Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu via Llactapata – 5 Days & 4 Nights

Time Lapse: 4:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Your journey begins early with pickup from your hotel in Cusco around 4:30 AM. Travel by private transportation through the Andes to Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast. From there, continue to Challacancha (3,800m), the starting point of the trek.

Begin a scenic 3-hour hike toward Soraypampa (3,900m), your first campsite. After lunch, embark on a 2-hour round-trip hike to the stunning Humantay Lake (4,200m), famous for its turquoise waters backed by snow-capped peaks. Return to camp to rest and enjoy a freshly prepared dinner under the stars in our exclusive Sky Camp domes.

• Overnight: Sky Camp at Soraypampa
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Time Lapse: 5:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Fuel up with breakfast before starting the toughest day of the trek. Begin the 3-hour uphill climb to the Salkantay Pass (4,630m), the highest point of the route. From the summit, marvel at the views of the majestic Salkantay Mountain, one of the most sacred peaks in Incan mythology.

Then, begin your descent through dramatic landscapes into the cloud forest. After lunch near Huayracmachay, continue through dense vegetation until you reach Collpapampa (2,870m). Tonight, you’ll relax in our cozy Mountain Sky View Domes, tucked away in the cloud forest.

• Overnight: Mountain Sky View Domes in Collpapampa
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Time Lapse: 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Enjoy a relaxed morning walk through tropical landscapes, crossing waterfalls, fruit plantations, and hummingbird-filled forests. This 5-6 hour trek follows the Santa Teresa Valley to La Playa and then on to Lucmabamba (2,000m).

In the afternoon, visit a local organic coffee farm. Learn the entire process from bean to cup and enjoy a tasting of Peru’s finest coffee. Tonight, stay in our unique Jungle Domes, fully immersed in nature.

• Overnight: Jungle Domes at Lucmabamba
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Time Lapse: 6:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Begin with a 2.5-hour ascent along an ancient Inca Trail to the remote and mystical Llactapata archaeological site. From here, enjoy a rare panoramic view of Machu Picchu across the valley — a truly emotional highlight of the trek.

After soaking in the views, descend for 2 hours to the Aobamba Valley and enjoy lunch near Hidroelectrica. Then, follow the railroad for about 3 hours on a flat, scenic hike through the jungle to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town), where a comfortable hotel room and warm shower await.

• Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Time Lapse: 4:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Wake early and take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu (2,430m) to witness sunrise over the ancient citadel. Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour through the most iconic areas of the Lost City of the Incas, including the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, and the Sacred Plaza.

After the tour, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and some optional time to explore the town, visit the hot springs, or shop for souvenirs. Then board the Expedition train to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will meet you for your return to Cusco.

• Arrival: Hotel in Cusco around 7:00 PM
• Meals: Breakfast
  

Wake up with a warm cup of coca tea or coffee brought to your tent before breakfast. Today begins with a gradual climb to Apacheta Pass (4,650m), the highest point of the trek. From here, absorb panoramic views of majestic peaks such as Salkantay, Humantay, and Huayanay, along with shimmering mountain lakes and deep valleys below.

We take a short detour to visit the breathtaking Salkantay Lake, a lesser-known but equally mesmerizing turquoise lake located near the glacier base. After capturing some unforgettable shots, we begin our descent into the lush cloud forest.

Lunch awaits at Rayanniyoc, and after a rest, we continue descending through shifting ecosystems, colorful flora, and cascading waterfalls until we arrive at our cozy campsite near the small village of Colpapampa (2,900m). Here, hot drinks and a delicious dinner await after a rewarding day.

Overnight at Colpapampa campsite
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we enter the heart of the high jungle, also known as the eyebrow of the Amazon, where the climate becomes warmer and the vegetation more tropical. Trek through lush forests filled with butterflies, orchids, waterfalls, and fruit plantations growing bananas, passion fruit, avocados, and papayas.

Upon arriving at Lucmabamba, enjoy lunch made from local ingredients. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in a unique coffee experience at a family-run organic farm. Learn how one of Peru’s most important exports is grown and processed — from harvesting ripe beans to roasting and grinding. Then, enjoy a fresh cup of your own hand-prepared coffee.

Later in the day, we head to the rejuvenating Cocalmayo Hot Springs by local transport (30 minutes). Relax your muscles in the natural thermal baths surrounded by jungle and mountains before returning to camp for a restful evening and a farm-to-table dinner.

Overnight at Lucmabamba campsite
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we ascend along a remote section of the original Inca Trail, hiking through pristine Andean forest to the Puncuyoc Pass. Along the way, enjoy magnificent views of fruit groves, waterfalls, and the Aobamba Valley.

After about three hours, arrive at the Llactapata Inca ruins, an ancient site that offers a unique side view of Machu Picchu and its neighboring peaks — Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. This rarely visited site offers an excellent photo opportunity and a quiet moment of reflection.

After exploring Llactapata, descend for two hours to Hidroelectrica, where we’ll enjoy lunch. From here, continue the final part of the journey with a scenic 3-hour trek along the railway through the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, immersed in tropical forest and Inca vibes.

Arrive in Aguas Calientes by late afternoon, where you’ll check into your hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight at a hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is the crown jewel of your adventure: Machu Picchu! After an early breakfast, take one of the first buses up to the Machu Picchu citadel to witness the sunrise over the ancient Incan city — a spiritual and surreal experience.

Your expert guide will lead a 2-hour tour of the Lost City of the Incas, exploring the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana stone, Sacred Plaza, and other key archaeological highlights. Learn about the site’s Inca architecture, spiritual significance, and innovative agriculture systems.

After soaking in the wonder of Machu Picchu, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. You’ll have free time for lunch, souvenir shopping, or even a final soak in the hot springs.

In the afternoon, board the Expedition Train to Ollantaytambo, journeying alongside the roaring Urubamba River, with views of Wiñay Wayna high above. Once at Ollantaytambo, our private transport will be waiting to return you to your hotel in Cusco, where you’ll arrive by early evening — tired, amazed, and fulfilled.

Arrival in Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast

All briefings are done at our office at 7:00 PM one or two nights before your trek. If you are unable to make this time, you need to coordinate another time with a member of the Xtreme Tourbulencia office team. Briefings are approximately 40 minutes long.

Xtreme Tourbulencia is one of the only companies to pick you up directly from your hotel. As long as your hotel is in the center of Cusco city, we will coordinate this pickup based on a time that your guide will discuss at the briefing. Pick up times may vary 30 – 45 minutes based on traffic conditions and previous pickups.

Cusco is an old city with cobblestoned streets and very narrow passageways. Smaller hotels and Airbnbs are often located on streets that cars can´t pass through. They also are frequently on hillsides with long steep climbs, making it difficult to carry luggage. We highly recommend that you book accommodations with better access.

Machu Picchu is most beautiful when seen from above, which is why hiking one of the mountains next to the ruins is very popular to do after your tour.

Huaynapicchu is the most popular and must be booked in advance since it sells out very quickly. This hike takes approximately 1 hour to the top, and another 45 minutes back down. Tickets are sold in time sessions stating when you can start this hike.

The first session is from 7-8 AM, and the 2nd session is from 10-11 AM. Again, this refers to the timeframe when you can start your hike. We usually book the second session so you can enjoy your tour with your guide first. You will do this hike on your own, but your guide will show you where to begin.

Machu Picchu Mountain is a bit longer and a bit less popular. It takes 2 hours to the top and another 1 hours to the bottom. Again there are two time windows – from 7-8 AM and 9-10 AM and we usually purchase the second time window. 4 Day treks, the Trekkers CAN NOT do this hike and enjoy a tour of the ruins. Time will not allow for this.

Hiking either mountain will allow you to have some extra time at the ruins once you complete, as listed above.

We request you be honest with your guide about any health conditions or concerns you might have. While our guides are not medical professionals, they do have first-aid training. We also work with a clinic in Cusco that can help assist our team.

You are responsible for assessing whether Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is suitable for you. We recommend you consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions.

Xtreme TourBulencia will not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level, and medical requirements.

If you develop extreme altitude sickness or any other illness that prevents you from hiking, and you still wish to visit Machu Picchu by train, we will work with you to coordinate this trip. Since this will be a new trip, it may require additional fees. We will use as much of the original itinerary to keep costs low.

If you experience issues while hiking and can not continue, a porter will accompany you to the closest road and wait while a car comes to pick you up and bring you to the nearest health clinic.

Group tours are made up of all different types of people, with various hiking skills and ages. By agreeing to a group tour, you agree that some people might be slower or faster than you are.

Everyone can go at their own pace for the trek, and the guide will work with the group to spend time with everyone. Groups might request some modifications to the tour, and the guide will work with everyone to make the best decision for the group.

Unfortunately, strikes are frequent in Peru and can disrupt our tours. Roads are often blocked, and trains stopped. We will make sure your trek continues as planned, even if that means leaving the night before your start date.

Under these circumstances, tours might need to be canceled. But our operations department will coordinate with you in this situation. Your safety is always our top concern and will dictate how we decide.

You are responsible for your items throughout the Tour. Please be diligent about where you leave your things and remember to remove all items from our vans, your tents, restaurant, etc.

Do not leave anything unintended during your hike. Other trekkers or teams might pick it up not knowing whos it is.

Tipping is part of the tradition of any trek to Machu Picchu. While we pay good wages to our entire team, anything extra is always appreciated. Please know that this is not obligatory and that you should never feel pressured into this.

Typically the participants in a group pool their tipping money together for the porters and chef. The amount recommended is different per trek and listed below. For the guide, this is more personal and needs to be decided based on your relationship with them and done separately from the group.

Porters and Chefs prefer soles if possible. Guides are happy with U.S. dollars, Peruvian Soles, or even your credit card.

Travel insurance is inexpensive and strongly recommended. With trips being planned months ahead of time, you never can predict what could happen.

Adventure travel includes more risk than the average trip. Insurance is a way to protect the investment you have made on this journey. We can help recommend an agent to walk you through this type of insurance if needed.

Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, but this does not stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December so just be prepared.

No matter what month you are doing the trek, make sure that you have rain gear that includes a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but being cold and wet makes hiking very unpleasant.

Also, prepare for four seasons. Several of the treks through the Andes involve various microclimates and you will need to be prepared. Layers are always key since they are easy to adjust to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a warm packable down jacket since the evening will be cold.

It’s also important to note that the weather can change a listed itinerary. There are times that routes become impassable, and our guides will be forced for your safety to rework your tour.

As soon as people book their trip to Peru, specifically Cusco, they start wondering about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than at sea level and forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. Over several days at high altitude, your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air. For this reason, we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning any trek in the Andes. Cusco is a marvelous city with lots to do, so if you have more time to acclimate you won´t be bored.

With altitude sickness, you may first feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may have a headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing during exercise. If any of these effects become severe, please contact our office, and we will help you get to a doctor.

Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend easing into activity slowly, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or coca tea.

Coca-tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness. Leaves from the Coca Plant contain alkaloids that help bring oxygen into your blood, helping your body avoid the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and coffee.

They will cause you to urinate more often and become dehydrated. Avoid smoking. Smoking makes it more difficult for your body to get oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills. They may cause shallow breathing at night, making it more difficult for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep.

Remember the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even those in the best shape will suffer from altitude sickness if they race to the top of the mountain too quickly. Go slow, and it will give your body time to adjust to the elevation.

Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications, such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone, to help prevent altitude sickness. Start the medicine two days before you get to a high altitude. Continue to take it while you are at high altitude.

You must remember that this is your holiday and you do not want to stress out about the possibility of getting sick from the mountains. Do everything slowly and drink lots of water, and enjoy the coca tea. If anything does happen and you, unfortunately, get sick, let your guide know right away. Xtreme Tourbulencia guides are trained to help you get through it.

The airport in Cusco currently is only for domestic flights, so all international travelers by plane must disembark in Lima and go through Customs. Even if your flight to Cusco is the same day by the same airline carrier, you must grab your bags in Lima and then check them back in.

The best way to get to Cusco is by air, and there are several options in airlines. LAN tends to be the most expensive but has the most options and flights. Expect delays or flight cancellations. Due to the high altitude of Cusco, it tends to be difficult to land, and any acclimate weather will stop air traffic.

Bus travel is always available, and while the trip can be long, especially from Lima, the buses in Peru are very well maintained and comfortable. This option is strongly encouraged if coming from a city closer to Cusco, like Puno. Lima buses will take about 20 hours to arrive.

To begin, we’d like to suggest some accommodation options throughout Cusco. Although it’s a small city, more and more streets are becoming traffic-free pedestrian zones.

Therefore, we’ve selected comfortable and well-located hotels that also allow us easy access to pick you up. These are just ideas; you’re free to choose your accommodation.

Check out our hotels

The Salkantay Trek is a spectacular 5-day, 4-night alternative hiking route to Machu Picchu that traverses Peru’s second-highest mountain, Nevado Salkantay (6,271m). This challenging trek covers approximately 74 kilometers through diverse ecosystems, from high-altitude mountain passes to lush cloud forests. The route includes the hidden Inca ruins of Llactapata, offering unique panoramic views of Machu Picchu citadel from across the Urubamba Valley.

The Salkantay Trek offers several advantages over the crowded Inca Trail: no permit restrictions, fewer tourists, more diverse landscapes, and year-round availability. While the Inca Trail requires permits booked months in advance, Salkantay Trek can be arranged with shorter notice. The route features dramatic mountain scenery, including glacial lakes, snow-capped peaks, and the sacred Apu Salkantay mountain revered by ancient Incas.

The Llactapata archaeological site provides the most spectacular viewpoint of Machu Picchu available to trekkers. Located on the opposite mountain ridge, Llactapata offers unobstructed panoramic views of the entire Machu Picchu citadel and Huayna Picchu mountain. This hidden Inca ruin, discovered in 2003, adds significant archaeological value to your trekking experience and creates perfect photography opportunities.

The Salkantay Trek difficulty is rated as challenging to strenuous, more demanding than the classic Inca Trail but less technical than Huayhuash or Cordillera Blanca treks. The highest point reaches 4,630m at Salkantay Pass, requiring excellent physical fitness and proper altitude acclimatization. Daily hiking distances range from 12-22 kilometers with significant elevation gains and losses.

The optimal time for Salkantay Trek is during Peru’s dry season from May to September, offering clear mountain views and minimal rainfall. June through August provides the best weather conditions with stable temperatures and excellent visibility of Salkantay peak. However, unlike the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek operates year-round, with shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) offering fewer crowds and acceptable weather.

Salkantay Trek prices range from $350-700 USD per person, depending on tour operator, group size, accommodation type, and included services. Budget operators charge $350-450 for basic camping and shared services, while premium operators offer $500-700 packages with superior camping equipment, better meals, and smaller group sizes. Luxury lodge options can exceed $1,000 per person.

No special permits are required for the Salkantay Trek route itself, making it an excellent Inca Trail alternative without booking restrictions. However, Machu Picchu entrance tickets are required and should be booked in advance, especially during peak season. Your tour operator typically handles Machu Picchu ticket arrangements as part of the package.

Book your Salkantay Trek 2-4 weeks in advance during peak season (June-August) to secure preferred dates and better tour operators. During off-season, 1-2 weeks advance booking is usually sufficient. Unlike the Inca Trail’s 6-month advance requirement, Salkantay Trek offers more flexibility for spontaneous travelers.

The Salkantay Trek demands excellent physical fitness equivalent to advanced hiking experience. Participants should comfortably hike 8-10 hours daily carrying a 10-15kg backpack across varied terrain and high altitude. Regular cardio training, strength exercises, and long-distance hiking practice for 8-12 weeks before departure are essential for successful completion.

Effective Salkantay Trek training includes cardiovascular endurance (running, cycling, swimming), leg strength exercises (squats, lunges, step-ups), and hiking practice with weighted backpack. Focus on building stamina for consecutive long hiking days and practice walking on steep, uneven terrain. Altitude simulation training or high-elevation hiking experience is highly beneficial.

The Salkantay Trek is not recommended for complete beginners due to its challenging nature and high-altitude demands. However, determined novice hikers with excellent fitness levels and proper preparation can attempt the trek. Previous multi-day hiking experience, altitude exposure, and comprehensive physical training are crucial for beginner success.

Altitude acclimatization in Cusco for 3-4 days before starting the Salkantay Trek is mandatory. The trek reaches 4,630m at Salkantay Pass, where altitude sickness symptoms can occur. Proper acclimatization, gradual ascent, adequate hydration, and altitude sickness medication consultation with physicians are essential precautions.

Day 1: Cusco to Soraypampa base camp (3,900m) via Mollepata, with views of Salkantay peak

Day 2: Cross Salkantay Pass (4,630m) and descend to Chaullay through diverse ecosystems

Day 3: Trek through cloud forest to Llactapata ruins with Machu Picchu viewpoint

Day 4: Explore Llactapata archaeological site and continue to Aguas Calientes

Day 5: Early morning Machu Picchu guided tour and return to Cusco

Key Salkantay Trek highlights include crossing the dramatic Salkantay Pass with glacier views, experiencing five distinct ecosystems from alpine tundra to tropical cloud forest, visiting the hidden Llactapata ruins, enjoying unique Machu Picchu panoramic views, encountering diverse wildlife, and experiencing authentic Andean culture in remote mountain communities.

The Salkantay Trek’s diverse ecosystems support varied wildlife including Andean spectacled bears, mountain viscachas, chinchillas, over 300 bird species, and numerous butterfly varieties. Cloud forest sections feature exotic orchids and bromeliads, while high-altitude zones showcase unique alpine flora adapted to extreme conditions.

Salkantay Trek weather varies dramatically with elevation and ecosystem changes. High-altitude sections experience freezing temperatures (-5°C to 5°C), while cloud forest areas are warm and humid (15-25°C). Expect potential snow, rain, intense sun, and rapid weather changes. Four-season clothing and quality rain gear are essential..

Accommodation and Logistics

The Salkantay Trek typically involves camping in high-quality mountain tents at designated campsites. Most operators provide dining tents, toilet facilities, and professional camping equipment. Premium operators offer upgraded camping gear, while luxury options include mountain lodges with beds, hot showers, and restaurant-style meals.

Comprehensive meal packages include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks throughout the 5-day trek. Professional cooks prepare nutritious meals using fresh local ingredients, accommodating dietary restrictions with advance notice. Meals feature traditional Peruvian cuisine, international options, and high-energy foods suitable for demanding physical activity.

Tour operators typically provide boiled or filtered water at campsites and during meals. Trekkers should carry personal water bottles or hydration systems and water purification tablets for refilling from natural sources. Staying properly hydrated is crucial for altitude acclimatization and trek performance.

Camping sites feature basic toilet facilities ranging from composting toilets to portable bathroom tents. Some remote sections require using natural bathroom breaks with proper Leave No Trace principles. Bring personal toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and feminine hygiene products as needed.

Essential Salkantay Trek packing includes four-season clothing layers, waterproof hiking boots, rain gear, warm sleeping bag (-10°C rating), hiking poles, headlamp, sun protection, first aid kit, and personal medications. Pack for extreme temperature variations and changing weather conditions across multiple ecosystems.

Quality hiking boots, warm sleeping bag, and reliable rain gear are crucial for Salkantay Trek success. Many operators provide camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, dining gear) but verify what’s included versus what you must bring. Consider renting or purchasing equipment in Cusco if traveling light.

A 40-60 liter hiking backpack with comfortable suspension system is ideal for the Salkantay Trek. The pack should accommodate 5 days of personal gear while remaining manageable for long hiking days. Many operators offer porter services to carry main luggage, leaving you with a daypack for essentials.

Yes, Cusco offers numerous outdoor equipment rental shops providing hiking boots, sleeping bags, trekking poles, rain gear, and backpacks. Rental quality varies significantly, so inspect equipment carefully and test fit before departing. Purchasing may be more cost-effective for certain items.

The Salkantay Trek is generally safe when undertaken with reputable operators and proper preparation. Main risks include altitude sickness, weather exposure, and challenging terrain. Choose experienced guides, maintain group cohesion, follow safety instructions, and ensure your operator has emergency communication and evacuation procedures.

Consult physicians about altitude sickness medication, update routine vaccinations, and prepare a comprehensive first aid kit. Consider travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation. Bring personal medications with extras, and inform guides of any medical conditions or concerns.

Reputable Salkantay Trek operators maintain emergency communication equipment and evacuation procedures. Serious medical emergencies may require helicopter evacuation to Cusco hospitals. Comprehensive travel insurance covering adventure activities and medical evacuation is strongly recommended for all participants.

Popular Salkantay Trek alternatives include the classic Inca Trail, Choquequirao Trek, Lares Trek, Ausangate Trek, and various Sacred Valley day hikes combined with train access to Machu Picchu. Each offers different difficulty levels, scenery, and cultural experiences while reaching the same Machu Picchu destination.

Both treks are challenging alternatives to the Inca Trail, but Choquequirao Trek focuses on extensive Inca ruins exploration while Salkantay emphasizes mountain scenery and diverse ecosystems. Choquequirao is longer (7-9 days) and more remote, while Salkantay offers better infrastructure and Machu Picchu access.

Choice depends on personal preferences: Salkantay offers more diverse scenery, fewer crowds, and no permit restrictions, while the Inca Trail provides more archaeological sites and traditional Inca pathway experience. Salkantay is more challenging physically, while Inca Trail requires months-advance booking.

Select operators with experienced guides, good safety records, quality equipment, and positive reviews. Verify group sizes, meal quality, camping equipment standards, emergency procedures, and environmental practices. Compare included services rather than focusing solely on price, and ensure operators are properly licensed.

Important questions include: group size limits, guide qualifications, emergency procedures, equipment quality, meal arrangements, porter treatment, environmental practices, cancellation policies, and what’s included versus additional costs. Request detailed itineraries and recent client references.

Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation is essential for the Salkantay Trek. Policies should include adventure activity coverage and emergency helicopter evacuation. Some operators require insurance proof before trek participation.

The Salkantay Trek provides authentic Andean cultural experiences including interactions with local Quechua communities, traditional ceremonies honoring Apu Salkantay mountain spirit, learning about indigenous agricultural practices, and experiencing local customs in remote mountain villages.

Practice responsible trekking by following Leave No Trace principles, respecting local communities, supporting local economies, minimizing environmental impact, and choosing operators with sustainable practices. Tip guides and porters appropriately, and consider bringing school supplies for local community donations.

The Salkantay Trek traverses fragile high-altitude ecosystems requiring careful environmental stewardship. Choose operators committed to sustainable tourism practices, proper waste management, and supporting local conservation efforts. Climate change is affecting glacial retreat on Salkantay peak, making early visits more impactful.