07 Day Salkantay Trek Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Soraypampa
Salkantay
Wiñay Huayna
Machu Picchu

The joint Salkantay and Inca Trail experience will leave you astounding at each step as you explore the majestic natural landscapes and the ancient essence of this region

Places that are visited

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Highlights

07 Day Salkantay Trek Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Inca Trail Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Day | Salcantay Inca Trail 4 days is ideal for those who seek to explore lesser-traveled routes and combine outstanding trails with even more impressive scenery. Subsequently, The joint Salcantay and Inca Trail 4 days trek experience will leave you astounding at each step as you explore the majestic natural landscapes and the ancient essence of this region, not only through the various microclimates you will pass but also through your visits to the ancient temples and roadways of the Inca legacy.

Our principal objective is to arrive at Machu Picchu – the best reward after making a long journey through the rough terrain of one of the richest areas of South America.

OVERVIEW INCA TRAIL SALKANTAY TREK 7 DAYS

DAY 1: Cusco – Humantay Lake –Soraypampa

Walking Distance – 12km / 7.45 miles
Starting Elevation – 3651 m. / 11978 ft.
Highest Elevation – 4200 m. / 13779 ft.
Campsite Elevation – 3900 m. / 12795 ft.
Difficulty: Challenging

DAY 2: Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa – Pampa Japonesa

Walking Distance – 9km / 5.59 miles
Starting Elevation – 3900 m. / 12795 ft.
Highest Elevation – 4600 m. / 15091 ft.
Campsite Elevation – 4600 m. / 15091 ft.
Difficulty: Challenging

DAY 3: Pampa Japonesa – Incachiriaska – Canal Inca

Walking Distance – 12km / 7.46 miles
Starting Elevation – 4600 m. / 15091 ft.
Highest Elevation – 5200 m. / 17060 ft.
Campsite Elevation – 3800 m. / 12467 ft.
Difficulty: Formidable

DAY 4: Inca Aquaduct – Huayllabamba – Ayapata

Walking Distance – 14km / 8.7 miles
Starting Elevation – 3800 m. / 12467 ft.
Highest Elevation – 3800 m. / 12467 ft.
Campsite Elevation – 3300 m. / 10827 ft.
Difficulty: Moderate

DAY 5: Ayapata – Warmiwañusqa – Chaquicocha

Walking Distance – 16km / 9.94 miles
Starting Elevation – 3300 m. / 10827 ft.
Highest Elevation – 4200 m. / 13779 ft.
Campsite Elevation – 3600 m. / 11800 ft.
Difficulty: Formidable

DAY 6: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna

Walking Distance – 10km / 6.21 miles
Starting Elevation – 3600 m. / 11800 ft.
Highest Elevation – 3680 m. / 12073 ft.
Campsite Elevation – 2680 m. / 8792 ft.
Difficulty: Easy

DAY 7: Wiñaywayna – Machupicchu – Cusco

Walking Distance – 5km / 3.1 miles
Starting Elevation – 2680 m. / 8792 ft.
Highest Elevation – 2730 m. / 8956 ft.
Difficulty: Easy

Itinerary

DAY 1: Cusco – Humantay Lake –Soraypampa

Firstly, Today we will depart very early from Cusco, at 5:00 am and make the 3-hour journey to the town of Mollepata, the gateway to the Salcantay valley. Then, Along the way, you will experience many different micro-climates and altitudes, each with its unique agricultural essence, such as the town of Limatambo, known for its avocados. After that, we will have a quick breakfast before continuing back up in elevation to the community of Soraypampa where we begin our trek. After lunch, our first stop will be at the Humantay Lake, magical turquoise waters that lay right at the foot of this massive glacier. Subsequently, Returning to camp in Soraypampa, where we will settle in for the night, and weather permitting, a spectacular night show of constellations and the possible shooting star.

Max Elevation: 4,200 meters / 13,779 feet
Distance: 12km / 7.46 miles

Lodging: Campsite in Soraypampa

DAY 2: Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa – Pampa Japonesa

Likewise, Today we will rise early for breakfast and begin our ascent to Salcantay pass. Firstly, to Salkantaypampa, moving closer and closer to this massive mountain at an astounding 6,271 meters / 20,574 feet. Whose name refers to the wild and untamed force of Nature than rules the creative forces of this world. Then, Our camp today will be at Pampa Japonesa (4,600 meters / 15,091 feet), the last spot nearest to the glacier before ascending to the high pass. Subsequently, This evening you will feel the cool wrath of the nearby ice and potentially here the avalanches at a safe distance.

Max Elevation: 4,600 meters / 15,091 feet
Distance: 9 km / 5,59 miles

Lodging: Campsite in Pampa Japonesa

DAY 3: Pampa Japonesa – Incachiriaska – Canal Inca

With each day, we are nearing our connection with the original machu picchu Inca Trail, and this day is the final one in our route to unite with this historic area. Likewise, Here it is possible to observe the Andean Condor and its majestic flight. Today the altitude will test your strength as we ascend to the high pass of Incachiriaska (5,338 meters / 17,513 feet). Finally, after about 3 hours, we will descend into the valley below for a more gentle walk. Arriving at our camp, we will share dinner and rest. The night views continue to amaze us due to the thin atmosphere at this elevation, allowing us a spectacular observation of the night sky.

Max Elevation: 5,200 meters / 17,060 feet
Distance: 12 km / 7.46 miles

Lodging: Campsite in Inca Aqueduct

DAY 4: Inca Aquaduct – Huayllabamba – Ayapata

Today we will enter into the famous Inca Trail hike, starting first with the archaeological center of Paucarcancha. After that, Continuing onwards, we will return to an elevation with abundant vegetation and plenty of flora and fauna in the Andean cloud forest. The views of the towering mountains above us and multiple waterfalls at every turn, accompany us as we venture through changes in microclimates. We arrive for lunch at the Inca Trail pass before making a short connection to our campsite for the night at Ayapata (3,300 meters / 10,827 feet).

Max Elevation: 3800 m. / 12467 ft.
Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles

Lodging: Campsite in Ayapata

DAY 5: Ayapata – Warmiwañusqa – Chaquicocha

After a nourishing breakfast to begin our trek, we ascend to the high pass of Warmiwañusqa at an elevation of 4,200 meters / 13,779 feet, to then descend back into the forest and an environment full of native queuña trees and plenty of hummingbirds among abundant flora and fauna. We will arrive at the campsite of Pacamayo for lunch and rest before continuing onto our final destination of Runkurakay (3,760 meters / 12,150 feet), believed to be the astrology temple of the Incas. The camp will be at Chaquicocha (3,400 meters / 11,154 feet) for dinner and another night under the stars.

Max Elevation: 4,200 meters / 13,779 feet
Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles

Lodging: Campsite in Chaquicocha

DAY 6: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna

From here, we are only one day from Machu Picchu, but there are several astounding locations to visit along the way. We continue through Runkurakay, onto Phuyupatamarca – one of the most impressive ceremonial platforms with fine construction techniques. Last we visit Wiñaywayna (the mountain of eternal youth), with its superior aqueducts, terraces, and temples. From here, you will be able to feel and see the energy of Machu Picchu, intensifying with each step. Views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River valley far below start to come out at several vantage points. Similarly, The jungle also thickens as we descend. Our camp will be nearby Wiñaywayna (2,650 meters / 8,692 feet) for dinner and rest.

Max Elevation: 3,600 meters / 11,800 feet
Distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles

Lodging: Campsite in Wiñaywayna

DAY 7: Wiñaywayna – Machupicchu – Cusco

Firstly to culminate the Salkantay trek 7 day, Today we must rise before sunrise for a quick ascent to the famous sun gate if we want to catch the finest sunrise on the planet – the first rays illuminating the crystal city of Machu Picchu. It is almost a 2-hour journey to Intipunku (Sun Gate) at only 2,730 meters / 8,956 feet), where you will have the privilege of observing the great citadel of Machu Picchu at the most precious time of day. From here, we can also observe the surrounding areas of deep river valleys and towering snow-capped peaks.

Subsequently, Once within the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu, your guide will take you on a short tour of the most important sites and share their respective history and significance. Afterward, you will have time to climb up to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain by yourself (only if you have the permits and entrances to do it). Later in the afternoon, we will descend to the town of Aguas Calientes and board the train back to Cusco. This way, our tour Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu concludes.

Distance: 5 km / 3 miles

What's Included

INCA TRAIL SALKANTAY TREK INCLUDES:

Pre-departure briefing: You will meet your guide and group in our office for an orientation before your trek and provide you the duffle bags which will be carried by our horses. Meeting at 6:00 PM the evening before the trip begins.
1 Duffle Bag: Where you can put your personal belongings (7 kilograms = 15 lbs), which includes your sleeping bag.
Transport: Collection from your hotel in the morning and transfer in private transportation to Challacancha (starting point of the trek).
Experienced Guide: English speaking professional and official tour guide.
Entrance fee to Machu Picchu.
Entrance fee to Inca Trail.

During camps of Salkantay Inca trail trek:

Personal tents: 2 people in each 4-person- capacity tent, to allow for higher comfort and a safe keeping of backpacks. Our tents are 3-season, highly maintained to ensure excellent performance in the field. Kailas, Pro Aconcagua, and Rei 4 Outfitter tents are employed when double accommodation is requested.
Camping equipment: Dining and kitchen tents, tables, chairs.
Foam mats or sleeping pads: to put under your sleeping bag (carried by horses)
Accommodation: 6 nights in campings.
Trekking Cook: In charge of preparing all the meals along the journey, over six people cook assistant
Meals: 6 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 dinners, and Snacks (Vegetarian, vegan or special menus are available at no extra cost)
Wake up tea: Every morning at the campsite we will wake you up with a cup of coca tea our support staff will bring the coca tea to your tent in order to wake you up.

During the Trip:

Porters: We include your porter, who is responsible for carrying your duffel with your personal items. There is no additional fee for this. We will give you your duffel bag at your briefing the night before, and this should be filled with the things you need for the night and the next day. You will not have access to your duffel until your evening campsite.
One textile snack bag per person: to avoid the usage of plastic bags that contaminate our environment
Tea time = Happy Hour: Every afternoon one hour before dinner the cooks will let on the dining table popcorn, biscuits, coffee, chocolate, different type of teas, hot water, etc.
Daily snacks – Days 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6: Our Snacks consist of local fruits, biscuits, chocolate, and Caramels we will give these snacks at the beginning of each day trek in a cloth bag to avoid environmental contamination.

Services Required:

Water grooming: Each morning warm water with a towel
Medical kit: Our crew brings the First-aid kit including an emergency oxygen bottle
Train tickets: From Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition service at 18:20 hrs)
Transport: Transfer from Ollantaytambo Train Station to the hotel in Cusco(Day 7)
24-h guest service: please ask for the emergency number available during your time of visit
Entrance fee to Salkantay Trail

NOT INCLUDED:

Sleeping Bag (Can be hired from us). US$40
Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain $85
Tips.
Extra Personal porter. US$160 for carrying personal items for 5 kg.
Meals where are not stated
Additional costs or delays caused by management out of control like landscape, bad weather conditions, in case of itinerary modification with a view to safety concern, illness, change of government
policy, political instability raises strikes, moment, etc.
Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trip.

WHAT TO BRING FOR INCA TRAIL SALKANTAY TREK?

Original Passport
Current University Card (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount)
Walking boots
Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
Warm jacket
Hat and gloves
T-shirts
Comfortable Trousers
Sun hat
Sun cream (factor 35 or higher)
Insect repellant
Toiletries and hand sanitizer
Personal medication
Camera and film
Torch with spare batteries

Prices

INCA TRAIL SALKANTAY TREK PRICES 2023 **Daily Departure with at least 2 peopleBefore make your booking, please check Inca trail availability: Inca Trail Availability Includes a Personal Porter who will carry your personal items up to 7 kilos (including the sleeping bag + mattress: 2kg and a half), we will provide you a duffle bag for this purpose.**
NUMBER OF PAX	PRICE PER PERSON	ACTION
02 people	US$ 1400.00	Book Now
03 people	US$1100.00	Book Now
04 people	US$ 995.00	Book Now
05 people	US$ 975.00	Book Now
06 people	US$ 925.00	Book Now
07+ people	US$ 900.00	Book Now

Discounts for Salkantay trek Inca Trail to Machu Picchu:

Under 18 years old: US$35.00 Please send us a copy of the passport at the booking time
Student Discount (Maximum Age 25 years old): US$35.00 Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. Likewise, For those using an university student card to receive the discount, we need to see a copy of the card at booking. Similarly, For those booking children 17-years-old or younger, we need a copy of their passport at booking time. So, Please send all to info@inkayniperutours.com. More Information about STUDENT CARD

FAQS?

Inca Trail Availability

Certainly, It is strongly recommended to book your Inca trail hike Salkantay trek at least 6 months in advance as permits can quickly sell out. Last year the demand was extremely high, and demand is projected to rise even more.

Above all, Inkayni Peru Tours offers daily departures on the Inca trail 4 days Salkantay (excluding February when the trail is closed).

Likewise, since 2000 the Classic Inca trail tours have been regulated by the country of Peru. This has provided many wonderful things, like clean trails and camping sites. But it has also limited the number of people on the trail each day. Now only 500 people are permitted on the trail every morning – this includes hikers, guides, porters, and cooks.

For instance, Inkayni Peru Tours will create amazing expeditions to Machu Picchu

with great guides, chefs, and the unmatchable, unstoppable Porters. Above all, the best equipment tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, and pillows.

If your date is not available, look beyond to see that there are many wonderful alternative treks to Machu Picchu. Just as beautiful as the Classic Inca trail trek Salkantay and not as crowded!

With How Much Time In Advance Should I Book My Inka Trail Salkantay trek?

We recommend it as soon as possible!! This is a famous route in high-demand, and because the government has restricted access and applied daily limits (200 hikers & 300 porters/staff per day). Due to these factors, we urge you to make your reservation as far in advance as possible.

What month should I book the Inca Trail Salkantay trek?

Likewise, If you plan to travel between the months of April – September, you best make your reservation 06 months before your departure date for Inca trail 4 days Salkantay.

Moreover, between the months of October – January, it is possible to make a reservation from 03 to 04 months in advance.

What happens with the payment, do you need a deposit?

Once your reservation has been confirmed through our website or a sales agent, a deposit fee of US $ 250 (2021) must be made to confirm your trek Salkantay Inca trail 4 days. Deposits must be made through PayPal (quickest and preferred method), Western Union, or bank transfer.

How do I cancel the rest of the payment for Inca trail Salkantay trek?

Above all, the remaining balance must be paid in our office in Cusco for AT LEAST 48 hours. Before your trekking Salkantay Inca trail departure date, before 7:30 pm.

That is to say, the remaining balance must be paid in cash (US$ dollars or Peruvian Soles). When we confirm your trekking reservation, we will send you the details on how to make the deposit for your trip. Please note that the deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable. That is to say, The deposit is used to purchase your inca trail permits and reserve your space. After having made this purchase by sending your information to the government, NO adjustments or changes can be made (dates, names, personal data, etc.) to the reservation.

Is the trek difficult? Do I need to be in good physical condition?

All our treks (Inka Trail, Salkantay, Ausangate, Lares, etc) are moderately difficult, lengthy, and traverse rough mountain terrain. We kindly recommend that if you plan to conquer any of these routes Machu Picchu travel to be in relatively good physical condition, plus acclimatization.

How far in advance should I acclimatize for the Inca trail Salkantay trek?

This means arriving in Cusco at least 02 days prior to your trek departure to adjust to the altitude. During the last two months leading up to your trek Inca trail 4 days Salkantay, we suggest a regular and moderate exercise routine to improve endurance and stamina. We wish for you to have the best experience possible!

Is there a maximum or minimum age limit for Inka trail Salkantay?

There are NO government restrictions regarding the age limit for the Inca trail 4 days Salkantay. However, as a responsible Tour Agency, we will only accept reservations for children 7 or younger if the parents assume full responsibility for them during the trek. *For families with children, we highly suggest booking a private tour to make your experience more comfortable*

What about minors and seniors for the Salkantay trek Inca trail to Machu Picchu?

An adult must accompany all children below the age of 18 years.

We require all trekkers age 60 or above to hire an additional porter (12kg) for their convenience.

Trekkers age 65 + must consult with their physician before booking and also before traveling to verify health conditions for participating in a high altitude multi-day trek.

We also suggest that all medical or doctor recommendations be acknowledged, even if this means canceling your travel plans. We recommend that all clients 60 years of age or above arrive in Cusco at least 03 days before your trekking date to adjust to the altitude. Inca trail 4 days Salkantay

Similarly, for all clients age 55 + speak in advance with their physician to consult the best way to plan your trek and inquire that your travel insurance covers activities such as adventure. We will require a medical file confirming a good state of health and NO cardiac problems.

Are vegetarian, vegan, and/or other special diet needs available?

Of course! Without any additional costs! When you make your reservation, please inform us of any dietary needs or requirements, including allergies.

That is to say, Vegetarian foods will be absent of all meats, chicken, or fish. We will assume that eggs and cheese or other lactose products are OK.

What will the meals be like during the Inca trail Salkantay trek?

Most of our main meals are buffet-style, leaving you the option to avoid anything undesirable to you.

If there are any food items or veggies that you cannot stomach, perhaps onions, tomatoes, mushrooms.. etc., upon your request we will ask our chef to leave them out or separate this item.

We can also attend lactose-intolerant or gluten-intolerant diets. We cannot accept individuals with serious allergic or life-threatening reactions.

I have a food allergy. May I still participate?

Certainly, Every day we receive many clients with food allergies to nuts, wheat, etc. Please inform us in detail of your condition upon making your reservation for the classic Inca trail.

Therefore, We kindly ask that you declare the severity of your reaction and any medication that you take in case of an emergency.

However, If your allergy is severe, we ask that you be accompanied by a friend or individual conscious and fully responsible of your situation and ready with any medication.

WE CAN NOT ACCEPT CLIENTS WITH LIFE-THREATENING ALLERGIES

When must I arrive in Cusco or arrive at your office?

We require that all clients arrive to Cusco at least 48 hours before the start of your trek, although 03 nights before is ideal. Certainly, You must pay your remaining balance two days before your departure for your trek for the Inca trail 4 days Salkantay. This will assure that all individuals are acclimatized and adjusted to the high altitude conditions to begin their trek comfortably. Please note that your remaining balance must be paid in cash in our office and cannot be paid before your arrival.

What are the office hours- Salkantay?

Certainly, Our office hours are Monday – Saturday 9:00am – 1:00pm, 4:00pm – 8:00pm. (Please aim to arrive 7:30 pm at the latest!)

Are hiking sticks or poles necessary for Inca trail 4 days Salkantay?

For this trek more than any other, we do recommend hiking sticks, especially for those with any known knee problems. The trail is full of steep ascents and steep drops on narrow Inka stairs. That is to say, The poles will assist your balance and reduce the impact on your knees. *Inkayni Peru Tours and the INC (National Culture Institute) asks that you not use metal-tipped poles that will damage the trail.*

In addition, Inkayni Peru Tours will rent hiking sticks for $25

Where can I store my baggage that I don't need for the Inca trail Salcantay?

Can I leave my belongings in your office while I’m on Inca trail Salkantay trek – Salkantay?

On the other hand, Any baggage that is not necessary for your trek on the Inca trail Salkantay may be stored in your hotel in Cusco (most hotels offer this service free of charge). In the case that your hotel may not provide this service, we will store your baggage safely in our office free of charge.

Should I hire an additional porter for Inca trail 4 days Salkantay?

Remember that group service includes a personal porter to carry your things up to 05 kg / 11.02 lb. Before the start of your trek we will provide you with a duffle bag to bring your basic necessities, such as; a sleeping bag (average 2,5 kg), and extra clothing (average 2,5 kg). So, Remember that your porter will not be hiking at your side during the trek, which means you will still need to carry a daypack to have your personal things on-hand throughout the day, such as drinking water, snacks, camera, fleece, and raincoat.

Extra Services?

SERVICE	PRICE
Hire of sleeping bag 5 season	$40.00
Walking stick is highly recommended!	$25.00
Single Tent supplement	$50.00
Additional porter for 5 kg.	$160.00
Additional night at 3 star hotel	$85.00

Why take this tour with us?

Inkayni Peru Tours is continually working to become one of the most responsible tour operators in Peru. We ideally try to keep our groups to a limit of 10 persons. Therefore, since we fully operate all of our treks, we have complete control over the quality of our service. Therefore, we want to make sure that you have a great experience on all our treks and tours.

Above all, it is also crucial that all the people involved in the operation of our services are treated and taken care of properly, and that the benefits brought by tourism are shared throughout the Peruvian communities.