Salkantay trek & Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 7D/6N
The Salkantay Trek & Classic Inca Trail is a must-do route for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences while exploring the historical and archaeological wonders of the original Inca Trail. This remarkable trek begins at the Apurimac River watershed, leading you toward the Urubamba River, and includes stunning views of Mount Salkantay, the second-largest mountain in the Cusco region at 6,277 meters (20,577 feet).
The Salkantay Trek offers an extraordinary adventure through high mountain ranges, steep valleys, and misty cloud forests. As you walk through this diverse landscape, you’ll experience the wild beauty of the Andes Mountains, surrounded by breathtaking views and a rich tapestry of ancient traditions.
Along the way, you’ll have the chance to witness various archaeological sites that tell the story of the Inca civilization. The trail takes you through a variety of ecological zones, rich with diverse plants and birdlife, creating a vibrant backdrop for your journey.
As you follow this ancient and remote footpath, every step brings you closer to the architectural and cultural splendor of Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 AM and embark on a scenic 2-hour drive to Mollepata, where we will enjoy a delicious breakfast and pay the S/20 entrance fee (not included in the tour price).
After breakfast, we continue for another hour to Soraypampa, the starting point of our trek. Here, you will meet the muleteers and horses, who will carry the necessary equipment, food, and up to 5 kg of each hiker’s personal belongings.
Our adventure begins with a 1-hour and 45-minute hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lake. Along the way, enjoy stunning mountain views and the fresh Andean air. Once at the lake, you’ll have plenty of time to explore, take photos, and learn about its cultural and natural significance from our expert guide.
After soaking in the beauty of Humantay Lake, we descend for 1 hour back to Soraypampa and continue for another hour to our exclusive campsite at Salkantay Pampa. Here, we will enjoy a nutritious lunch and some free time to explore the area or relax in the comfortable Andean Huts, equipped with personal mattresses and pillows.
As the evening sets in, we’ll gather for tea time followed by a delicious dinner. Tonight, you will rest in cozy Mountain Huts, surrounded by the sacred Salkantay mountains, ensuring a peaceful and rejuvenating night under the stars.
Wake up to a hot drink and a hearty breakfast as you prepare for an unforgettable day of exploration. Today, you’ll experience the unique Andean microclimate and witness breathtaking views of the high mountains, glaciers, and majestic landscapes surrounding you.
Our journey begins with a 2-hour ascent to Salkantay Lagoon, a sacred site located at the foot of Apu Salkantay (6,215 m). This mystical lake was once used by the Incas for ceremonies and sacrifices to honor the powerful mountain spirit. Take your time to admire the serene beauty and capture stunning photos of this spiritual place.
From here, we continue toward Ichupata, passing through dramatic mountain scenery along the Salkantay range. After approximately 1.5 hours, we’ll reach our lunch spot, where you can refuel with a nutritious meal and rest.
Following lunch, we embark on a 2-hour trek to our campsite at Sisaypampa (4,300 m). As we gain altitude, temperatures drop, so be sure to wear warm layers, gloves, a hat, and sunglasses. Upon arrival, our team of muleteers, cooks, and porters will welcome you with hot drinks and a delicious dinner.
Tonight, you’ll enjoy an incredible stargazing experience, with clear skies revealing the constellations of the Andean night. As we camp near Salkantay Mountain, you might even hear the distant rumble of avalanches—a thrilling reminder of the raw power of the Andes.
📌 Elevation: 4,100 – 4,300 meters
📌 Distance: 9 km / 5.5 miles
📌 Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
📌 Weather: Cold
Start your day with a warm cup of tea and a nourishing breakfast before tackling the most challenging yet rewarding section of the trek. Today, we ascend to the highest point of the journey: the Inca Chiriasca Pass (5,000 m).
The climb is steady and demanding, but once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the glacier-capped peaks, pristine valleys, and turquoise lakes below. Here, we’ll celebrate with a hot coca tea, while observing Andean condors and falcons soaring above. For those seeking an extra adventure, an optional 30-minute hike will take you closer to a stunning glacier—a rare and awe-inspiring sight.
After soaking in the beauty of the Andean heights, we begin our descent toward our lunch spot, where your porters will be waiting with a comforting tea and a delicious meal.
The rest of the day is a scenic downhill trek through lush green valleys, winding streams, and remote Andean landscapes. Our journey leads us to a peaceful campsite in a small traditional village, home to just 10 local families. This tranquil setting offers a unique opportunity to rest, recharge, and immerse yourself in the Andean way of life.
📌 Elevation: 4,300 m – 5,000 m – 3,750 m
📌 Distance: 14 km / 8.6 miles
📌 Difficulty: Difficult
📌 Weather: Cold
Step back in time as you hike along ancient hillside trails, still used by traditional Peruvian farmers who have preserved their way of life since the Inca civilization. This unique experience offers a rare glimpse into history, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Our journey continues with a visit to fascinating Inca ruins, where your expert guide will share insights into the Inca Empire, its architecture, and traditions. As we explore, we’ll transition into a new ecological zone, where your guide will introduce you to the diverse vegetation and the high jungle microclimate.
We then merge onto the famous Classic Inca Trail, where our porters will welcome us with a well-earned, hearty lunch. The afternoon trek presents an uphill challenge, but the effort is well worth it! Get your camera ready, as this part of the trail offers breathtaking views of towering mountains, mystical cloud forests, and hidden waterfalls.
📌 Elevation: 3,750 m – 3,000 m – 3,300 m
📌 Distance: 14 km / 8.6 miles
📌 Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
📌 Weather: Cold in the morning, warm in the afternoon
Today is one of the most challenging yet rewarding days of the Inca Trail Trek, taking you through breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and mystical cloud forests.
We start early with a nourishing breakfast before ascending for two hours through the Puna region, characterized by dry, open terrain. Keep an eye out for llamas grazing along the slopes!
The highlight of the morning is reaching the iconic Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca, 4,200 m)—the highest point of the trek. Here, you’ll take in spectacular views of the surrounding glacier-capped peaks and rolling valleys. We’ll pause to rest, take photos, and enjoy the thrill of conquering this milestone.
Our descent takes us along a historic stone-paved trail to our lunch spot, where vibrant orchids and hummingbirds can be spotted along the way. After recharging, we face another two-hour ascent to the second pass (4,000 m), stopping at the Inca ruins of Runcu Raccay—an oval-shaped watchtower believed to have been a strategic lookout point for the Inca Empire.
From here, we descend for one hour to Yanaccocha Lake, an important Inca ceremonial site where ancient rituals honored the Goddess of Water.
Next, we enter the enchanting cloud forest, leading to one of the most stunning Inca ruins: Sayacmarca. This well-preserved archaeological site features original Inca houses, water fountains, and aqueducts, with panoramic views of the valley below.
After exploring Sayacmarca, a 30-minute trek brings us to our campsite at Chaquicocha, where you’ll have time to relax and observe the incredible flora and fauna of the high jungle environment.
📌 Elevation: 3,300 m – 4,200 m (pass) – 3,600 m (camp)
📌 Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
📌 Difficulty: Difficult
📌 Weather: Expect all four seasons in a single day
Today is the most relaxing day of the Inca Trail trek, offering a scenic and cultural journey through some of the most impressive Inca ruins before reaching Wiñay Wayna, your final campsite.
We start the morning with breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains and the snow-capped Pumassillo Glacier. This 5-hour hike will take you through three remarkable Inca archaeological sites, each offering a unique insight into the Inca civilization.
The first stop is Phuyupatamarca (meaning "Cloud-Level Town"), located two hours from camp. This well-preserved site features agricultural terraces and houses, where Incan nobles studied astronomy.
Next, we’ll descend towards a hidden hillside ruin, believed to have been an Incan agricultural research center, where they experimented with different crop-growing techniques.
As we hike, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting.
Finally, we arrive at Wiñay Wayna (2,600 m), your last campsite, where you can drop off your gear and take a short 5-minute walk to explore one of the most stunning ruins on the Inca Trail. This site boasts water channels, ceremonial temples, and terraces, offering a glimpse into Incan religious traditions.
After lunch, you’ll have time to refresh with a cold shower and explore the Wiñay Wayna ruins at your leisure.
As night falls, enjoy a final happy hour and farewell dinner with your trekking team. Your porters will bid you farewell, as they return to Cusco the next day while you embark on the final stretch towards Machu Picchu.
📌 Elevation: 3,600 m – 2,600 m
📌 Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
📌 Difficulty: Moderate
📌 Weather: Warm and humid
Today is the most anticipated and rewarding day of your Salkantay and Inca Trail adventure—the moment you finally set foot in the legendary Machu Picchu!
We begin with an early wake-up call and breakfast, followed by a 2-hour trek to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Here, you’ll be greeted with spectacular panoramic views of Machu Picchu, the surrounding mountains, valleys, and rivers—a truly magical sight at sunrise.
Once inside Machu Picchu, your guide will lead a 2-hour guided tour, sharing fascinating insights into the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of this ancient citadel. Afterward, you'll have free time to explore on your own, soak in the atmosphere, and take unforgettable photos of this Wonder of the World.
When you're ready, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes (30-minute ride), where you’ll have time to explore the charming town before heading to the train station for your return to Cusco. Make sure to arrive 30 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth journey back.
📌 Walking Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
📌 Experience Level: Moderate
📌 Weather: Mild and humid
TRANSFER FROM THE AIRTPORT TO YOUR HOTEL:
The day of your arrival in Cusco we will pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel.
BRIEFING:
Prior to departure you will have a meeting with your guide in our office to go over all the details regarding your tour. The orientation will be at 6:00 pm the night before your trip.
EXPERIENCE OF OUR GUIDES :
All of our guides have a minimum of 3 years of guiding experience. They are professional, responsible, and all have a deep love and respect for mother nature and her mountains. They will make sure your trip is safe and enjoyable.
SATELLITE PHONES:
Our top priority will always be the safety of our clients and our team. While all our guides are prepared and trained to deal with most issues clients have on the mountain. Being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured that they are safe. Radios, which all our guides have, are limited in how far they can reach, so Machupicchu Trekking Peru has added Satellite Phones to every trek. Every guide will have a fully charged phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to connect us anywhere in the world. And they can be used by our clients for non-emergencies as well. While they are not cheap to use, they are available just in case you need to check in on the puppy you left at home with a friend or family.
PORTERS
Machupicchu Trekking Peru ensures that our porters are equipped with the necessary gear and receive fair wages. They are the backbone of the Inca Trail experience, without whom reaching Machu Picchu would be impossible."
PERMITS:
When we receive your data and permits, we will buy your permits (depending on availability, ask us about our Inca trail availability). These permissions are for a specific date and in your name, they cannot be changed once confirmed. The update of the passport number is allowed, this permit includes the entrance to Machu Picchu.
FIRST AID:
All of our guides are certified in high mountain first aid training. They always carry a first aid kit on our treks (including pills for altitude sickness, diarrhea, vomiting, cuts, and cream for muscle aches). They also carry extra oxygen in cases of emergency, Oxygen bottle.
TRANSPORTATION:
Acclimatize min. 1 - 2 days to the altitude of Cusco city before doing the walk. Thus, the symptoms of altitude sickness will be avoided.
Packing List
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!
FIRST, To book your Tour or Trek to Machu Picchu, you need to complete the tour date and then our reservation form by clicking on BOOK THIS TOUR on our home page, after completing the form click on SENT YOU RESERVATION.
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. the fastest ways to send and receive money with fairly low fees, are through:
machupicchutrekking.pe@gmail.com
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.
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?
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 - 0 ° C. The rainy season, between the months of November to March, the average temperature in this season is 10 ° C. On sunny days the temperature reaches 18 ° 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 14 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 Salkantay Trek & Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has a distance of 80km (49.7 mile) hike through the Andes within the Cusco region. The maximum altitude reached is at (4,500m/14,763 ft). 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.
Along the Inca Trail and in the places designated for camping, the Ministry of Culture enabled bathrooms, for the exclusive use of tourists.
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 $ 25 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 7-Day Salkantay Trek & 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
GROUP SERVICES.
door to door sevices
Groups of more than 5 members have a discount of $20 USD
PRIVATE SERVICE :
door to door sevices - panoramic train
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.
It is important to acclimatize for at least 2 days and for this we recommend the following tours:
"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.
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