    Around 31 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 Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights 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 Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights?

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    Included: Walkie-talkies, oxygen, and first aid kit available at all times; Pre-departure briefing; Hotel pickup and drop-off; Experienced Mountain Guide; and Lunch. Not included: Optional horseback ride from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake (Day 1)(paid on-site to local pro; Clothing and personal hiking equipment; Travel Insurance (Recommended); and Gratuities for the staff (Optional). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 385 listed pickup locations in and around Cusco. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights offered in?

    +

    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 Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights?

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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 Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights 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 Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights?

    +

    Across 89 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink, photo opportunities. 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.

    What booking options are available for Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights?

    +

    There are 4 options to choose from, including Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu -5 Days / 4 Nights, With Huchuy Picchu Mountain, With Huayna Picchu Mountain, With Machu Picchu Mountain. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Salkantay Premium Private Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights.

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