Plan your trip cost carefully, especially when considering the Salkantay Trek price, where prices vary depending on how you choose to do it. Most travelers opt for a guided tour with an agency due to the convenience and organization, allowing them to enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics.
If you prefer to do it independently, that’s also possible, but you’ll need to arrange transportation, food, and lodging on your own. Here’s a realistic breakdown of costs, both with an agency and independently, so you can decide what best fits your budget.
What is the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek is a multi-day hike through the majestic landscapes of the Peruvian Andes, culminating in the citadel of Machu Picchu. It’s a popular alternative to the Inca Trail, known for its geographical diversity, including the trek around the slopes of the mighty Salkantay mountain, which rises to an impressive 6,271 meters (20,574 feet). The trek’s paths lead to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the route, located at 4,650 meters (15,255 feet), offering spectacular views of the snow-capped mountain and surrounding landscapes.
This trek gives tourists the opportunity to enjoy nature without the restrictions of the Inca Trail and is perfect for those who want to combine adventure, nature, and the mystical experience of reaching Machu Picchu on foot. It is also a more affordable option in terms of the Salkantay Trek price compared to the Inca Trail. In summary, it’s ideal for those seeking a less crowded and more flexible trekking experience, rich in both scenery and Andean culture.
How Much Does the Salkantay Trek Cost?
The Salkantay trek price can vary significantly depending on how you choose to experience it: independently or through a travel agency. Let’s explore both options in detail so you can make the best decision based on your travel style and budget.
Salkantay Trek Price on Your Own
If you’re an adventurous traveler and looking to save money, the salkantay trek price on your own can be more affordable. Although you’ll have to handle everything yourself (transportation, food, lodging), the freedom and flexibility are a big draw. Here’s a quick breakdown of approximate costs to give you an idea. Remember that these prices may vary, but they serve as a reference for planning.
- Transportation Cusco-Mollepata-Soraypampa: $10 – $30 USD per person
A bus from Cusco to Mollepata costs around $15 USD, then a taxi or van from Mollepata to Soraypampa will cost about $5 USD. - Accommodation and camping: $10 – $90 USD per night
If you bring your own tent, camping will cost between $5 and $15 USD per night. If you prefer something more comfortable, like domes or lodges, the price rises to between $40 and $90 USD depending on the season, availability, and services. - Food: $10 – $25 USD per meal
If you bring your own food, you’ll spend around $10-$20 USD per day on provisions (such as dehydrated or canned food). However, keep in mind that food is only available at certain points, such as larger villages along the way. At these places, a meal in a lodge or shelter may cost between $12 and $25 USD, but you’ll need to plan your route carefully as food is not always available throughout the trek. - Entrance to Machu Picchu: $45 – $80 USD
The basic entrance ticket costs about $40 USD (S/152.00 Peruvian soles), but if you want to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, the price will increase to about $53 USD (S/200.00 Peruvian soles). - Train from Aguas Calientes to Cusco: $69 – $130 USD per leg
The most affordable train costs between $65 and $85 USD per leg, while higher-class categories increase the price.
Although doing the trek on your own can be cheaper, it requires more planning and effort. But if you enjoy freedom and adventure, it may be the best option! Remember that this option is based on the basics and does not include services like guides, personalized assistance, private transportation, equipment, porters, or three daily meals, among other services and advantages that a travel agency can offer, which can make a big difference in the comfort and organization of your experience.

Light luggage and comfort are some of the things a travel agency will take care of.
Salkantay Trek Price with a Travel Agency
Hiring a travel agency for the Salkantay Trek is the most popular option among tourists because it allows you to enjoy the hike without worrying about logistics. Agencies handle everything: from transportation, meals, and camping gear, to Machu Picchu entrance tickets and return trains to Cusco.
The Salkantay trek price for a full tour with an agency typically ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD per person, depending on several factors.
One of the most important factors is the agency’s reputation, meaning their ranking on travel platforms, the recognitions the agency has earned, and their affiliation with specialized tourism organizations, both local and international. These distinctions reflect the quality of service offered and the trust they build with travelers. Agencies with these recognitions tend to have higher prices, while those still gaining positioning tend to offer more competitive rates. Services included, such as basic camps, luxury domes, standard or luxury trains, etc., also affect pricing.
Factors Affecting the Price:
- Agency reputation and recognition: Agencies with better positioning on travel platforms, affiliation with local and international tourism associations, or special recognitions, tend to offer higher prices due to the trust they inspire and the quality of their services.
- Tour duration: Most tours last 4 or 5 days, but longer tours, like those that combine the Salkantay Trek with the Inca Trail (7 days), tend to be more expensive due to the additional logistics involved.
- Season: Prices tend to stay fixed during the high season (May-October) due to high demand. During the low season (December-March), prices are usually more accessible due to temporary promotions.
- Included services: The price can vary depending on the services offered, such as the type of accommodation (camping or luxury domes), the type of return train (standard or luxury), and additional activities like climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, among others.
Comparison of Salkantay Trek Prices in Select Travel Agencies
Travel Agency | Duration | Price (PEN) | Price (USD) | Highlights |
---|---|---|---|---|
Salkantay Trekking | 5 days/4 nights | S/ 3,551.30 | $795 | Luxury accommodations, Small groups, Personalized attention |
Alpaca Expeditions | 5 days/5 nights | S/ 2,567.68 | $650 | Glass cabanas, Hobbit houses with jacuzzi, Gourmet meals |
TreXperience | 5 days/4 nights | S/ 2,362.27 | $598 | All-inclusive with tents, Highly recommended |
SAM Travel Peru | 5 days/4 nights | S/ 2,468.93 | $557 | All-inclusive with tents, Highly recommended |
Inkayni Peru Tours | 5 days/4 nights | S/ 2,761.25 | $609 | All-inclusive with tents, Highly recommended |
Cost Breakdown: What’s Included in a Tour Price?
It’s important to note that the inclusions mentioned below are reference points. It’s always recommended to ask travel agents about specific inclusions and review the travel agency itineraries to verify in detail what services are covered on each tour.
When you choose to do the Salkantay Trek with an agency, the price usually includes a range of services that make the experience easier and more comfortable:
- Transportation: Includes transportation from Cusco to the starting point, which can be Mollepata, Soraypampa, or the location mentioned in the agency’s itinerary. It also includes return transportation, the train, and then the vehicle back to Cusco.
- Professional guide: Agencies provide trained guides who speak English and Spanish, and who know the route and local culture well, offering detailed explanations throughout the hike.
- Meals: Agencies typically include all meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), prepared by a specialized cook. It’s recommended to check the itinerary to know how many meals are provided and in which places.
- Camping gear: Basic gear generally includes tents, sleeping bags, mats, pillows, and other essential camping items. If the tour includes more luxurious accommodations, like domes or lodges, this detail should also be checked in the itinerary or with the sales agents.
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket: The entrance fee to the archaeological site is usually included, along with a guided tour inside Machu Picchu to learn about its history and architecture.
- Porters and mules: These services are often included to carry personal gear for travelers and group supplies. In some cases, the maximum weight that can be carried is also detailed in the itinerary.
- Emergency care: Many agencies include safety measures such as oxygen and first aid in case of altitude sickness or accidents to ensure a safe experience during the trek.
Is It Cheaper to Do the Salkantay Trek Independently or with a Travel Agency?
Doing the Salkantay Trek on your own is cheaper if you’re traveling on a limited budget and prefer a more independent experience. You won’t depend on a group, and you’ll have the freedom to adapt your itinerary to your own pace. However, you’ll need to handle all logistical aspects, from booking your Machu Picchu tickets to carrying your gear. Additionally, you won’t have a guide to orient you or solve problems along the way, which can be riskier.
On the other hand, hiring an agency makes the whole process easier and allows you to enjoy the hike without worrying about organizing or meal preparation. Although it’s more expensive, the value of convenience and safety usually outweighs the extra cost, especially if you don’t have previous trekking experience.
Tips to Save on the Salkantay Trek Price
- Travel in the low season between December and March to find lower prices, as travel agencies often launch promotions to attract more tourists since demand is lower during this period. Although weather conditions may include rain, it’s an excellent option if you’re looking to save.
- Book in advance and take advantage of special days like Black Friday, Cyber Days, Travel Weeks, etc., which are often promoted by travel platforms such as TripAdvisor, TourRadar, GetYourGuide, and others, or travel agencies through their social media promotions.
- Join group tours, as they are more economical when sharing the journey with others. This option allows you to save significantly without sacrificing service quality, maintaining essential guides and services.
- Choose non-luxury transport categories like the Expedition train instead of more expensive options like the Vistadome for the return journey from Machu Picchu. These options offer a comfortable experience at a lower cost.
- Avoid unnecessary luxuries like luxury domes, gourmet meals, or climbing Huayna Picchu, as these extras significantly increase the price of the tour. Opt for basic camps and more affordable activities to reduce the total cost without losing the essence of the adventure.

It’s not advisable to do this trek on your own if you are new to it and don’t know the route.
Other Costs to Consider
When traveling with a travel agency, in addition to the tour price, it’s important to consider some additional costs that may arise during your trip:
- Tips. It’s customary to tip the guide and porters. Usually, you tip between $10 and $15 USD per day for the guide and between $5 and $10 USD for the porters.
- Extra meals. Consider bringing extra money for meals not included in the itinerary offered by the travel agency, such as those on the last day.
The Perfect Balance Between Adventure and the Salkantay Trek Price
The Salkantay Trek is an unforgettable experience that you can adapt to your budget. Whether you choose to go on your own or with an agency, the cost varies based on your preferred level of comfort and the season in which you travel. While agency tours tend to be more expensive, they offer a more organized and comfortable experience, while traveling independently allows you to save money in exchange for more responsibility in planning. Be sure to take advantage of promotions in the low season or special dates, and always check what’s included in the itinerary to avoid unexpected costs. Additionally, remember to factor in extra costs like tips and meals outside the plan.
The Salkantay Trek offers spectacular landscapes and the opportunity to reach Machu Picchu in a unique way. With the right planning, you can tailor this experience to your budget without sacrificing comfort or quality in your journey.