Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 2026: Best Tours with Sky Lodge

Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 2026: Which one is for you?

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a world-class adventure. First, you will witness the turquoise beauty of Humantay Lake. Then, you will conquer the majestic Salkantay Pass.

Additionally, our 2026 tours include a unique stay at the Salkantay Sky Lodge. This exclusive experience allows you to sleep under the stars in the heart of the Andes.

sky lodge salkantay sky lodge humantay lake machupicchu okidoki

4 days / 3 nights

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 2026 | Best Inca Trail Alternative, Hiking, Adventure

Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (2026 Guide)

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The classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of Peru's top alternatives to the Inca Trail. Discover 4-day of adventure through snowy peaks, high jungle, and Inca ruins - Tour Operator.

Started from: $400 Per person

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4 days / 3 nights

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 2026 | Best Inca Trail Alternative, Hiking, Adventure

Private Service Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

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TripAdvisor / Google

Discover the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in 4-day with our private service. Enjoy an exclusive experience, spectacular landscapes, and the magic of the Andes.

Started from: $790 Per person

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2 days / 1 night

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 2026 | Best Inca Trail Alternative, Hiking, Adventure

Salkantay Trek + Humantay Lake

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TripAdvisor / Google

Join our Salkantay Trek + Humantay Lake 2 days and experience the ultimate Andean adventure. Hike to the turquoise Humantay Lake and witness the majestic Salkantay Glacier with expert guides, prem...

Started from: $190 Per person

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5 days / 4 nights

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2026 | Permits & Expert Guide, Hiking, Adventure

Salkantay Trek + Original Inka Trail to Machu Picchu

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TripAdvisor / Google

This is one of the best okidoki options for the Salkantay trek because it has a diversity of landscapes such as glacier mountains, jungle, forest, fauna, and we complement it with the original Ink...

Started from: $550 Per person

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Why Book Your Salkantay Adventure With Local Experts?

Because we are local experts, we guarantee the best circuits and a professional service for every hiker. Experience the Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, which is widely considered the best alternative to the Inca Trail for 2026. This 4-day trekking tour takes you from the majestic Salkantay Pass to the lush cloud forests of Peru, ending at the iconic Machu Picchu Inca citadel.

On one hand, you might be looking for a challenging adventure. On the other hand, you could prefer a luxury glamping experience. Either way, our Salkantay treks offer the perfect balance of nature and comfort.

The Salkantay Trek is undeniably the best way to reach the famous World Heritage site by UNESCO, Machu Picchu. Therefore, plan your journey with an expert Tour Operator and book your spot today!

Find the Perfect Salkantay Trekking Itinerary

Looking for the best Salkantay Trek experience? At Oki Doki Travel Peru, we offer multiple ways to reach Machu Picchu through the Humantay Lake and the Salkantay Pass. Whether you prefer our Classic Salkantay Trek 4 Days or the more relaxed 5-Day itinerary, our local expert team ensures a safe and epic journey.

Explore our different Salkantay trekking tours below and find the one that fits your spirit of adventure. If you’re planning your adventure to Cusco, the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, or the classic Salkantay Trek, do it with a company recommended by real travelers, not just by search engine rankings.

With Okidoki Travel Peru – Tour Operator, you hike with support, care, and a smile — from the very first step to the final viewpoint.

Best Travelers Say on TripAdvisor Reviews Okidoki Travel Peru, Tour Operator

Our travelers don’t just return with photos and memories… they come back transformed. And the most valuable part? They become our greatest ambassadors. With over 534 excellent reviews on TripAdvisor, our groups highlight more than just the route — they talk about the human connection, the safety, and the joy we bring to every journey through the Andes.

      
   OkiDoki Travel
   503 Tripadvisor reviews 
  Write a review 
  
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Deivo_C 
 
 
 
 Verified Salkantay en 4D/3N ESPECTACULAR Agencia pequeña, familiar con trato directo. Sin intermediarios y local.He realizado con ellos el trek de Salkantay en privado y ha sido espectacular. Trato excelente del equipo. Tanto el porteador Simón, el chef Roland y nuestro guía Guillermo. Simón trata perfectamente bien y con respeto sin sobrecargar sus mulas y caballos que nos acompañan, Roland nos preparó una comida excelente y de calidad durante todo el trayecto; y Guillermo fue un guía didáctico y atencionado.Gracias a todo el equipo de Okidoki por la prestación realizada.Salkantay en 4D/3N ESPECTACULAR
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Pedro F 
 
 
 
 Verified Trekking Salkantay perfecto Todo el trekking Salkantay fue perfecto! Todo muy bien organizado, la gente muy simpatics siempre! Los acampamientos tenian buenas habitaciones/carpetas, la comida estaba riquisima (gracias Ronald) y el guia Guido nos llevó con excelencia! Recomiendo mucho! Yo fui solo, y con el grupo pequeño fue posible crear amistad con los otros participantesRecomiendo muchisimo!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Lou f 
 
 
 
 Verified Salkantay trek en cinco días Todo estaba bien organizado. Estábamos un grupo pequeño, siempre los primeros en los sitios así que no había muchas personas. También, la comida súper rica y en grandes proporciones. Gracias a nuestro guía Guido para su alegría y los momentos compartidos
  
 
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   Gerardo B 
 
 
 
 Verified Salkantay Trek Excelente servicio brindado por nuestro guía Manuel en el Salkantay Trek, quien tiene bastante experiencia en la montaña y conocimiento de la flora del recorrido. En este recorrido tambien nos acompañaron Ronal y Elvis quienes fueron nuestros cocineros y nos prepararon una variedad muy amplia de platillos.
  
 
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   Elene A 
 
 
 
 Verified Una experiencia muy bonita Hicimos el Salkantay tour de cuatro días. Una experiencia muy bonita con muchos sitos bonitos. El guía muy agradable y siempre dispuesto a ayudar. La comida también muy buena, era comida típica peruana.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Uxue F 
 
 
 
 Verified muy buena y recomendable Me ha parecido una experiencia increíble y con trabajadores muy formados, profesionales y completos. El guía ha sido muy amable y siempre dispuesto a resolver cualquier duda. En cuanto a la comida, tengo que destacar que siendo vegetariana han conseguido enseñarme la gastronomía peruana amoldando las recetas. El cocinero ha sido de lo mejor.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Mariona P 
 
 
 
 Verified Highlight de Perú Okidoki nos brindó una experiencia inolvidable! El guía y el cocinero sorprendentes y muy buenos en su trabajo, nos ayudaron mucho y con un trato muy personal! Los paisajes maravillosos. En general, una experiencia de 10 que volvería a repetir mil veces :)) Además, los grupos acostumbran a ser de menos de 10 personas, que es mucho mejor!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   markoyd 
 
 
 
 Verified Una experiencing inolvidable. Fuimos en familia a machu pichu atravez de oki doky agencia de travel ubicada.en cusco y administrada por el senor Alvaro todo fue excellent siempre estuvo atento a todas nuestras consultas tambien le agradezco mucho al señor Wilbert que fue.nuestro Guia en el pueblo de machu pichu y en el mismo machu pichu que fue tanbien muy excelente su atencion en todo momento. Les recogiendo la agencia oki doky que cumplen todo lo que ofrecen.gracias a ellos pudimos hacer realidad el viaje a machu pichu.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Lea 
 
 
 
 Verified Salkantay Trek Hicimos el Salkantay Trek de 4 días y tuvimos una gran experiencia. Nos dieron toda la información necesaria previamente e incluso me dieron una chaqueta gratis, ya que no tenía. El alojamiento y la comida eran buenos y teníamos una guía increíble.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Rpo P 
 
 
 
 Verified Salkantay trrkking Uitstekende!! Geen woorden om zo mooi ervaring te beschrijven. Ik met mijn vrouw samen met Alcides onze gids hebben de 4 dagen route naar Salkantay gedaan. Goede eten, gezellidheid, en support veel van de sherpas. Alcides is een topertje, goede storyteller en better persoon. We gaan nooit vergeten de mooie aanbieding en verbinding met de Pachamama die op de Salkantay pass hebben gedaan. Dank je wel voor alles Okidoki!!! Tot de volgende reis!! Increíble experiencia hemos tenido con Alcides como guía y Okidoki como anfitrión. To fue mejor de lo esperado. Alcides es un magnífico guía, siempre preocupándose por nosotros, increíble cuentacuentos mejor persona y después de las 1000 fotos que nos tomo mejor fotógrafo. Repetiremos seguro con ellos en un par de años cuando vayamos a conocer las maravillas del Perú que aún no tuvimos la ocasión de conocer. Choque### va a ser nuestro próximo reto y espero que Al todavía esté para acompañarnos. Gracias x tan maravillosa experiencia Okidoki!! Gracias Al!!!
  
 
  
  
 
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¡More Reviews 2025!

Why Our Travelers Recommend Us Google Reviews Okidoki Travel Peru

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 278 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Noé Chapuis 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Trek du Salkantay bien organisé et peu cher avec un super guide
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Théo Scheid 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Un trek du Salkantay extraordinaire ! Les groupes sont petits ce qui rend l'aventure encore plus belle (Nous étions 6 lors de notre excursion) Une petite agence à l'écoute, avec un guide, une organisation et des repas au top ! Je recommande !
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mickael Laurent 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Treck de Salkantay en 4 jours parfaitement organisé avec notre guide Herbert, alias Papas, à la fois très sympathique et professionnel. Super cuisinier (Jorge) également, pour des plats réconfortants après des heures de marche dans ces superbes montagnes !
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Fabrice Pacitti 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nous avons fait la randonnée salkantay avec Okidoki et les bons conseils d'Alvaro qui nous a vraiment bien guidé pour bien choisir notre randonnée et c'était super l'organisation,la nourriture excellente avec notre chef cuistot Rojer , notre guide papas et notre groupe sans oublier l'organisation avec les sacs portés par les mules La beauté des paysages et terminer par le Machu Picchu c'était comme un rêve . Mille mercis pour ce moment inoubliable dans nos vacances.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Alica Wenger 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My partner and I booked the 3N/4D Salkantay Trek with Okiodoki and let me tell you – we had the best time. First of all: The Staff was amazing, very kind and super helpful. Alvaro (together with his wife Rosmary owners of Okidoki) replied within minutes to all our questions via whatsapp. A few days before the trek he welcomed us in his office, explained the tour in details and helped me getting over my fear, that the trek might be to hard for me (needless to say: all went perfectly fine and it wasn‘t as hard as I thought). They provided me with hiking poles (30 PEN for the 4 days) and in addition they lent me a daily backpack for free. All the material (duffle bag, sleeping bag, daily backpack) was in perfect condition and the sleeping bag really kept us warm during the cold night at the foot of the Salkantay. Our guide, Guilleromo, was probably the main reason why we had such good time. He timed the whole trip very well without being too pushy. That means, that everything went as it should and we always met our daily goal according to the timetable. Guilleromo is very kind and helpful. He made sure to keep us safe on the trip and inriched us with his profond knowlege of plants, the mountains, the indigenous community and the incas. Overall you could feel his passion for the nature, the mountains and the local cultur. We couln’d have wished for a better guide. Thank you so much Guilleromo! Our chef, Roger, prepared delicous meals, which were always right on time. The table was brautifully set and our special needs (vegetarisn or allergies) were always met. Also, the breakfast was a lot richer than I exprected and every day we got something new to try. Simon, the owner of the three mules, also was very sweet and kind and always a helping hand to Roger and Guilleromo. He made sure that our duffle bags arrived on time and we‘re still impressed how fast he managed to get from one campsite to the other! Second: compared to other tour companies, the groups at Okidoki are usually small. That allows you to get to know the participants in a more profond way. We happend to be a group of six people and the dynamic within the group was great. Third: the price-performance ratio is unbeatable. Of cours: don’t expect your trip to be luxurious. But keep in mind that you are doing a multiple day trip in the mountains and what they manage to offer, is already  impressive. Particularly the first accomondation is very authentic and allows you to sleep under a sky full of stars with view on the salkantay. All accomondations are clean and you‘ll have a good sleep. If it‘s in your budget we would recommend to opt for the train to get back to cusco (costs arround 100 USD more). It only takes 4 hours (instead of 7h by van) and you won‘t have to walk additional 10km to the busstation after your visit to the Machu Picchu on your last day. After two hours train you‘ll get picked up by a van/bus to complete your journey back to Cusco. Overall we would recommend to book a trip with Okidoki for all reasons above and of course the amazing experience of the Salkantay!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Camille 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nous avons fait l’Inca Trail en deux jours et l’expérience a été excellente. Tout était parfaitement organisé : transports, repas, hébergement. Notre guide Guillermo connaissait très bien le terrain et a su nous partager sa passion avec enthousiasme. L’arrivée au Machu Picchu par la montagne restera pour nous un souvenir inoubliable - Je recommande!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Juan Felipe Hedmont 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Una experiencia excelente, This is the best agency to do whatever tour you want in Cusco and Machu Picchu, I did the Salkantay trial with guide, place to sleep and even cheff, amazing experience,  totally recommended, thank you Alvaro, Victor and Ronald.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Neil Chatterjee 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our experience with OkiDoki was excellent - Alvaro's organization and booking skills were incredible and we even got to do 2 circuits within Machu Picchu on the 2D/1N Inca Trail rather than just one. He even made it so that it was just us on the tour which made it extra special! Our guide, Alcides, was truly exceptional and made the experience 10x better and personalised.  I would definitely try to request him if you are doing the Inca Trail with OkiDoki. The lunch we were provided was extremely comprehensive and included many many snacks, so I would not purchase any snacks of your own before going, but definitely bring water! The hotel we were booked in Aguas Calientes + the included dinner was so-so, but for the price you cannot really complain! The only downside we had was that Alvaro was sometimes not great at communicating and his emails sometimes made it seem as though he did not full understand what you were saying. You are also meant to pay the remaining cost (bar the deposit) in-person in cash and we organized this, but Alvaro then began hassling us and saying we had not paid in time despite having a discussion with him about when we were going to pay! This made one of our days in Cusco very stressful and we were rushing our day to get back in time to pay Alvaro and once we did he was not even there and made us wait an extra 2h to turn up and accept the payment. Overall, despite this slightly negative experience, I would still recommend OkiDoki to visit Machu Picchu because of their organization, knowledge of the laws and ticket booking systems, and their database of guides (go Alcides!!!!). Just make sure to complete the payment ASAP when you get to Cusco to avoid issues!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Aubin Hansz-Mercier 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Je ne peux que recommander, parti pour un treck de 5j pour Choquequirao.  Un très bon guide, excellent cuisinier enfin bref, une équipe au top. La qualité de l'équipement fourni était très agréable aussi. Nous avons pu adapter le rythme à notre envie et nous avons visité le site avant tout le monde nous permettant d'être seuls! C'était magique
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Colette Guichard 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Super expérience avec OkiDoki!! Mention spéciale à Guillermo, un guide en or, sympa, drôle et chaleureux. Merci aussi aux chefs qui nous ont régalés pendant ces quatre jours de trek, tout était au top, je ne peux que recommander OkiDoki (petit bonus : les skylodges pour voir les étoiles filantes depuis son lit ;) ! )

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Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Salkantay trek operator 2026

FAQs – Tour Operator Salcantay Treks

The Salkantay Trek is one of the most popular and challenging hikes to MachuPicchu, considered the best alternative to the original Inca Trail, passing through snow-capped mountains, turquoise lagoons, flora and fauna, and the high jungle of the Peruvian Andes.

The Salkantay Trek is a world-class journey to the Urbano Hurin sector of Machu Picchu. Located in the heart of the Vilcabamba range, the trail is dominated by the sacred Salkantay Mountain, rising 6,271 meters above sea level. This protected area is a UNESCO Cultural and Natural Heritage site, celebrated for its stunning landscapes and well-preserved Inca history

The classic Salkantay Trek lasts 5 days and 4 nights, although there is a shorter version of 4 days and 3 nights, both of which end at the Inca citadel of MachuPicchu.

The level of difficulty is moderate to challenging. Good physical condition is required because the trek reaches altitudes of over 4,600 meters above sea level (Salkantay Pass).

Not special permit is required for the Salkantay Trek as for the original Inca Trail, but you do need to purchase the entrance fee to MachuPicchu and book in advance with an authorized agency in Cusco, Peru

The best time to do the Salkantay Trek is between April and October (the dry season in the Andes). During the rainy season (November to March), it can also be done, but with more caution.

The highest point is the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m above sea level. From there, you descend into the high jungle and finally to the Inca citadel of MachuPicchu (2,430 m above sea level).

It is essential to bring on the trek:

Light backpack
Warm and light clothing
Raincoat or rain poncho
Hiking boots
Hat and sunscreen
Altitude sickness pills
Snacks and water

Yes, it is recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days in advance to acclimatize and reduce the risk of soroche (altitude sickness).

The original Inca Trail is more historic and requires special permission months in advance, while the classic Salkantay Trek is more natural, with varied landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and fewer access restrictions.

Generally, you return to Cusco on the last day by train 🚆 from Aguas Calientes, although some agencies offer the option of returning by car 🚗 on the last day.

It depends on the agency: campsites with tents, rustic cabins, campsites with transparent glass, and even ecological domes in some packages.

Yes, as long as you do it with an authorized agency and professional guides. It is not recommended to do it alone due to the altitude and changing weather conditions in Cusco, Peru.

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Stop planning, start exploring. Your next adventure begins here. Get the smart guides.

Beyond the tourist track: We are your gateway to unparalleled experiences in Peru. Find out why thousands of travelers have given us excellent ratings on TripAdvisor and Google Okidoki Travel Peru – Tour Operator. Our specialty is the Salcantay Trek, offering a unique adventure with exclusive overnight stays at our Soraypampa Sky Lodge Salcantay, where an unforgettable star show awaits you, surrounded by the majestic Andes mountains

Classic Salkantay Trekking to Machupicchu

Original Inca Trail to Machupicchu

Machu Picchu Tours by train or by bus

Inka Jungle Trail to Machupicchu

Tours in Cusco and Surrounding Areas

Alternative Treks to Machupicchu

Choquequirao Trekking: The Last Inca Stand

Best Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 2026: Which one is for you?

Why Book Your Salkantay Adventure With Local Experts?

Find the Perfect Salkantay Trekking Itinerary

Best Travelers Say on TripAdvisor Reviews Okidoki Travel Peru, Tour Operator

Why Our Travelers Recommend Us Google Reviews Okidoki Travel Peru

Best Destinations in Peru Trekking Adventure

Alternative Treks

Choquequirao Treks

Cusco Day Tours

Inca Jungle Trail

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2026 | Permits & Expert Guide

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Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 2026 | Best Inca Trail Alternative

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Salkantay trek operator 2026

What is the classic Salkantay Trek?

How long does the classic Salkantay Trek last?

What is the difficulty of the Salkantay Trek?

Do I need a permit to do the classic Salkantay Trekking?

What is the best time to do the classic Salkantay Trek?

What is the highest altitude of the Salkantay Trek?

What should I bring on the Salkantay Trekking?

Is it necessary to acclimatize before the Salkantay Trekking?

What is the difference between the Salkantay Trek and the original Inca Trail?

What is the return from MachuPicchu like on the Salkantay Trek?

What type of accommodation is available on the Salkantay Trekking?

Is the Salkantay Trekking safe?

Sites and Places: Your Guide to Knowing Where We Go?

CLASSIC SALKANTAY + INCA TRAIL – TREKKING TO MACHU PICCHU, PERU

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Comparing Our Best Salkantay Itineraries: 4 Days vs. 5 Days

Best Time to Hike: Weather and Availability for 2026

What to Pack for your Salkantay Adventure? (Packing List)

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