Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure in Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure

Outty Ranking 60 5.0 · 6 traveler reviews120 hoursFrom $579
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Outty Ranking

60/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 6 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure worth booking?

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure is a 120-hour experience in Cusco, Peru, from $579 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 6 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
60 / 100
Rating
5/5 (6)
Duration
120 hours
From
$579 per person

The Outty verdict

It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 60. At $579 it sits above the typical similar option ($308), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and couples.

Prices and availability checked

Embark on a once in a lifetime journey along the remote and majestic Salkantay Trail, a breathtaking 5 day trek to the legendary Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. This ancient high Andean route, an alternative to the classic Inca Trail, winds through 15 stunning ecosystems, from lush cloud forests to dramatic high altitude passes above 2,100 m. Along the way, you'll connect with welcoming local communities, discover hidden Inca archaeological sites, and immerse yourself in the spiritual energy of the Andes. Your Salkantay adventure includes a certified guide, delicious meals, comfortable accommodations, entrance tickets, and all necessary transportation, so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics.

What you get

    About this experience

    Embark on a once in a lifetime journey along the remote and majestic Salkantay Trail, a breathtaking 5 day trek to the legendary Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. This ancient high Andean route, an alternative to the classic Inca Trail, winds through 15 stunning ecosystems, from lush cloud forests to dramatic high altitude passes above 2,100 m. Along the way, you'll connect with welcoming local communities, discover hidden Inca archaeological sites, and immerse yourself in the spiritual energy of the Andes. Your Salkantay adventure includes a certified guide, delicious meals, comfortable accommodations, entrance tickets, and all necessary transportation, so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics.

    What's included

    Included

    • Equipment: Eureka Timberline tents, two per tent.
    • Porters & Horsemen: A personal porter will carry your duffel bag.
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Emergency Horse: An extra horse is available if you need a break.
    • Breakfast
    • Transportation: All your transportation is included in this trek.
    • Professional bilingual guide
    • Briefing: Come to our office the night before your trek.
    • Tourist Train - Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo
    • Hotel: Three nights camping, one night in Aguas Calientes hotel.

    Not included

    • Optional - Sleeping bag: USD $25
    • Optional - Inflatable air mat: USD $20
    • Optional - Walking sticks (pair): USD $20
    • Optional - Huayna Picchu Mountain $ 35
    • Food:Lunch the last day is not included.
    • Tips for driver and guide (optional)
    • Personal expenses

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Cusco

    Hotel pickup

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

    Ends at

    Returns to the starting point

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Encuentros Peru Adventure

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

    Photos

    Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure in Cusco, photo 2Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure in Cusco, photo 3Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure in Cusco, photo 4Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure in Cusco, photo 5Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure in Cusco, photo 6Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure in Cusco, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 6 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    4 mentions

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

    Photo opportunities

    3 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Food and drink

    3 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.

    Value for money

    1 mention

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Organization

    1 mention

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

    Traveler reviews

    6 verified traveler reviews for Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    6
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    Sort
    jhandelyv2025 · September 2025

    “It was a wonderful experience. Everything was very well organized. Our guide, Luis, was excellent — always attentive an

    “It was a wonderful experience. Everything was very well organized. Our guide, Luis, was excellent — always attentive and gave very detailed explanations. We did the 4-day Inka Jungle tour: it was interesting, full of adventure, and had breathtaking landscapes. I highly recommend it to everyone! Definitely the best travel agency.”

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear that you had such a wonderful experience on the 4-day Inka Jungle tour. It’s one of our favorite adventures—full of adrenaline, nature, and history—so we’re glad you felt the same! Luis will be very happy to know that his guidance and attention made a difference in your journey. We’ll make sure he hears your compliments! Thank you again for your recommendation and trust. You’re always welcome back for another adventure with us in Peru!

    via Tripadvisor

    Stephany G · March 2024

    The best trekking and the best guide!

    My guide Gerson was amazing! The food, the trekking, the landscapes! It was all totally worth it and they are always there to have your back.

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    582kianaw · January 2024

    Coolest experience of my life

    Our trip was perfect from start to finish. The views were incredible, the food was delicious, and our tour guide Grillo was amazing. He was very good at explaining the histories and making sure everyone was having fun, always encouraging us to participate and leading fun group activities. I also 100% recommend the zip-lining activity available in the third day of the hike. I would give this ten stars if I could

    via Tripadvisor

    F569GBrodrigov · January 2024

    One of the best experiences in my life

    My Salkantay adventure was a blast! Our guide, Grillo, was fantastic at explaining everything, creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere. I met some amazing people on the hike who are now friends. The views were breathtaking, the food was incredible, and the whole experience was truly one-of-a-kind.

    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
    2
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Encuentros Peru Adventure, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 63.7.

    See everything Encuentros Peru Adventure runs

    Why this scores 60

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)91
    Review evidence (18% weight)32
    Booking momentum (14% weight)22
    Value for money (12% weight)94
    Listing quality (10% weight)82
    Local standing (8% weight)55
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure: questions travelers ask

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

    How does Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure 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 $579 it sits above the typical similar option ($308), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and couples.

    Who is Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure best for?

    +

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

    Is Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure good value?

    +

    It is a premium pick. It starts at $579, above the $308 typical for similar experiences in Cusco.

    How much does Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure cost?

    +

    Prices start at $579 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 Hiking Adventure 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 Hiking Adventure worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 6 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable nightlife in Cusco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure?

    +

    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 Hiking Adventure 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 Hiking Adventure?

    +

    Around 2 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 Hiking Adventure 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 Hiking Adventure?

    +

    Included: Equipment: Eureka Timberline tents, two per tent; Porters & Horsemen: A personal porter will carry your duffel bag; Lunch; Dinner; and Emergency Horse: An extra horse is available if you need a break. Not included: Optional - Sleeping bag: USD $25; Optional - Inflatable air mat: USD $20; Optional - Walking sticks (pair): USD $20; and Optional - Huayna Picchu Mountain $ 35. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Day Hiking Adventure include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 150 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 Hiking Adventure 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 Hiking Adventure?

    +

    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 Hiking Adventure 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 Hiking Adventure 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 Hiking Adventure?

    +

    Across 6 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, food and drink. 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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