Push the limits! Reach the summit of Salkantay
The Salkantay Trek and Short Inca Trail is one of the best routes that you should do at least once in your life. This program will take you out of the routine to transport you to wonderful places that only the Peruvian Andes have for you. You will visit several tourist attractions, including the magical turquoise waters of the Humantay Lake and the imposing Salkantay snow-capped mountain. Around the mountains, you will explore the tropical forest and appreciate its diverse flora and fauna. Finally, you will visit Machu Picchu, one of the wonders of the modern world, and learn about the ancient history of the Incas. Without a doubt, this is a complete itinerary to recharge your energy and enjoy it to the fullest.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Before You Go
- Packing List
- Accommodation
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
We will leave the city in the direction of Challacancha, where we will begin our hike. We will explore the magical Humantay Lake and appreciate its beautiful turquoise waters. Afterward, we will enjoy a rest in our exclusive Sky Camp.
On the second day, we will reach the summit of the Salkantay Pass, the second-largest snow-capped mountain in the Cusco region. It is a real challenge that will be well worth the effort. Next, we will walk through the cloud forest and witness the diverse flora and fauna of the area. Then, we will enjoy the experience of resting in our exclusive Mountain Sky View contemplating the stars. The next day, we will learn about the coffee-making process and sleep in the Jungle Domes.
On the fourth day, we will hike to the archaeological site of Llactapata, where you can see the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in the distance. Then, we will descend to Hidroelectrica, and you can choose to board a train or continue walking to Aguas Calientes for the night. The next morning, we will visit Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, and the Sun Gate. In addition, we will witness the majestic Machu Picchu and learn about its incredible history. Finally, we will board the train to Ollantaytambo, where private transportation will be waiting for us to return to Cusco.
Itinerary at a Glance
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Day 01
Cusco | Mollepata - Challacancha - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Sky Camp
We´ll leave Cusco early in the morning to Mollepata to have a good breakfast; then, we will continue traveling to Challacancha, the starting point of the trek. Later, we will explore the magical Humantay Lake. In the evening, we will have dinner and sleep in our Sky Camp in Soraypampa.
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Day 02
Soraypampa - Salkantay Pass - Huayracmachay - Collpapampa (Mountain Sky View)
Today, we will have an early breakfast and head to the Salkantay Pass, the trek’s highest point. Then, we will descend to Huayracmachay, where we will have lunch. We will continue through the cloud forest to reach Collpapampa and rest in our exclusive Mountain Sky Views.
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Day 03
Collpapampa - La Playa - Lucmabamba (Jungle Domes)
You'll enjoy the lush jungle on the way to La Playa (where we'll have lunch) and visit a coffee farm to learn about coffee production. In the afternoon, we'll head to Lucmabamba, where a delicious dinner awaits us in our exclusive Jungle Domes.
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Day 04
Lucmabamba - Llactapata - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes
Today we will ascend until we reach the archaeological site of Llactapata. Then, we will go to Aobamba and enjoy lunch. We will walk to Hidroeléctrica, and you can choose to board a train or continue on foot to Aguas Calientes, where we will have dinner and spend the night in a hotel.
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Day 05
Aguas Calientes - KM 104 - Chachabamba - Sun Gate / Inti Punku - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes
This day we’ll walk towards KM 104, the starting point of the Inca Trail. We will visit Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. Then, we will visit the Sun Gate and see Machu Picchu for the first time. We will sleep in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
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Day 06
Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco
The most awaited day has arrived! Today we will explore Machu Picchu. We will go by bus to the Inca citadel, and our guide will explain its incredible history. After this visit, we will return to Aguas Calientes to board the train to Ollantaytambo, where private transportation will take us back to Cusco.
What's it like
Highlights
- This 6-Day trek to Machu Picchu offers tourists the chance to enjoy a combination of both the Salkantay Trek and the Short Inca Trail.
- The Salkantay and Inca Trail 6 Days is one of the very best trekking adventures you’ll find in Peru and across the whole of South America.
- Trekkers can witness rustic bridges, cascades, streams, glaciers, colorful valleys, waterfalls, wildlife, unique plants, and the intriguing cloud forest.
- Learn all about the ancient culture of the Incas and how they lived up in the mountains hundreds of years ago.
- End your journey with a visit to the world-famous Machu Picchu that’ll take your breath away.
Why Travel with us
Cusco | Mollepata - Challacancha - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Sky Camp
Highlight of the day: The glorious and absolutely stunning Humantay Lake. Be prepared for one of the most amazing views you’ve ever seen.
Hike to the Jewel in the Mountains
We will leave Cusco early in our private transport to Mollepata, where we will have a good breakfast. We will continue along the road to Challacancha, the starting point of the walk. We will travel approximately three hours to Soraypampa and set up camp. On the way, we will stop for lunch, taking in the incredible views of the mountains. Then, we will arrive at the magical Humantay Lake. Finally, we will return to Soraypampa to have a delicious dinner and spend a comfortable night in our exclusive Sky Camp.
You’ll be up nice and early today to be ready for us to pick you up around 4:00 a.m. You’ll travel in our comfy transportation with blankets to enjoy a bit more sleep on the drive. After 2 hours, we’ll enjoy a brief stop in Mollepata for an optional breakfast. We’ll then continue to Challacancha, where we’ll start our hike.
First, you’ll meet the cooks and horse riders, as well as do the final equipment check. Then, we’ll be on our way. You’ll start with a 3-hour moderate walk to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), where we’ll be spending our first night. The first section is relatively flat with a slight bit of uphill through a deep valley of glaciers. You’ll notice that a lot of the trail follows a restored Inca water channel, which local farmers still make use of today. This section is 7 km / 4.35 mi overall.
Once you get to Soraypampa, you’ll get settled in at our exclusive Sky Camp, where you’ll sleep this evening. You’ll have a bit of time to rest after enjoying your first lunch in the mountains. Feeling refreshed, it’ll be time to start the hike up to the incredibly beautiful Humantay Lake (4,200 m /13,780 ft).
This round trip takes about 3 hours and covers 3 km / 1.86 mi. It’s not fair, but you need to take things slowly at this altitude. You’ll have some time once you get to the lake to enjoy the fantastic scenery. There aren’t many places in the Andes quite as stunning as the turquoise waters glistening against the Humantay glacier. You’ll feel like you’re in a fairy tale!
Back at camp, you’ll enjoy a delicious and well-deserved dinner with a beautiful sunset as your company. You can’t describe the energy here, but you’ll feel its peacefulness for yourself once here. Then it’ll be time to turn into your Sky Camp igloo. From the glass roof, you’ll be able to enjoy a night under the stars, constellations, and comets and wake up to see the Apu Salkantay watching over you.
Soraypampa - Salkantay Pass - Huayracmachay - Collpapampa (Mountain Sky View)
Highlight of the day: Witnessing the energy and hugely powerful gigantic Salkantay Mountain.
The Stunning Salkantay Pass and Descent to the Amazon Jungle
We will start the day accompanied by an energizing coca tea and a good breakfast. We will hike for three hours to the highest point of the route, Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft). Once at the top, you will be able to observe different mountains: Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo. Then, we will descend to Huayracmachay, where we will enjoy a delicious lunch.
Afterward, we will walk through the cloud forest and appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the area. Finally, we will arrive at Collpapampa, where our comfortable Mountain Sky View will be waiting for us to have a well-deserved dinner and spend the night.
You’ll be woken up today at the first signs of daylight with an energizing cup of coca tea to get you going. Enjoy a nourishing breakfast before we set off on our trek to the route’s highest point, the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft). You’ll be walking 7 km / 4.34 mi over 3 hours. It’s a difficult ascent up the ‘trail of the 7 Snakes’ rightly named due to its winding path.
Once you reach the top, you’ll appreciate the most magnificent view over the surrounding valleys as well as Salkantay Mountain sitting right next to you (6,271 m / 20,574 ft), which is the second-highest in the Cusco region and one of the Apus (Inca Gods). You can also observe Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo mountains. After you’ve taken in the views and enjoyed a rest, you’ll start the 7 km / 4.35 mi walk downhill to the lunch spot in Huayracmachay (3,850 m / 12,631 ft), from where you can enjoy fantastic views.
This section of the trail is rocky and gravely, and you get some beautiful views down into the valley below. After a re-energizing lunch, you’ll be entering the edge of the Amazon jungle, also known as the ‘cloud forest.’ This part is 9.5 km / 5.9 mi and takes around three and a half hours. Along the way, you get to enjoy a magical tropical forest and witness how quickly and dramatically the landscape changes from the Andes to the Amazon. You’ll spot colorful scenery, unique wildlife, and native plants. You’ll find the climate becomes much warmer here.
After your longest day of hiking, you’ll be pleased to reach our campsite at Collpapampa (2,950 m / 9,678 ft). You’ll be served a hearty meal before hitting the hay in your Mountain Sky View for a peaceful night’s sleep in the small village. You’re sure to sleep well tonight!
Collpapampa - La Playa - Lucmabamba (Jungle Domes)
Highlight of the day: Exploring the luscious jungle and learning all about coffee and the process at the plantations - the aroma in the air is heavenly.
Jungle Adventure and Coffee Experience
We will have a nutritious breakfast before leaving the camp. On the way, we will pass through a small town called Collpapampa and descend through a valley with beautiful views of waterfalls, hot springs, fruit trees, diverse flora, and fauna. In the afternoon, we will taste the delicious lunch at La Playa, and we will visit a coffee farm where they will explain the process of its preparation. Finally, we will go to Lucmabamba to have a well-deserved dinner and rest in our exclusive Jungle Domes.
Today you’ll be woken at 6:00 a.m. for your tea and then breakfast before setting off from the campsite. We’ll be walking through the Santa Teresa Valley. You’ll enjoy a more leisurely walk today with more downs than ups as you soak in the lush landscape of rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and many plantations, including banana, coffee, and avocado.
We’ll pass through a small village named Collpapampa, and after descend through a valley where you’ll observe waterfalls, birds, hot springs, fruit trees, and plenty of flora and fauna. You might be lucky enough to see the national bird of Peru, the ‘Cock of the Rock.’
In La Playa, we’ll devour a tasty lunch before we head to Lucmabamba (2,000 m / 6,562 ft), just another hour away. That’ll be our camp for the night. You’ll have the afternoon free to explore the tropical surroundings and visit an organic coffee farm - especially perfect for those who are coffee lovers. Even if you’re not partial to the odd cup of Joe, the smell in the air is delightful. This is the main farming industry in the jungle, and they export products to the US, Asia, and across Europe. You’ll also visit avocado and orange plantations.
Once you’re ready for bed, after dinner, of course, you’ll be settling down for the night in another one of our exclusive campsites, the Jungle Domes. As you drift off, you’ll be able to hear the many sounds of nature and feel at one with the earth as you gaze up at the stars through the top of the dome in your comfy bed.
Lucmabamba - Llactapata - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes
Highlight of the day: Visiting the fascinating Inca archaeological site of Llactapata - get your camera ready for your first glimpse of Machu Picchu!
Enjoy Your First Glance of Machu Picchu from Llactapata
Today we will start the short Inca Trail. We will ascend for two hours until we reach the archaeological site of Llactapata; you will know the Incas’ true history and observe the imposing Machu Picchu for the first time. We will continue walking towards Aobamba, where we will enjoy lunch. Half an hour more of travel and we will arrive at Hidroeléctrica. Here, you can choose between boarding a train (the program does not include) or taking an incredible walk towards Aguas Calientes to have an exquisite dinner and rest in a cozy hotel.
You’ll be eager to put on your hiking boots for your last day of trekking after you’ve filled up on fuel for breakfast. This morning you’ll be able to walk along a bit of the original, world-famous Inca Trail! After a 2 hour uphill climb and fascinating views over the Santa Teresa Valley, you’ll reach Llactapata (2,700 m / 8,858 ft), an Inca archaeological site right in front of Machu Picchu.
Llactapata is the first Inca site you’ll see on the trek, and you’ll learn all about the mysteries of the ancient culture and the extraordinary site. You even get to have your first exciting glance of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu from here. Your guide will fill you in on all the history of the Incas while you take all the photos you want to share your fantastic experiences with friends and family back home.
Afterward, you’ll walk downhill for 1:30 hours, where you get another couple of peeks at the Inca citadel, Machu Picchu, along the way - only making your anticipation for tomorrow stronger. We stop for lunch in Aobamba before we continue, for a half-hour, to Hidroeléctrica (1,800 m / 5,906 ft). One of the most impressive sites in this section is the 250- meter-tall artificial waterfall, which generates electricity for the entire city of Cusco.
Once in Hidroelectrica, you have a couple of options: 1) If you’re tired out after all the trekking, you can opt to board a train to Aguas Calientes (US$ 37.00 extra). 2) If you want to enjoy the last stretch of the trek, you can enjoy the flat walk along the side of the tracks to Aguas Calientes, which takes around 3 hours. It’ll be one more chance to enjoy your warm jungle surroundings as you hike.
Along the way, you’ll see Intihuatana, an ancient rock the Incas used as a sundial, which worked together with the sundial stone at Machu Picchu. These were used to measure and read the winter solstice, meaning the beginning of the farming season for the Incas. Next, you’ll reach the train tracks that lead to Aguas Calientes. Once in the small town, you’ll enjoy dinner at a restaurant and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
Note: During the rainy season, the hike up the Llactapata Trail isn’t 100% guaranteed due to safety concerns. When there’s frequent heavy rain, this trail can become very dangerous.
Aguas Calientes - KM 104 - Chachabamba - Sun Gate / Inti Punku - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes
Highlight of the day: See stunning scenery as you visit archaeological sites and get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.
Walk in Ancient Footsteps and Transport Back in Time
Today we will go to KM 104, where we will start the walk. We will travel the well-known Inca Trail, and you will observe the exuberant vegetation around the mountains. We will visit the archaeological site of Chachabamba; then, we will go to Wiñay Wayna, and learn about the history of the Incas. We will enjoy a delicious lunch around the beautiful landscapes. Afterward, we will go to Puerta del Sol, and we will appreciate a spectacular view of Machu Picchu. We will have dinner in a restaurant at night and sleep in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Your adventure begins today nice and early as you’ll be picked up from your accommodation at 5:00 a.m. approx. You’ll then walk for around one and a half hours to KM 104, the starting point of the Inca Trail. You can see the golden sun covering the expansive Andean mountains and the Urubamba River along the railway. We’ll provide you with your box lunch and a snack for you to enjoy later on.
The hike starts on the same path as the Classic Inca Trail. You’ll be immersed in the stunning landscape as you’re surrounded by lush vegetation and towering mountains watching over you. After a short while, we’ll reach our first Inca archaeological site on the trek, Chachabamba, and learn a little about it from our guide.
After another 3 hours, we get to one of the fascinating Inca sites, the Wiñay Wayna complex (meaning 'forever young' in Quechua) that sits at 2,650 m / 8,694 ft. Most trekkers who stop here are amazed by the incredible architecture. You’ll explore the site and discover a ritual water source, temples dedicated to nature's forces, and beautiful agricultural platforms. Wiñay Wayna is the perfect place to learn a little more about the impressive history of the Incas.
While you’re at these sites, take some time to relax, unwind in peace, and connect to Mother Nature through birdsong and the soft whisper of the wind. You’ll spot the campsites where those doing the Classic Inca Trail spend the night a little further on. Here, you’ll have time to enjoy the tasty lunchbox we’ve prepared for you, chill out, and recharge your batteries.
Once you’re ready to go again, we’ll continue the hike to the Sun Gate, from where you get your first outstanding views of Machu Picchu and all its incredible architecture. You’ll be astounded at how the Incas were able to build such a site on a mountain. The landscape is very dreamy, and you’ll feel the magic and mystery of Machu Picchu that’s withstood the test of time amazingly. Use this opportunity to capture some unique photos and honor the Incas as you ponder how they were able to lift such big stones and try to understand their deep connection with nature.
We won’t be entering the citadel just yet, though. At this time of day, the tourists inside will be leaving, and you’ll be able to watch the magical golden light of the sun setting on the immense stone walls for some tranquility. You can look forward to tomorrow knowing that you’ll be exploring every inch of this masterpiece. For now, you’ll take an alternative path down to the exit, where you’ll board a bus that takes us to the small town of Aguas Calientes to spend the night in a hotel. Before you rest your body for the night, we’ll grab some dinner in one of the town’s best restaurants. Make sure you get to sleep early as you’ll be rising before the sun does tomorrow.
Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco
Highlight of the day: Step inside the Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu, and explore its ancient streets and incredible architecture.
Explore the Astounding Inca City of Machu Picchu
Today is the most awaited day by many! We will visit the imposing Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. We will take a bus that will take us for 25 minutes to Machu Picchu. We will explore this sacred place for an hour and a half while our guide will explain to you about its incredible history.
After living this beautiful experience, we will return to Aguas Calientes, and there you can have lunch or walk in the town until boarding the train that will take us to Ollantaytambo, where private transport will wait for us to return to Cusco and culminate this incredible adventure.
After a well-deserved night’s rest, it’s the moment you’ve been waiting for. Today, you’ll be wandering the mysterious streets of the majestic historical sanctuary of Machu Picchu! You’ll need to be up before sunrise to ensure you beat the crowds. You’ll take a short walk from your hotel to catch a bus that’ll take you on a 25-minute drive to the entrance of the Inca citadel. You’ll enter just before the sun comes up and paints the fortress with a gorgeous golden hue.
After soaking it all in and taking your first few photographs, you´ll tour the complex in a guided tour of an hour and a half and take amazing pictures of the place. Here, you´ll see some of the most important parts of Machu Picchu and learn about its history. Once the tour is over, you can climb Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (if you have booked tickets in advance); these tours will take you an hour and a half and three hours up and down, respectively.
When you’re ready to leave, it’ll be time to head back down to Aguas Calientes. You’ll have a bit of time to select a restaurant of your choice for a bite to eat before catching a train. You’ll arrive in Ollantaytambo by train, and then a private bus will be there to pick you up and take you back to your accommodation in Cusco.
Now it’s time to enjoy a thoroughly deserved rest and put your feet up. Your trip might be over, but we assure you your heart will be thumping for many years to come as you look back fondly on your incredible adventure.
At Salkantay Trekking, we specify the included and non-included services under all the tour itineraries listed on our website. We take care of all the logistics, but please pay attention to the details to avoid missing anything. Some items may be different for specific programs, so please read carefully before booking with us.
What Is Included?
Permits & Entrance Tickets
Entrance to the Salkantay Sanctuary
Permits and Ticket for Inca Trail
As soon as we receive your complete information and the deposit that secures your reservation, we’ll buy all the necessary permits (subject to availability). These permits are issued for a specific date and will be in your name. They cannot be changed under any circumstances. Change of passport number is only allowed for renewal reasons. In that case, you must bring both your old and new passport.
Entry to Machu Picchu Archaeological Site
Circuit 3
High Quality Service & Safety
Pre-departure Briefing - The day before the trip, at 5:00 pm you will meet your trekking guide.
You’ll meet your trekking guide and group in our office for an orientation before your trek. There, we’ll provide you with the duffle bags, which our horses will carry. The meeting will be at 5:00 pm the evening before the trip begins.
Experienced Tour Guide - All our guides have professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness and passion, which will make your trip safe and comfortable.
English and spanish speaking official tour guide. All our guides are graduates of the professional career of Tourism of the National University San Antonio Abad of Cusco. We choose them for their professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness, unbridled passion for exploring, and sincere desire to proudly share in our culture and history. He or she will keep you safe, sound, and comfortable on your trek so that you can enjoy your time worry-free!
- Bilingual Tour Guide in group service or shared (English and Spanish)
Private Camping Equipment
You’ll have spacious dining and kitchen tents where you can enjoy your food without problems. In addition, tables, chairs, and cooking equipment (all carried by our horses).
One Duffle Bag
On the trek, you can carry your personal belongings up to a maximum weight of 7 kg / 15.4 lb (this weight includes your sleeping bag).
Sleeping Bag
Our sleeping bags are effective and durable to protect you from temperatures as low as -18ºC (0ºF). They are mummy-form and include a sleeping liner. The bags are cleaned after every use and have a maximum usage of 30 trips.
Trekking Poles with rubber tips
Medical Kit or First AID Kit - Our guides are trained to deal with basic emergencies.
All Salkantay Trekking guides have received specialized training in first aid. We hold mandatory training sessions with our guides every February. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit to face basic emergencies (altitude sickness, travelers' diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) as well as oxygen. If necessary, we’ll evacuate you from the path as quickly as possible and ensure that you arrive at a clinic for treatment.
Extras Included in our Service - You’ll receive a cover to protect your backpack on the road and a rain poncho.
We believe that attention to small details is what sets us apart from other local companies. You’ll receive a cover to protect your backpack on the road and a rain poncho.
24/7 Customer Service - We have 24 hours a day telephone service.
We have telephone service available 24 hours/day for ease of communication with Salkantay Trekking leading up to your trek.
Satellite Phone - Each of our guides has a satellite phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to call anywhere in the world in case of emergency.
Our main priority will always be the tranquillity of our clients. All of our guides are prepared for emergencies in the mountains; however, being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps you feel more secure. For this reason, each Salkantay Trekking guide has a satellite phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to call anywhere in the world in case of an emergency.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Private Campsites
Like our ancestors, we’re very considerate of the Pachamama (Mother Earth). For this reason, our campsites and lodges are adapted to the environment to avoid generating negative impacts.
Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Days 4 and 5)
You will spend the last two nights of this trek in a comfortable hotel at Aguas Calientes, including luggage storage while visiting Machu Picchu.
*Accommodation is in double and triple rooms.
Meals
5 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, and 5 Dinners
Our chef prepares the best dishes in the middle of the mountain. Our passengers love our food! We respect all diets (vegetarian, vegan, or special menus are available at no extra cost), so let us know if you have any particular allergies or restrictions on your reservation form and remind your guide during the briefing. You’ll enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, in addition to hot drinks and snacks.
Water on the trail - You will need to bring a camel bag or an empty bottle for us to give you boiled, filtered and refrigerated water.
We’ll provide you boiled, filtered, and cooled water during your hike, from your first lunch to your last breakfast. For this, you need to bring a camel bag or an empty bottle (we recommend a capacity of 2 liters).
Wake up tea - Every morning at campig we will provide you with hot coca tea.
Every morning at the campsite, you'll be woken up with a cup of hot coca tea. Our staff will bring the tea to your tent so that you will be warmed from inside out before you start your day.
Tea Time or Happy Hour - Every evening, before dinner, the cooks will provide you with popcorn, cookies, coffee, tea, hot water, etc.
Every afternoon before dinner, the cooks will provide you popcorn, biscuits/cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, teas, hot water, etc. After a long day of hiking, you won't have to wait until dinner to relax, warm-up, and enjoy a bite to eat!
Snacks on the trail daily - You will receive a bag with cookies, fruit and more, to be refilled each morning.
Before starting your trekking, your tour guide will provide you a cloth bag with local fruits, cookies, chocolate, caramels, etc. Every morning, we’ll refill it so that you can enjoy your snacks during the walk.
One cloth snack bag per person
To avoid the usage of plastic bags that contaminate our environment, we'll give you a cloth bag for your snacks.
Hygiene Products
You’ll be provided with a small towel and soap before each meal to clean your hands.
Transportation
Day 1: Transport from your hotel to Challacancha, the starting point of the trek
Day 5: One-Way Bus Ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Day 6: Round Trip Bus Tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
Day 6: Transport from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco
Train Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Day 6)
Peru Rail Expedition Service
Cargo Mules
On days 1, 2, and 3, cargo mules will carry all the camping equipment and your baggage allowance (7 kg / 15.4 lb). Our muleteers will be responsible for your duffle bag and personal items, and they’ll hand them to you when you get to each camp.
What Is Not Included?
Huayna Picchu Mountain - If you want to visit this famous mountain it has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person (remember to book at least one month in advance).
You can climb the famous mountain you always see in the photos behind the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It’s 45 minutes uphill, and coming back down can be scary if you fear heights. You can take this excursion once your guided tour to Machu Picchu ends. The permit must be issued at least two to three months in advance due to high demand. Consider that there could be changes to protect your integrity, mainly due to weather conditions.
- The ticket for Huayna Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person.
Machu Picchu Mountain- If you want to visit this famous mountain it has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person (remember to book at least one month in advance).
Machu Picchu Mountain is another of the mountains that surround the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It offers less steep, wider, and visually less frightening trails than Huayna Picchu, and it takes 1.5 hours to reach the top. This walk requires an entrance ticket which we can secure for you if we have time in advance.
- The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person.
Day 1 Breakfast
Lunch in Aguas Calientes and Dinner in Cusco (Day 6)
Personal Hiking Clothing and Gear
Travel Insurance
Tips for our staff
Tipping is the norm on any excursion to Machu Picchu. Although we pay good salaries to our entire team, something extra is always welcome, especially considering the hard work they do.
Additional costs or delays beyond our control
Landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to a safety concern, illness, pandemia, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, act of God, etc.
We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as carefree as possible. In this section, you’ll find the answers to all the questions you have about traveling with Salkantay Trekking in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services.
The Inca Trail Without Plastics
Join us on this journey towards a plastic-free Inca Trail, where the beauty of the landscape is matched only by our commitment to environmental stewardship. Together, let's pave the way for a more sustainable and responsible adventure through the heart of history.
How many days do I need to acclimate in Cusco before the Trek?
It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before exerting yourself on a trek. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the trek starts to help you adjust and avoid possible problems with altitude sickness while on the trek.
You might have already been in another area of Peru at a high altitude before arriving in Cusco. In that case, we still recommend you have a whole day in Cusco to rest, recover from your travel, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Cusco before departing for the trek.
Here some suggestions for activities to do in the Cusco vicinity before starting your adventure trek:
Briefing or Informative Meeting
All information meetings and briefings are held in our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm, one night before the tour begins. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re unable to attend, you must coordinate another time by email, by phone or at the Salkantay Trekking office.
Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)
If you still have a pending balance, you must pay it 2 days before your hike/tour. Otherwise, your trip reservation will not be confirmed.
If possible, it would be greatly appreciated if you could settle the remaining balance for the trek/tour in cash, either in US dollars or the local currency, at our office in Cusco. You can withdraw funds from various ATMs located along Avenida Sol, offering both US dollars and Peruvian Soles. Alternatively, you have the option to pay using a credit/debit card or PAYPAL, either online or in person, but please note that a 5% service charge will be applied by our payment gateway (Niubiz) and PAYPAL. We regret to inform you that we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler's checks as forms of payment for the balance.
Duffel Bag or Canvas Case
The evening before you start your trek, we’ll provide you with a duffle bag to pack your clothes for the 6-day Salkantay & Inca Trail trek. Your weight allowance is up to 7 kg / 15.4 lb. Our horses will carry them the first three days of our hike, and then our porters will take them for the following days and hand them to you when you get to each camp. They measure 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in).
Can I store my luggage at your office?
Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office (you can organize it with us on the briefing day or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Any equipment that you won’t need on the trek can be stored safely in your hotel. Nearly every hotel will provide this service. Don’t leave items of value with your bags; put them in the hotel safe and obtain an itemized receipt (in the unlikely case of theft, many insurance companies require that you have a copy of the receipt itemizing everything). It’s best to put items such as credit cards inside a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.
Pick up of guests
Please note:
- All pickups are within Cusco City, but we recommend booking a hotel in the historic center for its convenient location.
- Our guide or staff will confirm the pickup time the day before the tour.
- Due to traffic conditions, the pickup time may vary between 30 and 45 minutes.
- Cusco is an old city and has many narrow cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are located on streets without car access or on long, steep slopes, making it difficult to transport luggage. For such reasons, we strongly advise you to book accommodation with good access.
Return to Cusco
Returning from Machu Picchu requires quite a bit of logistics, but don’t worry. Everything is included in your tour!
- In Machu Picchu, you’ll board a bus that’ll take you for 25 minutes to the small city of Aguas Calientes. The buses are boarded according to arrival.
- In Aguas Calientes, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo (or Poroy). Your guide will give you the train tickets where the boarding time will be shown. Make sure you’re on the platform 30 minutes early. The train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo takes 1:45 hours.
- Once you arrive at the station, our representative, identified with the Salkantay Trekking clothing, will be waiting to transfer you to Cusco or directly to your hotel. The trip from Ollantaytambo to Cusco takes 1:30 hours.
- In Cusco, depending on your hotel’s location, we’ll take you to a smaller car from our company (Hyundai H1) to transfer you faster to your hotel.
Group Tours
Group tours are made up of different types of people, then physical conditions and ages can vary. By agreeing to be part of a group tour, you also accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, each person can go at their own pace on the route.
It may be the case that a group wishes to modify the tour; however, the guide will be the one who decides, after consulting with all the participants, if such modifications are possible.
Strikes and demonstrations
Strikes and demonstrations are common in Peru, and this may interrupt some of our tours. Roads can be blocked, and train tracks can be taken over. However, we will try to keep your trip as originally planned, even if it means leaving the night before the scheduled date.
Under these circumstances, tours may also be canceled. In case of changes or cancellations, everything will be coordinated with you by our operations department. Your safety is our highest priority, and our decisions will be made to protect it.
Lost objects
Please pay attention to where you leave your things and remember to take everything once you leave our transport, camps, tents or restaurants. You’re the only one responsible for your objects during the tour.
WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?
ESSENTIAL
CLOTHING
EQUIPMENT
RECOMMENDED
Private & Exclusive Campsites
Sky Camp
Our incredible Sky Camp is located in front of the impressive mountains Humantay and Salkantay. This campsite allows for the perfect union of sky and earth. It allows you to sleep calmly under a deep, blue sky starred with an exceptional view of the constellations. At the same time, you can enjoy all the comforts of a first-class vacation home.
- Location: Soraypampa
- Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
- Igloos: 26
- Capacity: 2 people per Igloo
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Mountain Sky View
Our campsite Mountain Sky View is a warm mountain accommodation and our novelty this year, and it’s with great pleasure that we prepared this place for all those looking for a glamping experience surrounded by nature. Each one of its individual Andean Sky Huts counts with a private bath besides spectacular tropical mountain views. You’ll find peace under the shining stars listening to the voices of wildlife and the whispers of the river in the valley.
- Location: Collpapampa
- Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
- Cabins: 10
- Capacity: 2 people per Sky Hut
- Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Jungle Domes
From the comfort of our domes, you can be in intimate contact with the surrounding nature, hearing the wind or the rain or gazing at the stars through the central dome from your comfortable bed. The conceptual design of our domes invites you to see one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world from your window.
- Location: Lucmabamba
- Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft
- Domes: 16
- Capacity: 2 people per Dome
- Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes
Selected Hotels
We offer a set of well located hotels with very comfortable and tasteful decorated rooms. You will find them impecable, clean rooms and beds, adequate toilets and showers. A perfect place to rest before the great day!
- Location: Aguas Calientes
- Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft
- Type: Double, Matrimonial, and Triple
- Meals: Breakfast
"Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail" can leave any day of the week, from March through January. We don’t operate this itinerary in February because of the rainy season & maintenance of the route.
2025 Land Cost
Group Price: US$ 995.00 per person.
Required Pre-payment: US$ 400.00 per person.
Balance (Cusco): US$ 595.00 (Typically paid in Cusco two days before the start of your expedition)
This small-group journey is guaranteed to operate with just two guests.
Please note that PayPal and our credit/debit card payment gateway, Niubiz, charge a 5% processing fee for online deposits. We kindly request that our clients cover this fee, as it is necessary to use their secure service. Please be aware that this fee only applies to online deposits. If you choose to pay the full amount or remaining balance in cash, there will be no additional charges.
Extras & Upgrades
There are complementary services and upgrades you can include in this trip.
- Huayna Picchu: US$ 60.00
- Machu Picchu Mountain: US$ 60.00
- Huchuy Picchu Mountain: US$ 45.00
- Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo): US$ 70.00
Extensions & Offers
There are several extensions you can include to your Peru Adventure. The promotional prices only apply to confirmed departures, otherwise the normal price will be applied. You can enhance your Peru Adventure with a variety of optional extensions. Please note that promotional prices are valid only for confirmed departures. For any other dates or changes, the regular price will apply.
- Rainbow Mountain: US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
- Sacred Valley: US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
- City Tour: US$ 50.00 US$ 40.00
Price Guarantee
Once your booking has been confirmed, we guarantee the price won’t increase, whatever the circumstances. So please, before booking, ensure you’ve read all our important tour information.
Student Discount
US$20.00 off
Student discounts apply to anyone 17 years old or younger. To receive the discount, we require a copy or clear photo of the passport at the time of booking. It must be valid and not expire within the travel dates. Please send it to info@salkantaytrekking.com.
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Salkantay Trekking. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.
Our Pledge | Your privacy is respected and protected. The Salkantay Trekking Company will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.
Remember | One of our Travel Experts will contact you soon to confirm the availability of the trip you chose, give you more information, and/or provide you alternative options. Once availability is established, we will ask for a deposit and a completed online registration to confirm your spot on the trek. Please call us at (+51) 958 191 179 with any questions or to confirm availability over the phone.
Note | Due to the rainy season and trail maintenance, we don't offer this trek during the whole month of february. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you, we are working to provide you a better service!