Overview
Overview
- First day: Cusco – Soraypampa – Ichupata
- Second day: Ichupata –Incachiriasca pass – Pampacahuana
- Third day: Pampacahuana – Huayllabamba –Llulluchapampa
- Fourth day: Llulluchapampa –Dead Woman’s Pass- Phuyupatamarca
- Fifth day: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu
- Sixth day: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Useful Information
- Starting Altitude: 3,800 m /12,467 ft.
- Highest Altitude: 5,028 m /16,495 ft.
- Walking Distance: 67 Km /42 miles
- Overall Difficulty: Difficult
Itinerary
Salkantay & Inca Trail Expedition – Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Ichupata
We will pick you up from your hotel early in the morning and enjoy beautiful 4 hour drive to the starting point of our Salkantay & Inca Trail Expedition at Soraypampa (3,800 m/12,467 ft). Here we will enjoy a delicious breakfast surrounded by magnificent views of Salkantay and Humantay Mountain.
Our first adventure, is to the spectacularly sparkling Umantay Lake. After enjoying the beauty and taking pictures, we will hike back down to Soraypampa to then begin the trek.
The Salkantay Trek today consists of a gradual 5 to 6 hour ascent from Soraypampa to Ichupata (4,300 m / 14,104 ft) in the upper valley. Throughout our hike today, we are surrounded by fascinating and lush flora and fauna of the mountains and 360 degree views. Along the way, we will pass Salkantaypampa, which is our lunch spot. Then it is only a couple more hours till reaching Ichupata, our camp for the night. Here we enjoy a deliciously prepared meal from our trekking chef and rest up for the next day’s journey.
- Meals: Breakfast /Lunch /Afternoon Snacks /Dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 4,300 m / 14,104 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 3,800 m/12,467 ft
- Waking Distance: 12 km /7.5 miles
- Approximate walking Time: 6-7 hours
Day 2: Ichupata –Incachiriasca pass – Pampacahuana
After a nourishing breakfast and a hot cup of coca tea, we will begin the 3 to 4 hour steep climb towards the Incachiriasca pass (4850m/15908ft), the highest point of the trek. The work is well worth it, as we will have amazing views of the powerful and towering Apu Salkantay and glacial moraines. We will stop at the top of the pass to take pictures and enjoy the magnificent view.
Then, we will descend towards our lunch spot at Sisaypampa, a flat area from which one can observe the Salkantay Valley. Here, if we are lucky, we might see Andean condors. Condors are the largest birds of the Andes, with a wingspan that can reach up to 10 feet!
After lunch, we continue towards the Pampacahuana community (3,700 m / 12,136 ft), located next to an original Inca canal. This quaint community is our camp for the night. We will get to meet some of the local families and share a lovey dinner prepared by our chef. Then we relax amidst the mountains and under the stars.
- Meals: Breakfast /Lunch /Afternoon Snacks /Dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 4,850 m / 15,908 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 3,700 m / 12,136 ft
- Walking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
- Approximate walking Time: 8-9 hours
Day 3: Pampacahuana – Huayllabamba -Llulluchapampa
We enjoy an early morning with a hot cup of tea and breakfast, surrounded by magnificent views before we set out on the trail. Today, we change paths, as we join the Classic Inca Trail. We begin by hiking downhill for 3 hours from Pampacahuana to Paucarcancha (3,133 m / 10,276 ft). Here, we will have lunch and relax. Then, we will enjoy an informative tour of this ruins site and learn of the fascinating history of the Incas. While we are here, we will say our farewells and thanks to our horsemen and the horses, and meet our porters.
From Paucarcancha, we will hike 25 minutes downhill to the last small village on the Classic Inca Trail, Huayllabamba (2,866 m / 9,400 ft). This will be followed by a 4 hour uphill hike to Llulluchapampa (3,700 m/12,136 ft). Along the way, we will hike through many ecosystems, including the majestic cloud forest. Llulluchapampa is our home for the night and is located very close to the Dead Woman’s Pass. We will have spectacular views surrounding us and will enjoy dinner and rest.
- Meals: Breakfast /Lunch /Afternoon Snacks /Dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 3,700 m/12,136 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2,866 m / 9,400 ft
- Walking Distance: 15 km /9 miles
- Approximate walking Time: 9-10 hours
Day 4: Llulluchapampa -Dead Woman’S Pass Phuyupatamarca
Today is our longest day, as we cross two high passes; luckily for us we chose to camp last night at a location where we’re nearly at the first pass, Dead woman’s pass (4,215 m/13,825 ft), the highest point of the Classic Inca Trail. After we conquer the second pass (Runcuraccay pass 3,950 m/ 12,959 ft), the terrain levels out with very few ups and downs.
Today, we will have some of the best views and scenery of the whole Classic Inca Trail. We will also explore and tour two Inca sites, Runcuraccay and Sayacmarca (3,850 m/12,628 ft). We hike through cloud forests, with fantastic vantage points of the valley below and views of towering snow-capped peaks, today is by far the most breathtaking in it’s surroundings. Of course, we will stop to take advantage of the many picturesque photo opportunities.
Tonight, our camp is at Phuyupatamarca (3,680 m/ 12,073ft). Here we will have our first views of Machu Picchu mountain far in the distance (the site itself is hidden from view). We will make it here just in time to view the sunset, the golden hour for photos. Phuyupatamarca is a tranquil site as most trekkers are camping closer to Machu Picchu.
- Meals: Breakfast /Lunch /Afternoon Snacks /Dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 4,215 m/13,825 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 3,680 m/12,073 ft
- Walking Distance: 15 km/9 ½ miles
- Approximate walking Time: 10 hours
Day 5: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu
We wake up and enjoy a warm breakfast with tea and soak in the mountains and crisp air. Today is dedicated to learning about the Incas, as we visit 3 major sites: Phuyupatamarca, Intipata and Wiñay Wayna. We then arrive to Machu Picchu late in the day.
Today, trekking wise, we have only a short distance to cover, allowing for ample time to visit these sites in detail. The extensive tours of each site, allows you to learn about the culture and history of the Inca, really giving you a foundation for tomorrow’s big day in the citadel of Machu Picchu.
Once we finish our tour in Phuyupatamarca, we head into the rainforest! We will walk downhill for 2 ½ hours until we reach the impressive Wiñay Wayna (2,680 m /8,792 ft) Inca site. Along the way, we will visit Intipata. Many people feel that the most beautiful pictures of the entire Inca trail can be taken from this location! Wiñay Wayna is the largest and the most beautiful archeological site along the Inca trail. With a maze of terraces and stone buildings lining the steep mountains, it’s truly incredible. We will enjoy lunch here and soak in this powerful area.
Generally, the areas surrounding these Inca sites are very rich in wildlife. As we are typically one of the few groups, it provides for the opportunities to try and spot some of the more elusive species of area.
After our thorough tours, we continue towards the Sun Gate (2,720 m/ 8,920 ft), which is called Intipunku in Quechua. We will arrive at approximately 3 pm, here we will have the opportunity to see Machu Picchu, with views of the valley below and the mountains above, all while the sun is setting between the mountains, an exquisite view.
From the Sun Gate, we will head down towards the citadel of Machu Picchu and board a bus that will take us to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes we will help you check in to your hotel, where you will have time to enjoy a hot shower and relax in a comfortable bed. Then, in the evening, we will have dinner at one of the most lovely restaurants in town.
- Meals: Breakfast /Lunch /Afternoon Snacks /Dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 3,680 m/12,073 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m/6,691 ft
- Walking Distance: 11 km/7 miles
- Approximate walking Time: 5-6 hours
Day 6: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Today is the day we have been trekking for! We wake up early and have breakfast at the hotel. Then we board the first train taking us back up the mountain to the ancient citadel, Machu Picchu.
Once we arrive, we have the once in a lifetime view of the sun rising over the city. We will take time for photos and then begin a 2 hour guided tour hosted by one of our professional guides. During the tour you will visit numerous sites, consisting of temples, housing, ceremonial sites, bathing areas, and fountains. As you will find, each site extremely significant in painting a picture of just how the Incas lived thousands of years ago, so high up in these majestic mountains.
After the tour, you will have ample time to explore on your own, revisiting or find the many other new areas in this fascinating city. Also, if you choose and have the permit, you can climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain. Both provide an incredible bird’s eye view of the citadel below, a great place to capture the famous Machu Picchu shot.
In the afternoon, you will board the train in Aguas Caliente and enjoy a scenic ride from high jungle through the mountains to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our stop is in Ollantaytambo, from where we will drive in private transport back to your hotel in Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Maximum Altitude: 2,440 m/ 8,052 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m/ 6,691 ft
Inclusions
Salkantay & Inca Trail Expedition Includes:
- Transfer upon arrival from airport or bus station in Cusco to your hotel
- Pre trek briefing 1 or 2 days before your Inca Trail Expedition
- Professional English Speaking Tour Guide
- Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9+
- Chef
- Breakfast on Day 1.
- Mules and Porters to carry cooking and camping equipment plus 7kg of your personal items.
- Pick-up from the Hotel
- Transportation by bus to Mollepata Soraypampa
- Return transportation by train and bus to Cusco
- Water (excluding the first 4 hours of the trek, you will need to bring your own)
- 6 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 4 Afternoon Snacks and 5 Dinners. If you have a dietary such as vegetarian food please let us know,and request with no cost at all.
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
- a 4-men tent for every 2 trekkers
- Hotel on Day 5
- Sleeping mattress
- Oxygen bottle
- First aid kit
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu-round trip
Salkantay & Inca Trail Expedition Does Not Include:
- Sleeping Bag (Can be hired from us)
- Lunch and dinner on Day 6
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain-US$ 70
- Tips for the crew
- Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your Inca Trail.
What you need to take for Salkantay & Inca Trail Expedition.
- Original Passport
- Valid STUDENT 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
- Insect repellant
- Toiletries and hand sanitiser
- Personal medication
- Camera and film
- Torch
- Spare batteries.
Price
Salkantay & Inca Trail Expedition – Price:
Price per person: US$1000
Discounts:
- Student Discount: US$20 (Requires Valid STUDENT CARD to qualify)
- Under 15 years Discount: US$30 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Optional Extras:
- Hiking Poles US$15
- Sleeping Bag US$25
- Single Tent Supplement US$25
- Additional Night in Aguas Calientes US$90
- Vistadome Train Upgrade US$60
- Huayna Picchu Mountain US$70
- Machu Picchu Mountain US$70
FAQs
How difficult is the Salkantay + Inca Trail Expedition
We rate the Salkantay + Inca Trail Expedition 6 Days/5 Nights Trek as challenging.
How can I prepare myself for the high altitude & avoid altitude sickness?
It’s easy to prepare for the high altitudes you’ll experience on the Salkantay + Inca Trail trek. plan your trip to allow at least 3 days in a high-altitude place (like Cusco) before starting your trek. Three days is even better; you don’t want to be sick on the Salkantay trail!
Truly, the more time you can spend at altitude before trekking, the better. Spending two or even three days at altitude will give your body time to adapt and allow you time enough to recover if you experience altitude sickness symptoms.
In addition, you should eat healthy food, stay away from alcohol, drink plenty of fluids and make sure you get enough rest. Being kind to your body helps it deal with the extra pressures that altitude creates.
What kind of accommodation can we expect on the Salkantay + Inca Trail 6 day trek?
The Salkantay + Inca Trail hike includes 5 nights of camping, including two nights at very high altitude (over 4000m).
We use tents on all of our treks which are set up for you by our team of hardworking staff. You will be well taken care of overnight, no matter what conditions present themselves on the Salkantay + Inca Trail. This is particularly important for high altitude camping when temperatures can be very low.
What kind of food can we expect on the Salkantay + Inca Trail
You will have a chef who prepares delicious meals during your trek. Our chefs receive training in order to offer you some really stunning culinary creations on the trail.
We have a lot of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free travellers and our cooks are well-prepared to meet their needs. We can cater for or all other types of dietary requests with adequate preparation and clear communication.
What is the best time of year to do the Salkantay + Inca Trail Expedition 6 Days?
The best months of the year to plan your Salkantay + Inca Trail 6 days are the dry winter months from May to September. This is peak tourist season in Cusco, so you can guarantee the trails will be busy and crowded, but the lack of rain makes it the ideal time for hiking.
Dry season is also the coldest time of year in the Andes, so be prepared for some very cold temperatures, especially at night (even below freezing!)
The rainy season in the Andes is November through March and is not a good time for this trek. In fact, we typically will not offer any Salkantay treks during this period for safety reasons. The trail can be slippery and there is a risk of rockslides that can wipe the trail out altogether. Additionally, the pass and higher areas can be covered in snow, which makes trekking difficult if you are not properly equipped.
Another date to watch out for is February: the Inca Trail is closed every February for regular maintenance, making it impossible to hike this Salkantay Inca Trail combo trek at that time.
The shoulder season (April, September, October) is an unpredictable time, weather-wise. Usually there is less rain and the temperatures can be warmer, making them ideal times for hiking (you can also expect fewer people on the trails.
What are the average hours of trekking per day?
The average daily hike on the Salkantay + Inca Trail trek is about 7 to 8 hours per day.
Days 1 and 6 are the shortest, with about 4h total hiking time each day.
Days 2-5 average about 7 to 8 hours each, though, depending on how campsites are allocated, it’s possible for Day 2 to be very long (11+ hours).
Day 3 a bit shorter (5h).
These are only average hiking times, and the time it takes you depends on the relative fitness and speed of everyone in your group.
Can I charge my devices en route?
There is an electricity facility at the last campsite on the Inca Trail. But, there could be a very packed line to use it as there is only one plugin source, so we recommend taking extra battery packs or power bans with you.
What permits are required for the trek?
The Salkantay portion of this combo trek does not require any permits, but the Inca Trail does! This permit is included in the price of your trek. We purchase your Inca Trail permit immediately after you book. In order to do so, we will ask you for some additional information (such as a picture of your passport) at the time of booking.
Permits for the Inca Trail can sell out very quickly, especially for peak dates (April through July). You should ALWAYS book as early as you can, but know that dates for these peak months will sell out 6 to 8 months in advance. Permits usually go on sale in October for the peak dates, so booking on or before October 1st is your best bet to secure dates during that time period.
What do you carry during the trek?
All YOU need to carry with you on 6 days Salkantay Inca Trail hike is a light day pack. In your day pack, you should carry things like your water bottle, extra layers, gloves, camera, sun hat, beanie, sunscreen and insect repellent.
Water is very important while hiking. You should start each day with 2 litres. On the way to the trailhead, we will have filtered water which you can use to fill up your water bottles, as well as boiled water for tea. During the trek, we provide boiled water every morning after breakfast. You will have a chance to refill at lunchtime.
The rest of your belongings – up to 7kg (14 lbs) – are carried in a duffel bag (which we provide during your Pre Trek Briefing) by mules (on the Salkantay portion of the trek) and porters (on the Inca Trail). All of the camping equipment needed on the trek is also carried by mules or porters.
Additional
SPECIAL ADDITIONALS:
- Inflatable Mattress (Included)
- Pillow (Included)
- Blanket (Included)
- Extra 7 kg of personal items (Included). All of our treks include porters, who are responsible for carrying and setting up all equipment. They will also carry your personal duffel, which you will receive at your briefing the night before your Salkantay & Inca Trail Expedition. This duffel can not exceed 7 kg/14 lbs, and must include your sleeping bag and an air mattress.
