The Salkantay Trek is one of Peru’s most iconic adventures, offering stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and a challenging yet rewarding journey. But how much does the Salkantay Trek cost? In this guide, we’ll break down the Salkantay Trek cost, including tour packages, permits, gear, and other expenses, to help you plan your budget effectively.
I’ll never forget the shock on my friend’s face when I told him my 5-day Salkantay Trek cost 290∗∗—whileothersinourhostelpaid∗∗290∗∗—whileothersinourhostelpaid∗∗800+ for the same route. The truth? Prices vary wildly based on group size, inclusions, and booking timing. After analyzing top-ranking guides and my own trek (plus a few budgeting disasters), here’s the ultimate cost breakdown—from shoestring DIY to luxury tours.
Table of Contents
Salkantay Trek Cost: Quick Comparison
| Option | Price Range (USD) | What’s Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget DIY (No Guide) | 250–250–400 | Lodging, food, permits | Adventurers who love logistics |
| Budget Group Tour | 450–450–600 | Meals, tents, guide, Machu Picchu ticket | Solo travelers/social hikers |
| Mid-Range Tour | 600–600–800 | Upgraded lodging (e.g., Sky Camp), better food | Comfort seekers |
| Luxury Tour | 900–900–1,500+ | Private domes, hot showers, gourmet meals | Honeymooners/those who hate roughing it |
Note: Prices fluctuate by season (dry season = higher demand).
1. Budget DIY Trek: 250–250–400
I met a German backpacker who did it for $220, but he slept in tents and ate instant noodles. Here’s the realistic breakdown:
Cost Breakdown (Per Person)
- Transport to Trailhead (Cusco → Mollepata): 10–10–20 (collectivo + taxi)
- Trail Fees: $10 (entrance to Humantay Lake)
- Lodging: 10–10–25/night (basic hostels like Soraypampa Hostel)
- Food: 5–5–15/meal (local comedores)
- Machu Picchu Ticket: 50–50–80 (circuit 1 or 2)
- Train Back (Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo): 50–50–80 (book early!)
- Extras: $20 (snacks, water, emergency horse rental)
Pros:
- Ultimate freedom (hike at your pace)
- No group dynamics to manage
Cons:
- No porter = heavy backpack (altitude hurts more)
- Risk of missing key stops (e.g., Llactapata ruins)
2. Budget Group Tours: 450–600
Most popular option. My 290tourwasafluke—realisticaveragesare290tourwasafluke—realisticaveragesare500–$600.
What’s Included
- Guides + Porters (carry 5kg of your gear)
- All Meals (surprisingly gourmet—think quinoa stews)
- Tents/Basic Lodging (cold nights, shared bathrooms)
- Machu Picchu Entry (but NOT Huayna Picchu—add $20)
- Transport (Cusco to trailhead + train back)
Hidden Costs:
- Tips: 20–20–50 (guides/porters expect it)
- Sleeping Bag Rental: 20–20–30
- Hot Springs: $5 (Santa Teresa)
Best Budget Operators:
- American Inca Trail (290–290–400)
- Local Cusco Agencies (negotiate to 450–450–550)
3. Mid-Range Tours: 600–800
Worth it for Sky Camp’s glass igloos under the stars.
Upgrades You Get
- Sky Camp/Jungle Domes: Private igloos with mountain views
- Better Food: 3-course meals + happy hour
- Smaller Groups: 8–12 people vs. 16+
- Llactapata Ruins Visit (often skipped by budget tours)
Top Pick:
- Salkantay Trekking’s 5-Day Classic (650–650–750)
4. Luxury Tours: 900–1,500+
Think hot tubs at 12,000 feet and wine with dinner.
What Justifies the Price?
- Private Bathrooms: Yes, even at 15,000 ft
- Gourmet Meals: Fresh trout, alpaca steaks
- Extra Activities: Coffee farm tours, ziplining included
- Direct Train to Cusco (no bus transfers)
Best Splurge:
- Mountain Lodges of Peru ($1,200+) – Hot showers daily
5. Hidden Costs That Sneak Up on You
- Huayna Picchu Ticket: 20–20–30 (sells out fast)
- Last-Minute Bookings: +20% in dry season (May–Sept)
- Altitude Sickness Pills: $10 (Diamox in Cusco pharmacies)
- Gear Rentals: $50 (poles, sleeping bag, rain pants)
How to Save Money (Without Sacrificing Safety)
- Book in Cusco: Walk-in deals can drop prices by 15% (but risk sell-outs)
- Skip Huayna Picchu: Machu Picchu Mountain is cheaper and just as epic
- Take the Bus Down: Hike up to MP, but bus down saves $12 vs. train
- Travel Off-Season: April or October = lower prices, fewer crowds
Why is Understanding the Salkantay Trek Cost Important?
Knowing the costs associated with the Salkantay Trek is crucial for several reasons:
- Budget Planning: Helps you allocate funds for tours, gear, and other expenses.
- Avoiding Surprises: Ensures you’re prepared for all potential costs, from permits to tips.
- Comparing Options: Allows you to evaluate different tour operators and packages to find the best value.
Salkantay Trek Cost: Key Expenses
Here’s a breakdown of the main costs associated with the Salkantay Trek:
1. Tour Packages
- Group Tours: 200−200−400 per person.
- Includes: Guide, meals, camping equipment, and permits.
- Excludes: Tips, personal gear, and extras like Machu Picchu entrance fees.
- Private Tours: 500−500−800 per person.
- Includes: Personalized service, higher-quality meals, and private tents.
- Excludes: Tips, personal gear, and extras.
2. Permits and Entrance Fees
- Salkantay Trek Permit: Included in most tour packages.
- Machu Picchu Entrance Fee: 45−45−70, depending on the type of ticket (Machu Picchu only or Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain).
3. Gear and Equipment
- Rental Gear: 20−20−50 for items like sleeping bags, trekking poles, and backpacks.
- Personal Gear: Costs vary depending on what you already own and what you need to purchase.
4. Transportation
- Cusco to Mollepata (Trailhead): 10−10−20 per person by shared van.
- Aguas Calientes to Cusco: 30−30−50 for a train ticket (depending on the class).
5. Accommodation
- Pre-Trek Accommodation in Cusco: 10−10−50 per night for hostels or hotels.
- Post-Trek Accommodation in Aguas Calientes: 20−20−100 per night.
6. Food and Drinks
- Meals on the Trek: Included in most tour packages.
- Snacks and Water: 20−20−30 for extra snacks and bottled water.
7. Tips
- Guides: 20−20−30 per person.
- Porters and Cooks: 10−10−20 per person.
How to Save Money on the Salkantay Trek
Here are some tips to reduce your Salkantay Trek cost:
- Book in Advance: Secure early bird discounts and avoid last-minute price hikes.
- Choose Group Tours: More affordable than private tours.
- Rent Gear: Save money by renting instead of buying new equipment.
- Pack Smart: Bring your own snacks and reusable water bottles to cut down on extra expenses.
- Travel in the Shoulder Season: Prices are often lower outside the peak dry season (June-August).
Frequently Asked Questions About Salkantay Trek Cost
1. Is the Salkantay Trek cheaper than the Inca Trail?
Yes, the Salkantay Trek is generally more affordable than the Inca Trail, which requires a more expensive permit.
2. Can I do the Salkantay Trek independently?
Yes, but you’ll need to arrange your own permits, transportation, and gear, which can be time-consuming.
3. What is included in a typical Salkantay Trek tour package?
Most packages include a guide, meals, camping equipment, and permits. Check with your operator for specific details.
4. How much should I budget for tips?
Plan to budget 30−30−50 in total for tips for guides, porters, and cooks.
Ready to Plan Your Salkantay Trek Adventure?
Now that you understand the Salkantay Trek cost, it’s time to start planning your adventure! Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly group tour or a luxurious private experience, the Salkantay Trek offers something for every traveler.
📌 Pro Tip: Download our free Salkantay Trek budget planner to help you estimate your total costs. And if you’re ready to book your trek, check out our exclusive Salkantay Trek packages for the best deals and expert guides.
