
Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 16 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group worth booking?
Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group is a 120-hour experience in Cusco, Peru, from $720 per person. It scores 73 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 16 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 73 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (16)
- Duration
- 120 hours
- From
- $720 per person
The Outty verdict
It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 73. At $720 it sits above the typical similar option ($43), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and travelers who want a full-day outing.
Prices and availability checked
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most impressive trekking routes in the Cusco region, ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, less crowded experience surrounded by spectacular scenery. During this multi-day adventure, you’ll walk through towering mountains, including views of snowy Salkantay, turquoise lagoons like Humantay and lush cloud forests in the jungle eyebrow of the Urubamba Valley. This trek combines nature, culture and adventure in one trip, with comfortable camping, personalized attention and experienced local guides who will accompany you every step until you arrive at the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. - Panoramic views of the snowy Salkantay and Humantay Lagoon - Alternative route less busy than the Inca Trail - Authentic cultural experience with local communities - Hike through various ecosystems (mountain and jungle) - Comfortable and well equipped camps Unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu.
What you get
About this experience
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most impressive trekking routes in the Cusco region, ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, less crowded experience surrounded by spectacular scenery. During this multi-day adventure, you’ll walk through towering mountains, including views of snowy Salkantay, turquoise lagoons like Humantay and lush cloud forests in the jungle eyebrow of the Urubamba Valley. This trek combines nature, culture and adventure in one trip, with comfortable camping, personalized attention and experienced local guides who will accompany you every step until you arrive at the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. - Panoramic views of the snowy Salkantay and Humantay Lagoon - Alternative route less busy than the Inca Trail - Authentic cultural experience with local communities - Hike through various ecosystems (mountain and jungle) - Comfortable and well equipped camps Unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu.
What's included
Included
- First Aid Kit
- Bilingual Professional Guide
- Travel Bag (5 kilos, For your belongings to Route.).
- Entrance fees
- Private transportation
- Meals
- Accommodation (3 Nights in Camps and 1 night in Hotel in Aguas Calientes).
- Arriero (For the transfer of your belongings on the route).
Not included
- Gratuities
- Sleeping bag
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 12 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Guiding Cusco
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 16 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Organization
5 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Physical effort
5 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
16 verified traveler reviews for Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
An unforgettable Salkantay Trek
Excellent Experience doing the 5 Day Salkantay trek with Guiding Cusco. The landscapes were increíble and everything was very well organized. Our Guide was friendly and always made sure we were doing well. Definitely and adventure i highly recommend!
Response from the operator: We are delighted to have met—and exceeded—your expectations for the Salkantay trip and to have provided a wonderful experience. Thank you for recommending Guiding Cusco; we will certainly continue working to deliver great experiences across various destinations, especially Salkantay. Thank you.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing trip
An Unforgettable Experience in Ausangate – Guiding Cusco Treking Ausangate with Guiding Cusco was one of the best experiences of our trip to Peru. From the very beginning, everything was very well organized, and the team made us feel safe, comfortable, and supported throughout the entire adventure. I want to give a special mention to Nazario, our cook, because he truly surprised us with the quality of the food. Being in such a remote place and at such a high altitude, we never imagined we would eat so well. Each meal was different, plentiful, fresh, and delicious. After long hikes, arriving at camp and finding a hot and well-prepared meal was incredible. We also want to give a special thanks to Percy, our muleteer, who did an excellent job throughout the trek. He was always attentive to the equipment, the horses, and making sure everything was ready at each campsite. It's clear he knows the mountain perfectly and works with great dedication. The campsites were excellent; everything was prepared and organized so we could rest after each day of hiking. Sleeping surrounded by the Ausangate mountains and waking up to those landscapes was simply spectacular. But the best part was the team. Everyone was kind, attentive, and professional, and we truly felt like we weren't just tourists on a tour, but rather having an authentic experience in the Andes. I highly recommend Guiding Cusco for Ausangate. If you're looking for a local, professional company with excellent organization, good food, good campsites, and a team that genuinely cares about its travelers, this is an excellent choice. Thanks to Nazario, Percy, and the entire Guiding Cusco team for making our Ausangate trip an unforgettable experience!
Response from the operator: It means a lot to know that your time in Ausangate allowed you to experience the Andes not only through its landscapes, but also through the people who make each journey possible. We’re especially happy that Nazario’s cooking became such a memorable part of your days in the mountains. Preparing fresh, varied meals in such a remote and demanding environment is a real craft, and we’ll be very pleased to share your words with him. Percy will also be delighted to know that his dedication and care for the horses, equipment, and campsites were noticed and appreciated. What you said about feeling like more than just tourists is particularly meaningful to us. We believe that traveling through the Andes is about connecting with the place, its people, and the small details that make the journey truly personal. It was a pleasure to have you with us in Ausangate. We hope the mountains, the camps under the stars, and those moments around the table remain among the memories you take home from Peru.
via Tripadvisor
An amazing Salkantay Trek experience
I did the 5 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Guiding Cusco as a solo traveller and had such a great experience. I felt comfortable and well looked after throughout the trek, and the group quickly became good company. The scenary was incredible and reaching Machu Picchu at the enf made all those challenging hiking dayscompletely worth it. So glad i decided to do this.
Response from the operator: Thank you, Marjorie, for your wonderful review and for making your Salkantay experience such a fantastic adventure. And thank you for choosing us as your tour operator for this amazing trip. Greetings from Cusco.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing 5 day Trek.
We had an incredible trek to Machu Picchu with Lisbeth from Guiding Cusco. Everything was well organized, from the beautiful mountain scenery to the journey toward Machu Picchu. The team was friendly, professional, and always helpful. A challenging but unforgettable experience and definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Peru. Highly recommended.
Response from the operator: Skylea, thank you very much for your valuable review. It makes me and my team proud to continue working to provide unforgettable and authentic adventures. Greetings from Cusco.
via Tripadvisor
Five days of hiking in Cusco.!
Amazing experience! The smoll group made the Salkantay Trek feel very personal and relaxed. The guides were friendly, supportive, and the views were absolutely unforgettable. Reaching Machupicchu after five days of hiking was truly special.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience! It means a lot to us that you enjoyed the personalized atmosphere of our small groups and the support of our guides. The Salkantay Trek is an unforgettable journey, and we're so happy you could experience its breathtaking landscapes all the way to Machu Picchu. We hope to see you again on another adventure with Guiding Cusco!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 120 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $720 to $768
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 73
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cusco.
How does Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group compare to similar tours in Cusco?
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It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 73. At $720 it sits above the typical similar option ($43), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and travelers who want a full-day outing.
Who is Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group best for?
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It suits families and travelers who want a full-day outing best, based on its 120-hour length, all-ages access and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Is Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group good value?
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It is a premium pick. It starts at $720, above the $43 typical for similar experiences in Cusco.
How much does Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group cost?
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Prices start at $720 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 Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group 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 Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 73 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 16 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 Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group?
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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 Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group 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 Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group?
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Around 6 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?
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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 Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group 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), 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?
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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 Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group?
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Included: First Aid Kit; Bilingual Professional Guide; Travel Bag (5 kilos, For your belongings to Route.); Entrance fees; and Private transportation. Not included: Gratuities; and Sleeping bag. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 382 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 Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group 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 Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group?
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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 Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group 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: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu – Small Group?
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Across 16 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, organization, 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.
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