Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is the most popular alternative trek to the Inca trail to Machu Picchu, as it doesn’t require a permit in advance, takes the same number of days and is the only alternative trek where you see Machu Picchu from the trail. The Salkantay trek takes in snow-capped peaks from high mountain passes, as as you descend into jungle to end at Aguas Calientes at the foot of Machu Picchu. Aracari arranges the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu on a private basis only, not as a group tour. The trek can only be booked as part of a tailormade trip to Peru, not on a standalone basis.

Why hike the Salkantay Trek with Aracari?

Drawing on over 20 year’s experience offering discerning travelers authentic, private luxury Peru treks, we use state-of-the-art equipment, first-class guiding and special creature comorts that we consider ”appropriate luxury”. We take our social responsibility seriously, paying fair wages that are above the average to all our staff.

• Luxury Exploration Camping: expect the likes of 3-person tents used for just two, ecological bathrooms, shower tents and top-notch cuisine for a genuine luxury camping experience
• Luxury VIP Trekking: Upgrade to all-out luxury, where we’ll bring along your own masseusse

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Itinerary

Located less than 31 kilometres (50 miles) northwest Cusco, rising to 6,271 metres (20,574 feet) above sea level in the Cordillera Vilcabamba, Salkantay Mountain (a Quechua word, meaning “Savage Mountain”) is an outstanding glacier-capped summit worshipped for thousands of years by locals.