The combination of the Salkantay Trek and the Inca Trail offers hikers breathtaking views and the opportunity to experience two of South America’s most popular treks: the Salkantay Trek and the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Highlights include crystalline blue lagoons, such as the famous Humantay Lagoon, and the majestic snow-capped Salkantay Mountain. Hikers will also experience the unique blend of the rugged natural landscape of the Inca Trail and the rich archaeological heritage of the Inca structures. Hiking the original Inca Trail, carved by the Incas through the mountains to the wonder of Machu Picchu, will provide an experience of both awe and learning. This adventure, which is difficult to undertake in a group, will be a learning and work experience facilitated by Go Treks Peru’s Employment and Management Services.
Salknatay Trek + Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 6 days Highlights:
Customize this itinerary by adding extra days to any location. Please contact one of our expert travel advisors for advice.
Pick-up will be from your hotel in Cusco around 4:00 a.m. for a 2-hour drive to the picturesque town of Mollepata. Upon arrival, hikers will enjoy a hearty breakfast, after which a meal (25 soles) will be charged at a restaurant (not included). Another hour’s drive will take us to Soraypampa, where our experienced muleteers and well-trained horses will be waiting to transport the equipment, supplies, and approximately seven kilos of personal luggage per hiker. Here, a two-hour ascent to the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon will begin, allowing time to admire the scenery, take photos, and listen attentively to the guide’s talk about the ecological and cultural significance of the lagoon. Afterward, we will descend for an hour to the special Quiswarniyoc campsite, where we will enjoy a generous lunch. After lunch, hikers will be free to explore the surrounding area, including an optional expedition to the Salkantay Lookout for panoramic views, or they can spend the night in the Mountain Sky Cabins or glass igloos, all featuring glass facades, comfortable, complimentary furniture, sleeping mats, and illuminated canopies for the evening. The private Quiswarniyoc Camp, located at an altitude of 4,100 meters, offers an unforgettable experience. The site boasts several short trails, magnificent mountain scenery, and waterfalls that will leave a lasting impression of adventure. The next leg of the journey involves a challenging 13-kilometer ascent, taking approximately six hours, through the stunning landscapes of the Salkantay Trail. Since hikers will be acclimatizing to the 4,000-meter altitude throughout the day, they should expect average trekking conditions, including flexibility in the face of unpredictable weather. With the same warm but windy weather likely expected during the day, the couple should also anticipate cooler temperatures at night, where they will enjoy a restful sleep in the distinctive Mountain Sky Huts or Glass Domes, overlooking the breathtaking Andean vistas. Both the energy reserves and morale of the participants will be maintained throughout the day thanks to balanced and nutritious meals, including breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner, helping them fully immerse themselves in this unique trekking adventure.
The second day of the Salkantay Inca Trail expedition takes participants to the summit, the most challenging part of the trail, located at an altitude of 5,000 meters. Hikers will enjoy the day at dawn, savoring a refreshing cup of tea starting at 5:00 p.m. in Andean huts, under the supervision of skilled cooks. At 6:00 a.m., a hearty breakfast will be served, followed by a three-hour ascent. On the morning climb, the group will head towards the archway via Salkantay Lagoon, located at the base of the snow-capped mountain. Each member will take the opportunity to contemplate the magnificent view of the glacier and listen to the guide’s insightful narration about this immense historical landmark. After resting for a few minutes to enjoy the view, an additional ascent will be made every hour to reach the summit of the trail at 5,000 meters. This summit is named after the Inca Chiriaska, which translates as “the place where the Inca died.” For those wishing to appreciate the natural splendor of the Peruvian Andes, this is a wonderful opportunity to contemplate more profound matters.
After lunch, we will continue along the same route for another two hours to reach the Inca Canal, or Pampacahua, as it is sometimes called. Here, we will camp for the night. This historical monument features an original Inca canal, a true example of the Incas’ remarkable engineering skill in channeling the immense river resources. We will enjoy a delicious dinner and rest, looking forward to another exciting day.
The third day of this exceptional tour will be much more relaxed than the previous one, as we venture onto the famous Inca Trail. This day will begin at 6:30 a.m., when our cooks will offer you a refreshing coca tea at the tents. Afterward, you’ll have time to prepare breakfast, which will be served around 7:00 a.m. Soon after, around 8:00 a.m., you’ll begin your return to the trail, which involves a two- to three-hour hike to the fascinating archaeological site of Paucarcancha.
You’ll spend a considerable amount of time at Paucarcancha, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore this captivating Inca site with your guide, who will provide valuable information about its history and significance. After this exploration, lunch will be served at midday, followed by a descent every hour to the Inca Trail checkpoint at Wayllabamba. Once you’re on the other side of the checkpoint, it will take an additional 30 to 45 minutes of walking to reach Wayllabamba.
Ayapata is the first campsite on the traditional four-day Inca Trail and is located at 3,400 meters above sea level. Here you will meet other trekkers embarking on the four-day adventure. Everything will be ready for you to rest and enjoy a pleasant night in this privileged location.
The fourth day on the Inca Trail is a challenging one, with a steep climb to Dead Woman’s Pass, located at an altitude of 4,215 meters (13,000 feet). It’s a fairly steep trail and could prove difficult for some, but the views from the top are breathtaking.
Upon reaching the pass, which marks the beginning of the descent to Pacaymayo, you’ll traverse beautiful landscapes and cloud forests. This part of the trek is also interesting and enchanting, as it passes by several Inca ruins such as Runkurakay and Sayacmarca.
In the late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Chaquicocha, where you’ll camp. It’s an ideal place to rest and recover quickly before resuming the trek the next day.
Today is considered a difficult day of the expedition, as you reach the highest point of the trail, Warmiwanusca Pass, at 13,780 feet (30,000 feet) above sea level. Make regular stops along the way to rest and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Andean mountains and valleys.
The fifth day of the Inca Trail is relatively easier than the previous days, with a mostly downhill trek to Winay Wayna. This section of the trail is particularly educational, as it passes numerous Inca ruins, including Phuyupatamarca, also known as the Village in the Clouds.
During the hike, you’ll see numerous waterfalls and streams, allowing you to take breaks and enjoy the scenery. Upon arrival at Winay Wayna, the campsite will reopen in the late afternoon, and you’ll camp there overnight.
Today’s trek combines ascents and descents, and you’ll visit several Inca sites, including Phuyupatmarca and Winay Wayna. The trail’s highest point at this location is 12,630 feet, after which it begins its descent into the cloud forest to the final campsite at Winay Wayna.
This sixth day is the main reason you came to Peru. Start well with a packed breakfast (3:45 a.m.), after which we’ll head to the tourist checkpoint. There are benches there; the checkpoint opens at 5:30 a.m. We’ll then hike for about an hour through the high jungle to reach Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where you’ll enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Afterward, we’ll descend to your final destination, Machu Picchu, where you’ll enjoy a two-hour guided tour. This tour is one of the highlights of these ruins and is a must-see, as it serves as an introduction to Machu Picchu and showcases the stunning exterior views of the ruins.
Please always carry your passport with you, as there may be some checkpoints where you’ll only be allowed entry with it. Be sure to bring your original passport to show the park rangers (you can get a Machu Picchu stamp in your passport).
Permits are needed for your chosen start date. Tour prices are based on the number of people in a group. Prices are valid from March 2026 through January 2027. All prices quoted are $USD
Important: Price includes up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings to be carried by the mules (NO need of extra Porter hire!).
Many people include Peru in their “Things to do” list before they depart the planet, the main reason being to trek the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, although what most people don’t know is that there are various Inca Trails Trips to Machu Picchu to pick from in the Cusco region. The difference lies in what kind of experience you want, hiking the Inca Trail, and how challenging you like your treks.
If you want to say that you’ve hiked the famous hike to Machu Picchu, then the Classic Inca Trail is for you. But usually you will need to book in advance, in case it is fully booked, we recommend other alternative treks:
IMPORTANT:
A máximum of 500 people per day are allowed to access the Inca Trail; This number includes all support staff such as: authorized porters, cooks and tour guides and is most tightly controlled; when the inca trail reaches its limit of 500 visitors, the Trail is closed off for the day and no further reservations could be made; Booking are not held on the Trail and all permits must be purchased a year in advance, if possible.
This hike is difficult; it’s highly recommended to be in good physical condition. The classic Inca Trail elevation changes make the hike tough as there are three passes during your trek.
During the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trek, solo travelers will be paired to share a tent with another traveler of the same sex, and couples will have a tent to themselves.
There is a mandatory pre-departure briefing at our Cusco Office one day before your departure to the Inca Trail, 6 days at 6 pm. You will meet your guid,e and He will give you detailed information about your hike, a list of what to bring, rental equipment or questions in general. Our office is located at: Marquez Street 250, Second Floor. Office 03. Cuzco, Perú.
We train our cooks every year on the low season to provide you with the best tasting meals on the mountain, with specialty menus and the freshest local ingredients available on all of our Treks to Machu Picchu. Here is an idea of what you will be eating during your hike. *Vegetarian, vegan, gluten fee and more Options Available Upon Request (please let us know at the time of booking).
Breakfasts:
Hot porridge, quinoa or oats, fried eggs, omelet or pancakes with fresh bread, fried bananas, Thick oatmeal with large fresh chunks of sweet apples, and boiled water for hot teas, coca tea, coffee, chocolate, and milk.
Lunch & dinner:
First Course: Quinoa, corn, noodles, asparagus, mushroom or vegetable soup, stuffed avocado, or potatoes. Second Course: Chicken breast, beef stew, quinoa, fried rice, hamburgers, fried chicken, spaghetti bolognese, typical dishes: aji de gallina (chili pepper chicken), escabeche de Pollo (marinated chicken), or ajiaco de ulluco (spicy ulluco stew).
Desserts:
Fried plantains, chocolate pudding, chocolate or vanilla cake, peach.
Snacks:
candies, cookies, juice, crackers,s and a variety of Peruvian fruits such as: Banana, Chirimoya, Granadilla, Apple, orange, Mandarine.
What is the final destination and starting point of the tour?
The tour will begin and end in Cusco, and all the round-trip transportation is covered.
Does this form part of the entire Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?
The two-day itinerary of those travellers who would like to capture the main attractions; this is a condensed edition.
Is it a private or group tour?
Either of the two is possible, though in the normal bookings, small group contingents are usually involved.
Is there availability of the tour throughout the year?
The dry season, which is between May and September, is the best time to take it . In fact, the venture is provided throughout the entire year
What kinds of difficulties face in the trek?
Due to steep climbs and high elevation It is moderate to difficult in nature and does not require any technical climbing.
Day by day, the duration of the trip?
About 2-3 hours of a round-trip to Humantay Lake on day 2.
About 67 hours, which includes the overcoming of Salkantay Pass and the descent afterward at day 2.
Will there be the problem of altitude sickness?
An apprehension, it is best to see Cusco before leaving, 2–3 days before the expedition.
If I am tired, can I take a horse ride?
Of course, in some parts of the trail tour, there is horseback riding, usually on unusually steep or protracted parts of the trail
What are the Sky Lodge Domes?
These are tents that are geodesic type tents equipped with beds and blankets, and clear windows to gaze at the stars, placed in Soraypampa.
Are the domes private?
The domes can be booked as private or booked as a group-occupancy, depending on the type of booking that is selected.
Do the domes have heating?
There is no heating available, but they provide thick blankets and insulating substances.
Does it have toilets and showers?
Yes, community and environmentally friendly hygiene facilities and primitive washrooms are available.
Is there electricity or WiFi?
Little lighting in place of the sun, and little wireless connectivity and cellular service are prevalent.
Are meals included?
The first day and two meals on the second day, meaning that you have breakfast in the morning, lunch at midday and dinner in the evening. The regular program stipulates that one has 3 meals included in this tour.
How many and what types of dishes or food are provided in the tour?
All prepared to provide nutritional balance as well as cultural authenticity, the food will consist of hot and delicious Peruvian-inspired food such as soups, grilled meats, rice, quinoa, vegetables, and hot beverages
Are dietary needs easily available during this tour?
Upon request, the special dietary needs may be vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and so on. The dietary adjustments are easily accessible
Is drinking water provided?
Refilled bottles are filled with boiled or filtered water.
Are snacks provided?
There are usually light snacks (fruit or cookies), and other snacks can be brought over.
Do deluxe guides carry oxygen and first aid?
Across, the first-aid kit and oxygen bottles are brought to deal with emergencies.
How big is the group?
Most of the time, the group consists of six to ten people, which guarantees a more personalized experience.
Can I tip the guide and cook?
Tipping is not compulsory, but the guides and support staff like it greatly.
Are porters or mules used?
To carry equipment, the participants use mules because they will be expected to carry just a day-pack with necessities.
Can I carry a sleeping bag for this tour?
Instances of sleeping bags are usually offered and can even be rented.
Do trekking poles have any use?
The usage of trekking poles is highly encouraged to maintain stability especially in downhill.
Should I bring cash?
Small denomination Peruvian soles can be brought along to tip, renting a horse, or to have a snack.
Is travel insurance necessary?
Although that is not obligatory, it is highly encouraged, particularly covering the high altitude trekking risks.
100% Locally Owned by a Tour Guide
Go Treks Peru was founded by Elisban Condori, a local tour guide with years of experience leading treks to Machu Picchu. His goal is simple: to offer top-quality, authentic experiences led by passionate professionals who truly know the Andes.
Fair Work Conditions
We believe in ethical tourism. That means no exploitative working hours and fair pay for all our staff. We work with trained, freelance professionals who have the flexibility and respect they deserve.
Personalized Service
At Go Treks Peru, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. We tailor each tour to your preferences, always focusing on small groups to ensure a flexible, high-quality experience. For us, personal means unforgettable.
Sustainable Travel
All of our treks are 100% eco-friendly. We follow a strict “leave no trace” policy and encourage our travelers to protect nature and respect local communities at every step of the journey.
Excellent Customer Satisfaction
We’re proud to have consistent 5-star ratings on TripAdvisor and other platforms. Our travelers love the personal attention, seamless logistics, and genuine local connections we provide.
This 2-day trip to Humantay Lagoon and Salkantay Pass can be considered one of the best attractions in Cusco. This lake has emerald-green waters and a wondrous glacier above. Humantay...
4 Days Salkantay Trek and Short Inca Trail Enjoy an unforgettable Salkantay Trek and Short Inca Trail excursion, a four-day trip to Machu Picchu, ideal for those who wish to...
Salkantay trek premium service 5 days The Salkantay Premium Trek is a comprehensive trip to Machu Picchu, featuring the finest domes with hot showers and private bathrooms, views of Humantay...
Salkantay trek 3 days to Machu Picchu This shorter version is designed for hikers who don’t have much time but still want to enjoy the experience. Those who undertake the...
