Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 7 Days
- 7 Days
- Challenging
- 4.99 (500 + reviews)
tour highlights
Humantay Lake
Salkantay Pass
Cloud Forest
Dead Woman's Pass
Wiñaywayna Ruins
Machu Picchu
Salkantay Trek & Classic Inca Trail 7 Days / 6 Nights – Overview
The Salkantay Trek & Classic Inca Trail 7 Days / 6 Nights to Machu Picchu is an extraordinary high-altitude trekking adventure that combines two of the most spectacular trekking routes in the Cusco region.
This challenging journey takes you from the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain and Humantay Lake through remote Andean landscapes, high mountain passes, ancient Inca trails, and lush cloud forests before reaching the legendary Machu Picchu.
Along the route, you’ll experience dramatic changes in altitude and ecosystems, encounter traditional Andean landscapes and wildlife, and explore remarkable archaeological sites including Runkurakay, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñaywayna. The trek reaches its highest point at the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,256 ft) and later connects with the famous Classic Inca Trail.
The adventure culminates with an early-morning arrival at Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where you’ll enjoy your first spectacular panoramic view of Machu Picchu before exploring the ancient Inca citadel with your professional guide.
This 7-Day Salkantay and Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu is ideal for experienced hikers and adventurous travelers looking for a challenging combination of nature, history, culture, and authentic Andean trekking.
Duration
7 Days / 6 NightsDifficulty
ChallengingStarting Point
Cusco HotelAltitude
4,650 m / 15,256 ft (Salkantay Pass)Group Size
Small GroupsLanguage
English & SpanishTransportation
Tourist Transportation IncludedGuide
Professional Salkantay & Inca Trail Trekking GuideSalkantay & Inca Trail 7 Days – Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
Your adventure begins with early-morning hotel pickup in Cusco at approximately 4:30 AM. Travel by private transportation toward Challacancha (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), where the trek begins.
Challacancha – Soraypampa
From Challacancha, hike through spectacular Andean landscapes, passing ancient Inca irrigation channels that continue to provide water for local communities.
After approximately 3 hours of hiking, arrive at Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), your first campsite. Enjoy lunch and take some time to rest.
Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
In the afternoon, begin the hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). Admire its turquoise waters surrounded by the imposing Humantay and Salkantay snow-capped mountains.
Return to Soraypampa
After exploring Humantay Lake and taking photographs, descend back to Soraypampa for dinner and overnight camping. Rest beneath the spectacular Andean night sky.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa – Pampa Japonesa
Start the day early at approximately 5:00 AM with breakfast before beginning the ascent toward Salkantaypampa and the high-altitude landscapes of the Andes.
Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa
Begin the ascent toward Salkantaypampa (4,100 m / 13,451 ft). Enjoy spectacular views of the majestic Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m / 20,574 ft) as you continue through the high Andes.
Salkantaypampa – Pampa Japonesa
After a short rest, continue ascending along steep mountain trails toward Pampa Japonesa (4,600 m / 15,092 ft), one of the highest points of the trek and your campsite for the night.
The landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with expansive mountain scenery and opportunities to observe Andean camelids and condors.
Overnight at Pampa Japonesa
Due to the high altitude and cold temperatures, warm clothing is essential. After dinner, rest in your tent beneath the spectacular Andean night sky.
Day 3: Pampa Japonesa – Salkantay Pass – Sisaypampa – Inca Canal
After breakfast at approximately 6:00 AM, begin the final ascent toward the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,256 ft), the highest point of the entire trek.
Pampa Japonesa – Salkantay Pass
Continue ascending toward Salkantay Pass. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Salkantay Mountain and the surrounding Andean valleys.
Salkantay Pass – Sisaypampa
Begin the descent toward Sisaypampa (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). As you descend, the landscape gradually changes and you may see alpacas and other Andean wildlife grazing in the highlands.
Sisaypampa – Inca Canal
Continue along ancient pathways that connect with sections of the Inca road network until reaching Inca Canal at approximately 3,600 m / 11,811 ft.
Explore this archaeological area showcasing impressive examples of ancient Inca hydraulic engineering. The lower altitude brings warmer temperatures and more vegetation.
Day 4: Inca Canal – Wayllabamba – Ayapata
Begin the day early and continue trekking toward Wayllabamba (3,000 m / 9,843 ft), where the route connects with the famous Classic Inca Trail.
Inca Canal – Wayllabamba
Continue along the trail toward Wayllabamba. Along this section, encounter ancient agricultural terraces and archaeological remains while gradually entering the lush Andean cloud forest.
Wayllabamba – Ayapata
The scenery becomes greener, with native vegetation, birds, butterflies, and other wildlife surrounding the trail. Continue ascending through the forest until reaching Ayapata (3,300 m / 10,827 ft).
Overnight at Ayapata
Establish camp at Ayapata and enjoy a warm dinner before resting early in preparation for one of the most demanding sections of the Classic Inca Trail.
Day 5: Ayapata – Dead Woman's Pass – Pacaymayu – Runkurakay – Chaquicocha
Begin the day around 5:00 AM for one of the most challenging stages of the Salkantay & Inca Trail Trek. The trail climbs toward Warmiwañusca, also known as Dead Woman's Pass.
Ayapata – Dead Woman's Pass
Climb toward Warmiwañusca, or Dead Woman's Pass (4,215 m / 13,829 ft), the highest point of the Classic Inca Trail.
From the summit, enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains before beginning the descent toward Pacaymayu.
Dead Woman's Pass – Pacaymayu
Descend toward Pacaymayu (approximately 3,500 m / 11,483 ft), where you'll stop for lunch and take time to rest.
Pacaymayu – Runkurakay
After lunch, continue climbing toward Runkurakay (approximately 3,800 m / 12,467 ft), an impressive circular Inca archaeological site believed to have served as a resting or ceremonial station along the ancient trail.
Second High Pass – Chaquicocha
Continue across the Second High Pass (approximately 3,950 m / 12,959 ft) before descending toward Chaquicocha (3,600 m / 11,811 ft).
Spend the night at the campsite surrounded by the spectacular landscapes of the Inca Trail.
Day 6: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Intipata – Wiñayhuayna
After breakfast at approximately 6:00 AM, continue along the ancient Inca Trail toward Phuyupatamarca (approximately 3,650 m / 11,975 ft), known as the "City Above the Clouds."
Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca
Explore the spectacular archaeological site of Phuyupatamarca and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Phuyupatamarca – Intipata
Continue through the cloud forest along beautifully preserved Inca stone stairways, gradually descending toward Intipata (approximately 2,800 m / 9,186 ft).
Intipata is famous for its impressive agricultural terraces built into the mountainside, offering spectacular views over the Urubamba Valley.
Intipata – Wiñayhuayna
Continue toward Wiñayhuayna (approximately 2,650 m / 8,694 ft), one of the most beautiful archaeological sites along the Inca Trail.
Explore its terraces, ceremonial fountains, and stone structures before reaching the final campsite. Enjoy your final dinner with the trekking team and prepare for the following morning's arrival at Machu Picchu.
Day 7: Wiñayhuayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
The final day begins very early at approximately 4:00 AM. After breakfast, begin the final section of the Classic Inca Trail toward Inti Punku (Sun Gate).
Wiñayhuayna – Sun Gate
Hike toward Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, located at approximately 2,720 m / 8,924 ft. From this historic viewpoint, enjoy your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu as the morning light illuminates the ancient Inca citadel.
Sun Gate – Machu Picchu
Continue toward the entrance of Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,972 ft), where your professional guide will lead you through the most important sectors of the archaeological sanctuary.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Explore important areas including the Main Plaza, Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, and Temple of the Three Windows.
Learn about the history, architecture, spirituality, and remarkable engineering of the Inca civilization while exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
After completing your guided visit, descend to Aguas Calientes and prepare for your return journey.
Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Board your scheduled train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. From the train station, continue by tourist transportation toward Cusco, arriving at approximately 7:00 PM.
Your unforgettable 7-Day Salkantay Trek & Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu ends upon arrival in Cusco.
Inclusions
Included
- All transportation required throughout the 7-Day Salkantay Trek & Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
- 8 kg duffel bag for your personal belongings during the trek.
- Mules and muleteers to transport camping equipment and supplies during the Salkantay section.
- Personal porter service for the Classic Inca Trail section.
- Entrance permits and tickets for the Salkantay Trek, Classic Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu.
- All meals throughout the trek, except lunch on the final day in Aguas Calientes.
- Daily tea time, hot beverages in the mornings, and trekking snacks.
- 6 nights of camping accommodation along the Salkantay and Inca Trail routes.
- Eureka camping tent shared by a maximum of two trekkers.
- Comfortable sleeping equipment, including foam sleeping mats, pillows, hot-water bottles, and additional blankets.
- Safe drinking water provided throughout the trek.
- Portable toilets, hot showers, and warm water for washing at designated campsites when available.
- Commemorative trekking T-shirt.
- Professional English-speaking trekking guide throughout the Salkantay and Inca Trail adventure.
- Assistance before and during the 7-Day Salkantay & Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu.
Not Included
- Sleeping bag and inflatable sleeping mattress.
- Lunch on the final day in Aguas Calientes.
- Additional entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain.
- Travel insurance, including trekking and emergency medical coverage.
- Tips for the professional guide, porters, muleteers, cooks, and other support staff.
- Personal expenses and services not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.
Recommendations
- Acclimatize in Cusco for at least 2–3 days before starting this high-altitude trekking adventure.
- Maintain a good level of physical fitness, as the route includes long hiking days, steep ascents, and high-altitude passes.
- Bring appropriate trekking equipment, including comfortable hiking boots, waterproof clothing, and warm layers.
- Bring or rent a suitable sleeping bag designed for cold high-altitude nights.
- Carry a lightweight daypack with only the essential items needed during each day's hike.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from strong high-altitude sun exposure.
- Stay well hydrated and carry a reusable water bottle during the trek.
- Bring energy-rich trekking snacks for additional nourishment between meals.
- Carry Peruvian soles in cash for personal expenses and optional services along the route.
- Carry your original passport, which is required for entrance controls and Machu Picchu.
- Follow your professional guide's instructions and respect all regulations along the Salkantay Trek, Classic Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu.
- Practice responsible tourism by protecting archaeological sites, respecting local communities, and avoiding litter throughout the trek.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 7-Day Salkantay Trek & Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is considered a challenging trekking experience. The route combines long hiking days, steep ascents, high-altitude passes, and varied terrain. Good physical fitness is recommended, along with previous hiking preparation and at least 2–3 days of acclimatization in Cusco. Proper trekking equipment and preparation for rapidly changing weather conditions are also essential.
The best time for the Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail is generally from April to October, when the weather is typically drier and trekking conditions are more favorable. The rainy season generally runs from November to March, when trails can become wetter and more challenging. The landscapes remain spectacular throughout the year, although weather conditions should always be considered when planning your trek.
Meals are prepared by an experienced trekking cook using fresh and nutritious ingredients. The menu typically includes Andean-inspired dishes, soups, quinoa, rice, pasta, chicken, vegetables, and hot beverages. Vegetarian and vegan options can usually be arranged with advance notice. Meals are designed to provide sufficient energy for the long hiking days, and hot drinks such as coca tea are commonly available at the campsites.
The daily hiking distance varies depending on the section of the Salkantay and Classic Inca Trail. On average, travelers can expect to hike approximately 10 to 20 km per day. The most demanding sections include the ascent to the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 m (15,256 ft) and the climb to Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215 m (13,829 ft). The trekking pace includes regular breaks to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the surrounding landscapes.
If you are unable to continue because of altitude sickness, exhaustion, or another health concern, inform your professional guide immediately. The trekking team will assess your condition and determine the safest available option. During the Salkantay section, certain areas may allow evacuation or access to nearby communities by vehicle or other local means. On the Classic Inca Trail, evacuation options are more limited, so following your guide's safety instructions is especially important. We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency medical assistance.
Begin preparing several weeks before the trek with regular walking, hiking, stair climbing, or cardiovascular exercise. Spend at least 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the route, stay well hydrated, and avoid excessive alcohol. Comfortable trekking boots, waterproof clothing, warm layers, sun protection, and a suitable backpack are essential for this demanding Machu Picchu trekking adventure.
$1300 USD
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Camino a Salkantay + Camino Inca 7 Dias
Descripción
Este tour de 7 días y 6 noches combina la desafiante ruta del Salkantay con el legendario Camino Inca, llevando a los aventureros a través de los majestuosos paisajes de la región andina del Cusco, en Perú. A lo largo del recorrido, se asciende por imponentes montañas, se cruza la ceja de selva y se desciende por antiguos senderos incas rodeados de exuberante vegetación. La travesía permite experimentar cambios drásticos de ecosistemas, desde los nevados de gran altitud hasta los bosques nubosos llenos de biodiversidad. En el trayecto, se pueden apreciar ríos cristalinos, valles profundos y sitios arqueológicos ocultos entre la vegetación. Este desafiante recorrido combina aventura, cultura e historia, ofreciendo una conexión única con la naturaleza y la herencia de los incas antes de llegar al destino final, la mítica ciudad de Machu Picchu.
Día 1: Cusco – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Laguna Humantay
El tour inicia temprano, a las 4:30 a. m., con el recojo desde Cusco en transporte privado hacia Challacancha (3,600 m s. n. m.), donde comienza la caminata. Durante la ruta, se observan antiguas canalizaciones incas que aún abastecen de agua a las comunidades locales. Después de aproximadamente 3 horas de caminata, se llega a Soraypampa (3,900 m s. n. m.), el primer campamento. Tras el almuerzo y un breve descanso, se asciende a la impresionante Laguna Humantay (4,200 m s. n. m.), un espejo de agua turquesa enmarcado por los nevados Salkantay y Humantay. Luego de disfrutar de la vista y tomar fotografías, se regresa al campamento para la cena y descanso. Este día es una combinación de aventura y aclimatación a la altitud, preparándonos para los siguientes días de caminata.
Día 2: Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa – Pampa Japonesa
El día comienza a las 5:00 a. m., con un desayuno nutritivo para afrontar el ascenso. La caminata inicia en dirección a Salkantaypampa (4,100 m s. n. m.), una explanada con vistas privilegiadas del nevado Salkantay (6,271 m s. n. m.). Tras una breve pausa, se asciende por senderos empinados hacia Pampa Japonesa (4,600 m s. n. m.), uno de los puntos más altos del recorrido y el lugar de campamento. Durante la jornada, se atraviesan paisajes andinos de una belleza imponente, con la posibilidad de avistar cóndores y camélidos andinos. La temperatura desciende notablemente, por lo que se recomienda ropa abrigadora. Después de una jornada exigente, se disfruta de la cena antes de descansar en carpas bajo un cielo estrellado.
Día 3: Pampa Japonesa – Sisaypampa – Canal Inca
A las 6:00 a. m., tras un desayuno caliente, se inicia el ascenso final al Abra Salkantay (4,650 m s. n. m.), el punto más alto del trayecto. Desde aquí, se observa la majestuosidad del nevado y los valles circundantes. Luego, se desciende hacia Sisaypampa (4,200 m s. n. m.), un extenso valle donde se aprecian manadas de alpacas pastando libremente. El descenso continúa por senderos que se conectan con antiguos caminos incas hasta llegar a Canal Inca (3,600 m s. n. m.), un sitio arqueológico con evidencias de ingeniería hidráulica incaica. Este campamento es más cálido y tranquilo, rodeado de vegetación andina. Tras una cena reparadora, se descansa para la siguiente etapa del viaje.
Día 4: Canal Inca – Wayllabamba – Ayapata
El día comienza temprano, alrededor de las 5:30 a. m., con una caminata hacia Wayllabamba (3,000 m s. n. m.), donde se conecta con el famoso Camino Inca Clásico. En esta sección, se aprecian terrazas agrícolas y restos arqueológicos incas. Desde Wayllabamba, el sendero asciende por un bosque nuboso lleno de flora y fauna autóctona, con mariposas y aves andinas. La jornada finaliza en Ayapata (3,300 m s. n. m.), un punto de campamento rodeado de montañas, ideal para descansar antes de enfrentar el desafío del siguiente día. Después de una cena caliente, se duerme temprano para reponer energías.
Día 5: Ayapata – Paso de la Mujer Muerta – Chaquicocha
A las 5:00 a. m., inicia una de las jornadas más desafiantes del recorrido. Se asciende al Paso de la Mujer Muerta (4,215 m s. n. m.), el punto más alto del Camino Inca. Desde la cumbre, se tienen vistas panorámicas del valle y las montañas circundantes. Luego, se desciende a Pacaymayu (3,500 m s. n. m.), donde se disfruta del almuerzo. Por la tarde, el sendero continúa en ascenso hacia el sitio arqueológico de Runkurakay (3,800 m s. n. m.), una estructura circular que se cree fue un tambo inca. Más adelante, se atraviesa el Segundo Paso Alto (3,950 m s. n. m.), para luego descender a Chaquicocha (3,600 m s. n. m.), donde se arma el campamento para descansar.
Día 6: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Intipata – Wiñaywayna
La caminata inicia a las 6:00 a. m., con un sendero en ascenso hasta Phuyupatamarca (3,650 m s. n. m.), conocido como «La Ciudad Sobre las Nubes». Este sitio arqueológico ofrece una de las vistas más espectaculares del recorrido. El sendero continúa descendiendo por una serie de escalinatas incas hasta Intipata (2,800 m s. n. m.), un conjunto de terrazas agrícolas con una vista impresionante del valle del Urubamba. Finalmente, se llega a Wiñaywayna (2,650 m s. n. m.), un complejo arqueológico con andenes y fuentes ceremoniales. Aquí se disfruta de la última cena en campamento, antes del esperado día en Machu Picchu.
Día 7: Machu Picchu – Retorno a Cusco
El día comienza muy temprano, a las 4:00 a. m., para caminar hacia Inti Punku (Puerta del Sol, 2,720 m s. n. m.), el acceso principal a Machu Picchu (2,430 m s. n. m.). Desde aquí, se tiene la primera vista panorámica de la ciudadela inca, iluminada por los primeros rayos del sol. Luego de una caminata corta, se ingresa a Machu Picchu para realizar un recorrido guiado por los sectores más importantes: la Plaza Principal, el Templo del Sol, el Intihuatana y el Templo de las Tres Ventanas. Después de explorar la maravilla arqueológica, se desciende a Aguas Calientes, donde se aborda el tren de regreso a Ollantaytambo, seguido de un traslado en bus a Cusco, llegando alrededor de las 7:00 p. m.. Así finaliza una travesía inolvidable por el Salkantay y el Camino Inca.
INCLUYE
- Todo el transporte Incluido.
- Bolsa de lona para 8 kilos de tus cosas.
- Mulas y arrieros para Salkantay.
- Porteador personal para Camino Inca.
- Entradas a Salkantay, Camino Inca y Machu Picchu.
- Todas las comidas incluidas excepto el almuerzo del último día.
- Hora del té, bebidas calientes al despertar, bocadillos todos los días.
- 6 noches de campamento.
- Carpa Eureka para 4 personas por cada 2 excursionistas.
- Colchón de espuma para dormir, almohadas, bolsas de agua caliente, mantas adicionales.
- Agua potable todos los días.
- Baños portátiles, duchas calientes, agua tibia para lavar.
- Camiseta de recuerdo.
- Guía turístico profesional de habla inglesa.
NO INCLUYE
- Sacos de dormir, colchón inflable.
- Último Almuerzo en Aguas Calientes.
- Boletos de ingreso a Huayna Picchu.
- Seguro de viaje.
- Propinas para el personal.
RECOMENDACIONES
- Aclimatación previa.
- Buen estado físico.
- Equipo adecuado.
- Bolsa de dormir.
- Mochila ligera.
- Protección solar.
- Hidratación.
- Snacks energéticos.
- Dinero en efectivo.
- Documentación.
- Respeto ambiental.
Preguntas Frecuentes
¿Qué nivel de dificultad tiene el recorrido y qué preparación se recomienda?
El recorrido es de dificultad alta, ya que combina senderismo en altura con terrenos variados. Se recomienda estar en buena condición física, entrenar con caminatas previas y aclimatarse en Cusco al menos 2 días antes. Lleve un buen equipo de trekking y esté preparado para cambios climáticos bruscos.
¿Cuál es la mejor época para hacer el tour?
La mejor época es de abril a octubre, cuando el clima es seco y las lluvias son mínimas. De noviembre a marzo es temporada de lluvias, lo que dificulta el recorrido. Sin embargo, la ruta es impresionante en cualquier época del año, con paisajes espectaculares y menos afluencia de turistas en temporada baja.
¿Qué tipo de comida se ofrece durante el tour?
Se proporcionan tres comidas diarias, preparadas por chefs especializados en cocina andina y nutritiva. Se incluyen opciones vegetarianas y veganas si se solicita con anticipación. Los ingredientes son frescos y locales, con platos como sopas, quinua, pollo, pastas y mate de coca para la aclimatación.
¿Cuántos kilómetros se caminan cada día?
En promedio, se caminan de 10 a 20 km diarios . Los días más exigentes son el ascenso al Abra Salkantay y el Paso Warmiwañusca. En total, el recorrido supera los 70 km combinando ambos caminos. Se avanza a un ritmo moderado con descansos estratégicos para disfrutar del paisaje.
¿Qué pasa si no puedo completar la caminata por mal de altura o cansancio?
Si un turista no puede continuar, se evaluarán opciones según el tramo. En Salkantay, hay caminos de evacuación hacia poblados cercanos. En el Camino Inca, no hay rutas alternas, por lo que se debe regresar con asistencia. Es clave informar al guía ante cualquier malestar para evitar riesgos mayores.
Nuestros Clientes Opinan
7D/6N
PRECIO DESDE
$ 1300.00
por persona
Lugares para visitar:
Cusco, Challacancha, Soraypampa, Humantay, Pampa Japonesa, Huayllabamba, Chaquicocha, Intipata, Machu Picchu, Cusco
El viaje comienza en:
Cusco en tu hotel
Tamaño de Grupo:
14
Nivel Fisico:
1
Estilo del Tour:
1
Distancia Recorrida:
75 Km
Salidas:
Salidas diarias
Comidas:
6 B, 6 L, 6 D