Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days

Cusco, Peru 5.0 (9,685 reviews)
  • Duration 7 Days
  • Type Group or private
  • Group Size Up to 8 people
  • Languages English, Spanish

From $977.00 / Person

Overview

Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu has designed this incredible journey to connect the two most remarkable Inca cities in the Cusco region: Choquequirao and Machu Picchu. Your adventure begins in Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire, before you set off across the high Andes toward the spectacular ruins of Choquequirao. There, you will have time to explore the site in depth and discover what role it played in the Inca world. Further along the route, the Inca site of Llactapata offers your first view of Machu Picchu, framed by Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, and the snowcapped summit of Salkantay. Once you reach the famous citadel, your guide leads an in-depth tour, followed by free time to wander and take it all in at your own pace, before you return to Cusco.

Trip Details


Itinerary

This stunning but demanding trek is best suited to experienced hikers or travelers in good physical condition who regularly hike or run.

Day 1: Cusco • Capuliyoc • Chikiska • Playa Rosalinas

Drive to the Edge of the Apurímac Canyon

Your adventure begins at 5:00 AM, when your guide collects you from your hotel in our private van. A 4-hour drive past charming villages and dramatic valleys brings us to Capuliyoc, perched on the rim of the Apurímac Canyon and surrounded by towering snowy peaks. Here, we meet our horsemen and load the equipment onto the pack horses, so you only need to carry a small daypack with your essentials for the trail.

Descent to Playa Rosalinas

From the trailhead, we hike downhill for about 2 hours to Chikiska, where lunch is served. After another hour of walking, we reach Playa Rosalinas (1,550 m / 5,085 ft), our campsite for the first night. Your tent will already be pitched, and hot drinks and snacks will be waiting for you. Take some time to settle in before a hearty, delicious dinner.

  • Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
  • Hiking Time: About 3 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Meals Included: Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Campsite at Playa Rosalinas

Day 2: Playa Rosalinas • Marampata • Choquequirao

The Climb to Marampata

Your guide wakes you with a hot cup of tea or coffee, followed by breakfast. We set off early on a fairly steep 4-hour climb from the river, passing through Santa Rosa on the way up to Marampata, where we stop for lunch. From here, you get your first real sense of just how vast Choquequirao is.

Arrival at Choquequirao

Two more hours of hiking bring us to the Choquequirao Archaeological Site (3,110 m / 10,203 ft). Drinks, snacks, and your tent will be ready when you arrive. Enjoy a well-deserved, relaxing evening watching the sunset as condors glide over the canyon.

  • Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
  • Hiking Time: About 6 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Campsite at Choquequirao

Day 3: Choquequirao • Pinchiunuyoc

In-Depth Tour of Choquequirao

After breakfast, we spend the morning exploring the archaeological complex of Choquequirao in detail with your guide, then return to camp for a short rest before lunch.

Over the Ridge to Pinchiunuyoc

In the afternoon, we leave camp and climb over a ridge, then descend for about 2 hours to the fascinating Inca site of Pinchiunuyoc, where we spend the night. This is the easiest day of the trek.

  • Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Campsite at Pinchiunuyoc

Day 4: Pinchiunuyoc • Río Blanco • Maizal

Down to the Río Blanco Canyon

Start the day with a hot drink delivered to your tent, followed by a delicious breakfast. We then hike downhill for 2 hours to the canyon of the Río Blanco (1,990 m / 6,529 ft), where we stop for lunch and a rest by the river.

The Tough Climb to Maizal

In the afternoon, a demanding climb of 3 to 4 hours takes us up to our campsite at Maizal, where a warm dinner awaits.

  • Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
  • Hiking Time: 5 to 6 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Campsite at Maizal

Day 5: Maizal • Victoria Pass • Yanama • Totora • Lucmabamba

Victoria Mines & Victoria Pass

We set off at 7:00 AM and climb for about 3 hours through subtropical forest to the old Victoria Mines. After visiting the mines and some nearby Inca ruins, one more hour of climbing brings us to the Victoria Pass (4,130 m / 13,550 ft), with spectacular views all around.

Inca Steps to Yanama & Drive to Lucmabamba

From the pass, we descend for about 2 hours, partly along a stretch of beautifully built Inca stairs, to the lovely village of Yanama. Here, we board local transport for the scenic ride via Totora to Lucmabamba, passing snowcapped mountains and waterfalls along the way.

  • Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
  • Hiking Time: About 6 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Campsite at Lucmabamba

Day 6: Lucmabamba • Llactapata • Hidroeléctrica • Aguas Calientes

Original Inca Trail to Llactapata

Today, we walk for 3 hours along an original section of Inca trail through the cloud forest, crossing the Puncuyoc Pass on the way to the Inca site of Llactapata (2,700 m / 8,858 ft). Set directly across the valley from Machu Picchu, it offers a rare, distant view of the famous citadel.

Walk to Aguas Calientes

After enjoying the views, we hike downhill for 2 hours to the Hidroeléctrica station for lunch. We then continue on foot to Aguas Calientes through the Machu Picchu National Sanctuary, surrounded by the lush scenery of this iconic area. In the evening, we celebrate the end of the trek with dinner at a restaurant in town.

  • Distance: 18 km / 11.2 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Celebration Dinner
  • Accommodation: 3-star Hotel Ferre Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes

Day 7: Aguas Calientes • Machu Picchu • Cusco

Sunrise & Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

The big day has arrived: Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast at your hotel, you take one of the first buses up to the citadel to watch the sunrise, an unforgettable sight. Your guide then leads a 2-hour tour of the main areas of Machu Picchu, explaining how the city was organized into three sectors: agricultural, residential, and religious. If you booked the optional Huayna Picchu climb in advance, you can make the ascent on your own after the tour.

Train Ride & Return to Cusco

When you are ready, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train time, you may be able to shop, visit the museum, or relax in the hot springs. The Expedition Train leaves for Ollantaytambo at 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM, following the Urubamba River through a narrow canyon full of whitewater; look high up on the canyon wall and you may even spot the Inca site of Wiñay Wayna. At Ollantaytambo station, your driver will be waiting to take you to your Cusco hotel in our private vehicle, arriving at around 7:00 PM.

  • Meals Included: Breakfast

Important to Know:

  • The Huayna Picchu climb is unguided and must be reserved when you book.
  • You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for $67 USD, with departures at 2:55 PM, 3:20 PM, 4:22 PM, or 4:43 PM.
  • Earlier trains are available on request, but must be arranged at the time of booking.


Inclusions

What Is Included in the 7-Day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu?

  • Airport Transfer: Free pickup from Cusco airport to your hotel.
  • Pre-Trek Briefing: Meeting with your guide at our office the evening before departure.
  • Private Transport: Hotel pickup on the first morning and private transfer from Cusco to Capuliyoc.
  • Entrance Fees: Admission to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.
  • Professional Guide: Experienced, English-speaking guide, including guided tours of Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.
  • Camping Equipment: Spacious 4-season, 4-person tents shared by only 2 trekkers, plus a dining tent with tables and chairs, a kitchen tent, and a toilet tent.
  • Sleeping Comfort: Foam mattress and camping pillow.
  • Meals: All meals listed in the itinerary (vegetarian options on request), including a celebration dinner at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
  • Drinking Water: Boiled water for drinking and washing, with your bottles refilled at every meal.
  • Pack Horses & Horsemen: Horses carry all the equipment plus up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal gear, such as clothing and sleeping bag, in a duffel bag we provide along with liner bags.
  • Emergency Horse: A riding horse travels with the group in case anyone becomes ill or too tired, so everyone can complete the trek.
  • Hotel in Aguas Calientes: One night in a private room with a private bathroom.
  • Machu Picchu Buses: Round-trip bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
  • Return Journey: Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and transfer back to your hotel.
  • Safety Equipment: First-aid kit with an emergency oxygen bottle.
  • Taxes

What Is Not Included?

  • Sleeping Bag Rental: $25 USD (rated to -15°C / 5°F).
  • Air Mattress Rental: $25 USD.
  • Trekking Poles: $20 USD per pair.
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD entrance fee.
  • Extra Horse: For personal luggage beyond the 7 kg allowance.
  • Optional Upgrades: Train and hotel upgrades.
  • Other Meals: Any meals not listed in the itinerary.
  • Tips: Gratuities for your guide, cook, and horsemen.

Please note: The Huayna Picchu climb is unguided and is usually done on your own after the Machu Picchu tour. If you would like a guide to accompany you, please request it in advance, as it has an additional cost.


Price

Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu Prices

The 7-Day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu runs on almost any date that suits you, with a minimum of 2 trekkers. Traveling solo? Contact us for a personalized quote.

Service OptionPrice per Person (USD)
Group Trek$977 USD
Private Trek$1,257 USD

All prices include a pack horse that carries up to 7 kg of your belongings in the duffel bag we provide, and a large 4-person Eureka tent for every 2 trekkers.

Discounts

  • University Students (18 to 25): $30 USD off. Send a copy of a valid student card showing your name, photo, university, and expiry date when you book, as it is required for government approval.
  • Under 18: $30 USD off. Please send a copy of the passport when you book.
  • Under 11: $40 USD off. Please send a copy of the passport when you book.
  • Groups of 5 or More: $30 USD off per person when everyone books together.

Optional Extras

ExtraPrice (USD)Details
Sleeping Bag$25 per personClean and warm, for the whole trek
Air Mattress$25 per personTherm-a-Rest inflatable mattress
Trekking Poles$20 per pairProfessional, adjustable poles
Single Tent$30Private tent for solo trekkers
Vistadome Train$67 per personReturn to Poroy/Cusco at 4:43 PM
Huayna Picchu Mountain$75 per personPlease request when booking
Hotel Single Supplement$40Private 3-star room for solo travelers

Free Extras Included

  • Airport Transfer: From Cusco airport to your hotel.
  • Duffel Bag & Liner Bags: Provided at no extra cost.
  • Personal Pack Horse: Carries up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your gear, such as your sleeping bag, mattress, and clothes.
  • Boiled Water: Supplied throughout the trek.
  • Emergency Oxygen: Available at all times on the trail.
  • Emergency Horse: Ready to ride if you feel tired or unwell.
  • Camping Pillow & Foam Mattress


Why Us

Why Trek Choquequirao with Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu?

Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu is a family-run local tour operator based in Cusco, with many years of hands-on trekking experience. We are a 100% Cusco-owned company with no outside shareholders. Our goal is simple: to create small, personal tours and treks run exclusively by our own local professionals, with a strong focus on high-quality service.

We are proud to be a responsible and sustainable operator. Our team is our extended family, and we make sure every member is fairly paid and well supported. Without them, we could not offer our travelers such outstanding service and unforgettable experiences.

Small Groups

To give every traveler more personal attention, our groups never exceed 8 people. That alone sets us apart from the many companies that run much larger departures.

Expert Guides

Our guides are true professionals who speak fluent English and are passionate about Inca history and heritage. They continually study and research so that the information they share reflects accurate, well-established knowledge of Inca and Andean culture. They are also friendly, fun, and highly educated, with university degrees in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.

Our Dedicated Horsemen

Your comfort is our top priority on this fully supported trek. While you meet local people, explore remarkable sites, and discover remote Inca ruins, our crew carries the gear, cooks your meals, and pitches camp away from crowded spots. All you need to do is enjoy the landscape and feel the magic of Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the Andes.

We provide our horsemen and cooks, free of charge, with a jacket, sun hat, warm hat, t-shirt, pants, hiking boots, a comfortable duffel bag, a water bottle, a back-support belt, a sleeping bag, a sleeping mat, and insurance.

Our Outstanding Chefs

The food is one of the things our travelers rave about most, with many saying it is better than in restaurants. Our professional cooks prepare generous gourmet meals, mixing Peruvian and international dishes made with local and exotic ingredients. We happily adapt every menu to dietary restrictions, food allergies, and special diets such as gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan.

Quality Equipment

  • Tents: 4-season Eureka Timberline tents designed for 4 people but shared by only 2, with plenty of space for you and your duffel bags, plus a front vestibule to keep boots and poles outside.
  • Sleeping Mats: Foam mats insulate you from the cold ground, and air mattresses are available to rent.
  • Dining & Kitchen Tents: The dining tent is where we gather at mealtimes to eat and enjoy each other’s company. It has tables and chairs and doors on both sides that can be adjusted to the weather.
  • Duffel Bags: Handed out at the briefing the evening before the trek.
  • Extras: Pillows, backpack rain covers, a trek t-shirt to take home, hot showers, and a private biochemical camping toilet.

Giving Back to Local Communities

We have always believed in giving back to the remote communities we work with. As part of our commitment to responsible tourism, we hire locally and support community projects. We are proud to help our highland team members and their families, staying true to our own roots.

Packing List

What to Pack for the 7-Day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu

Essentials

  • Original Passport: It must be the same passport you used to book.
  • Valid University Card: Only if you booked at a student rate.
  • Daypack: The smaller, the better (30L to 40L is ideal).
  • Water Bottles: 2 to 3 liters of capacity in reusable bottles (please avoid disposable plastic).
  • Hiking Boots: Comfortable boots with good ankle support.
  • Sleeping Bag: You can rent one from us.
  • Headlamp: Essential.
  • Hygiene Basics: Toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and small plastic bags.

Your Duffel Bag (Max 7 kg / 15 lbs)

We give you a duffel bag at your briefing, and a pack horse carries it for you. Peruvian law limits each duffel to 7 kg (15 lbs) to protect the health of porters and animals, and every bag is weighed before the trek. Anything over the limit must go in your daypack. Your sleeping bag (about 2 kg) and sleeping pad (about 1 kg) count toward the limit, leaving roughly 4 kg for personal items.

  • 2 t-shirts
  • At least 2 pairs of hiking pants
  • 4 changes of underwear
  • 3 pairs of hiking socks
  • Swimsuit for the hot springs
  • Fleece or thermal layers
  • Warm clothing and a down jacket (the second campsite drops to around 3°C / 37°F)
  • Waterproof gloves (ski gloves work well)
  • Comfortable shoes for camp
  • Quick-dry towel (we provide small ones, but you may prefer a larger one)
  • Small bottle of soap (warm washing water is provided daily)
  • Power bank (there is no electricity on the trail)
  • Large plastic bags to line your duffel (available at our office)
  • Sleeping bag rated to at least -15°C / 5°F (available to rent from us)

Toiletries

  • Moisturizer
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Personal medication
  • First-aid kit with adhesive bandages, moleskin, and similar items

Your Daypack

We recommend a small 30L to 40L backpack for daytime hiking, as large backpacks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu. Everything else stays in your duffel bag, which you will find waiting at camp.

  • Water (bring your own until the first lunch stop; after that, we refill your bottles with cooled boiled water at every meal)
  • Sun hat and sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Headlamp
  • Wool hat and gloves
  • Rain jacket and rain poncho
  • Fleece
  • Snacks such as chocolate, cereal bars, or dried fruit
  • Camera
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and a small bag for your trash
  • Cash for souvenirs, drinks, and tips


Important Info

How does the airport pickup in Cusco work?

We meet you at Cusco airport and take you to your hotel. Please send us your full flight details at least 14 days before you arrive. Look for our representative holding a Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu sign at the exit of the arrivals terminal.

When and where is the pre-trek briefing?

At 6:00 PM the evening before the trek, at our office in Cusco (Calle Garcilaso 265, Office 201).

Can I leave my luggage at your office?

Of course. While you are on the Choquequirao Trek, your main luggage can stay at our office or at your hotel, whichever suits you best.

How do I book the 7-Day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu?

Step 1: Fill out our booking form by clicking BOOK NOW. We need the following details for every traveler in your group to buy your Machu Picchu and train tickets:

  1. Full name (exactly as it appears on your passport)
  2. Gender
  3. Passport number
  4. Date of birth (dd / mm / yyyy)
  5. Nationality

Step 2: Pay a deposit of $211 USD per person so we can purchase your entrance tickets. You can pay by VISA or PayPal directly on our booking page.

How do I pay the remaining balance?

You can pay in cash in Cusco or online. To avoid Peru’s high card fees, pay in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco; there are plenty of ATMs in the historic center. You can also pay online by VISA or PayPal, which adds a 5.5% service fee charged by those platforms.

Who qualifies for the student discount?

Travelers under 18 on the date of the trek, and university students with a valid card. Under Peruvian law, age is counted on the day you visit Machu Picchu, not the day you book. For example, if you book at 17 but turn 18 before the trek, you will need a valid university card to get the discount.

  • University students: Send a copy of your student card showing your photo, university name, and expiry date. The card must be valid for the current academic year.
  • Ages 11 to 17: $30 USD discount.
  • Ages 2 to 11: $40 USD discount.
  • Under 2: Free.

To receive any student discount, please send us a copy of the passport when you book.

Can I change my departure date after booking?

Only before your Machu Picchu tickets have been purchased. Once the tickets are bought, the government does not allow any changes, and tickets cannot be transferred or refunded. If you need to change your date, contact our office as soon as possible. Please note that the deposit is non-refundable if you cancel the trek.

Do I need my original passport on the Choquequirao Trek?

Yes. You must bring your original passport, and its number must match the one you gave us to book your trek, entrance tickets, and other reservations.

If you are renewing your passport or changing your name, book with your old passport details to secure your tickets. When you have your new passport, we can update your reservations for $25 USD per person; we will need a copy of both the old and new passports, so keep a copy of the old one before replacing it. If you prefer not to pay this fee, you must bring both passports to Peru. You can enter the country with the new one, but you will need to show both to enter Machu Picchu and board the train. Without both, entry will be refused.

What is the weather like on the Choquequirao Trek?

Very unpredictable. Mountain weather can change quickly, so always dress in layers that you can easily add or remove as conditions shift.

How can I avoid altitude sickness on the Choquequirao Trek?

Stay active before your trip and spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley first. Most people acclimatize normally within 24 hours to 2 days. The best remedies are plenty of water, coca tea, and oxygen if needed. Our guides are trained to recognize and treat altitude sickness.

How many people are in each group?

A maximum of 8. Most of our groups have between 2 and 6 people. We specialize in small and private groups, so you always receive personal attention.

How do the duffel bag and daypack work?

Pack horses carry your duffel, and you carry a small daypack. The evening before the trek, we give you a small duffel bag for your clothes and gear, with a weight limit of 7 kg (15 lbs). Our horses carry it along with the food and camping equipment. Since the horses always travel ahead of the group, you will not have access to your duffel until you reach camp each afternoon. Your daypack should hold everything you need during the day, such as a warm jacket, rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water. A 30L to 40L backpack is enough.

How difficult is the trek, and how fit do I need to be?

This is a moderate to difficult trek and definitely not an easy one. You do not need to be an athlete or an expert, but you should have hiking experience. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the scenery and the Inca ruins along the way. If you do not exercise regularly, we recommend extra walking, hiking, or other cardio activity in the months before your trip.

What are the toilets like on the trek?

You will have a private toilet at every campsite. Our travelers really appreciate this: a clean camping toilet with a proper seat, set up inside its own tent at a comfortable distance from the campsite. It is always close by and hygienic, even at night.

What happens if I cannot finish the Choquequirao Trek?

Our team will help you get to safety. If a health problem prevents you from continuing, we will help you reach the nearest town and arrange transport. We always carry oxygen for breathing difficulties. In serious emergencies, a helicopter evacuation can be arranged at your own cost, so travel insurance is required. No refunds are given if you cannot complete the trek.

Trekkers who leave the trail early and recover quickly can usually continue to Aguas Calientes (at their own expense) and visit Machu Picchu as planned.

Will you take us back to our hotel after the trek?

Absolutely. Hotel drop-off on the last day is included. If you are staying in the Sacred Valley, for example in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will take you there instead. And if you spend the night before the trek in Ollantaytambo, we will pick you up there too.

What time does the return train leave?

Usually at 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM, depending on availability; in high season, trains can sell out. We choose these times to give you as long as possible at Machu Picchu while still letting you enjoy the views from the train on the way back.

What does the Vistadome upgrade include?

The upgrade costs $67 USD per person, including the transfer from Poroy station to your Cusco hotel. The Vistadome has more comfortable seats, panoramic side and ceiling windows, snacks, and a live dance show on board.

With the standard service, the train takes about 2 hours to Ollantaytambo, followed by a 2-hour drive to Cusco. The Vistadome goes all the way to Poroy in about 3.5 hours, followed by a 25-minute drive to your hotel, so you will be back by around 8:00 PM. If you plan to catch a night bus to Puno, that is still entirely possible.

Should I tip the crew?

Tipping is optional, but it means a lot to the team. Even if it is not common in your country, tips are an important part of the tourism industry in Peru and motivate the people who look after you to give their very best. How much you give is entirely up to you and should reflect the quality of the service and the length of your trip.

Is Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu a sustainable operator?

Yes. We are a local, responsible tourism operator committed to two key principles: protecting the environment and benefiting local communities while respecting their culture and beliefs. All our staff are trained to understand and respect the places we visit and the people who live there.


Trip Enquiry

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The Journey

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.

  1. Wiñay Wayna
    Stop 01 / 03

    Wiñay Wayna

    Its agricultural terraces cover half the mountainside, making it a trail favorite. Its name means "Eternally Young" in Quechua.

    • 2,650m altitude
    • 2.5km from Machu Picchu
  2. Inti Punku
    Stop 02 / 03

    Inti 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.

    • Sun Gate viewpoint
    • Exclusive to trekkers
  3. Machu Picchu
    Stop 03 / 03

    Machu 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.

    • UNESCO World Heritage
    • #1 Wonder of South America
Clients Feedback

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

Read all on Tripadvisor

Passport47616819993

Germany • 4 contributions

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.

Sep 2026 • Couples

Harry W

2 contributions

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.

Sep 2026 • Solo

Carolin

2 contributions

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!

Sep 2026 • Couples

Robyn

24 contributions

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.

Sep 2026 • Couples

ANDRE m

2 contributions

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!

Sep 2026 • Couples

Hamish G

1 contribution

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

Sep 2026 • Solo

Theresa Z

1 contribution

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. 😍

Sep 2026 • Couples

Google Reviews

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Sarah Small

Local Guide • 19 reviews • 15 photos

We had an amazing experience on the 4 day/3 night Salkantay Trek with Sam Travel Peru. Everything was seamless from beginning to end.…

3 weeks ago

PY LAU

5 reviews • 4 photos

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.…

A month ago

Chris Handley

1 review • 4 photos

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…

2 months ago

Sam Pauwels

Local Guide • 20 reviews • 109 photos

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.…

2 months ago

Philipp Luthardt

Local Guide • 7 reviews • 11 photos

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…

2 months ago

H.Y. Lin

Local Guide • 18 reviews • 12 photos

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…

2 months ago

Jeff Jimerson

Local Guide • 9 reviews • 22 photos

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.…

2 months ago

Trustpilot Reviews

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Ann McNamara

PE • 1 review

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.

Sep 9, 2026

Carolyn

US • 7 reviews

Rainbow Mt and Lake Titikaka

For the second part of our Classic Inca Trail package, we hiked Rainbow Mountain and then toured the islands of Lake Titikaka. On this portion of our trip package, we were able to spend a day/night/morning with a local family on Isla Amantaní. What an incredible experience to really got to understand the culture! Our guide Christian (Chris) from Sam’s Travel was an incredible resource helping us to not only navigate where to be, but also helped us converse with the local community. In addition to being an excellent guide and very knowledgeable, Christian was an AMAZING photographer for our group so we are all in all of the photos!

Jun 29, 2026

Joann Campos

US • 1 review

The Ultimate Birthday Bucket List Experience – The Dream Team of Liz and Abdul!

I recently checked a major dream off my birthday bucket list with an incredible 3-day tour of the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain. This experience was everything I hoped for and more, largely because of the outstanding duo of Liz Montesinos and Abdul. If you are booking with SAM Travel, I cannot recommend this pair enough—they work so perfectly together as a team that it made our entire journey feel seamless and special.

Liz Montesinos is an absolutely wonderful guide who brought so much heart to our experience. What stood out most was her intense passion for her culture and her country; she doesn’t just share facts, she shares her heritage with a deep pride that makes the history of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu truly come alive. She was also incredibly attentive, always making sure we were comfortable and helping us capture the most stunning photos of our milestone trip.

While Liz provided the incredible storytelling and cultural depth, Abdul was the perfect partner behind the wheel. He is a fantastic driver who made us feel completely safe and relaxed, even on the winding mountain roads. Seeing them work in tandem allowed us to just focus on the magic of Peru. They truly operate as a "dream team," and their combined energy and professionalism made this a birthday I will never forget. If you want the best experience possible, be sure to ask for Liz and Abdul together!

Apr 24, 2026

Susan

PE • 2 reviews

The Inca Trail with the best guide.

We did the 3 night, 4 day Inca Trail with Sam Travel Peru and our guide and organiser was Josep Quiñonez Alvarez. It was a fantastic experience and Josep made it extra special. He is extremely experienced so was able to read the group very well and make adjustments to the route when necessary. His knowledge of the Incan civilisation was excellent and he was able to convey it in superb English with passion and enthusiasm. Despite the ardours of the trail we had a great 4 days, which undoubtedly was definitely down to Josef.

Oct 9, 2025

Jen Thomas

GB • 2 reviews

An amazing adventure

Sam Travel Peru were brilliant from start to finish on the 4 day classic Inca Trail. They were well organised which made for a smooth and enjoyable experience. The guides Henry and Jimmy were amazing, so fun and helpful. They were informative about Inca history and really knew how to keep the group energised and having a good time. The chef (Mario) came up with some delicious food, pretty incredible at such remote locations. So thankful for the porters too, who made the experience so much more enjoyable by carrying everything to make camp each night (as well as our duffle bags). An all round spectacular experience, so grateful to a wonderful team.

Oct 3, 2024

Anna Mozumdar

US • 1 review

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!

Jul 12, 2024

Jon Tam

PE • 1 review

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.

Jul 3, 2024
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