Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (7D/6N)

A Complete Guide to the Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (7D/6N)

When you think about hiking through the Peruvian Andes to reach Machu Picchu, two iconic routes often come to mind: the classic Inca Trail and the adventurous Salkantay Trek. This tour, offered by Inca Trail Specialist for $1,650 per person, combines both, creating an immersive experience that appeals to seasoned hikers craving both history and breathtaking scenery.

Over seven days, you’ll cover about 75 km (47 miles) of challenging terrain, passing through towering mountain passes, cloud forests, and ancient ruins. Starting from Cusco, the journey takes you through the majestic Salkantay mountain, up to the incachiriaska pass, and finally joins the legendary Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu.

What we love most about this trek is how it balances adventure with cultural insight. The small group size means you’ll get plenty of attention from your guides, who are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach. Plus, having a personal porter to carry your gear lets you focus on soaking in the views instead of hauling heavy packs.

However, be aware that this route is challenging, with high altitudes (up to 5028 meters / 16,495 feet), and requires good physical fitness. Also, since a permit is needed, booking well in advance (around 60 days) is advisable.

This tour is best suited for experienced hikers who want an authentic, less touristy trail combined with the splendor of Machu Picchu — ideal if you’re eager for a personal connection with nature and history.

Key Points

• Authentic multi-day trek combining Salkantay and Inca trails for an immersive experience
• Small group size with personal porters enhances comfort and attention
• Stunning scenery including mountain passes, cloud forests, and Inca ruins
• Challenging terrain suitable for experienced hikers
• Requires advance booking due to permit restrictions
• Includes all major entry fees and transportation, providing good value

Exploring the 7-Day Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Day 1: From Cusco to Soraypampa and Humantay Lake

Your adventure kicks off early with a pickup from your Cusco hotel, followed by a two-hour bus ride to Mollepata. Here, you’ll enjoy breakfast before heading further to Challacancha, the starting point of your trek. The highlight of the day is hiking up to Soraypampa for lunch and then climbing to Humantay Lake, renowned for its striking turquoise waters set against towering mountains. This warm-up hike gives you a taste of the scenery and altitude to come, setting the stage for the days ahead.

Day 2: Ascent to Pampa Japonesa and Dead Inca Pass

Rising early, you’ll begin a four-hour hike toward Pampa Japonesa, passing through lush landscapes that gradually thin out as you approach the Dead Inca Pass — the highest point of the trek at around 5200 meters. The reward for summiting is breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and the opportunity to take a quick 1-hour trek to the summit. The descent to Sisay Pampa is steep and cold, but you’ll find warmth in knowing you’re just getting started. The night here can be quite chilly, so packing warm layers is advisable.

Day 3: Descending to Paucarcancha and Joining the Classic Inca Trail

This day features a downhill hike, providing spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You’ll visit the ruins of Paucarcancha, a site that offers insight into Inca architecture and their reverence for Salkantay mountain. After lunch, you’ll connect with the original Inca trail at Wayllabamba, where mule transport is replaced by porters to protect the trail. The campsite at Paucarcancha is a great spot to soak in the mountain vistas and prepare for the next day’s ascent.

Day 4: Up to Llulluchapampa, Near Dead Woman Pass

The fourth day is a real test of endurance, with an early start to tackle Dead Woman Pass, the highest point at over 4200 meters. Along the way, you’ll pass the Inca sites of Runkurakay and Sayacmarca, each packed with archaeological significance and incredible scenery. The journey down through microclimates and cloud forests to Llulluchapampa is steep but rewarding, as you get closer to Machu Picchu’s vicinity. The night’s camp offers quiet and spectacular sunset views.

Day 5: Over Two Passes to Chaquicocha

Today involves crossing two mountain passes, each offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The trail includes visits to Inca sites Runkurakay and Sayacmarca, with plenty of time for photos. You’ll see an array of plant and animal life typical of the cloud forest environment. After the steep descent, the camp at Chaquicocha is peaceful, often less crowded, and offers a perfect spot to relax and watch the sunset.

Day 6: Final Ascent to Winay Wayna and the Sun Gate

Early risers will love the hike to Phuyupatamarca — a site filled with Inca terraces and water channels—before descending to the lush Inca ruins of Winay Wayna. This site is a highlight for many, with detailed stonework and terraces set against the mountains. In the afternoon, there’s time to explore Intipata and to enjoy a small ceremony honoring your porters. This day marks the approach to Machu Picchu, with a sense of accomplishment building as you near the final destination.

Day 7: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco

The grand finale is arriving early at the Machu Picchu citadel via the Sun Gate, offering your first view of this legendary site. A guided tour will take you through key temples and structures, revealing their significance—plus, you’ll have free time to explore on your own. After soaking in the atmosphere, you’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo and then bus to Cusco, tired but triumphant.

The Experience: What Sets It Apart

Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides for their ability to blend storytelling with practical advice, making the trek both educational and enjoyable. One highlighted how their guide “answered all our questions promptly and guided our preparations,” which points to excellent communication leading up to the trip.

Stunning vistas are a constant throughout the trek—snowy peaks, lush valleys, and towering mountain passes fill your view every day. The combination of Salkantay’s wild landscapes and the Inca ruins along the trail creates a compelling contrast, making this route feel less commercialized than the traditional Inca Trail.

Travelers also appreciate the small group size, which allows for a more intimate experience, and the personal porters who lighten the load significantly — a real plus for those concerned about carrying gear at high altitudes.

The Challenges

While the scenery and cultural insights are unmatched, this trek is not for everyone. It’s physically demanding, with steep ascents, high altitudes, and cold nights—especially around Dead Woman Pass. One reviewer noted that “you need a strong physical fitness level,” which is a fair warning. The weather can be unpredictable, and some nights are quite cold (around 0°C), so packing warm clothing is essential.

Pricing and Value

At $1,650, this tour offers a comprehensive experience, including all entry fees, transportation, meals, and guides. The inclusion of train and bus tickets simplifies logistics, and the quality of the guides and support crew makes the price feel justified for those seeking an authentic adventure.

Practical Details and Tips

• Booking well in advance (roughly 60 days) is recommended due to permit requirements.
• Physical fitness is important; expect challenging climbs and high altitudes.
• Packing warm layers and a good sleeping bag (which can be rented) will make nights more comfortable.
• Small group sizes mean more personalized attention, but also limit the number of trekkers.
• The tour starts early at 5:00 am on Day 1, so be prepared for long, active days.
• Not included are breakfast on Day 1 and meals on the last day, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re an experienced hiker looking to escape the crowds and enjoy diverse scenery combined with archaeological sites, this tour fits perfectly. It suits travelers who want a challenging, rewarding trek with the comfort of knowledgeable guides and support staff. It’s especially appealing if you love mountain landscapes, Inca ruins, and a sense of adventure beyond the typical tourist path.

However, if you’re less physically prepared or prefer a more relaxed pace, the physical demands might be a bit much. Still, the stunning vistas and authentic trail experience make it worth considering for anyone ready for an adventure that truly feels like a conquest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
No, this route is challenging and requires a good fitness level due to high altitudes and demanding terrain.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides 6 breakfasts, 6 dinners, and 6 lunches. The exception is breakfast on Day 1 and meals on the final day, which travelers should plan for separately.

How many people typically go on this tour?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, the emphasis on smaller groups suggests a more intimate experience, likely around a handful of trekkers per guide.

What kind of gear do I need?
A warm sleeping bag can be rented; packing layers suitable for cold nights, rain protection, and sturdy hiking boots will ensure comfort.

How physically demanding is the trek?
Very demanding—expect steep ascents, high altitudes, and long days. Good physical conditioning is advised.

Is it necessary to book in advance?
Yes, permits are limited, and bookings are typically made about 60 days in advance to secure your spot.

What’s the best time to do this trek?
While not specified, the tour’s weather depends on the season—generally, the dry season (May to September) offers the best conditions.

Are there any age restrictions?
Not explicitly stated, but due to the challenging nature, it’s best suited for adventurous, physically fit travelers.

To sum it up, this combined Salkantay and Inca Trail trek offers a rare opportunity to experience Peru’s spectacular landscapes and ancient sites in a more authentic, less crowded setting. The journey is demanding but incredibly rewarding for those prepared for the physical challenge and eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. With top-notch guides, support staff, and stunning scenery, it’s a fantastic choice for seasoned hikers craving an adventure with a deeper connection to history and nature.