How to Book the Salkantay Trek: Step-by-Step Reservation Guide

Book Now with Salkantay Trek Machu your next hike to Machu Picchu via the classic trail or the Inca Trail! Salkantay Trek Machu is a 100% local, sustainable tour operator based in Cusco. For the 2027 season, we have upgraded our itineraries along the Salkantay route to offer you the best hiking experience for your upcoming vacation.

If you are planning to hike to Machu Picchu with Salkantay Trek Machu, here is our step-by-step reservation guide.

Why Is It Essential to Book the Salkantay Trek in Advance?

While the Salkantay Trail itself does not have strict daily cap limits, Machu Picchu entrance tickets are strictly limited by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture.

How to Book the Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Trek is a classic route from Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantay Mountain – Chaullay – Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu. For this last destination, it is crucial to get tickets in advance, as Machu Picchu entry ticket booking policies have changed. Tickets are now classified into specific circuits: there are three circuits, and each circuit is divided into distinct routes that allow you to explore Machu Picchu from a different perspective. Currently, it is essential to book 8 months in advance to secure your tickets, because these circuits to Machu Picchu sell out fast. The most popular circuits that allow you to visit and explore the entire Inca citadel sell out months in advance.

High-Demand Circuits (Circuit 2 Machu Picchu Route A and B): These Circuits covering the main upper terraces and primary ruins sell out 8 months in advance.

Why is it important to book the Salkantay Trek in advance?

The main reason is Machu Picchu tickets. If you book in advance, you can secure your ticket to Machu Picchu and explore the main areas of the Inca citadel. If you book at the last minute, you may only get a panoramic circuit ticket, which will not allow you to walk among the main ruins.

Salkantay Trek Booking

How to Book the Salkantay Trek: Step-by-Step Guide (2027)

Step 1: Choose the Right Time for Your Hike

Selecting the right dates depends on crowd levels, weather patterns, and your preferred travel style:

High Tourist Season

If you decide to hike to Machu Picchu during peak season, it is essential to book 8 to 10 months in advance. This guarantees the best circuits for exploring Machu Picchu while allowing you time to plan your local flights and accommodations. During high tourist season, it becomes extremely difficult to find availability in hotels or Airbnbs, and flight prices surge. The high tourist season runs from April to August and December to January.

Weather Conditions

Most experienced trekkers recommend hiking between April and August. During these months, mornings are clear and sunny along the trail, though occasional clouds or fog can gather around Machu Picchu due to its subtropical cloud forest environment.

Rainy Season (January to March & September to December): Heavy rains in January and February can cause localized trail detours. In March, rainfall decreases, though alternative routes may still be used. From September to December, rainfall usually occurs in short afternoon showers lasting 2 to 4 hours rather than all-day downpours.

Step 2: Book your Salkantay Trek and secure your Machu Picchu tickets

Once you have selected your travel dates, contact us at Salkantay Trek Machu. Our staff will provide all the necessary trek details and guide you through the online booking process. It is crucial that you send us your accurate personal information so we can purchase your Machu Picchu tickets. Since 2003, Machu Picchu rules have required full traveler details on all permits to prevent ticket scalping and unauthorized reselling.

Why is sending correct information critical?

According to Machu Picchu rules, park rangers will cross-check your entry ticket with your physical passport upon arrival at the citadel. If there is any discrepancy, you will be denied entry and required to get a new ticket—which, during high tourist season, is virtually impossible. Therefore, sending 100% accurate information when booking is essential.

Which information is required to book Machu Picchu tickets?

You will need to provide your full name, passport number, nationality, date of birth, and gender. With this information, the Salkantay Trek Machu staff can purchase your Machu Picchu tickets in advance.

Are there other permits required for the Salkantay Trek?

Yes, there is a local municipal entry fee for the Salkantay route, which is paid in Mollepata. Our tour guides manage this process directly on site. These local permits do not require personal details in advance, but your tour guide will ask you to fill out a brief registration form so Salkantay Trek Machu can organize everything seamlessly.

Salkantay Trek Book

Step 3: Prepare and train your body for the trek

Once you have booked the Salkantay Trek with us, we recommend preparing your body for the physical demand. We suggest going for 10- to 20-minute daily walks or training at the gym. Remember, the maximum altitude reached on the Salkantay Trek is 4,550 m (14,927 ft). At this elevation, breathing can feel more difficult, but proper physical conditioning will help you adapt quickly and enjoy the journey without complications or altitude sickness. You should also prepare suitable clothing for the hike—and most importantly, invest in quality trekking shoes. If you buy new shoes, it is crucial to wear them weeks beforehand to break them in so you avoid blisters on the trail. Pro tip: Try walking around town in your new boots—let everyone see your gear and know you're getting ready for an unforgettable adventure!