4-Day Short Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu Abra Salkantay

4-Day Short Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Experience the express version of the ultimate Machu Picchu trek with our 4-day Short Salkantay route. After getting acclimated in Cusco—the historic heart of the Inca Empire—you’ll head out to explore the stunning Humantay Lake, the towering Salkantay Mountain, and then descend through the cloud forest all the way to the edge of the Amazon jungle.

Named one of the 25 best trekking routes in the world by National Geographic, the Salkantay Trek is a fantastic alternative to the Inca Trail. Along the way, you’ll take in breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, colorful valleys, waterfalls, clear mountain streams, and an incredible variety of plants and wildlife. One of the best parts? The dramatic change in scenery—you can go from high-Andean cold to lush, humid jungle in just a single day.

You’ll stay in comfortable, one-of-a-kind lodges each night and enjoy tasty, wholesome meals prepared by local Andean chefs. An experienced, bilingual guide will be with you every step of the way, sharing stories and insights about the region’s culture and history—all leading up to the grand finale: exploring the mysterious and awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu.

Tour Details

Duration

4 Days

Tour Type

Treking

Difficulty

Moderate

Departure & Return

Cusco

Start Time

Group Size

12 people

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Sky Camp

Highlight of the day: Spend the afternoon admiring the spectacular Humantay Lake.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Sky Camp
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Walking Distance: 10 km / 6.21 mi
Walking Time: 5–6 hours
Starting Elevation: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Min. Elevation: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Highest Elevation: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
Campsite Elevation: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft

Today you will get an early start on this adventure. We’ll pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco at 4:30 a.m. and travel for approximately two hours to have a quick breakfast in Mollepata. Our transportation includes cozy blankets in case you need to sleep for a few more minutes. After feeding and resting a bit, we’ll drive for another hour to the starting point of the trek in Challacancha.

Before we start our trek, you will meet the muleteers and cooks who are part of the team and do a final check of your luggage. Then, we will begin our relatively easy three-hour hike to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), where our first camp is located. Along the way, you will enjoy beautiful glaciers and a deep valley. Also, you will see that an Inca water channel follows us most of the way and is still used by farmers in the area to this day. This stretch has a length of 7 km / 4.35 miles.

Once in Soraypampa, you’ll have some time to get settled into your cozy igloo in our Sky Camp and enjoy your first lunch cooked by our talented chefs. There’s no doubt you’ll be amazed by their talents in the middle of the mountains. Once you’re full of energy, we’ll begin our afternoon trek up to Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), often called the jewel or gem in the mountains, and you’ll see why once you reach the top.

The round trip is around 2:30 hours long and covers 3 km / 1.86 miles. The distance may seem short, but you may get tired due to its high altitude. You need to go slowly. When you reach the stunning lagoon, you’ll have plenty of time to catch your breath, enjoy the fantastic scenery and contemplate its turquoise waters in contrast to the snowy backdrop. The views here are truly like something out of dreamland.

Once we return to camp, you will have time to enjoy a delicious dinner while watching the sunset behind the mountains. It’s hard to describe the energy of this place, but the inner peace is as close as it gets. Then it’s time to head back to your Sky Camp for a good night’s sleep and contemplate the constellations.

DAY 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayracmachay – Chaullay – Collpapampa (Mountain Sky View)

Highlight of the day: Witnessing the energy and hugely powerful gigantic Salkantay Mountain.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Sky View Campsite
Difficulty: Challenging
Walking Distance: 23.5 km / 14.6 mi
Walking Time: 10–11 hours
Starting Elevation: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
Min. Elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Highest Elevation: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
Campsite Elevation: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft

Today is the most challenging, but the reward will be great as you will get fantastic views of wonderful landscapes. After tasting our breakfast, we will hike for approximately three hours to the Salkantay pass, where we will spend time taking pictures of the incredible panorama. Afterward, we will descend through the cloud forest to the lunch spot before continuing to the jungle’s edge amidst exotic scenery. Finally, we will arrive at the exclusive Mountain Sky View Campsite in Collpapampa for the night.

In the morning, you will wake up with the day’s first rays and see the Apu Salkantay while enjoying an energizing coca tea. Afterward, you will have a nutritious breakfast before embarking on the 7 km trek for approximately three hours to the highest point of the route, the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft). It is a difficult ascent along the “path of the 7 snakes” because of its winding path.

Once at the top, you will appreciate the most magnificent view over the surrounding valleys and the Salkantay mountain right in front of you (6,271 m / 20,574 ft). It boasts the second-highest mountain in the Cusco region, and it’s considered an Apu (Inca God). You will also be able to observe the mountains: Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo. After enjoying the views and rest, you will start descending (7 km / 4.35 mi) to our lunch point at Huayracmachay (3,850 m / 12,631 ft). This section is rocky and steep but has impressive views of the surrounding valley.

After a revitalizing lunch, you will enter the edge of the rainforest, also known as the “cloud forest.” This section has a distance of 9.5 km / 5.9 mi and lasts approximately three and a half hours. Along the way, you will enjoy the verdant rainforest and witness how the scenery changes rapidly and drastically from the Andes to the Amazon. You will observe colorful landscapes, unique fauna, and native plants and feel the warmer climate.

After a long day of hiking, you will be glad to arrive at Collpapampa for the night. Finally, we will serve you a hearty meal before resting at our exclusive Mountain Sky View Campsite.

DAY 3: Collpapampa – La Playa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Highlight of the day: Hiking through the lush jungle and reaching the base of Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Difficulty: Challenging
Walking Distance: 19.5 km / 12.12 mi
Walking Time: 6 hours
Starting Elevation: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
Min. Elevation: 1,800 m / 5,906 ft
Highest Elevation: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
Accommodation Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft

The day begins early with tea and breakfast at camp before setting off on a scenic hike through the Santa Teresa Valley. Upon reaching Granadilla, a vehicle will take us to an authentic coffee experience where we’ll prepare our own cup of coffee. After a delicious lunch, we continue to the Hydroelectric train station, where you can either walk alongside the Urubamba River or take the train to Aguas Calientes. Once there, you’ll have time to settle into your hotel, visit the relaxing hot springs, and enjoy dinner at a renowned restaurant—recharging for tomorrow’s long-awaited visit to Machu Picchu.

Today begins at 6:00 a.m. with a warm cup of tea and a nourishing breakfast at camp. We’ll then set out on a scenic hike through the Santa Teresa Valley, following a gently descending trail that reveals spectacular views of rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and plantations of banana, coffee, and avocado. Keep your eyes open—if we’re lucky, we might spot the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Peru’s national bird.

Upon reaching the Granadilla sector, a private vehicle will be waiting to transfer us to La Playa, allowing us to arrive with plenty of energy and time to enjoy an authentic coffee experience. Here we’ll walk through the plantations, participate in the cultivation process, and finally roast, grind, and brew our very own cup of coffee.

After this enriching activity, we’ll enjoy lunch on site and then continue by vehicle to the Hydroelectric train station. From there, we’ll walk along the railway tracks surrounded by lush vegetation beside the Urubamba River. If you feel tired at this stage, you may also take the train to Aguas Calientes instead (not included in the program).

Once in Aguas Calientes, we’ll escort you to your hotel so you can check in and enjoy the comforts it offers. You’ll have free time to visit the town’s famous hot springs, the perfect way to relax after the hike. In the evening, we’ll gather for dinner at a prestigious restaurant before returning to the hotel to rest. Tomorrow, an unforgettable day awaits at the magnificent Machu Picchu citadel.

DAY 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Highlight of the day: Know every inch of the incredible lost city of the Incas: Machu Picchu.

Meals: Breakfast
Difficulty: Easy
Exploring Time: 2–3 hours exploring Machu Picchu (Optional Activities: Difficulty – Duration varies)
Machu Picchu Site Elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Optional Mountains:

Machu Picchu Mountain: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft (3–4 hours)
Huayna Picchu Mountain: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft (2 hours)
Huchuy Picchu Mountain: 2,497 m / 8,192 ft (1.5 hours)

Today our trip has an incredible ending, as you’ll wake up before dawn to reach the Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu, and thus avoid the arrival of large groups. In the morning, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of approximately two hours and then have the possibility to take one of the additional hikes on Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain that will allow you to get a fantastic view of the entire citadel.

In the afternoon, you’ll descend to Aguas Calientes and have time for lunch at a restaurant of your choice before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private transportation will be waiting for you to return to your accommodation in Cusco, taking the best memories of the trip with us.

Today’s the day you’ve longed since you set foot on the trail. You will visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu! We’ll wake up while it’s still dark after enjoying a restful night’s sleep in our hostel. We like to begin this final day early to beat the large crowds at Machu Picchu and enjoy the soft morning light hitting the massive rocks. The entrance opens at 6:00 am, and we want to be one of the first inside.

From Aguas Calientes, we’ll take a bus up to the Inca citadel before entering and gazing in awe at the incredible construction. Once in the complex, you’ll enjoy a tour of approximately two hours with your guide and visit the most essential parts: houses, temples, terraces, and cultivation fields, among others. You’ll truly be amazed by the Incas’ ingenuity, which remains a mystery to this day.

The ancient culture didn’t have modern tools or even iron or steel to work with. Those who constructed the city were geniuses in organizing this community sustainably and beautifully on the side of a mountain, even bringing water in canals and aqueducts through its streets for the people to use. When a Peruvian guide showed this site to Hiram Bingham, it was almost unrecognizable, covered in thick vegetation and disrepair. It has since been cleaned and restored and is now protected and treasured by the world.

After your incredible guided tour of the citadel, you’ll have the chance to enjoy one of the additional hikes up Huayna Picchu Mountain (2,720 m / 8,924 ft) or Machu Picchu Mountain (3,000 m / 9,843 ft); these tickets must be booked in advance. You’ll be able to contemplate an incredible view over the citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the best panoramas in the world.

You need to ensure you come back down to Aguas Calientes to enjoy some lunch before you catch the train back to Ollantaytambo. Your train time will depend on availability. In Ollantaytambo, our private transport will await you to transport you back to your accommodation in Cusco. You’ll now be able to enjoy a well-deserved rest, although your heart will be soaring high in the Andes like a condor for years to come.

Inclusions

What's included

Permits & Entrance Tickets: Entry to Humantay Lake & the Salkantay Trek.
Permits & Entrance Tickets: Entry to Machu Picchu Archaeological Site (Circuit 2 offers the most complete route, with Circuit 3-B or 1-B as alternatives based on availability; booking 3 months in advance is strongly recommended).
Pre-departure Briefing: Held at our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 p.m. the evening before the trek.
Experienced Tour Guide: Professional, bilingual (English/Spanish), certified in first aid, and passionate about Peruvian culture and history.
One Duffle Bag: To pack personal belongings (maximum 5 kg / 11 lb), carried by staff/mules.
Medical Kit or First Aid Kit: Carried by your guide, includes basic emergency supplies and oxygen.
Backpack Cover: For comfort and protection on the trail.
Professional long-range walkie-talkies: For optimal communication and coordination.
Accommodation: Sky Camp (Soraypampa) with igloos (Day 1).
Accommodation: Mountain Sky View Campsite (Collpapampa) with private glamping cabins (Day 2).
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Day 3) with double, matrimonial, or triple room, private bathroom, hot shower, WiFi, breakfast, and luggage storage.
Meals: 4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, and 3 Dinners prepared by Andean chefs.
Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian, vegan, or special menus available at no extra cost.
Water on the Trail: Boiled, warm water provided after each meal for refilling your water bottle/camel bag.
Wake-up tea: Hot coca tea delivered to your bed on Day 2.
Tea Time or Happy Hour: Popcorn, cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, tea, and hot water served every afternoon.
Daily snacks on the trail: Cloth bag with local fruits, cookies, chocolate, caramels, etc., refilled daily.
One cloth snack bag per person: For snacks and keeping the environment clean.
Transportation: Private pickup from your Cusco hotel to Challacancha on Day 1.
Transportation: Private vehicle from Granadilla to Hidroeléctrica on Day 3.
Transportation: Private vehicle from Ollantaytambo train station to your Cusco hotel on Day 4.
One-Way Bus Ticket: From Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on Day 4.
Train Ticket: From Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition Machu Picchu by PeruRail or The Voyager by Inca Rail, subject to availability).
Personal belongings transportation: Duffle bag carried by pack mules, private vehicle, or train during trekking days.

What's not included

Sleeping Bag: Rental available for $20.00 USD per person.
Trekking Poles: Rental available for $20.00 USD per person.
Huayna Picchu Mountain entrance ticket: $60.00 USD per person (must be booked 2-3 months in advance).
Machu Picchu Mountain entrance ticket: $60.00 USD per person (must be booked in advance).
Return bus ticket (Consettur) from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on Day 4 (if a round-trip ticket is desired, an extra $12.00 USD).
Lunch in Aguas Calientes and Dinner in Cusco on Day 4.
Optional Horseback Ride from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake on Day 1.
Optional Horseback Ride from Soraypampa to Salkantay Pass on Day 2.
Optional train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes on Day 3 (from $41.00 USD per person).
Personal Hiking Clothing and Gear not listed as included.
Travel Insurance.
Tips for our staff (guides, cooks, horsemen).
Additional costs or delays beyond our control (e.g., landslides, adverse weather, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illnesses, pandemics, strikes, force majeure, etc.).
Single Supplement for hotel at Aguas Calientes: $35.00 USD.
Extra Night at Aguas Calientes: From $60.00 to $100.00 USD.
Vistadome Train upgrade (Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo): From $70.00 to $150.00 USD.

Packing List

The 4-Day Salkantay Trek is an unforgettable adventure that takes you through towering snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear glacial lakes, and lush cloud forests before reaching Machu Picchu. Along the way, you’ll experience dramatic changes in scenery and climate, making it essential to pack wisely and carry only the essentials for a comfortable trek.

Passport (original)
25–30 L day backpack
Waterproof hiking boots
Warm jacket (down or fleece)
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
Hiking pants
Thermal base layer
Hat, gloves, and beanie
Sunglasses
Sunscreen and lip balm
Insect repellent
Reusable water bottle (at least 2 L)
Personal medications
Headlamp
Power bank
Trekking poles (recommended)
Small amount of cash
Snacks (energy bars, nuts, or chocolate)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the luggage policy for items not carried by mules?
Your main luggage and any items not needed for the trek can be stored safely and free of charge at our office in Cusco or at your hotel. We recommend placing valuable items in your hotel safe and obtaining an itemized receipt for peace of mind.

2. Is travel insurance required for this trek?
While not explicitly stated as mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended for all participants. It should ideally cover unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, high-altitude sickness, and evacuation, as additional costs due to unforeseen circumstances are not covered by the tour operator.

3. Are there any age restrictions for participants on the Salkantay Trek?
The text does not specify an age limit, but it emphasizes that the trek is ‘Moderate to Challenging’ and requires good physical condition and acclimatization. Participants 17 years old or younger may qualify for a student discount with a valid passport copy. This trek is generally not recommended for very young children or elderly individuals with significant health conditions without prior consultation with a doctor and the tour operator.

4. What should I expect regarding weather conditions during the trek?
The weather in the Andean region can vary drastically and change rapidly, even within a single day. You should be prepared for diverse conditions, ranging from cold temperatures at high altitudes (with potential for snow or hail near the Salkantay Pass) to warmer, humid climates in the cloud forest and jungle at lower elevations. Packing in layers is crucial. Please note that the trek does not operate in February due to the rainy season.

5. Are there bathroom facilities available along the trekking route?
While our exclusive campsites, Sky Camp and Mountain Sky View, offer shared or private bathrooms and showers, it is important to be prepared for more rustic bathroom facilities during the daytime hiking segments. Your guides will provide advice on appropriate spots in remote areas, but trekkers should expect basic conditions when away from the established camps.

Starting at

$530per person

4.9

37 Reviews

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Customer Experience

      
   Trails to Machu Picchu
   45 Tripadvisor reviews 
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   Rachel C 
 
 
 
 Verified Thanks Richard Did this four day Salkantay Trek with them as the Inca Trail was sold out. It was very pleasant experience and Richard, our guide took great effort inmaking this trip a memorable one. The camping sites were located in quiet parts of the trek, giving us opportunity to get good rest after a day full of hike. The food were all freshly cooked and authentic. Highly recommend
  
 
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   Jeniffer P 
 
 
 
 Verified Immervie, cultural and traditional I booked this four day Choquequirao trek after not being able to hike the Inca Trail due to lack of availability. The trip was very well organised, the tour company took care of everything from transport and food to accomodation and entrance tickets. The guide was very nice and spoke good English. The site itself was very less crowded and scenic. Higly recommend visiting Choquequirao if you want to know more about the Incas history.
  
 
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   Erick W 
 
 
 
 Verified Thanks Richard! Did this two day trek with Richard, our guide. He was very friendly, informative and passionate to share his knowledge about the local traditions and customs. The trek included all meals and were all freshly cooked. The camping sites were located overlooking the valley. The red valley trip was the highlight and i truly enjoyed it more than the rainbow mountain.
  
 
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   Valery H 
 
 
 
 Verified Viaje mágico ✨️ I took the 4-day, 3-night tour to Choquequirao, and it was definitely an amazing experience. The organization was excellent, the service was outstanding throughout, and the team was always attentive and professional. Plus, the atmosphere was super fun, which made the whole trip even more special. I highly recommend this tour company if you're looking for a well-planned adventure full of great moments 😉
  
 
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   Miguel Ángel M 
 
 
 
 Verified Choquequirao Hi everyone, I highly recommend the Choquequirao tour (the one I did) with this agency because of all my options, it offered the best guaranteed service. There were no problems, so I'm very satisfied.
  
 
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   Navigate03655434048 
 
 
 
 Verified Recommended I did the Machu Picchu-Inca Trail tour with this agency, 100% recommended guys, the service was excellent and seeing all these places was simply beautiful
  
 
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   Navigator25956226682 
 
 
 
 Verified A really wonderfull experience Visiting Manu National Park with this agency was truly the best choice! 👌 The Peruvian rainforest is truly magnificent and wonderful, and the agency really gives you the opportunity to experience the best of it.
  
 
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   Luis 
 
 
 
 Verified A Remarkable Journey to Choquequirao An unforgettable 5-star adventure to Choquequirao, with breathtaking views, incredible Inca ruins, and a true sense of untouched beauty throughout the trek. The experience was made even better by our tour guide, Richard, who was knowledgeable, funny, and kind—he kept us motivated, shared fascinating insights, and made every moment along the journey even more enjoyable.
  
 
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   Nancy M 
 
 
 
 Verified The trip of my dreams!!! I'm Nancy and I loved the experience we had with the tour. We had a wonderful experience to remember. The service was excellent, punctual, and professional from everyone who accompanied us. We'll definitely be back, thank you so much! 🤗
  
 
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   rocio c 
 
 
 
 Verified beautiful experience We had an unforgettable experience with this company visiting Manu National Park for two days. My family and I are very happy to have enjoyed such a well-organized tour. We saw monkeys, birds, snakes, capybaras, caimans, and much more. Thank you for this great experience, Trails to Machu Picchu.

      
   Trails to Machu Picchu
   11 Google reviews 
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       Posted on Google  
   
   Fede 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I did the Machu Picchu-Inca Trail tour with this agency, 100% recommended guys, the service was excellent and seeing all these places was simply beautiful
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   sofi_so 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Visiting Manu National Park with this agency was truly the best choice! 👌 The Peruvian rainforest is truly magnificent and wonderful, and the agency really gives you the opportunity to experience the best of it.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Luis Fernando Chullo Ochoa 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tuvimos un viaje inolvidable al parque manu de 2 dias 1 noche. Fue un tour inolvidable para nosotro y lo disfrutamod al maximo. Esta agencia de viajes es muy recomendable, desde el transporte, aalimentacion, guiado profecional y toda la logistica muy bien organizada gracias por todo señores de traisl to machupicchu
  
 
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   David Soncco C. (D.v.D) 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fue uno bonita experiencia realizar el tour al Parque Nacional del Manu por 3 días, los guías super buenísimos que  nos ayudaron a llevarnos una bonita experiencia, muy atentos y super divertidos!!!
  
 
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   Ahsan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. They made my day 😊⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  
 
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   Ahsan Visa services 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience with them, recommended
  
 
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   DivCode 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very good tour that I have done, highly recommended to know the Inca Trail🙂😌
  
 
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   Nelly Montalvo Pacco 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tuvimos la oportunidad de ir con mi familia a conocer Cusco y la experiancia fue única, lo pasamos muy bien desde el transporte, nuestro guía fue muy profesional, la alimentación   excelente. Hizo que mi estancia fuera realmente memorable. Estamos muy agradecidos y recomendamos la Agencia de viajes.
  
 
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   david abraham soto lopez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Buen servicio... me encanto el Guiado de la agencia ... siempre atentos y aclarando cada duda y pregunta con mucho conocimiento.