Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour in Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour

Outty Ranking 60 4.6 · 15 traveler reviews120 hoursFrom $440
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Outty Ranking

60/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.6/5

Based on 15 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour worth booking?

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour is a 120-hour experience in Cusco, Peru, from $440 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 15 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
60 / 100
Rating
4.6/5 (15)
Duration
120 hours
From
$440 per person

The Outty verdict

It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 60. At $440 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

Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is a spectacular hike for high peaks, snow-capped mountain and tropical valley. The Salkantay trek is one of the 25 best new treks of whole world according to National Geographic magazine. The Qechuas and Pre-Inca people denominated this mountain Apu Salkantay (God Protector). Salkantay is located into Vilcabamba mountain range and altitude is about 6,271 meters above sea level (20,574 feet). This is a great alternative to Inca Trail.

What you get

    About this experience

    Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is a spectacular hike for high peaks, snow-capped mountain and tropical valley. The Salkantay trek is one of the 25 best new treks of whole world according to National Geographic magazine. The Qechuas and Pre-Inca people denominated this mountain Apu Salkantay (God Protector). Salkantay is located into Vilcabamba mountain range and altitude is about 6,271 meters above sea level (20,574 feet). This is a great alternative to Inca Trail.

    What's included

    Included

    • Train ticket Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo
    • Professional guide
    • Entrance to Machu Picchu (available circuit at the moment of your reservation)
    • Professional Cook, mules and muleteers, you can send 5kl. for free
    • Lunch
    • Pickup from your hotel, transportation Cusco to Mollepata
    • First aid kit and oxygen bottle
    • Tent, mattresses, kitchen and dining equipment, double tents
    • Dinner
    • Transportation back from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
    • Breakfast
    • One night accomodation in Aguas Calientes

    Not included

    • First breakfast, last lunch
    • Sleeping bag
    • Bus up and down to Machu Picchu
    • Entrance fees

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

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

    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 10 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Inkas Destination Tour Operator

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • You have to bring, rain jacket, sun cream, hiking boots, t-shirts, snacks
    • We need yout personal information like, full name, number of passport, age and nationality

    Photos

    Salkantay trek group, Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour in CuscoSalkantay to Soraypampa, Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour in CuscoHuamantay lake, Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour in CuscoSalkantay trek, Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour in CuscoSalkantay pass, Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour in CuscoSalkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour in Cusco, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 15 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

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

    Knowledge and storytelling

    5 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    4 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Food and drink

    4 mentions

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

    Physical effort

    2 mentions

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

    Traveler reviews

    15 verified traveler reviews for Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    13
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    1
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    1
    Sort
    MiguelPavel_M · October 2025

    One of the worst...

    One of the worst experience ever Company lie and have hitting fee they don’t mention they say is all inclusive but is not

    via Viator

    victormY548AZ · June 2025

    Fantastic experience but poor organizing

    My sister and I went for the 4days/3nights Salktanay Trek to Machu Picchu and it was beyond amazing, highly recommended. Despite of this, I still feel like I have to give an honest review as we met several complications during the trek, mostly due to lack of communication from the organizers to our guide(s), as well as a general feeling of "last minute solutions" often driven by us having to request basic stuff from our guide for it to happen - even our train back to Cusco on the final day, where we did not get the tickets before 4 hours before we had to enter Machu Picchu, and then it was booked 3h after our entrance time leaving us not enough time. I feel you could've easily walked the trek without an agency given how we still had to spend time and energy on ensuring things were OK along the way.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing both the highlights and the challenges of your Salkantay Trek experience. We’re truly happy to hear that you and your sister found the journey to Machu Picchu amazing and worth recommending — that means a lot to us. At the same time, we sincerely apologize for the communication issues and moments of uncertainty you faced. Your concerns are valid, especially regarding the ttrain ticket and the need to follow up on basic logistics. That’s not the level of service we aim to provide. Clear communication and proactive coordination are essential, and we’re taking your feedback seriously to improve our internal processes and guide briefings. Thank you again for helping us grow — and we hope to welcome you back with a more polished experience next time.

    via Tripadvisor

    796mikaylak · March 2024

    Fantastic experience!

    The trek was amazing! A few days of the trek were very challenging, but the stunning scenery made up for it. The food and accommodations were great and our guide Jean Paul was extremely knowledgeable and made our experience very fun and exciting!

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience in your salkantay Trek and with our guide Jean Paul, We're thrilled you enjoyed the food, landscapes and more. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we appreciate your feedback. We hope to welcome you back soon

    via Tripadvisor

    156skylerm · March 2024

    Will be back!

    Stunning trek!! The guide was so knowledgeable and made everything easy! A few very hard days in there but great food and accommodations! Well worth the money!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your trust in Inkas Destination, We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed yout tour with us. Our team works hard to provide the best experience possible, and it's rewarding to know we succeeded. We hope you back soon.

    via Tripadvisor

    665danyt · March 2024

    Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu the best with Inkas Destination

    Amazing guide, amazing Salkantay Trek, would highly recommended all my friends, The hike were tough but the views and journey were amazing.

    Response from the operator: Your feedback of the Salkantyay Trek means the world to us!

    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
    $440 to $461
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    5
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Why this scores 60

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)81
    Review evidence (18% weight)45
    Booking momentum (14% weight)35
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)72
    Local standing (8% weight)37
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour: questions travelers ask

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

    How does Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour compare to similar tours in Cusco?

    +

    It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 60. At $440 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 to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour best for?

    +

    It suits families and travelers who want a full-day outing best, based on its 120-hour length, all-ages access and non-refundable terms.

    Is Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour good value?

    +

    It is a premium pick. It starts at $440, above the $43 typical for similar experiences in Cusco.

    How much does Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $440 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 to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour take?

    +

    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 to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 15 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 Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour?

    +

    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 Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour 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 Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour?

    +

    Around 5 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 Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour 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 Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour?

    +

    Included: Train ticket Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo; Professional guide; Entrance to Machu Picchu (available circuit at the moment of your reservation); Professional Cook, mules and muleteers, you can send 5kl. for free; and Lunch. Not included: First breakfast, last lunch; Sleeping bag; Bus up and down to Machu Picchu; and Entrance fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 189 listed pickup locations in and around Cusco. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour 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 Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour?

    +

    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 to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour 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 Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour if the weather is bad?

    +

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

    What do travelers say about Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Adventure Tour?

    +

    Across 15 reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, 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.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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