Our trips are specially designed for solo (ish) travelers, and most women join without knowing anyone else beforehand.

To help everyone connect, we create a dedicated pre-trip WhatsApp group where you can meet your fellow Ramblers, coordinate travel plans, and share training and preparation tips before the adventure begins.

This journey includes a lot of walking and some challenging hiking.

This trek is designed for travellers in good physical health.

You’ll be hiking at high altitudes (up to 4,620 m) across varied terrain, so a basic level of fitness is important.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns about altitude, please speak with your doctor before the trip.

You’ll be trekking through high-altitude terrain, crossing mountain passes, and walking several hours a day on uneven paths and steep inclines.

The air will be thinner at higher elevations, and the weather can shift quickly, adding to the adventure.

While no technical climbing is involved, the Salkantay Trek is considered strenuous and best suited for those with a good level of fitness and a sense of adventure.

Regular walkers, hikers, or anyone who enjoys being active will find it deeply rewarding — with breathtaking mountain scenery, Andean villages, and moments of awe that make every step worthwhile.

During the Salkantay Trek, we’ll take regular breaks to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the incredible scenery — from sweeping valleys to snow-capped peaks.

The pace will be steady but unhurried, allowing time to catch your breath and take in the views.

It's important for the group to remain together on the trail.

The terrain is remote, and weather conditions can change quickly, so staying as a group ensures everyone’s safety and allows the guide to manage the pace and wellbeing of all Ramblers.

Even if for those Ramblers feeling strong or eager to move ahead, we'll ask that you stay within sight of the guide and your fellow Ramblers — this is a shared journey, and supporting one another along the trail is part of what makes it so special.

Boiled and filtered drinking water is provided each day at mealtimes and refill stops, so be sure to bring reusable bottles or a hydration bladder.

Campsites have basic toilet facilities—some squat, some flush—but toilet paper isn’t supplied, so pack your own along with small ziplock bags for rubbish.

There are no showers available during the trek, so bring wet wipes and a small towel to freshen up, and don’t forget essentials like hand sanitiser and insect repellent.

Once you reach the hotels in Aguas Calientes and Cusco, you’ll have access to full modern facilities again.

This trip travels through regions of high altitude, including sections of the Salkantay Trek where elevations reach over 4,600 meters (15,000 feet).

At these heights, the air contains less oxygen, and it’s common to feel the effects of altitude — such as shortness of breath, headaches, or fatigue.

You’ll spend time in Cusco (3,450 m) before starting the trek to help you acclimatise. Our local guide is trained in altitude awareness and first aid, and they’ll monitor everyone’s well being throughout the journey.

The itinerary is designed to allow gradual acclimatization, with opportunities to rest and hydrate along the way.

Porters and pack horses carry most of your gear, including tents and cooking equipment during the tred.

You’ll receive a duffel bag (5 kg limit) at your trek briefing for your personal items, including your sleeping bag.

Your main luggage will remain safely stored in Cusco.

You’ll only need to carry a small daypack with water (2 L minimum), snacks and personal items such as sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a camera, along with a rain jacket and warm layer, personal medication and small first aid items, and some cash for small purchases or tips.

Most travellers bring a small or medium-sized wheeled suitcase that’s easy to manage through airports, hotels, and transfers.

You’ll also need a daypack for your daily essentials during the hike.

Before the trek, you’ll be provided with a small duffel bag to carry your items on the trail — this will be transported for you each day.

The duffel has a strict 5 kg weight limit, including your sleeping bag, and the rest of your luggage will be safely stored in Cusco.

For the trek itself, you’ll need your original passport (photocopies are not accepted), a warm three- or four-season sleeping bag, and a comfortable daypack with space for layers, snacks, and water.

Make sure you can carry at least two litres of water each day, using either a hydration bladder or refillable bottles.

Good, well-broken-in hiking boots are essential — waterproof, supportive, and comfortable.

Trekking poles are optional and can be rented locally.

A headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries will also come in handy, as there are no electrical outlets on the trail.

When it comes to clothing, think in layers. Pack two pairs of hiking pants, a few quick-dry T-shirts, one pair of shorts, and warm gear for cooler evenings — including a fleece, hat, and gloves.

Thermal layers are invaluable for cold nights, and a rain jacket or poncho is essential (a reusable poncho is provided). Bring several pairs of thick hiking socks and lightweight sandals or flip-flops to wear around camp.

You’ll also need sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for daytime protection, along with a small first aid kit and any personal medications.

Insect repellent, antiseptic hand gel, and wet wipes are very useful, as are a small towel, toilet paper, and sealable bags for waste.

A phone and charger (noting no outlets to charge), a few favourite snacks, and dry bags to protect clothing and electronics from moisture are also recommended.

Focus on comfort, warmth, and quick-drying fabrics — every item should earn its place in your pack. The lighter you travel, the freer and more comfortable you’ll feel as you take on this unforgettable trek through the heart of the Andes.

On the Salkantay Trek, you’ll experience an incredible variety of terrain — it’s one of the things that makes this journey so special.

You’ll start in the high Andes near Cusco, surrounded by dramatic snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes. The trail then climbs over the Salkantay Pass (around 4,600 m / 15,000 ft), where the landscape is rocky, windswept, and truly awe-inspiring.

From there, the terrain changes dramatically as you descend into lush cloud forests and tropical jungle, passing waterfalls, rivers, and small mountain villages. Expect uneven paths, stone steps, and muddy or dusty sections depending on the weather.

It’s a challenging trek that requires good fitness and some stamina, but it rewards you with constantly changing scenery — from alpine tundra to rainforest — and unforgettable views all along the way.

The Sole Sister Ramblers Salkantay Trek itinerary has been custom-crafted to offer a deeper, more balanced journey through Peru’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.

Unlike the standard itinerary, this experience unfolds at a more mindful pace — extended by four extra nights to allow for slower travel, richer exploration, and meaningful connection.

The adventure begins with the group flying together from Lima to Cusco, sharing the excitement of arrival in the Andes, and includes an additional night in Cusco to gently acclimate to the altitude and wander its cobbled streets and colourful markets.

Along the way, you’ll stay in upgraded four-star accommodations that blend comfort with character, offering welcome touches of luxury after days spent hiking through high mountain passes and lush valleys.

The journey concludes back in Lima with a city tour that ties the story together — from the soaring peaks of Salkantay to the coastal charm of Peru’s capital — creating a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that beautifully balances challenge, culture, and connection.

Intrepid Travel experiences offer the chance to explore beyond the typical attractions, helping you discover hidden gems you might otherwise overlook.

Your local guide will recommend the best restaurants and sights along the way, introduce you to unique aspects of local culture — from food and drink to customs and traditions — and assist with translations when needed.

It’s also comforting to know that all trip participants will be like-minded women close to your age. This shared stage of life means you’ll likely have common interests, plenty of laughter, and the opportunity to form lasting friendships.

And when your trek ends, the journey doesn’t — you’ll stay connected through the vibrant Sole Sister Rambler community, where the spirit of adventure and sisterhood continues to thrive.

Intrepid and their local guides collaborate with local restaurants and hotels to ensure that travelers enjoy delicious meals showcasing regional cuisines.

Peruvian food is a vibrant fusion of ancient Andean traditions and global influences, creating one of the world’s most diverse and exciting cuisines.

From the coast to the highlands, each region has its own flavour story — fresh ceviche marinated in lime and chilli on the Pacific, hearty quinoa and potato stews in the Andes, and Chinese-Peruvian stir-fries like lomo saltado in the cities.

Colourful peppers, aromatic herbs, and native ingredients such as corn, sweet potatoes, and hundreds of potato varieties bring warmth and depth to every meal.

All meals are freshly prepared by the trek chef during the trek.

Expect hearty Andean-inspired dishes such as soups, rice, quinoa, potatoes, fresh vegetables, and meats.

Special diets including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free can be accommodated with prior notice, though options may be simpler than what you’re used to at home.

Light snacks like fruit, biscuits, and hot drinks are provided, but it’s a good idea to bring a few of your own favourites—energy bars, nuts, or chocolate—especially if you have specific dietary needs.

Travelling as a vegetarian or vegan in Peru is both rewarding and entirely possible, though it helps to plan ahead.

The country’s cuisine is rich in fresh, local ingredients like quinoa, corn, beans, and an astonishing variety of potatoes and fruits, which makes it naturally friendly to plant-based eaters.

In cities such as Lima and Cusco, vegetarian and vegan restaurants are easy to find, and many others are happy to adapt dishes when asked.

However, in smaller towns and on treks, traditional meals often include meat, fish, or broths made with animal stock, so it’s best to let your guide or hosts know your dietary preferences in advance.

Simple local staples like quinoa soup, vegetable stews, rice and beans, and grilled corn are widely available and delicious in the cities.

You may want to pack snacks for the trek.

Expect early starts—usually between 5:00 and 6:00 AM. You’ll be woken with a hot drink at your tent, followed by breakfast before setting off around sunrise.

Days include steady hiking with rest breaks, lunch stops, and time to relax at camp in the afternoons.

Your adventure begins and ends in Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital — a city where colonial charm meets modern creativity along the dramatic cliffs of the Pacific coast.

Known as the culinary capital of South America, Lima offers world-class dining and local flavours alike, from elegant ceviche bars to bustling neighbourhood markets.

You can stroll through the historic centre with its grand plazas and ornate churches, explore the bohemian streets of Barranco filled with art and music, or watch surfers and sunsets along the Malecón in Miraflores.

You will be accompanied by a local Intrepid tour leader and a Sole Sister Ramblers host.

The local tour leader’s role is to ensure a hassle-free adventure while introducing you to excellent restaurants, sharing insights about the local culture, and acting as a translator when needed.

The guide is also responsible for your safety and will serve as an experienced liaison if you encounter any problems.

Intrepid local leaders do more than just show you the destination; they help you connect with the soul of the place. You can expect them to have a broad understanding of the locations visited, including their historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects.

The Sole Sister host will ensure that everyone is having fun and promote a welcoming and inclusive experience, dedicated to our motto: "Everywhere is within Rambling distance with Sole Sisters."

Accommodations are two twin beds with double occupancy in well-rated (3-4 star) local hotels and guest houses.

Ramblers can also purchase a single occupancy add-on. If you pay for a single occupancy, you will have a single room throughout and your own tent.

All hotel rooms will have en-suite bathrooms and all essential amenities.

During the Salkantay Trek, you’ll stay in twin-share expedition tents that the porters set up for you each day.

If you book a single supplement, you’ll have your own tent.

Foam mats are provided, and you can bring or rent a sleeping bag (a -5°C to -10°C comfort rating is recommended).

Pillows aren’t provided, so bring a small travel pillow if you prefer.

Campsites are in spectacular locations—beneath snow-capped peaks, in lush jungle valleys, and under clear Andean skies perfect for stargazing.

Tipping is a local tradition and a great way to thank the trekking team.

Recommended amounts per traveller for the entire trek are PEN 120–150 (about USD 36–45) for the horsemen and cooks, PEN 20–30 (about USD 6–9) for the assistant trek leader, and PEN 30–40 (about USD 9–12) for the trek leader.

Small notes are best for dividing the tips at the end of the trek.

The main airport in Lima is Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM).

There are no arrival or departure transfers for this adventure. The group will meet in Lima Peru on the day the trip begins.

Once the tour reaches the minimum number of participants, Intrepid will email all participants, informing them that the tour is guaranteed and that it's time to book their flights!

You can ask Intrepid to help you plan travel and chat about options in the dedicated trip WhatsApp Group.

When you book, Intrepid will ask for a deposit and the final balance will be due on a certain amount of days before departure.

You will have access to a personal Intrepid portal, which you can log in to and pay money off when you feel like it before the final balance is due.

Intrepid will send a payment link, but if you prefer to pay directly to them via an in-person agent, you can choose to do that instead.

Intrepid Travel is focused on balancing purpose with profit. In 2018, they formalized this commitment by becoming a certified B Corporation.

Certified B Corporations prioritize their employees, strive for a more inclusive supply chain, and elevate corporate social responsibility. This certification signifies their dedication to creating benefits for everyone.

Intrepid's official pledge is to utilize travel as a force for good in the world.

The following is not included in the price: international flights, required visas, services not mentioned in the itinerary, late check-out at hotels, meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary, drinks with included lunches and dinners, tips for leaders, guide and driver, expenditure of personal nature, personal insurance and optional activities.

To travel internationally, you will need a valid passport. Most countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months, so be sure to check its expiry date before your trip.

Intrepid will need your passport information to prepare for your journey, so the details on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please ensure that you provide accurate information.

We also recommend that you carry a copy of the photo page of your passport while traveling and leave an additional copy at home with family or friends.

You are responsible for checking and addressing visa requirements from your country of origin.

Check current health advice before travel. Dengue, yellow fever, and malaria are present in parts of Peru - discuss vaccinations and prevention (including mosquito repellent) with your doctor.

Cancellation By You

The cancellation terms below will apply if you cancel some or all portions of your booking before the trip departs.  

A cancellation will only be effective once an Intrepid sales representative has received written confirmation from you that you wish to cancel.

Intrepid will apply the deposit and all other payments for the trip we received from you toward the cancellation fees that were outlined to you when you book. Be sure to review these when you book and ask for clarification if required.

If you cancel your booking and the amount you have already paid does not cover the cancellation fees, you must pay the difference between the amount you have paid and the cancellation fee applied. 

By accepting the Booking Conditions when you booked, you authorized Intrepid to automatically charge the payment card you used to secure the booking.

If you cancel a private co-branded departure such as a Sole Sister Ramblers X Intrepid adventure the following also applies:

(a) 70 days or more before departure, we will hold your deposit amount as a credit you can use towards a future trip;

(b) 69 days or fewer before departure, we charge a cancellation fee of 100% of the total booking cost; 

Any Deposit Credit you are entitled to may not be applied to the same or similar travel dates.

If you leave a trip for any reason after it has started, Intrepid is not required to provide any refunds for unused services.

If you fail to join the trip, join it after it has begun, or leave before it ends, no refunds will be issued.

These cancellation terms are in addition to any fees that may be charged by accommodation providers, travel agents, or third-party tour and transport operators.

If one or more members of a party cancel, it may result in an increase in the per-person price for those who continue to travel, and you will be responsible for paying this increase.

Please be sure to discuss Intrepid's full cancellation policy and ensure you understand when you book your adventure with the Intrepid team!

Intrepid is committed to ensuring that all its trips are safe for everyone involved, including travelers, local leaders, and the communities they visit.

Their health and safety policies align with recommendations from the World Health Organization and the World Travel & Tourism Council's Safe Travel protocols for tour operators.

Each itinerary undergoes a thorough risk assessment and audit, and both leaders and suppliers complete extensive health and safety training.