Salkantay
Machu Picchu at sunrise with misty mountains

September 12-20, 2026 • Peru

Machu Picchu
Retreat

An 8-day journey through the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Sleep in glass cabanas and hobbit houses, and discover one of the world's greatest wonders with fellow adventurers.

Apply here

The Journey

More Than a Trek

This isn't just a hike to Machu Picchu. It's a curated experience designed to awaken your sense of adventure and create lifelong memories.

Person sitting by turquoise Humantay Lagoon with snow-capped mountains

Turquoise Humantay Lagoon

Hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon with its stunning turquoise waters reflecting the glacier peak at 5,960m elevation.

Interior of geodesic glass dome at twilight with mountain views

Glass Cabanas & Domes

Sleep beneath the stars in luxury glass cabanas overlooking the Salkantay glacier, and panoramic domes with views of the Milky Way.

Row of hobbit-style houses with green round doors and grass roofs

Hobbit Houses

Rest in our fully equipped Hobbit Houses with hot showers, nestled in a magical forest environment along the Salkantay River.

Hands picking ripe coffee beans

Authentic Coffee Farm

Visit a local coffee farm, pick fresh beans, and taste Peru's world-famous coffee at its source in the cloud forest.

Camping tents at Llactapata with dramatic mountain views at sunrise

Llactapata Machu Picchu Views

Experience an exclusive campsite at Llactapata with a privileged view of Machu Picchu before you even arrive at the citadel.

Hikers trekking through diverse Peruvian landscapes

Diverse Ecosystems

Journey through highland deserts, cloud forests, alpine lagoons, and tropical jungle—experiencing dramatic changes in landscape each day.

The Plan

8 Days of Adventure

Every detail has been carefully planned so you can focus on the experience.

Day 1

Arrival in Cusco

Arrive in Cusco and settle into your hotel. Meet your fellow adventurers over a welcome dinner. Rest and acclimatize to the altitude at 3,400m.

Arrival day • AcclimatizationHotel in Cusco
Day 2

Cusco Exploration

Explore the ancient Incan capital. Visit historic sites, local markets, and prepare for the trek ahead. Evening briefing with your guides.

Cultural exploration • Trek preparationHotel in Cusco
Day 3

Cusco to Soraypampa & Humantay Lagoon

Early pickup from Cusco at 4:00 AM. Trek to Soraypampa, then hike to the stunning turquoise Humantay Lagoon. Evening cooking class and dinner. Sleep in Glass Cabanas beneath the stars with glacier views.

10 km • 5-6 hours • +500m elevationGlass Cabanas
Day 4

Salkantay Pass to Wayracmachay

The most challenging and rewarding day. Cross the mighty Salkantay Pass at 4,630m—the highest point of the trek. Descend into the lush valley with panoramic views of the glacier.

11 km • 6-7 hours • -2,530m elevationGlass Domes
Day 5

Cloud Forest to Hobbit Houses

Enter the lush high jungle filled with warm breezes and exotic wildlife. Hike through tropical vegetation, waterfalls, and coffee fields to reach our magical Hobbit Houses with hot showers.

20 km • 7-8 hours • +600m/-1,000mHobbit Houses
Day 6

Llactapata to Aguas Calientes

Hike the original Inca Trail to Llactapata with your first breathtaking views of Machu Picchu across the valley. Continue along railway tracks through the canyon to Aguas Calientes.

Cultural & historical day • Views of Machu PicchuHotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 7

Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco

The pinnacle of your journey! Early bus to Machu Picchu for sunrise. Guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Optional Huayna Picchu hike. Train back to Ollantaytambo, transfer to Cusco.

One of the New Seven Wonders of the WorldHotel in Cusco
Day 8

Farewell & Departure

Enjoy a final breakfast with your new friends. Share stories and exchange contact information. Transfer to the airport or continue your Peru adventure.

Departure day • Lifelong memoriesDeparture

The Details

Everything You Need

I've taken care of all the logistics so you can focus on the adventure.

What's Included

  • Glass Cabanas, Glass Domes, Hobbit Houses & Aguas Calientes hotel
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Professional bilingual guides (university-trained)
  • Machu Picchu entrance tickets (Circuit 2)
  • Train tickets from Ollantaytambo
  • Personal porters (7kg included)
  • Private toilet tents on the trail
  • Satellite phone for safety
  • Hot showers at accommodations
  • Cooking class and happy hour
  • Transfer from Cusco and back

What's Not Included

  • International flights to Cusco
  • Travel insurance (required)
  • Personal gear and clothing
  • Tips for guides, porters, and chefs
  • Huayna Picchu add-on hike
  • Hot springs entry fee (10 soles)
  • Lunch on final day in Aguas Calientes
Your guide on the Salkantay trek

Your Host

Why I Created This Retreat

Three years ago, I stood at the Sun Gate watching sunrise over Machu Picchu, and it changed everything. The Salkantay trek pushed me physically and mentally, but what I found was a profound sense of connection—to nature, to ancient history, and to the strangers who became friends along the way.

I've met so many people who dream of doing Machu Picchu but never pull the trigger. Maybe it feels overwhelming to plan. Maybe they don't want to go alone. Maybe they just need someone to say "I've got you."

This retreat is my answer. I've done the research, built the relationships with local guides, and designed an experience that removes all the friction. You show up, and I'll take care of the rest.

This is for those craving adventure and connection. For anyone who's ready to see one of the seven wonders of the world and have a journey of a lifetime getting there.

Questions

Got Questions?

Here are answers to the most common questions. Still curious? Reach out anytime.

Limited Spots

Ready for the Adventure?

Only 12 spots available. Apply now to secure your place on this unforgettable journey.

Sept 12-20, 2026
Max 12 adventurers
Cusco, Peru
Apply here