Peru Travel Insights
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
The Salkantay trek is one of Peru’s best alternatives to the Inca Trail. Trek over a beautiful mountain pass at the foot of Mt. Salkantay before stopping at a local organic coffee plantation, followed by a visit to the Llactapata ruins. Finally, get up early the last day to catch sunrise at the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Best Treks to Machu Picchu
A visit to Machu Picchu is the highlight of most people’s trip to Peru. In fact, this ancient Inca Citadel attracts over a million visitors each year. Many visitors get there by way of the classic Inca Trail. Yet, there are numerous treks that take you there, each unique in their own right.
Salkantay Lodge-to-Lodge Trek to Machu Picchu
Named after the highest peak in the Vilcabamba mountain range, the Salkantay Trek takes you high in the Andes outside Cusco, providing specular views of snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and lush cloud forest. It’s an easy to moderate hike, with some sections of challenging terrain. The trek involves comfortable stays at luxurious lodges in remote locations so that you can enjoy the gorgeous Andean scenery without having to give up your comforts.
Best 10 Treks in Peru
Peru — a nation with abundant natural diversity, from coast, to mountains, to jungle — has long attracted lovers of the Great Outdoors. The Peruvian Andes, running like a backbone down the centre of the country, contain mesmerizing variations in landscape that make for some of the best trekking in the world. Cloud forests, 5000m+ cordilleras (mountain ranges), the world’s deepest canyon and the striking remains of ancient civilizations all await.
Salkantay Trek vs the Inca Trail: Which is Right for You?
Trekking to Machu Picchu is a dream for many travelers—but there's more than one way to get there. The classic Inca Trail lets trekkers walk in the steps of the Incas, while the more remote Salkantay route offers solitude and wildlife. Compare your options for getting to Peru's most famous place on foot, from distance and cost to overnight options.
Best Day Hikes in the Sacred Valley near Cusco
Peru is famous for the Inca Trail and other multi-day hikes, but if you are short on time, there are plenty of excellent day hikes throughout the Sacred Valley. These hikes are a great way to visit some of the rural communities and lesser-visited ruins throughout the Valley.
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists
Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
Peruvian food, culture, and history aren’t just things I love—they’re a part of who I am. As a proud Cusqueñian, I carry my roots with pride and love sharing my culture with others. I've lived...
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Jimena Salazar
For me, traveling is about much more than just visiting places. It’s about opening new paths in your life—through the people you meet, the flavors you try, and the landscapes that take your breath...
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Io Gillhuber
Growing up in Germany, I was lucky to spend several vacations in different places in Europe. When I finished school, I started exploring the world on my own, and I couldn’t get enough of it....
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Kristy Tizon
Kristy, a Peruvian-American originally from Los Angeles but now based in New York, has a deep passion for travel. With expertise in destinations such as Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and her home...
read more...Trip Reviews for Peru
The trip was everything we expected. The smal...
Peru
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Mar 18 - Mar 25, 2026
When my suitcase was taken, you were extremely helpful in recovering it.
My only complaint was the last day, when no transportation was provided for the cooking class. When we finally got there and found the area, it... Read more
Peru 03/2026
Peru
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Mar 23 - Mar 29, 2026
Thank you so much, David! I truly appreciate your kind words, it was an absolute pleasure planning this trip with you. I’m so glad everything felt seamless and personalized, and that you had such a memorable experience in Peru. Looking forward to helping you plan your next adventure!
Amazing Peru Trip
Peru
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Mar 14 - Mar 20, 2026