Salkantay trek & Classic Inca Trail to Machupicchu
The Salkantay & Inca Trail Trek is a highly recommended route for travelers seeking unforgetable experiences while still being able to witness the historical significance and archaeological wonders of the original Inca Trail. This trek offers a remarkable journey, starting from the Apurimac River watershed and leading to the Urubamba River, encompassing the breathtaking Mount Salkantay, the second-largest mountain in the Cusco region at 6,277 meters (20,577 feet), offers a breathtaking trekking experience. This remarkable trail winds its way through high mountain ranges, descends into steep valleys, and takes you through enchanting pockets of misty cloud forest. Along the way, you'll immerse yourself in the wildest landscapes and witness the rich tapestry of ancient traditions and remarkable archaeological sites. The journey encompasses a range of diverse ecological zones teeming with a remarkable variety of plants and birdlife. As you follow this ancient and remote footpath, you'll encounter archaeological sites, all leading you towards the architectural and cultural splendor of Machu Picchu itself.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa
Your Andean mountain adventure kicks off at 5 am as we pick you up from your hotel in our private van and head towards the trailhead at Soraypampa. Along the way, you'll pass through two charming indigenous villages known as Iscuchaca and Limatambo. Additionally, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of picturesque valleys and the iconic snow-capped Salkantay Mountain.
Upon reaching the Soraypampa trailhead, we'll fuel up with breakfast while taking in the breathtaking vistas of the Humantay (19,356 feet) and Salkantay (20,396 feet) mountain glaciers. Next, we embark on a 2.5-hour round-trip hike to the mesmerizing turquoise Humantay Lake. Following this, it's about an hour and a half ascent to Salkantaypampa, where we have appetizers and hot drinks waiting for you, all against the backdrop of the majestic glacier. You'll have ample time to settle into your pre-prepared tents before dinner.
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
• Accommodation: Camping facilities, Andean Huts
• Distance: 13kms/8.1 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Salkantaypampa – Pampajaponesa.
Your guide will gently wake you with a steaming mug of tea or coffee to savor within the cozy confines of your tent before breakfast. Today's adventure takes us further off the beaten path as we ascend for approximately 3 hours. Along the way, we pause for a leisurely lunch amidst the stunning scenery, and then continue our trek for another 3 hours until we reach our campsite, located just about a kilometer from the awe-inspiring Salkantay Mountain, crowned with its eternal snowcaps. En route, you'll be treated to magnificent vistas of the surrounding snow-clad peaks, glacial lakes, and breathtaking valleys. As the day draws to a close, we gather for afternoon tea and appetizers before indulging in a satisfying dinner.
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
• Accommodation: Camping facilities
• Distance: 14kms/8.7 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
Day 3: Pampajaponesa – Sisaypampa
Indulge in another warm beverage within the comfort of your sleeping bag before savoring a delicious and filling breakfast. Our day commences with a leisurely uphill ascent lasting approximately 4 hours, leading us to the Incachiriaska Pass (4,880m/16,010ft), a name that translates to "the place where the Inca cools down." In the rocky crags of this area, you'll find the Andean Condor, the world's largest flying bird, gracefully soaring in the skies. Your guide will be there to assist you in keeping a vigilant watch for a chance to catch a glimpse of this majestic creature. From this point, the trail levels off, descending gently until we arrive at our campsite for the night at Sisaypampa.
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
• Accommodation: Camping facilities
• Distance: 10kms/6.2 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Sisaypampa – Wayllabamba- Llulluchapampa
Following a delightful breakfast, we bid farewell to our horsemen. From here onward, your camping equipment will be carried by our dedicated porters. We set out on our hike towards the end of the valley, which then opens up into a broader expanse known as Pampacahua. Here, we encounter an operational Inca Canal still actively used by local farming communities. As we journey through Pampacahua, we come across our first Inca archaeological site, Paucarcancha, which we pass by on our way to Wayllabamba, where we pause for lunch. At this juncture, you are treading upon the Classic Inca Trail, following in the footsteps of the Inca themselves!
After a satisfying and delicious lunch, we continue to trek for another 3 hours through the scenic Llullucha Valley, reaching our campsite at Llulluchapampa. Here, we indulge in afternoon tea amidst the backdrop of expansive mountain views.
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
• Accommodation: Camping facilities
• Distance: 11kms/6.8 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
During the Salkantay portion of the trek, pack horses will transport your camping gear. However, to preserve the Inca Trail, horses are not permitted on that route. Therefore, for this segment of your journey, porters will shoulder the responsibility of carrying your camping equipment.
Day 5: Lluluchapampa – Pacaymayu – Phuyupatamarca.
In the early morning hours, we savor a hearty breakfast before embarking on a 2-hour climb, tracing the footsteps of the original Inca path. Our destination: the Warmiwañusqa Pass, also known as the Dead Woman’s Pass, towering at an elevation of 4,217 meters (14,047 feet). From this vantage point, we are treated to a magnificent panorama, looking back at the valley we've just ascended and gazing ahead at the trail that awaits us on the other side.
Descending along the Inca Trail, where stones have been meticulously reconstructed in some sections, we make our way to the Pacaymayu River for a well-deserved lunch break. Following this rejuvenating pause, we undertake a 2-hour uphill trek towards the Runcurakay Pass, situated at an elevation of 3,977 meters (13,127 feet). Here, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, an experience beyond compare.
Subsequently, we begin a 3-hour descent to our overnight stop, Phuyupatamarca, nestled at an altitude of 3,650 meters (12,047 feet). This is where we will spend the night, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Andean landscape.
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
• Accommodation: Camping facilities
• Distance: 16kms/9.9 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate/Challenge
Day 6: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna – Aguas Calientes
Today marks the most enchanting day of our trek. We kickstart our morning with an early breakfast, relishing the sunrise along with captivating vistas of the Urubamba Canyon, the Machu Picchu Mountain, and the awe-inspiring Inca sites.
Following this delightful meal, we embark on a 2-hour descent through the enchanting cloud forest, arriving at Wiñay Wayna in time for lunch. Afterward, we continue our journey, walking for approximately 1 hour until we reach the Sun Gate, a vantage point that affords us our first mesmerizing view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding majestic mountains.
From there, we descend to the heart of the Machu Picchu Citadel. Our entry is unique, as we access the Citadel from the top through the "House of the Guardians," offering you the opportunity to capture the iconic postcard pictures of Machu Picchu. After capturing these unforgettable memories, we board a shuttle to Aguas Calientes, where we share a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, concluding the day with an overnight stay at a hotel.
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
• 3* Accommodation: Hotel Ferre´Machu Picchu or
• Distance: 12kms/7.5 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
Day 7: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
This is the day you've eagerly awaited! Following an early breakfast at your hotel, you'll catch one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu, ensuring you're there to witness the breathtaking sunrise—an experience not to be missed! Your guide will lead you on a two-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, providing insights into the most significant features of the Machu Picchu Citadel.
After the tour, those who have pre-booked the additional hike up Huayna Picchu will have the opportunity to enjoy those panoramic views at their own pace. Once you've absorbed the exceptional vistas of Machu Picchu, you'll take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may also have some spare time for shopping, sightseeing, or a visit to the museum or hot springs.
The Expedition train will transport you back to Ollantaytambo at either 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm, following the scenic route along the Urubamba River. As you approach Aguas Calientes, the canyon narrows, and the river showcases numerous picturesque stretches of whitewater. If you look up high on the steep canyon wall, you can even catch a glimpse of Wiñay Wayna from the train! Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo, your driver will be waiting at the train station exit, ready to take you back to your Cusco hotel in our private vehicle. You can anticipate reaching your hotel by 7:00 pm.
• Meals included: Breakfast at your hotel
• Difficulty: Easy
INCLUSIONS OF YOUR EXPECTED HIKING
YOUR TREK DOES NOT INCLUDE:
Please read carefully the following information as it will help you answer all of your questions about our services and the Classic Inca Trail
You will be welcomed at the Cusco airport by one of our team and taken to your hotel (private services). Please ensure that you inform us of your flight details at least 14 days prior to your arrival. Look for our representative holding an dark blue board Machupicchu Trekking Peru at the arrival terminal. You must exit the terminal, in order, to find our representative (they cannot enter inside).
Of course! During the Classic Inca trail to Machu Picchu, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you. Please only pack what you will need for the trek!
To book the classic inka trail, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click here https://www.machupicchutrekkingperu.com/en/booking
Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase to Machu Picchu permits and entrance tickets without the following information:
Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
Gender
Passport number
D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
Nationality
*** We require clear photos of each participants’ passport at the booking.
50% balance, to avoid the high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay IN CASH at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. There are many ATM within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by your CREDIT CARD but you will have to pay a 5% service fee, to the iZipay collection company.
Yes! You have to bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport number, you sent to us to book your Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu permit. Your passport will be checked when you enter Machu Picchu , the Inca Trail and when you board the train. In case, you are renewing your passport, go ahead and send us a copy of your old passport to secure your permit and we can change it when you get your new passport. If so, please send us a copy of your new passport as soon as possible.
This walk has no age restriction, however, it is recommended for parents to take into account the travel of children under 8 years of age and also for older people.
The dry season between April and October, with sunny days, cold nights with frost and an average temperature of 13 ° C. The rainy season, between the months of November to March, the average temperature in this season is 12 ° C. On sunny days the temperature reaches 20 ° C, although the light mountain wind is usually cold.
The greatest influx of people to the Inca Trail occurs during the dry season between the months of May to September, however, July and August are the months that the Inca Trail receives the most visitors. It is important to make reservations in advance because although it is true there are 500 spaces for the Inca Trail Tour, these spaces include the porters and guide staff.
The season with the least influx of visitors on the Inca Trail, occurs between the months of October and April.
NOTE: During the month of February, the entrance to Machu Picchu is restricted due to problems of the rainy season, others that are used this month for the respective maintenance of the seventh wonder of the world.
Yes! You have to bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport number, you sent to us to book your Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu permit. Your passport will be checked when you enter Machu Picchu , the Inca Trail and when you board the train. In case, you are renewing your passport, go ahead and send us a copy of your old passport to secure your permit and we can change it when you get your new passport. If so, please send us a copy of your new passport as soon as possible.
The weather is very unpredictable and it’s difficult to foresee. We recommend that you plan to always dress in layers to facilitate adjusting to the quickly changing weather conditions.
In general, if you exercise regularly and spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, you will be able to acclimate normally. It usually take between 24 hours to 2 days.
The recommended remedies for altitude sickness is WATER, COCA TEA and OXYGEN, IF NEEDED. Our guides are trained to treat you for Altitude Sickness. See our detailed information about Altitude Sickness under FAQS.
The maximum group service size is 16 persons. Our private groups are usually between 2-8 persons. Machupicchu Trekking Peru specializes in SMALL and PRIVATE groups and provides personalized service.
You will have 1 cook per group. The number of porters will depend on the size of the group. For a group of 2 trekkers, there will have 4 porters, 4 trekkers will have 6 porters, 6 trekkers will have 9 porters, 8 trekkers will have 12 porters, 10 trekkers will have 15 porters.
The evening before you start your trek, you will be given a SMALL DUFFEL BAG to pack your clothes for the next four days. Your weight allowance is up to 7kg/15lbs. Your team of porters will carry your duffel bag, together with the food and camping gear. It’s important to be aware that you will not have access to your items in the duffel bag until the end of each day, as the porters will always be ahead of the group. During the trek, you will need a day backpack big enough to carry your personal belongings such as a warm jacket, a rain jacket, your camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, etc. A 30 to 50L backpack is sufficient. By Peruvian law, a duffel bag must not weigh more than 7 kilograms (15lbs). This limit is set to protect the health of the porters and animals. All bags will be weighed before being accepted. If you require more than 7 kilograms, it will then be your responsibility to carry the extra weight with your day pack. In this 7 kilos, please count 2 kilos for your sleeping bag and 1 kilo for your sleeping pad (foam or air). This leaves you about 4 kilos for your personal gear.
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 42km (24.4 mile) hike through the Andes within the Cusco region. The maximum altitude reached is at (4,217m/13,907ft). On the second day of the trek, we will climb two mountains. The trail is a fairly difficult trek and you should be well prepared and healthy prior to starting it. You have to be moderately fit and take regular exercise. In preparation: try walking 15kms/9 miles in a day or working out in the months leading up to the trek. It is also important to be well acclimatized to the altitude. Try to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco (3,350m/11,047ft) prior to starting the trek.
This has been highly appreciated by most of our clients, especially by our trekkers, who want a private, clean and sanitary toilet! Machupicchu Trekking Peru toilet facilities have an individual tent and a camping toilet with a seat. Check out the picture, which illustrates how we set up our camping toilet on the trek by using this link: picture of toilet tent. Our toilet is always set up a comfortable distance from our campsite. At night if you need to use the toilet it is readily accessible and clean, unlike the dirty facilities supplied by the government.
In the scenario that you are unable to finish the trek due to health reasons, Machupicchu Trekking Peru will assist you to the nearest town for help with transportation. We always carry oxygen on our treks for any respiratory problems. In extreme cases, a helicopter pick up can be arranged at your own expense. (Travel insurance is required and recommended). There are no refunds in the unlikely situation that you are unable to finish the trek.
Generally, those who have to be assisted off the trail are taken to Ollantaytambo and if they recover quickly they continue the journey towards Aguas Calientes (cost incurred by trekker) and visit Machu Picchu according to the original plan.
Absolutely!! Hotel pick ups and drop offs are included with all of our packages! If you have booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley, we will drop you off there and vice versa.
It will depend on the train availability but the idea is to give you as much time as possible in Machu Picchu and enjoy the amazing views on the way back to Cusco while on the train. Therefore, you will take the train at 14:55 or 15:20, depending on availability.
The Vistadome train service has nicer seats, panoramic windows and ceiling. You will be offered snacks and a dance show will take place on board. You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for $67 USD. These trains run from Aguas Calientes to Poroy. We will you up in Poroy and drive you back to Cusco, which takes about 25 minutes. Please request in advance.
If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the trek. It inspires excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Machupicchu Trekking Peru destinations. Of course, you are free to tip as much as you want, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Yes, we are a local, sustainable & responsible tourism operator that incorporates universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know and understand, respect the places and the local people.
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Trek is available on any date that is best suited to you as long as we have a minimum of 2 hikers
Groups of more than 5 members have a discount of $20 USD
Personal Porter (half) to carry 5kg of personal items is included in the price!
Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are optional treks within Machu Picchu Citadel which do not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour.
There are several extensions you can include to your Inca Trail. (group services)
"WHAT SHOULD I DO IF THE INCA TRAIL IS FULLY BOOKED FOR MY PREFERRED DATES?"
"If permits Inca Trail Trek are unavailable on your preferred date, there are plenty of alternative trekking options that will still allow you to enjoy the Andes en route to Machu Picchu. These alternative treks offer the same breathtaking beauty as the Salkantay & Inca Trail Trek but with fewer crowds, as we take you off the beaten path in the Andes and ensure you don't miss any highlights on your journey to Machu Picchu."
Machupicchu trekking Peru requires only a 2 participant minimum for our departures! You can choose any day that is best for you as long as we have a minimum of 2 trekkers.
If you are a solo traveler and are flexible with your start date, we will make sure you have a group to travel with and you won’t miss out on any of the fun.
ALTERNATIVE TREK OPTIONS:
LARS TREK 4D/3N
SALKANTAY TREK 4D/3N
HUCHUY QOSQO TREK 3D/2N
CHOQUEQUIRARO TREK 4D/3N OR 8D/7N
AUSANGATE & RAINBOW TREK 4D/3N
GENERAL CONDITIONS
Machupicchu Trekking Peru E.I.R.L. Tour operator travel agency, friendly with our customers. From the moment you contact us, during your stay and during the walk or tour, you will receive personalized advice and an unforgettable trip.
1.- Machupicchu Trekking Peru rates do not include:
In some locations, the services of a representative are not included, and, particularly if you have so requested, you may have only a driver who speaks a little English.
CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY
The 50% down payment
Important: services, tours, treks and packages booked with Machupicchu Trekking Perú is non-refundable, but could be changed of date without any administration charge.
DEADLINE TO CHANGE TOUR DATE
Tour date changes will be subject to availability of income to the Inca Trail, Machupicchu and hotels, without any administration charge, in the following time frame:
Inca Trail – at the latest 20 days prior to the departure date.
Tour with hotel – at the latest 15 days prior to the departure date.
Tours without hotel – at the latest 10 days prior to the departure date.
Important: Third party administration fees have to be paid at the moment of the date change (airline fees, transport companies, hotels, partner agency charges & entrance fee)
• If the client wants to change the date tour within the days timeframe prior to departure, the client will be charged an Administration Fee.
DEADLINE OF CANCELLATION
** In case of cancellation due to a serious illness or another serious situation, the following procedures are applicable (situations will be judged at the discretion of the Machupicchu Trekking Perú reservations department):
In case of cancellation due to a serious illness or another serious situation (measured by the Machupicchu Trekking Perú reservations department), the following procedures are applicable:
Machupicchu Trekking Perú Travel Agency will refund the respective amount at the latest 30 days after the date it received the written cancellation statement, in most cases by wire transfer.
BOOKING AND PAYMENTS
FIRST, to book your Tour or Trek to Machu Picchu, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click here https://www.machupicchutrekkingperu.com/en/booking
Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase to Machu Picchu permits and entrance tickets without the following information:
Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
Gender
Passport number
D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
Nationality
*** We require clear photos of each participants’ passport at the booking.
SECOND, we require a deposit of 50% per person in order to purchase a permit for the Tour or Trek to Machu Picchu. AFTER COVID 19 the fastest way to send and receive money with fairly low fees is WESTERN UNION You can make your deposit by clicking on the following link https://www.westernunion.com/us/en/home.html, de deposit will be in name of our manager JUAN CARLOS BECERRA BOLIVAR, DNI: 42399654, city: Cusco, country: Peru. After your deposit send us a screenshot or photo of the deposit through WhatsApp (+51) 928 738 468 or through our reservation email
reservas@machupicchutrekkingperu.com sales@machupicchutrekkingperu.com
WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?
50% balance, to avoid the high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay IN CASH at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. There are many ATM within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by your CREDIT CARD but you will have to pay a 5% service fee, to the iZipay collection company.
ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTY FOR CHANGES
• There will be no cost of the Administrative Penalty in the date changes of a tour, walk or package in the indicated periods.
• Administrative fees charged by third parties such as (airlines, transport companies or associated providers, entrance fee) will be paid by the passenger, at the moment of the date chage.
The client will be charged an Administration Fee of US $20.00 Fee for all changes in bookings before the days frame time.
INSURANCE
We recommend that all customers obtain a travel or medical insurance policy in their home countries.
VISAS
PRIVACY POLICY
Machupicchu Trekking Perú Tour Operator is committed to maintaining your confidence and trust concerning the privacy of the personal information you give us and/or we collect from you. Your email address nor any other data will never be given to a third party.
COPYRIGHT
Machupicchu Trekking Perú Tour Operator reserves the right to use all possible photos taken during the passenger’s program unless the passenger refuses permission.
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