One day trip Sacred Valley
The trip is Sacred Valley, the daily trip is wonderful, the guide Grobert and the driver are nice. We enjoyed the full trip.
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days
- Duration 4 Days
- Type Group or private
- Group Size Up to 8 people
- Languages English, Spanish
From $527.00 / Person
The Salkantay and Humantay High Altitude Wilderness Trek
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a premier 4 day 45 kilometer (28 mile) high altitude mountain hiking expedition in Peru that serves as the top rated alternative to the Classic Inca Trail. Recognized by National Geographic as one of the 25 best hiking trails in the world, the route begins in Soraypampa near Cusco, ascends past the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet), crosses the dramatic Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters (15,256 feet) beneath sacred Mount Salkantay (6,271 meters), and descends through Amazonian cloud forests filled with organic coffee plantations while offering luxury glamping in private sky domes with a mountain sauna and hot tubs.
The Machu Picchu Sanctuary Experience
This expedition culminates at the ancient Machu Picchu citadel, accessed via official government Circuit 2 entry permits for the complete sanctuary tour. Before entering the historic ruins, hikers explore the rarely visited Llactapata archaeological site for an exclusive panorama of Machu Picchu perched on the opposing mountain ridge. The experience includes a comfortable overnight stay in a 3 star hotel in Aguas Calientes, scenic train transport through the Sacred Valley, a fully guided historical tour of the main stone temples, and door to door return transfers back to Cusco.
Highlights
- Apu Salkantay Summit Views: Stand face to face with the sacred snow capped Mount Salkantay peak at 6,271 meters.
- Humantay Lake Hike: Trek to the world famous turquoise glacial lagoon resting at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet).
- Salkantay Pass Crossing: Conquer the highest elevation point of the route at 4,650 meters (15,256 feet) surrounded by towering ice walls.
- Luxury Glamping Sky Domes: Sleep in private sky domes (Beds + private toilets & Hot shower) in Soraypampa and Collpapampa featuring comfortable beds and private facilities.
- Mountain Wellness and Spa: Rejuvenate after tough hiking days with exclusive access to a mountain sauna and outdoor therapeutic hot tubs.
- Subtropical Cloud Forest Trek: Descend into lush tropical valleys filled with wild orchids, waterfalls, and local organic coffee plantations.
- Llactapata Inca Trail Viewpoint: Hike along authentic Inca paths to the Llactapata ruins for a unique view of Machu Picchu across the canyon.
- Official Machu Picchu Circuit 2 Access (Depends on availability): Enjoy a fully guided historical tour of the main citadel with the premier upper classic viewpoint.
- Scenic Sacred Valley Train Journey: Travel aboard comfortable trains passing through dramatic Andean mountain canyons.
- Complete Door to Door Service: Enjoy seamless hotel pick up in Cusco or the Sacred Valley and direct drop off at your hotel door.
Trip Details
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco • Mollepata • Challacancha • Soraypampa & Humantay Lake
Hotel Pickup & Journey through the Limatambo Valley
Your trek begins early with a 4:00 AM private pickup from your Cusco hotel. Enjoy a scenic morning drive through the traditional Andean towns of Izcuchaca and Limatambo, offering insight into rural mountain agriculture and highland communities.
Breakfast in Mollepata & Trailhead Start
Arrive at the mountain town of Mollepata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft) for a freshly prepared breakfast at a local establishment. Continue by vehicle for 30 minutes to Challacancha, the official trailhead. After setting up your duffel bags for our pack mules, begin your hike along an ancient Inca aqueduct path toward Soraypampa (3,869 m / 12,690 ft).
Panoramic Domes & Humantay Lake Excursion
Arrive at our Soraypampa campsite by early afternoon to check into your private glamping dome and enjoy a warm lunch. Later, embark on a 2.5-hour round-trip hike to the famous Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). Marvel at the turquoise waters framed by hanging glaciers before returning to camp for afternoon tea, dinner, and a restful night under the clear mountain stars.
- Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
- Hiking Time: 5 to 6 hours
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
- Accommodation: Exclusive Panoramic Glamping Domes in Soraypampa with BEDS, Private bathrooms and hot shower
Day 2: Soraypampa • Salkantay Pass • Huayracmachay • Collpapampa
Crossing the Mighty Salkantay Pass
Wake up to hot coffee or tea delivered to your dome. After a hearty mountain breakfast, begin the 4-hour uphill trek along the Seven Snakes trail to reach the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,256 ft). Standing at the base of Apu Salkantay (6,271 m / 20,574 ft), your guide explains the spiritual significance of the mountain in Quechua culture while you take in panoramic views of glacier-fed valleys.
Transition to the High Amazon Cloud Forest
Begin a steady downhill hike, descending into the lush vegetation of the cloud forest. Pause at Huayracmachay for a hot, freshly prepared lunch cooked by your trek chef. Continuing downhill, notice the dramatic change in temperature, flora, and humidity as you enter the Amazon Basin region.
Wellness Glamping in Collpapampa
Arrive at our Collpapampa campsite (2,900 m / 9,514 ft) by late afternoon. Unwind from your challenging high-altitude trek with exclusive access to our private sauna and jacuzzi facilities. Enjoy a full dinner before resting in your cozy dome bed.
- Distance: 18 km / 11 miles
- Hiking Time: 8 to 9 hours
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
- Accommodation: Exclusive Panoramic Glamping Domes in Soraypampa with BEDS, Private bathrooms and hot shower
Day 3: Collpapampa • Lucmabamba • Llactapata • Hidroelectrica • Aguas Calientes
Lush Valleys & Original Inca Trail
After breakfast, board a short private transfer to the Lucmabamba valley, where high Andes terrain gives way to organic coffee plantations, avocado groves, and wild orchid gardens. Begin a steady 3-hour climb along an authentic section of the historical Inca Trail leading toward the Quelloqasa Pass (2,860 m / 9,380 ft).
Llactapata Ruins & Machu Picchu Viewpoint
Reach the secluded archaeological site of Llactapata (2,650 m / 8,690 ft), positioned directly opposite the Machu Picchu ridge. Explore the stone structures with your guide and take in a rare, uncrowded perspective of the famous citadel across the Aobamba Valley.
Scenic Train to Aguas Calientes
Descent for 2 hours through tropical forests and cascading waterfalls into the Aobamba Valley until reaching the Hidroelectrica station. Board a 30-minute scenic train ride along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,692 ft). Check into your 3-star hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
- Distance: 15 km / 9 miles
- Hiking Time: 6 hours
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes (e.g., Hotel Ferre)
Day 4: Aguas Calientes • Machu Picchu Citadel • Return to Cusco
Guided Exploration of Machu Picchu Citadel
Board an early morning bus from Aguas Calientes for the winding drive up to the Machu Picchu sanctuary (2,430 m / 7,972 ft). Enter the citadel with your expert guide for a comprehensive 2-hour tour through Circuit 2, the most complete route covering the Guardhouse, Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, and Sacred Plaza.
Return Journey to Cusco
After completing your guided tour, return by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes for time to eat lunch independently. In the afternoon, board the scenic train to Ollantaytambo station, where your private transfer meets you for the return drive back to your hotel door in Cusco.
- Meals Included: Breakfast
- Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft (Machu Picchu) to 3,400 m / 11,150 ft (Cusco)
Inclusions
What We Include for the Salkantay Trek?
- Pre Departure Briefing: Orientation session held at our central Cusco office the evening before your trek departure.
- Private Ground Transport: Pickups from your Cusco hotel, private vehicle transfers to Soraypampa, and return transport from Ollantaytambo station back to Cusco.
- Train & Bus Tickets: Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, plus round-trip shuttle bus passes between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Official Entrance Permits: Official entry ticket to the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary (Circuit 2 access).
- Professional Expedition Crew: Licensed, English-speaking guide, professional wilderness cook, and local horsemen to oversee pack animals.
- High End Accommodations: 2 nights in private panoramic glamping sky domes with private bathrooms ans hot shower and 1 night in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Personal Luggage Transport: Horse transport for up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal gear inside a duffel bag provided by Apple Travel Peru.
- Fresh Mountain Cuisine: 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners, and daily afternoon tea service prepared with fresh regional ingredients.
- Safety & Camping Equipment: First aid kits, emergency medical oxygen tanks, bio-chemical toilet tent, dining tent, tables, and camp chairs.
What We Do Not Include for the Salkantay Trek?
- Initial & Final Meals: First breakfast on Day 1 in Mollepata and final lunch on Day 4 in Aguas Calientes.
- Personal Trekking Gear: Cold-weather sleeping bag (available for rent at $20 USD) and trekking poles.
- Optional Train Segment: Optional train ride from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes on Day 3 ($35 USD) if you prefer not to walk.
- Huayna Picchu Permit: Optional climb to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($75 USD surcharge, subject to advance availability).
- Personal Expenses: Bottled beverages, souvenirs, thermal bath entry fees in Aguas Calientes, and travel insurance.
- Gratuities: Discretionary tips for guides, cooks, and horsemen ($40 to $50 USD total per participant recommended).
Price
Pricing & Custom Options
| Service Level | Price per Person (USD) | Details |
| Small Group Tour (Max 8) | $527 USD | Shared departure + Sky Domes + 3-Star Hotel |
| Vistadome Train Upgrade | +$67 USD | Upgrade to panoramic glass-ceiling train to Poroy |
| Private Departure Surcharge | By Request | Custom private guide and dedicated vehicle/crew |
- Single Occupancy Surcharge: US$80 – Private hotel room and dome accommodation available upon request for solo travelers.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain Extension: Add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permits upon initial booking ($75 USD per person).
Why Us
Why Choose Apple Travel Peru?
We are is a 100% Cusqueñian, family-owned tour operator headquartered in Cusco’s historic center. Operating directly without third-party agents, we deliver top-tier mountain excursions while ensuring fair wages and economic opportunities stay within local Andean communities.
Direct Sustainable Impact: Through responsible leave-no-trace environmental practices and sustainable partnerships with highland villages, your trip directly supports rural Andean families and protects fragile high-alpine ecosystems.
Guaranteed Intimate Groups (Max 8 Trekkers): We restrict our group departures to a maximum of 8 participants per trek. Unlike massive commercial groups, our small size ensures personalized mountain safety, flexible trekking speeds, and closer interactions with your guide.
Licensed High Altitude Experts: Our guides are fully licensed, fluent in English and Spanish, and hold university degrees in Tourism and History. Every guide undergoes annual wilderness first aid certification and high-altitude emergency training.
Luxury Glamping & Spa Wellness: We elevate traditional trekking by operating private glamping dome camps in Soraypampa and Collpapampa. Enjoy comfortable beds, private facilities, hot showers, and our exclusive mountain sauna and jacuzzi access after long trail days.
Ethical Employment Practices: Our cooks, horsemen, and field crews are the foundation of our company. We ensure fair living wages, comprehensive equipment, warm sleeping quarters, and medical insurance coverage for every staff member on the trail.
Packing List
Packing List for the 4 Day Salkantay Trek
Because this trek transitions from freezing alpine passes to warm tropical cloud forests, layering your clothing is essential for maximum comfort.
High Altitude Alpine Gear (Days 1 & 2)
- Base Layers: Thermal tops and bottoms (breathable wool or synthetic fabrics).
- Insulation: Warm fleece sweater, down jacket, thermal beanie hat, and waterproof winter gloves.
- Outerwear: Windproof and waterproof rain jacket or poncho.
- Footwear: Sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots with high ankle support and 4 to 5 pairs of thick wool socks.
- Accessories: UV-protection sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm, and trekking poles with rubber tips.
Cloud Forest & Jungle Gear (Days 3 & 4)
- Lightweight Clothing: Breathable long-sleeve shirts and quick-dry trekking pants (protects against sun and insects).
- Casual Wear: Clean outfit, comfortable shoes, or sandals for evening hotel stays in Aguas Calientes.
- Insect Defense: High-DEET insect repellent spray.
- Swimwear: Swimsuit for hot springs in Aguas Calientes or campsite jacuzzi.
Essential Personal Items
- Documentation: Original physical passport (must match the document used during booking).
- Backpack: 20L to 30L daypack to carry water, daily snacks, rain gear, and personal valuables.
- Hydration: Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (at least 2-liter capacity).
- Illumination & Electronics: Headlamp with extra batteries, camera, GoPro, and portable power bank.
- Cash: Peruvian Soles in small denominations for snacks, drinks, optional tips, and toilet access along the trail.
Important Info
Is the 4-Day Salkantay Trek difficult, and how should I train?
Yes, the 4-Day Salkantay Trek is rated as challenging and requires a good level of physical fitness. The itinerary covers 45 kilometers (28 miles) total. Day 2 is the most demanding section, covering 18 km (11 miles) as you ascend from 2,900 meters to the high point of the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 m (15,256 ft).
- Acclimatization: We strongly recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco (3,350 m / 11,047 ft) before starting the trek to adjust to the elevation and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
- Training: Practice walking long distances—such as 10 to 15 kilometers (6 to 9 miles) per day on inclined terrain or stairs—in the months leading up to your trek. Consult your doctor before embarking on any demanding activity.
- Pack Weight: You do not need to carry a heavy backpack. Our support horses carry your main luggage (up to 7 kg / 15 lbs), leaving you with only a light daypack to carry on the trail.
What makes The Salkantay Trek different from standard budget tours?
Unlike high-volume budget operators that group 16 to 25 hikers together in basic camping tents, Apple Travel Peru delivers an exclusive, high-comfort experience:
- Strict Small Groups: Guaranteed maximum of 8 participants (typically 2 to 6 trekkers per group) for personalized attention.
- Glamping Domes & Wellness: Private glamping dome campsites in Soraypampa and Collpapampa featuring raised beds, private biochemical toilets, warm showers, and exclusive access to a mountain sauna and therapeutic hot tubs after Day 2.
- Ethical & Sustainable Operator: 100% locally owned, practicing Leave No Trace principles, eliminating single-use plastics, and paying fair, ethical wages to our Andean cooks, guides, and horsemen.
Which Machu Picchu entry circuit is included in this tour?
Your tour includes the official government-issued entrance permit for Machu Picchu Circuit 2 (or the premier equivalent established by the Ministry of Culture).
Circuit 2 is universally recognized as the most complete and desirable route through the sanctuary, granting access to the iconic upper classic viewpoint, Guardhouse, Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, and Intihuatana. Because Circuit 2 permits are strictly capped by the government, early booking is essential.
Do I need a trail permit for the 4-Day Salkantay Trek?
No, the Salkantay Trek itself does not require a limited daily permit. Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, there are no quotas on the Salkantay trail. However, we must secure your official entrance ticket for Machu Picchu (Circuit 2) and your return train tickets. During the high season (May to September), we recommend booking at least 2 months in advance to secure Circuit 2 access and ideal train departure times.
How cold does it get on the Salkantay Trek, and what should I pack?
Because the trail crosses distinct microclimates, temperatures vary significantly:
- Days 1 & 2 (Alpine Glacial Zone): Very cold. Nighttime temperatures at Soraypampa camp (3,900 m) drop to -5°C (23°F).
- Days 3 & 4 (Subtropical Cloud Forest): Warm and humid, reaching around 20°C (68°F) at Lucmabamba and Collpapampa.
- Seasons: The dry season runs from May to October (clear skies, cold alpine nights). November to April brings cloud forest moisture and rain showers.
- Packing List: Pack in layers, thermal base layer, fleece jacket, down coat, waterproof rain jacket/pants, waterproof gloves, warm beanie, moisture-wicking shirts, and sturdy, broken-in hiking boots.
What is included in the $497 USD tour price?
Our $497 USD group price covers your complete journey with no hidden fees:
- Transport: Door-to-door hotel pick-up and drop-off (Cusco or Sacred Valley); private transport from Cusco to the Soraypampa trailhead; return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo; transfer from the train station back to your Cusco hotel; round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Accommodations: 2 nights in private panoramic glamping domes (Soraypampa & Collpapampa) with sauna and jacuzzi access; 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes (e.g., Hotel Fer or equivalent with private bathroom, hot water, Wi-Fi, and clean linens).
- Meals & Hydration: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners prepared fresh by our professional mountain chef; daily freshly boiled and cooled drinking water.
- Staff & Equipment: Certified English-speaking guide, 1 professional cook, horsemen team, emergency support horse, horses for carrying up to 7 kg of your personal duffel gear, biochemical toilet tent, emergency oxygen cylinders, and first-aid equipment.
- Entrances: Official entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2).
How does luggage transport work, and can I store my extra bags in Cusco?
- On the Trail: You only carry a light daypack (20L to 30L) containing daily essentials such as drinking water, extra layers, sunscreen, rain gear, and personal valuables.
- Horse Carry Limit: We provide a specialized duffel bag at your pre-trek briefing. Our horses carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal belongings—including your sleeping bag and evening wear—between campsites.
- Free Luggage Storage: You can leave your main suitacase/luggage safely stored free of charge at our Cusco office (Calle Garcilaso 265, Office 201) or directly at your hotel in Cusco.
What kind of food is served, and can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Our professional mountain chefs prepare fresh, hot meals daily using regional Peruvian ingredients.
- Breakfasts: Fresh coffee, herbal teas, cooked eggs, pancakes, and fruit.
- Lunches & Dinners: Multi-course soups, fresh meats, quinoa, fresh vegetables, and local specialties.
- Dietary Needs: We fully accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and allergy-restricted diets at no extra charge. Please notify us when submitting your booking form.
Is drinking water provided along the trail?
Yes. Starting from lunch on Day 1 through breakfast on Day 4, our culinary crew provides freshly boiled, filtered, and cooled mountain water at every meal stop. You must bring a reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (2-liter minimum capacity) to refill. For extra peace of mind while hiking between camps, you may bring personal water purification tablets or a filtered bottle.
How do I book the 4-Day Salkantay Trek, and what information is required?
To book your 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, click BOOK NOW on our homepage or complete our official booking form.
Required Participant Details (for Machu Picchu & Train Permits):
- Full name (exactly as it appears on your passport)
- Gender
- Passport number
- Date of birth (dd / mm / yyyy)
- Nationality
- A clear digital copy/photo of each participant’s passport
Deposit Requirement:
To confirm your reservation, we require a deposit of $211 USD per person. Deposits can be paid online via VISA or PayPal directly on our booking page.
How and when do I pay the remaining balance?
Your remaining balance is due up to 2 days prior to your trek departure. You can choose between two payment methods:
- Cash in Cusco (No Merchant Fees): Pay in cash (US Dollars or Peruvian Soles) at our historic center office in Cusco (Calle Garcilaso 265, Office 201). Multiple ATMs are located nearby for cash withdrawals.
- Online Payment (VISA or PayPal): Pay online via VISA or PayPal. Both platforms charge a standard 5.5% service fee.
Can I change my trek date after booking?
No. Once we purchase your official Machu Picchu Circuit 2 entrance ticket and return train tickets, the date cannot be changed, transferred, or refunded under Peruvian government regulations. If you need to change your departure date, new entrance and train tickets must be purchased at your own expense, subject to availability.
Do I need my original physical passport on the trek?
Yes, you must bring your original physical passport. Officials check your passport at the Machu Picchu entrance gates and train boarding stations. The passport you bring on the trail must match the passport used during booking.
If you renew your passport or change your name after booking:
- Option A: Update your permit details with us beforehand for an administrative fee of $25 USD per person (requires copies of both old and new passports).
- Option B: Bring BOTH your old physical passport and your new physical passport on the trek. Without both passports, entry will be denied by government authorities.
How do you handle altitude sickness and safety emergencies?
Altitude sickness (AMS) can affect anyone at high elevations in Cusco (3,350 m) and on the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m).
- Prevention: Rest in Cusco for 2–3 days beforehand, stay hydrated, drink coca tea, and keep a steady pace on Day 1.
- Safety Protocols: All Apple Travel Peru mountain guides are licensed Wilderness First Responder (WFR) professionals. Every group carries digital pulse oximeters, medical first aid kits, and emergency oxygen cylinders.
- Support Horse: An emergency horse is available on Day 1 and Day 2 if you require riding assistance.
What happens if I am unable to finish the Salkantay Trek?
If a health issue or severe altitude sickness prevents you from continuing:
- Our staff will assist you to the nearest vehicle point for safe transport (typically taken to Ollantaytambo).
- For respiratory issues, emergency medical oxygen is administered immediately. In extreme medical emergencies, helicopter pick-up can be arranged at your own expense (comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory).
- Once recovered in Ollantaytambo, you can continue your journey to Aguas Calientes via train (at your own expense) to rejoin the group and visit Machu Picchu as scheduled. Trek fees are non-refundable.
How many people are in a group, and how many cooks/horses support us?
We do guarantees intimate small-group departures with a maximum of 10 trekkers per group (average size is 2 to 6 people).
Support Staff & Horse Ratios:
Every group is supported by 1 certified guide, 1 professional cook, and 1 lead horseman. The support horse team scales based on group size:
- 2 Trekkers: 4 horses
- 4 Trekkers: 6 horses
- 6 Trekkers: 9 horses
- 8 Trekkers: 12 horses
What are the toilet facilities like on the trek?
- Along the Trail: Community-operated toilet facilities are available along the hiking path for a small fee of 1 Peruvian Sol (please carry loose change).
- At Campsites: Apple Travel Peru provides a private, hygienic biochemical toilet set up inside a dedicated toilet tent at a comfortable distance from your sleeping domes.
What is the difference between the 4-Day and 5-Day Salkantay Trek?
- 4-Day Salkantay Trek: Shorter and faster. On Day 3, you hike from Collpapampa to Lucmabamba, visit the Llactapata Inca ruins, and take the train to Aguas Calientes on the same day.
- 5-Day Salkantay Trek via Llactapata: More relaxed pacing. Day 3 is dedicated to Collpapampa to Lucmabamba with an organic coffee farm tour and relaxation at the Cocalmayo hot springs. Day 4 covers the hike to Llactapata ruins and the jungle walk to Hidroelectrica/Aguas Calientes. Day 5 is dedicated to Machu Picchu.
Are hotel pick-ups and drop-offs included?
Yes! Door-to-door hotel transport is fully included. We pick you up directly from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley on Day 1 and return you directly to your hotel door at the end of Day 4.
What time does the train depart from Aguas Calientes?
Train schedules depend on seasonal availability, but we prioritize giving you maximum time at Machu Picchu and scenic daylight views on the return journey. We typically reserve return train departures at 14:55 or 15:20.
How much is the Vistadome Train upgrade, and what is included?
You can upgrade your return train trip to the Vistadome Panoramic Train for $67 USD per person.
- Vistadome Experience: Features leather seats, panoramic side windows, overhead glass ceiling panels, a light gourmet snack, and an onboard live cultural performance (Saqra Andean dance) with an alpaca fashion show.
- Route: Runs from Aguas Calientes to Poroy station, where our private driver transfers you directly back to your Cusco hotel (approx. 25-minute drive). Please request this upgrade at the time of booking.
What is your tipping policy?
Tipping is completely voluntary and strictly based on the quality of service you receive. While not customary in every country, tipping is an integral part of the tourism industry in Peru and inspires our guides, cooks, and horsemen to deliver exceptional service. Tipping amounts are entirely at your discretion.
How does Apple Travel Peru practice sustainable tourism?
We are committed to environmental conservation and social responsibility. We follow strict Leave No Trace principles, eliminate single-use plastic bottles on the trail by boiling water for guests, extensively train our local staff, and ensure our highland cooks and horsemen receive fair, above-market wages.
What You'll Experience on the Trail
From the terraces of Wiñay Wayna to the Sun Gate, every step brings you closer to the lost city of the Incas.
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Stop 01 / 03Wiñay Wayna
Its agricultural terraces cover half the mountainside, making it a trail favorite. Its name means "Eternally Young" in Quechua.
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Stop 02 / 03Inti Punku
The "Gate of the Sun" was the main entrance to Machu Picchu and gives you your first view of the citadel, a view you can only earn on the Inca Trail.
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Stop 03 / 03Machu Picchu
By far the most well known UNESCO world heritage site in Peru and the pinnacle of many people's visits to South America. This is where you wanted to be.
Lovely Words From Our Travelers
Real reviews from travelers who explored Machu Picchu and Cusco with us, straight from Tripadvisor, Google and Trustpilot.
Tripadvisor Reviews
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Amazing experience with Sam travels
I had the best experience with Sam travels, we had an amazing time doing the 4d Salkantay trek, we had the best weather. Specifically want to mention Josep what an amazing cool guy he was. A real leader, great story teller, motivator and made you feel like you were taking on something special. Secondly another special mention for Andres and his catering team. The food was amazing, real nutritious and energising for the long trekking days.
Finally the horse man Donato, he managed to get all of our fresh clothing to the next camp very efficiently. Highly recommend a trip with this company.
Great experience at short Inca trail
We did the 2-day Short Inca Trail and it was a fantastic experience! Our guide, Fredy Zapata, was excellent. He told us so much about the history of the Incas and the region, and was able to answer every question we had. He did a great job and made the whole experience really enjoyable.
The highlight was definitely arriving at the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu for the first time. An unforgettable experience that we would highly recommend!
Great experience because of the team!
Amazing trip! What a great experience, so well organized. Our guide Josep was a guiding star who knows so much and shared a lot of information. Very kind and helpful in every way. The cooking team of Andres was amazing and we had wonderful and a great variety of meals every evening. Donato the horseman made sure we got our stuff safe and in time to every stop. I could not ask for a better experience to be honest. Especially Josep, thank you for being so flexible, organized and sharing your knowledge.
Unforgettable Salkantay Experience with Sam Travel
We did the Salkantay Trek with SAM Travel and couldn’t have been happier with our choice! Our guide, Josep, was incredibly friendly, knowledgeable and passionate. He answered every single one of our questions about nature, history and Peruvian culture honestly, even better than ChatGPT! ;) We especially loved being in such a small group. It made the whole experience feel much more personal, relaxed and authentic.. The accommodations throughout the trek were excellent, and the food prepared by Andrés was absolutely outstanding. We were honestly surprised by the quality and variety of the meals, especially considering we were in the middle of the mountains. We spent a long time researching different companies before booking the Salkantay Trek, and choosing SAM Travel was definitely the right decision. Everything was extremely well organized, and the entire experience exceeded our expectations. We would 100% recommend SAM Travel, and especially Josep and Andrés, to anyone planning to do the Salkantay Trek!
SAM travel
Great trip. Great people. Loved my time with Joseph, Andres, Donato.and Elvis. Amazing world to explore made extra special with great people. Shout to my fellow travellers
Best trek ever!
It was amazing. We had the best Guide with Josep who is Sperling really good English and explaining so many things to us as well as introducing us perfectly to the altitude and the landscape. The Pick Up, accomodation and especially the food was so well organized and delicious. I highly recommend doing this trek, it was spectacular. 😍
Google Reviews
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We had an amazing experience on the 4 day/3 night Salkantay Trek with Sam Travel Peru. Everything was seamless from beginning to end.…
I joined the 2-day, 1-night tour to Cusco and Machu Picchu with SAM TRAVEL, and it was an amazing experience from start to finish.…
We had an incredible time on the 3D/2N Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour and would highly recommend it. It was fantastic to visit some of the highlights of the Sacred Valley, including Pisac, the Maras Salt Mines and Moray on the first…
We did the 4-day Inca Trail with Sam's Travel, and it was an absolutely unforgettable experience. It's something we will cherish for the rest of our lives.…
We had a great time on our 3d/2n tour of the sacred valley and short inca trail. The sacred valley prepared us very well for Macchu Picchu and the information provided was great. Our guide Rolando was very knowledgeable about the inca…
We’ve just done the 4-Days Inca trail with SAM travel. Our main guide Josep was very professional, knowledgeable and considerate. He really made sure that we enjoy the journey and our needs are addressed. Jimmy, our assistant guide, helped…
We had a great experience with Sam Travel Peru. Always felt well taken care of and safe. Our guide, Israel, was friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. The office staff were always quick to reply to emails.…
Trustpilot Reviews
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Awesome trip with Josef as our guide…
Awesome trip with Josef as our guide Mario the chef with amazing food and porters who were our hero’s.
We booked a day tour for the Rainbow…
We booked a day tour for the Rainbow Mountain and it had been just perfect. Fernando, our guide, was really kind and attentive. All the staff is professional and friendly, totally recommended!
Incredible Salkantay Trek with Exceptional Guide Jhordy
We recently completed the Salkantay Trail trek with Sam Travel, and we couldn't be happier with our experience. Our guide, Jhordy, was exceptional. He was highly professional, providing great insights, facts, and stories that enriched our journey. Jhordy was very patient with us and demonstrated remarkable flexibility, adjusting the itinerary when we weren't feeling our best. We highly recommend Sam Travel, especially Jhordy, for making our trek an incredible time.