Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu in Peru, South America

Map of the route for Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu

Places visited

Itinerary Notes

Machu Picchu regulations require all visitors to follow a pre-determined circuit within the site as a way to prevent overcrowding. The circuit-specific entrance tickets are available on a first come, first served basis. At the time of booking, you may select your preferred circuit, subject to availability. If no selection is made, we will book a circuit based on availability at the time of booking. All circuits offer the opportunity to enjoy the beauty, history, and impressive ingenuity of this ancient site. TO NOTE: Travellers completing the Inca trail and 1-day Inca Trail will be assigned Circuit 3 for their guided visit of Machu Picchu, but will also have access to the panoramic viewpoint upon arrival via the Sun Gate.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco

Arrive at any time.

Day 2Cusco/Salkantay Trek

Depart Cusco and transfer to the start of the trail to begin the Salkantay Trek. The day’s hike will begin with the hike up to the incredibly beautiful Humantay Lake. Witness the serene views of the crystalline blue water and spend the night camping under the stars.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Handmade Biodegradable Soap Products

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 3Salkantay Trek

Stunning views fill the day as you hike past the striking snow-capped mountains of Vilcabamba mountain range. Traverse the highest point, Salkantay pass reaching 4,600m (15,092 ft) before descending into valleys nestled in the mountains to the town of Collpabamba. Set up camp for the evening surrounded by lush cloud forest.

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 4Salkantay Trek

Hike to the Inca site Llactapata, where you can catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu. Catch the train in the afternoon to Aguas Calientes.

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch

Day 5Machu Picchu/Cusco

Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu then return to Cusco where the tour ends upon arrival.

Meals included:

Breakfast

View full itinerary

What's Included

Your G for Good Moment: Handmade Biodegradable Soap Products
Trek on the Salkantay route to Machu Picchu with a local guide, cooks, and porters (3 days)
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Hotels (2 nts), camping (2 nts).

Meals

4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
Allow USD85-110 for meals not included.

Transportation

Private van, hiking, train.

Staff & experts

G Adventures Representative in Cusco, specialist Salkantay CEO on hike.

Available extras (Add these to your tour when you book)

Machu Picchu Circuit 1 - From $0.00

ONLY select ONE circuit- if more than ONE circuit is selected, we will book you the best available. Take in Machu Picchu from above on Circuit 1, the panoramic route known for its sweeping views and iconic photo opportunities. Every step a unique encounter with history and nature, follow a shorter, structured path showcasing the citadel’s most breathtaking angles. Pause at the famous Guardian’s House, one of the most famous viewpoints, to take in a coveted view of the whole citadel. Ideal for those seeking a lighter, more relaxed visit, this circuit offers a memorable view of the site’s beauty. TO NOTE: Travellers completing the Inca trail and 1-day Inca Trail will be assigned Circuit 3 for their guided visit of Machu Picchu, but will also have access to the panoramic viewpoint upon arrival via the Sun Gate.

Machu Picchu Circuit 3 - From $0.00

ONLY select ONE circuit- if more than ONE circuit is selected, we will book you the best available. Go deep inside the heart of Machu Picchu on Circuit 3, the Royalty Route, where history, spirituality, and adventure come together. Explore the lower section of the sanctuary, where sacred temples and noble residences exhibit how the Incas once lived, worshipped, and ruled. Follow pathways that weave seamlessly through the landscape, showcasing the Incas’ remarkable ability to blend architecture with nature in even the most challenging terrain. Rich in culture and framed by striking scenery, Circuit 3 offers a dynamic connection to one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites. TO NOTE: Travellers completing the Inca trail and 1-day Inca Trail will be assigned Circuit 3 for their guided visit of Machu Picchu, but will also have access to the panoramic viewpoint upon arrival via the Sun Gate.

Machu Picchu Circuit 2 - From $0.00

ONLY select ONE circuit- if more than ONE circuit is selected, we will book you the best available. Experience Machu Picchu the classic way on Circuit 2. Follow a well-balanced path that combines breathtaking panoramic viewpoints with the citadel’s key temples, plazas, and Inca residences. Highlights include the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Three Windows, Sacred Rock, and the Water Mirrors Complex. Circuit 2 lets you capture iconic photos while fully immersing yourself in the history, architecture, and stunning scenery of this world wonder. TO NOTE: Travellers completing the Inca trail and 1-day Inca Trail will be assigned Circuit 3 for their guided visit of Machu Picchu, but will also have access to the panoramic viewpoint upon arrival via the Sun Gate.