This unique trek combines the Salkantay Trek and the Inca Trail, offering an unforgettable experience for nature and trekking enthusiasts. The journey showcases the most breathtaking landscapes in South America, blending the beauty of high-altitude mountains with the historical richness of the Inca Trail. Along the way, you’ll marvel at stunning sights like the Humantay Lagoon, the majestic Salkantay Mountain, and original Inca paths that lead to the iconic Machu Picchu.
With professional guidance and a small group setting, this 6-day adventure provides the perfect balance of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and comfort.
Begin your adventure with a 5:15 AM pickup from Cusco and a two-hour drive to Mollepata for breakfast. Afterward, continue to Soraypampa, where muleteers and horses will carry equipment and personal belongings (up to 7 kg per hiker). From here, hike uphill for two hours to the stunning Humantay Lake.
Spend time exploring the turquoise lake before hiking downhill to the Quiswarniyoc campsite, located at 4,100 meters (13,451 ft). Enjoy a delicious lunch and explore the area with optional hikes to nearby viewpoints or relax in Mountain Sky Huts or Crystal Domes, featuring comfortable beds and panoramic night skies.
Wake up at 5:00 AM for tea and a hearty breakfast. Begin a challenging 3-hour ascent to the Salkantay Lagoon and later to the trek’s highest point, the Incaqchiriasca Pass at 5,100 meters (16,732 ft). Enjoy awe-inspiring views of the Andes and glacial landscapes.
Descend for one hour to Acopampa for lunch, then continue two more hours downhill to the Pampacahuana campsite. Explore an Inca canal near the campsite, showcasing the engineering marvels of the Inca civilization.
Start your day with a relaxed 6:00 AM wake-up and enjoy coca tea and breakfast. Hike for 2–3 hours downhill to Paucarcancha, an archaeological site filled with Inca history. After a guided tour and lunch, continue for another hour to the Wayllabamba campsite, located at 3,000 meters (9,842 ft).
At this campsite, you’ll join other trekkers starting the classic 4-day Inca Trail.
This day features the trek’s most challenging climb to Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca) at 4,215 meters (13,780 ft). Begin early with a steep ascent, taking breaks to enjoy panoramic views of the Andes. After reaching the pass, descend into the Pacaymayo Valley, where you’ll camp for the night.
Hike through cloud forests and archaeological sites, including Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca (the “Town in the Clouds”). Enjoy stunning views as you descend to Wiñay Wayna, the final campsite at 2,600 meters (8,530 ft).
Start early with a hike to the Sun Gate (Intipunku) to witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu. After soaking in the view, descend to the citadel for a guided tour of key landmarks like the Temple of the Sun and Royal Palace.
In the afternoon, take the bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch, then board a train to Ollantaytambo. From there, you’ll be transferred back to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 PM.
If you’re planning on doing the Salkantay trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you’ll need to pack accordingly for the 6-day trek. Here are some essential items to consider bringing
CLOTHING:
SLEEPING GEAR:
TREKKING GEAR:
MISCELLANEOUS:
It’s important to note that there are strict regulations on what you can bring on the Inca Trail, so be sure to check with your tour operator or guide to ensure that you are not bringing any prohibited items. You’ll likely have porters carrying most of your gear, so pack everything in a durable and waterproof bag or duffel.
We provide you with a duffle bag to pack 7 kilos of your personal stuff. The porter will carry the duffle bags during the whole trek
The group service involves joining a formed group of hikers from various nationalities, with a maximum of 8 people per guide. It follows a fixed itinerary with shared accommodations, meals, and transportation. This service ensures guaranteed departures once booked, providing a social experience while exploring diverse landscapes, including high passes, lakes, and Inca sites.
Characteristics include professional bilingual guides, porters carrying up to 7 kg of personal belongings, camping equipment, all meals as per the itinerary except the final lunch, entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, and return by Expedition train.
| Service Type | Price per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| Group Service | 1350 |
The private service offers an all-inclusive experience with customized pacing and exclusive attention. It is ideal for families, honeymooners, or groups seeking privacy.
Advantages include a dedicated guide, flexible start times, enhanced accommodations such as 3-star hotels in Aguas Calientes, upgraded Vistadome train return, private transportation, and additional amenities like walking poles and bus tickets to Machu Picchu. This allows for a more personalized adventure, avoiding crowds and adapting to the group’s fitness levels.
| Number of Persons | Price per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 2600 |
| 2 | 1650 |
| 3 | 1600 |
| 4 | 1550 |
| 5 | 1500 |
| 6 | 1450 |
| 7 or more | 1400 |
Student discount of $30 applies to those aged 18-25 with a valid university card, requiring a copy at booking for verification. Under 18 discount of $30 is available with passport proof. Group bookings of 5 or more may receive a 5% reduction, similar to seasonal promotions offered by agencies.
The itinerary includes the Expedition train for the return from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Upgrades incur additional costs for enhanced services.
Included in base price (additional $0).
Characteristics: Standard tourist service with comfortable seats, basic onboard sales for snacks and drinks, and views through regular windows. Suitable for practical travelers focusing on affordability.
Additional $67 per person.
Characteristics: Panoramic dome windows for 360-degree views, larger seats, included snacks and beverages, and cultural entertainment like music. Ideal for immersive scenery during the journey.
Additional $400 per person.
Characteristics: Luxury service with gourmet meals, open-bar, observation car, and live music. Provides an upscale experience resembling a high-end cruise, with guided tours and premium amenities.
Circuits are defined by regulations to manage visitor flow, with each offering specific routes through the site. The tour includes a standard circuit entry, but choices depend on ticket type selected at booking.
These optional hikes require separate tickets booked in advance, added to the base Machu Picchu entry.
Additional $75 per person.
Characteristics: A 1.5-2 hour moderate hike up a wider, less steep trail to 3,082 meters elevation. Offers broad panoramic views of the citadel and surrounding Andes. Limited to 400 visitors daily, with time slots from 7-8 AM or 9-10 AM. The route features switchbacks through cloud forest, suitable for those preferring a longer but less intense climb.
Additional $75 per person.
Characteristics: A 45-minute to 1-hour steep, narrow hike to 2,720 meters, including stone steps and terraces. Provides close-up views of Machu Picchu and ancient temples at the summit. Limited to 400 visitors daily, in slots from 7-8 AM or 10-11 AM. The path is challenging with exposed sections, ideal for fit hikers seeking adventure and historical insights.
Get Ready to Explore? With your booking confirmed, all that's left to do is pack your bags and get ready to explore. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, we'll be with you every step of the way. At SALKANTAY TREKKERS, we believe that every journey begins with a single step. So why wait? Start your adventure today and let the world be your guide.
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