6-Day Salkantay Trek & Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
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Machu Picchu (twice!) ✓ Salkantay Trek ✓ Inca Trail ✓
Two Legendary Trails. One Journey to Machu Picchu.
What if you could experience the high-altitude wilderness of the Salkantay Trek and the archaeological legacy of the Classic Inca Trail on the same journey?
Our 6-day Salkantay Trek and Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu combines dramatic mountain landscapes, glacial lakes, high-altitude passes and ancient Inca pathways in one challenging expedition from the Andes to Machu Picchu.
The journey begins near Humantay Lake and continues through the spectacular Salkantay mountain region before connecting with the historic Inca Trail. Along the way, you will encounter archaeological sites including Paucarcancha, Runcuracay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca and Wiñay Wayna, before reaching the Sun Gate and the first views of Machu Picchu.
The following day, return to Machu Picchu for a guided exploration of its temples, terraces and ceremonial spaces before traveling back to Cusco.
This trek is designed for experienced or well-prepared hikers looking for a demanding combination of high-Andean landscapes, Inca history and Machu Picchu.
6-Day Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Highlights
Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa
Day 3 : Pampacahuana – Paucarcancha – Llulluchapampa
Wake up to the first light over Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m).
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day as you ascend toward the Salkantay Pass, enjoying panoramic views of Andean peaks, wildlife, and dramatic valleys. Then descend gradually to sisaypampa and continue to your campsite near Pampacahuana, an isolated valley touched by ancient Andean traditions.
A delicious dinner awaits at camp—perfect after a full day on the remote Salkantay Trail.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Main highlights: Humantay Lake, Salkantay Mountain, high-altitude landscapes.
Experience:
Start early from Cusco and travel toward Soraypampa, the starting point of the trek. From here, hike toward the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, surrounded by dramatic Andean peaks. After returning to Soraypampa for lunch, continue toward the Salkantay region and your first campsite.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Early in the morning we will leave our campsite at Pampacawana and make our way down the valley to join the Inca Trail at Wayllabamba. Along the way, we will visit many Incas sites that correspond to the greater Inca trail system, such as ‘Paucarcancha, and Wayllabamba, Our guides will make sure you explore these ancient sites and give you the proper historical and archaeological information about them. Our goal for the day is to check in with the Machu Picchu park rangers and enter officially into the NAtional Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Our Campiste for the day is Ayapata.. Our Campiste for the day is llulluchapampa.This is where your trip becomes the perfect fusion of the Salkantay Trek and Classic Inca Trail.
Day 4 : Llulluchapampa- Phuyupatamarca
This is a challenging day for us. We will keep climbing the mountain towards the Abra de Huarmihuañusca/’Dead Woman’s Pass’ 4200m/13779ft. The views from here are simply amazing. Once we get to the the highest point and we take the mandatory pictures, we will proceed to go downhill for about 2.5 hours, toward Pacayamayo, our lunch spot. After we reach this place and we have a good day resting we will continue the hike in the afgternoon.
In the second part of this day, we will climb the second mountain pass of the inca trail. Along the way, we will visit the unique incan sites of Runcuracay’ and ‘Sayacmarca’ and gaze at the magnificient scenery as you pass through the lovely cloud forest. Our campsite will be located right outside the Inca site of ‘Phuyupatamarca’ (meaning ‘Town in the Clouds’).This is a highlight day of the Salkantay and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu journey.
Day 5 : Phuyupatamarca – Machu Picchu
Begin with a gentle hike through Inca stone paths carved into the mountainside.
Visit Phuyupatamarca, the “Town Above the Clouds,” then descend through lush forest toward Wiñay Wayna, one of the most stunning Inca sites of the entire trail. In the afternoon, follow the trail toward the sacred Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu. Continue to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in a comfortable hotel before your final day.. Once Machu Picchu is closed we will take a 30 minute bus ride toward Aguas Calientes where we will spend the night.
Day 6 :Machu Picchu Tour and Return to Cusco.
Your final day begins early with a bus ride back up to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu. Enjoy a complete guided exploration of the temples, terraces, plazas, and hidden corners of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After your tour, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the train back to Cusco, marking the end of your unforgettable Salkantay Inca Trail Machu Picchu adventure.. In the afternoon, we will catch our train back to Cusco.
Day 2: Salkantaypampa – Incachiriaska – Pampacahuana
Salkantay & Inca Trail Trek Difficulty
This 6-day trek combines the spectacular Salkantay route with the Classic Inca Trail. Expect challenging mountain terrain, long hiking days, steep sections, and changing weather conditions.
Altitude and Physical Preparation
The trek reaches high elevations, including Salkantay Pass. Good physical preparation, acclimatization, and regular hiking practice are recommended for a safer and more enjoyable experience.
What's Included
Your trek includes professional guides, permits and entrance tickets, transportation, meals, camping equipment, porters, and accommodation according to the itinerary.
What's Not Included
Personal expenses, travel insurance, tips, additional drinks, personal trekking equipment, and services not specifically listed in the included services are not included.
Packing List
Bring comfortable trekking clothing, hiking boots, warm layers, rain protection, sun protection, a sleeping bag, personal toiletries, water, and essential medications.
Accommodation & Camping
Enjoy a combination of comfortable accommodation and organized mountain camping, with quality camping equipment and designated campsites along the route.
Responsible and Ethical Trekking
We promote responsible trekking by respecting local communities, protecting archaeological sites, minimizing waste, and caring for the fragile Andean environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about difficulty, altitude, permits, meals, camping, luggage, weather, preparation, and what to expect during the trek.
Book Your 6-Day Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek
Secure your place on this spectacular 6-day adventure combining the Salkantay mountains and Classic Inca Trail. Contact us to check availability and plan your journey to Machu Picchu.
Trek Information Details
Duration6 Days / 5 Nights
Starting Point Cusco, Peru
Destination Machu Picchu
Difficulty Challenging
Highest Altitude 5,158 m / 16,922 ft*
Trekking Style Salkantay + Classic Inca Trail
Group Size 1–8 travelers*
Accommodation Camping + hotel*
Guide Professional English-speaking guide
Permits Inca Trail and Machu Picchu permits*
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 6-day Salkantay and Classic Inca Trail trek difficult?
Yes. This is a challenging high-altitude trek that combines the Salkantay route with the Classic Inca Trail. Travelers should be comfortable hiking for several hours a day and should prepare for significant elevation changes.
What is the highest point of the trek?
The itinerary reaches approximately 5,158 meters (16,922 feet) at Incachiriaska Pass. Please confirm the final route and elevation before booking, as itineraries can vary according to trail and operational conditions.
Do I need to be an experienced hiker?
Previous trekking experience is recommended, but the most important factors are good physical preparation, proper acclimatization and a willingness to hike at high altitude.
Does this trek include the Classic Inca Trail?
Yes. The itinerary combines the Salkantay Trek with a section of the Classic Inca Trail, allowing travelers to experience both high-Andean landscapes and historic Inca archaeological sites.
Will I see Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate?
The itinerary is designed to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), providing a panoramic perspective of Machu Picchu when trail and park access conditions allow.
Is Machu Picchu entrance included?
Machu Picchu and Inca Trail permits should be clearly listed in the “What's Included” section according to the exact package being sold. Availability is subject to the applicable permit and ticket system.
What should I pack for the Salkantay and Inca Trail?
Essential items include good hiking footwear, layered clothing, rain protection, sun protection, a reusable water bottle, personal medications, a headlamp and appropriate cold-weather clothing for high-altitude camps.
Can I do this trek as a private tour?
Private departures can be offered depending on availability and group size. Contact Inca Land Adventures for a customized itinerary and private trekking service.
What is the best time of year for this trek?
The dry season is generally preferred for trekking in the Cusco region, although conditions vary by month and high-altitude weather can change quickly. Your trekking operator should provide current seasonal advice before departure.
Inca Trail Tour Details:
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Difficulty: Challenging (intermediate to experienced hikers)
Maximum Altitude: 5,158m (Incachiriaska Pass)
Group Size: Small groups (2-8 participants)
Style: Expedition trekking with cultural immersion and birdwatching focus
Professional English-speaking guide with birdwatching expertise
All Inca Trail and Machu Picchu permits
5 nights camping (3 on Salkantay, 2 on Inca Trail) + 1 hotel night in Aguas Calientes
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with dietary accommodations
Personal porter (carries up to 5kg of your gear)
Pack horses for Salkantay portion, porters for Inca Trail portion
Quality camping equipment (4-person tents for 2 people, foam mattress, pillow)
Bus tickets Aguas Calientes–Machu Picchu (3 rides)
Expedition train return (upgrade to Vistadome available)
Hotel-to-hotel service with private transfers
First aid kit and emergency oxygen
Birdwatching field guide and binoculars available
Not Included:
What's Included:
Lunch on Day 6, tips for staff, Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain permits ($80
Vistadome – $80 each), sleeping bag rental (available), personal travel insurance.
Discounts Available:
Students (18-25 with valid ISIC card): $30 off
Under 18 years: $30 off
Under 11 years: $40 off
Groups of 5+: $30 off per person
Optional Extras:
Comfort Package ($120): Sleeping bag (20°F/-7°C), inflatable Therm-a-Rest mattress, walking poles, camping pillow
Extra Porter ($130): Carries up to 8kg of personal gear
Single Tent Supplement ($35/night)
Vistadome Train Upgrade ($80 return)
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climb ($80 — request at booking)
Pricing Per Person:2026
1 people US$1950 per person
2 people US$1350 per person
3 people US$1300 per person
4 people US$1250 per person
5 people US$1200 per person
6 people US$1150 per person
7+ people US$1100 per person.
Contact
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