The details
May 24 - 31, 2026
Oct 25 - Nov 1, 2026
Trip Dates
Up to 12 people
Group Size
Starting at $2,500
Price:
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Food: From dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on the final day, all meals are included. We can accommodate most dietary restrictions with advanced notice.
Comfortable lodging A mix of boutique hotels and glamping, including Glass Cabanas and Hobbit Houses in the middle of the jungle.
Local Guides and porters: All guides have studied English and tourism at Cusco National University and are committed to teaching visitors about their heritage. They’re fun, professional, and will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable journey.
Transportation: Included from the moment you land in Cusco until the day you leave.
Equipment: Everything’s included. We’ve got your covered with: duffel bag, rain cover, trekking poles, and rain poncho.
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Day packs: Please bring a backpack that you will carry with you each day of the trek to Machu Picchu. Only essentials are needed in the pack. All other items are carried by porters in the provided duffel bag.
Flights: Book your flights through Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ).
Gratuities: Tipping is always appreciated and is of considerable significance to the local guides, porters and chefs who will be taking care of us on the trek.
Travel Insurance: This is not required but strongly recommended.
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Our journey blends the culture and cuisine of Cusco with the legendary Salkantay Trail, culminating at the Incan masterpiece of Machu Picchu.
Trek through shifting ecosystems: desert valleys, lush jungles, sky-high passes, and sacred blue lagoons—all in a single day.
Then unwind in true comfort: Think glass-ceilinged cabanas, Hobbit Houses with jacuzzis, and boutique hotels.
But the real magic? The people. Strangers become hiking buddies. Buddies become lifelong (sober) friends.
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The Salkantay Trail is famous for multiple reasons: it’s incredible beauty, the varied terrain, and it’s difficulty.
You should be prepared to hike for up to 8 hours in a single day at high altitude with significant elevation gain.
Alums of this trek all agree that the trek is one of the hardest (or the hardest) things they’ve ever done. You will struggle, but you will also take the incredible sense of accomplishment with you for the rest of your life.
Unlike other Salkantay tours, we will not be sleeping in tents on any nights of the trek. Instead, we will be sleeping in comfortable glamping-style lodges ranging from glass-roofed cabanas to hobbit houses.
Itinerary
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Welcome to Cusco: the heart of the ancient Inca Empire!
You'll be greeted at the airport and shuttled to our hotel, where you can settle in, take a deep breath, and soak in your first glimpse of this stunning high-altitude city.In the evening, we’ll come together for a special welcome dinner and enjoy some delicious Peruvian cuisine.
Accommodation: Hotel
Included: Dinner -
Today is all about easing into the rhythm of the Andes while soaking in the rich history and energy of Cusco.
After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll spend the day exploring the city’s vibrant streets, ancient ruins, and lively markets. Expect a perfect mix of light activity and rest to help your body continue adjusting to the high altitude.
We’ll take a short acclimatization hike to the iconic fortress of Sacsayhuamán where you'll get sweeping views of the red-roofed city nestled in the mountains.
In the afternoon, you'll have time to relax, grab a coca tea, or wander at your own pace.
Accommodation: Hotel
Included: Breakfast -
Today is the start of our 5-day trek! We’ll leave Cusco before sunrise and drive through the Andes to Challacancha. After a gradual uphill hike to Soraypampa and lunch at the Glass Cabañas, we’ll spend the afternoon hiking to the turquoise Humantay Lagoon before returning to camp. The evening includes free time, a Peruvian cooking class, dinner, and your first night in glass cabins.
Walking Distance: 7.5 miles
Elevation Gain: ~1,700ft
Accommodation: Glass Cabañas
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Get ready for the most epic day of the Salkantay trek! We kick things off with a steady hike through highland landscapes, past Salkantay Pampa and up to the trek’s highest point: the majestic Salkantay Pass (15,255 feet).
After soaking in the views, we’ll descend to our campsite at Wayracmachay.
From our glass-dome accommodations, we will have a panoramic view of Humantay and the lower slopes of the Salkantay Glacier. This area is known for its beautiful views of the night sky, so be ready for some unforgettable stargazing!
Walking Distance: 8.5 miles
Elevation Gain: ~3,000ft
Accommodation: Glass Domes
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Rise and shine to a warm drink and a breathtaking sunrise over glacier peaks. After breakfast, we’ll descend through changing landscapes (icy mountains to lush jungle) for about four hours until reaching our lunch spot in Ccollpapampa.
After lunch, the journey continues downhill through waterfalls and tropical farmlands to the enchanting Hobbit Houses: our glamping retreat nestled by the Salkantay River. Unwind with a hot shower, outdoor jacuzzi, and garden stroll before enjoying a cozy dinner with river views and falling asleep to the soothing sounds of nature.
Walking Distance: 13 miles
Elevation Gain: 900ft
Accommodation: Hobbit Houses (!!)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
We’ll start the day with breakfast at the Hobbit House before driving to Lucmabamba to begin a scenic uphill hike along the original Inca Trail. This gorgeous trail passes through lush jungle as we make our way to Llactapata, an ancient ruin with (distant) panoramic views of Machu Picchu. After lunch at Hidroelectrica, we’ll follow a traintracks through the Machu Picchu canyon before arriving in the charming town of Aguas Calientes.
Walking Distance: 14 miles
Elevation Gain: ~3,000ft
Accommodation: Boutique Hotel
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Today is all about exploring the legendary Machu Picchu: one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and the most iconic remnant of the Inca Empire. After an early breakfast, we’ll hike up the steep, switchback trail to the entrance gates. (Optional: take the bus!)
Arriving early means we will get a chance to witness the citadel at its most peaceful, just as the rising sun begins to light up the surrounding peaks and push mist from the stone terraces. It’s an unforgettable sight.We will explore sacred temples, intricate stonework, and the Temple of the Sun. Along the way, our local guide will share stories of Inca engineering brilliance, cultural practices, and the mysteries that still surround this awe-inspiring site perched high in the Andes.
After soaking in the majesty of Machu Picchu, we will have one final lunch with our amazing local guides and porters before boarding the Vistadome Train: a glass-domed experience that offers panoramic views of the lush Sacred Valley landscapes.
Once we arrive in Ollantaytambo, there will be one final private van ride back to Cusco. Sit back, relax, and take in the final glimpses of the Andes as you return to your hotel for a well-earned rest and one last night in this magical region.
Walking Distance: 2.5 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2,000ft
Accommodation: Hotel
Included: BreakfastOPTIONAL ADD-ONS (+$80)
1. Huayna Picchu: A thrilling 2-hour hike with steep climbs that rewards hikers with unbeatable, bird’s-eye views of the Machu Picchu ruins. While the hike isn't for the faint of heart (especially those with a fear of heights), it's a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for the bold.2. Machu Picchu Mountain: This 3-hour hike offers a higher, more gradual climb than Huayna Picchu, with wider trails and fewer crowds—perfect for those looking for a challenging but less vertigo-inducing hike. The reward? A breathtaking 360° panoramic view over the entire Machu Picchu site, including Huayna Picchu, that feels like you’ve been dropped in by helicopter.
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All great adventures must come to an end. After breakfast, we’ll arrange transportation to the airport based on your flight time. Expect hugs, heartfelt goodbyes, and maybe even a few tears as we part ways.
Included: Breakfast
Your trip Leader
RYAN LEE
Sober since 2021, Ryan started Capsule to create the kind of travel experience that feels as real as it is wild. He’s here to support you, roast you (lovingly), and make sure the vibe stays strong from day 1.
FAQs
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The Salkantay Trek is considered one of the most scenic and adventurous ways to reach Machu Picchu. Unlike the more crowded Inca Trail, the Salkantay route offers a wide variety of landscapes: from glacial lakes and alpine passes to cloud forests and jungle. Our itinerary also includes unique accommodations like glass cabanas and hobbit houses (no camping!), along with chef-prepared meals.
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The trek is challenging and includes high-altitude hiking and long days on foot (up to 12 miles in a day). While you don’t need to be a pro athlete, a moderate-to-high level of fitness and comfort with hard, uphill hiking will go a long way. We recommend training with hikes and/or regular runs leading up to the trip. Your guides will pace the journey to ensure you’re supported every step of the way.
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Absolutely. This is luxury trekking and we won’t be sleeping in tents or eating freeze-dried meals. You’ll have quality gear, cozy sleeping arrangements, hot chef-prepared meals, and support every step of the way.
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Cusco sits at 3,400m (11,200ft), and the trek reaches a high point of 4,650m (15,255ft) at Salkantay Pass. To help your body adjust, we’ve built in acclimatization days before the trek. While some mild symptoms are common, our guides are trained in first aid and we carry satellite phones for emergencies. Staying hydrated, moving slowly, and resting are key.
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May is the first full month of the dry season with little expected rainfall/ Daily averages are around 50°F, with highs of 65°F and evening lows in the 30s.
October is the ending of the dry season tapering into the wet season. Expect warm days (60s–70s°F) and cooler nights in the 40s.
In both months, layers are key. We’ll send you a full packing guide to help you prepare. -
You’ll stay in a mix of boutique hotels, glass cabanas under the stars, newly constructed glass domes, and even whimsical hobbit houses. We’ve curated each night to be both comfortable and memorable.
During the hiking portion of the trek, campsites have basic bathroom facilities. At certain accommodations like the Hobbit Houses, you’ll have access to hot showers and even outdoor jacuzzis. -
Nope! We have porters who will carry your duffel bag to each campsite. The majority of your stuff will go in the duffel bag, leaving your daypack for the essentials: like water, snacks, and layers.
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Most meals are included and you can see the specific inclusions within each day of the itinerary.
Our team can accommodate most dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and some allergies. Just let us know in advance via your booking form.
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While you will have service in Cusco, there is little to no cell service on the trail. But don’t worry; our team carries satellite phones for safety and emergencies. If needed, you can use them to check in back home (though we recommend embracing the unplugged experience!).
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Yes, after the group acclimatization hike and guided city tour on Day 2 and in the evening of Day 3. You’ll have time to explore Cusco’s many alpaca shops, excellent coffee shops, vibrant markets, and museums.
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Yes! You can securely store extra luggage at our hotel in Cusco during the trek. You’ll only take what you need on the trail in your duffel bag (carried by your porter) and daypack.
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Yes, we highly recommend getting travel insurance. Once you’re registered for a trip, we can recommend a few vendors that offer easily accessible, affordable plans.
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