CLASSIC INCA TRAIL AND SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

7 Days & 6 Night

Group Size

Up to 8 people

Transportation

Van, Train, Bus

Max Altitude

5,028 m m.s.n.m

Difficulty

Challenging

Service

Group

Duration:

7 Days

SALKANTAY HIKE AND INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 07D/06N

The 7-Day Salkantay & Inca Trail trek is a unique adventure through high mountain passes, cloud forests, iconic Inca sites, and ends with a breathtaking arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

7-DAYS INCA TRAIL TRIP DETAILS

DAY 1: CUSCO - SORAYPAMPA - HUMANTAY LAGOON - SALKANTAYPAMPA.

Your adventure in the Peruvian Andes begins with an early 5:00 a.m. hotel pick-up and a scenic drive to Soraypampa, passing through traditional Andean villages and enjoying spectacular views of valleys and the Salkantay snow-capped mountain.

From Soraypampa, enjoy a round-trip hike to the stunning Humantay Lake, famous for its turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop. After lunch, continue to Salkantaypampa Camp, where hot drinks and snacks await, followed by a relaxing evening beneath the majestic Salkantay Glacier.

Distance: 7 km (6.2 mi)
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Meals Included: Lunch, snacks, afternoon tea & dinner

DAY 2: SALKANTAYPAMPA – PAMPA JAPONESA.

Wake up to a hot cup of tea served at your tent, followed by breakfast with breathtaking views of the Andean landscape. From camp, we begin a 3-hour uphill hike off the traditional trails, immersing ourselves in pristine high-altitude scenery.

We stop for lunch along the route while enjoying panoramic views of glaciers, lagoons, and rugged mountain terrain. In the afternoon, we continue hiking to our remote campsite near the Salkantay Glacier, located just one kilometer from the snow-capped peak. Upon arrival, enjoy afternoon tea before dinner as you take in the spectacular surroundings.

Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, afternoon tea & dinner

DAY 3: PAMPA JAPONESA – INCA CHIRIASKA PASS – SISAYPAMPA (CANAL INCA)

Wake up inside your sleeping bag with a hot drink, followed by a hearty breakfast to prepare for the most demanding day of the trek. Today’s journey begins with a steady uphill hike of approximately 4 hours to reach Incachiriaska Pass (5,028 m / 16,495 ft), known in Quechua as “The Frozen Inca Pass.”

This high-altitude region is home to the Andean condor, the largest flying bird in South America. With some luck, you may spot these majestic birds soaring above while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of glaciers and untouched Andean landscapes.

From the highest point of the day, we begin a long descent as the trail gradually levels out. Lunch is served along the way before continuing to our campsite at Sisaypampa, where your tents will already be set up. Relax with afternoon tea, followed by a well-earned dinner under the Andean sky.

Distance:  12 km (7.45 miles)
Hiking Time: 8–9 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, afternoon tea & dinner

DAY 4: SISAYPAMPA - WAYLLABAMBA- LLULLUCHAPAMPA.

Start the day early with a hot cup of tea and scenic views from your tent, followed by breakfast and a farewell to our horsemen. We hike through the wide Pampacahuana Valley, home to a still-functioning Inca irrigation canal used by local farmers.

Along the way, visit the Paucarcancha archaeological site before reaching Wayllabamba, where we officially join the Classic Inca Trail. After lunch, our porters take over the equipment as horses are not permitted in this protected area.

In the afternoon, hike for about 3 hours through the Llullucha Valley to Llulluchapampa campsite, enjoying mountain views, rich flora, and a relaxing afternoon tea.

Distance: ~11 km / 6.8 mi
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, tea & dinner

DAY 5: CROSSING DEAD WOMAN’S PASS, PACAYMAYO & INCA RUINS TO PHUYUPATAMARCA

Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. After breakfast, begin a steady 2-hour ascent to Warmiwañusqa Pass (Dead Woman’s Pass) at 4,200 m / 13,907 ft, the highest point of the Inca Trail. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of mountains and valleys.

Descend for about 2 hours to Pacaymayu Valley for lunch. In the afternoon, climb to the Runkuraqay archaeological site, then continue to the second Runkuraqay Pass, where stunning mountain and lagoon views await.

The trail then descends to Sayaqmarca, another impressive Inca site, before a final 2-hour hike to Phuyupatamarca campsite, surrounded by cloud forest and spectacular views of Machu Picchu Mountain, the Vilcabamba Range, and the Urubamba Canyon.

Distance: ~15 km / 9.3 mi
Hiking Time: 8–9 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, tea & dinner

DAY 6: PHUYUPATAMARCA - WIÑAY WAYNA - MACHU PICCHU - AGUAS CALIENTES.

Today offers the most scenic landscapes of the Inca Trail. After breakfast with panoramic views of the Vilcabamba Mountain Range, descend more than 1,000 stone steps to the impressive Intipata archaeological site.

Continue downhill to Wiñay Wayna Camp (2,650 m / 8,747 ft) for lunch, followed by a guided visit to this beautifully preserved Inca complex. In the afternoon, hike 1.5 hours to the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll enjoy your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu.

From here, descend along the upper trail to reach the classic postcard viewpoints of the citadel. Finally, take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

Distance: ~10 km / 6.2 mi
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Meals: Lunch, snacks & dinner

DAY 7: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHUPICCHU – AGUAS CALIENTES – CUSCO.

Today is the highlight of your journey. From your hotel, we take the bus to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, where you’ll witness the sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas.

Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour with our expert guide, visiting Machu Picchu’s most important temples, ceremonial areas, and viewpoints, with time for photos and detailed explanations.

Optional activities (not included):

  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hike (advance reservation required, extra cost)

  • Visit the local museum or relax at the hot springs in Aguas Calientes

After the tour, descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, return by Expedition or Voyager train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport back to your hotel in Cusco.


Area: Subtropical cloud forest
Weather: Variable
Meals Included: Breakfast

INCLUDED

NOT INCLUDED

WHAT YOU HAVE TO TAKE WITH YOU

The Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail 7 Days 6 Nights is a challenging high-altitude adventure, requiring thorough preparation. To ensure a smooth and comfortable trek, especially since it begins early in the morning, make sure to pack the following essential items:

  • Original passport (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek)
  • Valid student ID card (if you booked as a student)
  • Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
  • Water storage:  2-3L (Please bring reusable bottles, not disposable ones).
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented from Machupicchu Condor Trek)
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Toilet paper

WHAT TO PUT IN THE DUFFEL BAG (The horse will carry it)

As a Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra porter who will carry up to 7 kgs or 14 pounds including your sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing. 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 or horses. 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. 
RECOMENDAMOS LLEVAR:
  • 3 t-shirts
  • 2 hiking pants at least
  • 4 sets of undergarments
  • 3 sets of hiking socks
  • 2 Fleece/ Thermals
  • Warm clothes, down jacket — 2nd campsite temp around 3º C.
  • Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
  • Comfortable shoes for camp
  • Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger.
  • Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to wash.
  • Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek.
  • Large plastic bags will be provided at the office — Please ask for them.
  • Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us for $25 USD.
TOILETRIES
  • Face moisturizer
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and paste
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.

WHAT TO CARRY IN THE DAYPACK

We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40L for hiking in the day. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.

  • Water: Please supply your own water until the first lunch. Bring your own water bottles.
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Wool hat
  • Rain gear
  • Fleece
  • Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruits
  • Rain plastic poncho
  • Gloves
  • Camera
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips

SALKANTAY TREK WITH INCA TRAIL TOUR PRICE

The Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail Tour is available on any date that best fits your schedule, with a minimum of two (2) participants required.

SERVICE PRICE:

  • $1180 USD per person with 3* hotel
  • $1160 USD per person (hotel not included).
  • Feel free to choose and book your own hotel for a more flexible and comfortable travel experience!

Important :

  • For groups of 4 or more travelers, please contact us for a special group price: info@www.machupicchucondortrek.com

Price includes up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings to be carried by the mules (NO need of extra Porter in Salkantay only Inca Trail!).

AVAILABLE DISCOUNTS:

  • 18 to 25 years old: $25 USD Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval for discount.
  • Under 18 years old: $25 USD Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
  • Under 11 years old: $30 USD  Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

INCA TRAIL AND SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

7 Days

FROM

$

1160

USD

Per Person

Group Size

Up to 16

Activity Level

Moderate

INCA TRAIL TREK DAILY VIDEOS: SEE WHAT EACH DAY IS LIKE!

THE MACHUPICCHU CONDOR TREK DIFFERENCE

Since its inception, Machu Picchu Condor Trek has been dedicated to providing authentic and enriching tours to Machu Picchu, combining exploration of archaeological sites with immersion in local culture. With a team of expert local guides and meticulous attention to detail, the agency has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional experiences that go beyond travelers’ expectations.

Camping Equipment

7 kg personal porters included

Private restroom tents

Safety on the Inca Trail

Social Projects

¡The best trekking food in Peru!

MEET THE MACHUPICCHU CONDOR TREK TREKKING TEAM!

The majority of our team has been with us from the beginning, witnessing the evolution of Roots & Rhythms and contributing to the unique bond we share with our city. We are grateful to have such a dedicated, talented and happy team who share our mission of delivering authentic and transformative experiences. With Roots & Rhythms, you’ll not only explore New Orleans, but you’ll also fall in love with the people who make it special.”

Our Super Porters

Our Porters represent the Peruvian people, both men, and women who are at the heart

Equality Matters

Machupicchu Condor Trek aims to promote gender equality and empower women, hiring first Peru

Our Guides

Travelling and trekking along the mountains is one of the best activities in the World

Our Chefs

Trekking along the mountain on your way to conquer Machu Picchu is a once in a lifetime

VIDEOS OF MACHUPICCHU CONDOR TREK STAFF

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

At Machupicchu Condor Trek, we understand that travel can present logistical problems, so we are committed to making your experience as safe as possible. We have a detailed manual that covers all logistical aspects, from proper storage of camping equipment to recommendations on accommodation and restaurants in Cusco. In addition, our staff is available at all times to answer any additional questions you may have. From your arrival to your last day in Cusco.

SIMILAR TRIPS IN CUSCO

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS IN TRIP ADVISOR

Our goal at Machupicchu Condor Trek is to create the best experience for all of our clients. We create journeys that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Journeys you can be proud of and can share with everybody around you.

OUR PARTNERS AND SUPPORTERS

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