High Glaciers &
Salkantay Treks.
Trek across turquoise alpine lakes, camp in King Eureka tents under Andean stars, and marvel at Mt. Salkantay with full medical oxygen and private mountain chefs.
Salkantay & Alternative Itineraries
Showing 17 authentic expeditions
Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu - 5D/4N
Named by National Geographic as one of the Top 20 Dream Hikes in the World, the Ancascocha Trek is a hidden gem that rivals Machu Picchu's magic—without the throngs of visitors. This thrilling 5-day, 4-night journey from Cusco is Peru’s intoxicating secret that awakens every sense. You'll trek through remote villages like Chillipahua and Ancascocha, past soaring glaciers, and alongside the stunning turquoise waters of the Ancascocha lagoon. The route pushes you to the Huayanay Pass at 4,650 m (15,255 ft.), where panoramic views stretch endlessly in hues of azure skies and emerald valleys. At Action Peru Treks (APT), our seasoned guides, premium camping setups, and masterful chefs ensure a safe, comfortable, and sensory-rich adventure. The journey culminates with a spectacular visit to the lost city of Machu Picchu, leaving you with an unforgettable experience of Peru's raw wilderness.
Ausangate Trek - 3D/2N
Ausangate trek 3 days is a short hike that will take you to see the 7 lakes of Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain, and the Red Valley, through impressive landscapes and colorful lakes. If you are looking to see the best part of Rainbow Mountain and get to know the Ausangate mountain, this 3-day trek is perfect for you. You will be among the first to arrive and enjoy the sunrise without the crowds. The solid ice of Ausangate, the red valleys, the colorful mountains, the turquoise lakes, and the impressive peaks make this adventure unique. Due to its lesser-known location, the area receives relatively few visitors, meaning you can experience local history almost on your own, surrounded by spectacular views stretching across the Vilcanota Mountain Range. A journey full of incredible stories, breathtaking views, herds of llamas and alpacas, and a visit to Rainbow Mountain.
Ausangate Circuit Trek - 4D/3N
Take on the ultimate high-altitude challenge with the classic 4-day Ausangate Circuit. This demanding route circles the entire massive peak of Apu Ausangate (6,384m), the most sacred mountain in the Cusco region. Designed for experienced trekkers who are well-acclimatized, this journey takes you through a breathtaking and pristine alpine wilderness. You will cross three mountain passes over 4,800 meters, camp beside vibrant turquoise and red glacial lakes, and hike directly beneath towering ice walls and hanging glaciers. You will also encounter remote Quechua communities who maintain traditional ways of life, herding hundreds of alpacas in these high, rugged valleys.
Full Ausangate Circuit - 5D/4N
Experience the ultimate high-altitude Andean expedition. The full 5-day Ausangate Circuit offers a complete 360-degree loop around the most sacred mountain in the Cusco region, Apu Ausangate (6,384m). By adding a fifth day to the classic circuit, this itinerary allows for better acclimatization, a more manageable hiking pace, and extra time to absorb the surreal beauty of the Vilcanota mountain range. You will cross three grueling mountain passes over 5,000 meters, camp beside vibrant red and turquoise glacial lakes, and witness an abundance of wildlife, including vicuñas, condors, and hundreds of alpacas. This is a true wilderness trek, far removed from the crowds, designed for experienced and well-acclimatized hikers.
Choquequirao Trek - 4D/3N
Embark on an epic and challenging expedition to Choquequirao, the majestic 'Sister City' of Machu Picchu. Tucked away deep in the Vilcabamba mountain range, this colossal Incan citadel is accessible only by foot, making it one of the most rewarding and uncrowded treks in Peru. The 4-day journey will take you across the dramatic Apurimac River canyon, through diverse ecosystems ranging from dry cactus forests to lush cloud forests. You'll spend a full day exploring the expansive ruins, discovering vast agricultural terraces, the mysterious 'llama sector', and the main plazas, all while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding glaciers.
Choquequirao Trek - 5D/4N
Embark on an extended expedition to the remote and majestic Choquequirao. By adding an extra day to the classic 4-day route, this 5-day itinerary allows for a more relaxed hiking pace and, most importantly, a full, unhurried day to explore the vast and spectacular archaeological site. Tucked deep in the Vilcabamba mountain range and accessible only by foot, Choquequirao receives a fraction of the visitors of Machu Picchu. You will have ample time to wander through the hidden terraces, the fascinating ceremonial center, and the iconic 'llamas of stone' while camping high in the cloud forest with views of the Apurimac canyon.
Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu - 6D/5N
The ultimate Andean expedition connecting two of the most important Incan citadels. This epic 6-day trek is designed for experienced hikers seeking a profound physical challenge and a deep dive into the history of the last Incan resistance. You will cross the magnificent Apurimac Canyon, explore the remote ruins of Choquequirao, and then traverse the rugged Vilcabamba mountain range via the ancient Incan pathways used by Manco Inca to flee the Spanish. Crossing passes over 4,600m, you will descend into the high jungle and finally arrive at the spectacular Machu Picchu. This is arguably the toughest and most rewarding trek in Peru.
Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu - 9D/8N
Imagine embarking on an epic adventure that rivals the world’s greatest hikes – plunging into deep canyons, ascending mist-shrouded peaks, and uncovering hidden Inca treasures. The Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu is a life-changing 9-day journey through Peru’s Cusco region. Hailed by National Geographic as one of the Best of the World destinations for 2023, this trek weaves through untouched landscapes from the spectacular Choquequirao 'Cradle of Gold' ruins to the legendary Machu Picchu. You will soar alongside majestic Andean condors, wander through orchid-filled cloud forests, and gaze at snow-capped giants. The Choquequirao Journey tests your limits with steep ascents and descents, rewarding you with solitude, authenticity, and the ultimate Inca immersion. Return home a bolder version of yourself after conquering the path less traveled.
Classic Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 5D/4N
Voted among the top 25 treks in the world by National Geographic, the Salkantay Trek is the ultimate alternative to the Inca Trail. Over 5 days, you will traverse diverse ecosystems, from the snowy peaks of the imposing Apu Salkantay and the crystal-clear waters of Humantay Lake, down to the lush, tropical cloud forests of Santa Teresa. This is a journey of extreme contrasts and breathtaking beauty, culminating in the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu. Operated directly by our expert local team, guaranteeing premium equipment, spectacular food, and no hidden fees.
Tomaccaya Hidden Valley Trek to Machu Picchu - 5D/4N
Ready to test your limits and feel the raw, living magic of the Andes? Our Hidden Valley Trek to Machu Picchu is the most authentic, least-trampled path to the lost city. Over 5 epic days and 4 wild nights, you will journey deep into remote valleys where traditional Andean life continues unchanged. You will hike alongside glacial streams, cross the towering Tocto Pass at 4,900m with unparalleled views of the majestic Mt. Salkantay, and explore forgotten Incan ruins like Paucarcancha. The route eventually connects with a less-crowded section of the Classic Inca Trail, building up to a glorious sunrise arrival at Machu Picchu.
Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu - 3D/2N
Experience a fantastic short trek combining high Andean landscapes, local communities, and two spectacular Incan archaeological sites. The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is a peaceful and uncrowded alternative to the Classic Inca Trail, perfect for those with limited time. Starting near Cusco, you will hike over mountain passes, past high-altitude lakes, and through a spectacular limestone canyon on an original Incan pathway. After exploring the impressive 'Little Cusco' palace, you will take a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, culminating in a majestic guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu - 4D/3N
The Inca Jungle Trail is the ultimate multi-sport adventure to Machu Picchu, perfect for thrill-seekers and active travelers. This action-packed 4-day journey combines an exhilarating downhill mountain bike ride from the high Andes into the lush cloud forest, optional white-water rafting, a scenic trek along original Inca paths through coffee and fruit plantations, relaxing hot springs, and an optional high-flying zipline experience. It culminates with a sunrise visit to the iconic Machu Picchu citadel. This is the most dynamic and adventurous alternative to the Classic Inca Trail.
Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu - 4D/3N
Discover one of the Andes' best-kept secrets. The Inca Quarry Trail (also known as the Cachicata Trek) is a stunning off-the-beaten-path alternative to the crowded Classic Inca Trail. This trail takes you through isolated Andean communities, past the magnificent Perolniyoc waterfall, and up to high-altitude passes with sweeping views of the Sacred Valley and the snow-capped Veronica mountain. The highlight of the trek is exploring the ancient Incan quarries of Cachicata, where massive stones were cut and abandoned hundreds of years ago. The journey ends with a spectacular visit to Machu Picchu.
Lares Trek to Machu Picchu - 4D/3N
Experience the authentic culture of the Andes on the Lares Trek, an immersive 4-day journey to Machu Picchu. Known as the 'Weaver's Route,' this trek takes you off the beaten path into remote valleys where traditional Quechua communities still wear colorful, hand-woven ponchos and herd llamas as they have for centuries. You will soak in natural medicinal hot springs, camp by pristine glacial lakes, and cross high mountain passes with sweeping views of the snow-capped Veronica and Pitusiray peaks. The adventure concludes with a train ride through the cloud forest and a magical guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Highlights & Short Inca Trail - 4D/3N
Experience the absolute best of the Cusco region without the grueling physical demands of a long trek. This carefully curated 4-day package combines a comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley's most significant archaeological sites with the thrill of hiking the final, most spectacular section of the classic Inca Trail (the Short Inca Trail). You will walk through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) to get your first magical view of Machu Picchu, spend a night in the town of Aguas Calientes, and return the next day for a complete guided tour of the lost citadel. It is the perfect balance of culture, history, and moderate adventure.
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu - 4D/3N
For those short on time but hungry for adventure, the Salkantay Trek 4-Day express is the perfect challenge. You will experience the stunning turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, conquer the formidable Salkantay Pass at 4,630m, and witness the drastic transition from glacial peaks to lush, tropical cloud forests—all in just four days. This fast-paced itinerary condenses the beauty of the classic route, culminating with an unforgettable sunrise tour at Machu Picchu.
Tomaccaya Salkantay Mystical - 3D/2N
An epic journey through the Andes combining history, extreme adventure on ATVs, horseback riding, and the mystical presence of Mt. Salkantay. Discover the ancient ruins of Tarawasi, conquer the massive Inkachiriaska Pass at 5,100m, and finish at the stunning turquoise waters of Humantay Lake. This completely off-the-beaten-path experience is perfect for adrenaline junkies and those seeking a deep spiritual connection with the sacred Apus (mountain spirits) of the Andes, far away from the classic tourist routes.
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