INCA TRAIL TREKKING & SALKANTAY TREK 7 DAYS

What to espect at Inca Trail Trekking & Salkantay Trail to Machupicchu?

• Guided trekking by Salkantay Trail
• Experinece “Inca Chiriasqha Pass” at 5,200m
• Guided Classic Inca Trail
• Explore mysterious Inca archaeological sites
• Guided Machu Picchu Tour

Trekking Facts

• TOUR TIMING: 5 days 4 nights.
• STARTING POINT: Cusco Hotel.
• ENDING POINT: Cusco Hotel.
• TYPE OF TOUR: Adventure, Cultural and History.
• INCA TRAIL PERMITS: Yes, required. 500 permits are issued daily. In the peak season the trail is booked months in advance
• TRANSPORT: bus Trekking and train.
• DIFFICULTY: Does involve some narrow trails, so sturdy footwear is required to help you enjoy it fully.

Short Itineray for 7-Day Inca Trail Trekking

Day 1: Cusco – Salkantaypampa:

– Travel by bus from Cusco to Soraypampa.
– Visit Umantay lagoon and have lunch at Soraypampa.
– Trek for 3 hours to Salkantaypampa camp.

Day 2: Trek to Sisaypampa:

– Reach the highest point at 5,200 masl / 17060ft for breathtaking mountain views.
– Descend to the Sisaypampa camp.

Day 3: Trek to Paucarcancha:

– Interact with locals and enjoy a scenic trek through high mountain valleys.
– Observe a variety of birds and hummingbirds.

Day 4: Trek to Llulluchapampa:

– Join the Classic Inca trail and explore impressive Inca ruins along the way.

Day 5: Trek to Chakiccocha:

– Trek over the renowned “Dead woman’s” pass at 4,200m / 17060ft.
– Reach Chakiccocha camp and visit Runkuraqhay and Sayacmarka Inca ruins.

Day 6: Trek to Wiñaywayna:

– Hike through the enchanting cloud forest where you’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna.
– Explore Phuyupatamarka and Wiñaywayna Inca ruins.

Day 7: Explore Machu Picchu and return to Cusco:

– Discover the awe-inspiring Inca site of Machu Picchu.
– Return to Cusco by train in the afternoon.

DAY TO DAY ITINERARY ABOUT 7-DAY INCA TRAIL TREKKING & SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU.

Day 1 of the tour: Cusco – Limatambo – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa.

Embark on an extraordinary 7-day adventure, the 5-day Trail Trekking & Salkantay Trek. Our journey commences bright and early at 05:30 a.m., where we will personally pick you up from your hotel in our private transport. Setting off on a three-hour drive, we will head to Mollepata, making a stop en route to relish the breathtaking Inca site of “Tarawasi” with its remarkable USNO, an Inca platform.

As we reach Mollepata at an elevation of 2,800m/9,186 ft, we will continue our expedition by car for approximately one hour and fifteen minutes until we arrive at Soraypampa, standing tall at 3,800m/12,467 ft. Soraypampa serves as our rendezvous point with the dedicated arrieros and horsemen who will accompany us throughout the journey.

Upon arrival in Soraypampa, we will embark on an invigorating ascent towards the base of the magnificent Mountain, where the mesmerizing Umantay lagoon awaits, renowned for its striking watercolor hues. This scenic hike will take approximately three hours, rewarding us with unparalleled natural beauty. Following our trek, we will savor a delightful lunch at Soraypampa, energizing ourselves for the next leg of the expedition.

Continuing our gentle ascent through the awe-inspiring Andean valley, we will traverse this remarkable landscape for three hours until we reach the Salkantaypampa campsite. Along the way, we will be captivated by the majestic Salkantay mountain, revered by locals as an “APU” or protective deity.

Day 2: Salkantaypampa, Inka Chiriasqha Pass – Sisaypampa Camp:

Today promises to be a splendid day as we admire the stunning snow-capped mountains of Humantay (5,217 masl), Salkantay (6,271 masl), and Chullunku (5,570 masl). We’ll kick off the trek at 07:30 a.m., gently ascending to “Pampa-Japonesa” (Japanese Climbers Base-camp established three decades ago) before reaching the magnificent Inka Chiriasqha, the highest pass at 5,200m / 17060ft, offering breathtaking mountain vistas.

It will take us approximately 4 to 5 hours to trek from the camp to the pass. Once we’ve taken a rest at the pass, we’ll descend through the old moraine until we reach the Accobamba zone, where we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch. After lunch, we’ll descend for 2 hours to reach Sisaypampa Camp (3,790 m / 12434ft).

At Sisaypampa, we’ll have the opportunity to fully immerse ourselves in the awe-inspiring Andean landscape. This tranquil and cozy location is home to llamas, alpacas, and if we’re lucky, we may even spot the Andean condor, a revered deity among the locals. Our camp will be set up near the local school. (7-8 hours of walking)

Day 3: Sisaypampa – Paucarcancha.-

Day 3 of our tour takes us from Sisaypampa to Paucarcancha. After a delicious breakfast, we’ll kick off the trek at 07:30 a.m. We’ll descend into a stunning valley filled with native flowers and breathtaking views. After approximately 3 hours, we’ll reach the Pampaccahuana community, situated near the Inca canal, which was restored a few years ago by Kendall’s Project, an American archaeologist, to support local farmers and shepherds. From Pampaccahuana, it’s another 3-hour walk to our final destination, the Paucarcancha camp, where we’ll discover magnificent Inca ruins.

Day 4: Paucarcancha -Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa Camp.-

After breakfast, we will proceed for around an hour to reach the Wayllabamba community, where we will enter the original Inca trail to Machu Picchu. At this point, our muleteers will bid farewell and return home with their mules, while the fresh porters will welcome us to continue the trek with the necessary gear, equipment, and food all the way to Machu Picchu.

Please note that horses are not allowed on the Inca Trail Trekking. From Wayllabamba, we will continue our gentle climb for approximately 4 hours until we reach the Llullucha camp. Along the way, we will be able to witness a rushing stream and walk through the enchanting native polylepis woodland.

Day 5: Llulluchapampa – Dead Woman Pass – Pacaymayo – Runkuracay – Chakiccocha.-

Today will be an eventful day on our tour. After breakfast, we will embark on a two-hour climb to reach the second highest pass known as “Warmiwañusqha” or Dead Woman Pass (4,200m / 13779ft). The stunning mountain scenery will reward us for our efforts. Following a well-deserved rest, we will trek down to Pacaymayu Valley, traversing various Inca steps.

The descent to Pacaymayo Valley will last for two hours, where a delicious lunch will be served. After a rejuvenating break, we will ascend for one hour to visit the archaeological site of ‘Runkuraqhay’ (round shape balcony), and then continue for one more hour to Runkuraqhay pass at 4,000m / 13123ft. On clear days, you can enjoy incredible views of “Dead Woman Pass” on your back and the majestic Pumasillu snow mountain range ahead.

From the pass, we will descend for one hour through Inca steps until we reach the Inca site of ‘Sayacmarka’ (inaccessible town), also discovered by Mr. Hiram Bingam in 1915. We will have a brief rest here before continuing our walk for 20 minutes to Ch’akiccocha camp.

Day 6: Chaquiccocha –  Phuyupatamarka – Wiñaywayna.-

Today is another beautiful but short day of the tour. As you walk through the tropical forest, you’ll notice a change in the eco-system. After a two-hour walk, we will reach the Inca settlement called Phuyupatamarca, also known as “Town above the clouds” (3,600 masl/11,811 ft). This well-preserved site features a long chain of Inca baths, showcasing impressive Inca engineering. Your tour guide will provide a half-hour explanation here.

From Phuyupatamarca, we will descend approximately 3,200 well-preserved Inca steps (3 hours). We will also pass through another Inca Tunnel before reaching the Inca ruins of Wiñaywayna, meaning “Young Forever” (2,650 m/8,694 ft). Our camp will be set up next to the ruins. Lunch will be served at the camp, allowing you to rest and prepare for an early start the next day.

Day 7: Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – “Aguas Calientes” town – Cusco.-

On Day 7 of the tour, we will begin our trek early in the morning. Breakfast will be served at 4:30 a.m., and we will start trekking at 5:00 a.m. Our first stop will be the Sungate or Inti Punku, where we can catch the first glimpse of Machu Picchu and witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu and Wayna Picchu. Afterward, we will descend triumphantly to Machu Picchu and enjoy a relaxing two-hour tour.

Following the tour, you will have plenty of time to explore the Machu Picchu site at your own pace. Around noon, we will take a bus down to the town of “Aguas Calientes” where you can enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants. In the afternoon, at 2:55 p.m., we will board the train to Ollantaytambo train station. From there, you will be transferred to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 7:30 p.m.

5-day Trail Trekking & Salkantay Trek Includes:

In the price are Included all necessary things for a wonderful tour:

• Pre trek briefing – one day before your tour at 6:00pm in your hotel
• TRANSPORTATION: Collection from your hotel in the morning of trek departure. Tourist bus from Cusco to Soraypampa (starting point of the Trek); bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes; Tourist train Expeditions class from “Aguas Calientes” town to “Ollantaytambo” train station; transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
• CAMPING EQUIPMENT: We provide four people capacity tent for two persons, brand new four season tents, Therm-a-rest, dining room tent, kitchen tent, toiled tent, seats, tables, tent for Guides and helpers, kitchen gears.
• PERMITS:Inca Trail Permits
• ENTRANCE FEES: to Inca trail and Machu Picchu,
• MEALS: 6 breakfast; 6 hot lunches; 6 hot dinners. We offer vegetarian option if you request; we provide available boil water each mourning for your water bottles.
• GUIDES: English speaking professional guides, 2 guides over 8 people
• COOK: Professional chef and Chef Assistants.
• HORSES AND PORTERS: For camping equipment, food and kitchen gears as well to carry your personal items (7kls per person) in duffel bags that we provide; Muleteers.
• DUFFEL BAGS: you’ll get it the night before your tour in the time of briefing
• OTHERS: First aid kit and emergency oxygen bottle.

Meals: What to Expect?

• This Inca Trail trekking features a meals prepared by our cook. All meals are prepared on the trip by a trekking cook.
• For optimal taste and energy, we supplement all our meals with spices, herbs, oils, cheeses, butter, sugar, and fruits and vegetables. In addition, we provide you with an assortment of trail mix, snacks, and dried fruits to eat at your own discretion.
• We can often accommodate vegan, vegetarian, kosher and non-gluten diets and make adjustments for food allergies. These and other special dietary requests may require an additional fee, and in some countries may be more difficult to accommodate than others. Please inquire with us for more information about the specific trip you’re interested in.

Not Included.

• Sleeping bag: can be rented in our office for US$ 40 for the entire trek (every sleeping bag is washed prior to each use).
• Breakfast: on the first morning. Some hotels offer early breakfast. If not, we stop at “Mollepata” town for your breakfast and also you can buy some items for the trek.
• Lunch: in “Aguas Calientes” town on the final day you must consider a bugged of US$ 15 to 25 in average restaurant.
• Tips for your staff, guides, cooks, porters etc. ( US$40-US$60 approx ).
• Regarding Tips.- Our guides and staff work hard to provide excellent service. Although tips are customary and extremely appreciated, they are not included in the participant fees.

What to pack for 5-day Inca Trail Trekking?

For 7-day Inca Trail Trekking and Salkantay Trail we recommended the following items:

• Your Original Passport
  

  The duffle bag provides at the briefing time, which will be loaded by your porter.

• Day Pack 30 ltrs.
• Full rain gear or poncho
• Gloves (thin riding and warm gloves)
• Headlamp Sunglasses
• Hiking Socks – Sunscreen
• Bathing suit
• Trekking pants
• Breathable dry fit top-wear
• Comfortable shoes/flip-flops
• Cold-weather jacket
• Long-sleeve fleece/sweater Wool hat
• Comfortable Hiking boots
• Baseball cap, sombrero and bandana
• Headlamp Sunglasses
• Insect repellent
• Bathing suit
• Casual mountains wear for evenings
• Photo/video cameras and chargers
• Binoculars
• Refillable water bottle (hydration bags are recommended)

The price

Price US$ 1,190 pp

PRIVATE TOUR

• 2 person (minimum) US$ 1,480.00 p/person.
• 3-4 person 1,330.00 p/person.
• 5-9 person 1,200.00 p/person.
• * Guided tour with expert english speaking guides.

Tour Payment Information:

To secure your spot on the 5-day Trail Trekking & Salkantay Trek, we kindly require a non-refundable tour deposit of US$350 per person. The deposit can be conveniently sent via Western Union or through online payment to our bank account.

Please ensure that the money transfer is made in the name of SUNRISE PERU TREK OPERATOR E.I.R.L. Upon your arrival in Cusco, the remaining balance must be settled in cash prior to the commencement of the tour. We gladly accept both US Dollars and Peruvian Soles (local currency).

Essential Information About 5-day Trail Trekking & Salkantay Trek.

DESCRIPTION ABOUT 5-DAY INCA TRAIL TREKKING & SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU.

At Sunrise Peru Trek, we ensure your 5-day Inca Trail Trekking & Salkantay Trek experience is comfortable and unforgettable. Our top-notch camping equipment is designed to elevate your outdoor adventure. We provide spacious, 4-man tents that comfortably accommodate only two people, allowing you ample room to relax. Alongside this, we offer portable, eco-friendly toilet tents for your exclusive use, saving you from the distress of poorly maintained park facilities. We understand the importance of a good night’s sleep and thus, each trekker is provided with small pillows and air mattresses for insulation from the cold ground. A duffel bag will be entrusted to you during the briefing held the night prior to the tour, further adding to your convenience.

With us, your Inca trail trek will not just be an adventure, but a luxurious escapade into nature’s beauty. Embark on an extraordinary journey with our 5-day Inca Trail Trekking & Salkantay Trek. Designed as an immersive experience, this trek allows you to delve into the enchanting beauty of Machu Picchu in Peru. Crafted with utmost consideration for your comfort and enjoyment, we offer a comprehensive itinerary that unfurls the fascinating Inca sites before your eyes. The trek spans over 6 days, with an average daily trekking duration of 7-8 hours. The level of difficulty oscillates between moderate to challenging, ensuring an exhilarating experience for all adventure seekers. The tour culminates with a full day dedicated to exploring Machu Picchu, an architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the Inca civilization’s ingenuity. Get ready for a journey that will not only challenge your physical limits but also leave you in awe of the breathtaking landscapes and rich historical tapestry of Peru.

Our carefully curated itinerary takes you through the stunning Salkantay Trail, a lesser-known but equally mesmerizing alternative to the traditional 5-day Inca Trail Trekking. As you journey through rugged mountain passes and lush valleys, you will get to witness nature at its best. From snow-capped peaks to crystal-clear lakes, this trek presents an ever-changing landscape that will leave you entranced. Along the way, our experienced guides will share fascinating stories and insights about the Inca civilization, adding a unique cultural touch to your adventure.

HOW DIFFICULT IS THE TRAIL TREKKING & SALKANTAY TREK?

If you’re considering the 5-day Inca Trail Trekking, be aware that it can be a moderately to difficult trek. An average of 13 km each day should not be taken lightly. You’ll want to make sure you’re adequately prepared for the physical and mental challenges this journey entails. Before attempting any kind of long-distance trekking like this one, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to train and condition your body beforehand so that you can enjoy all the glory it has in store for you when the time comes!

The primary challenge on this trek lies in its three pass crossings. Each crossing comprises both an ascent and descent which requires stamina as well as attentiveness, especially if those passes reach heights over 4200m! While other difficulties include uneven terrain or scarcity of water sources, these may occur during any part of a long-distance trip. Make sure to bring along water purification tablets or filtration systems if necessary, but know also that altitude sickness may become an issue soon after trying to adjust at high altitudes – therefore proper acclimatization is key before pushing further along your hike with heavier loads!

SAFETY

At 5-day Inca Trail Trekking & Salkantay Trek, your safety, and that of the rest of the group, is our highest priority. Our trips are designed and planned with safety in mind. Your crew will be equipped with radios and emergency satellite phones, extensive medical kit and other safety apparatus where necessary. They always have access to our 24-hour emergency back-up in the city of Cusco. Our leaders are responsible for safety on the trip, and will make any changes to the itinerary they deem necessary should local conditions dictate.

ACCOMMODATION FOR INCA TRAIL TREKKING & SALKANTAY TREK.

For those seeking a more comfortable experience, our comprehensive camping service is ideal. Our experienced staff will take care of all the necessary tasks, including tent pitching, meal preparation, and dishwashing. By leaving these responsibilities to us, you can fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings, making it an ideal choice for first-time campers apprehensive about the challenges of such an adventure.

While camping, it is essential to prepare for various weather conditions. While you may experience pleasant weather and temperatures, it is also possible to encounter fog, rain, and cooler conditions. Additionally, certain locations may have bugs, which, albeit minor inconveniences, are part of the immersive camping experience that brings you closer to Peru’s stunning natural beauty. Rest assured, we provide all the camping equipment you need, except for your sleeping bag. Our canvas dome tents come equipped with built-in mesh insect nets on the doors and windows, ensuring a comfortable and peaceful night’s sleep. Moreover, we supply approximately 4cm thick mattresses that offer warmth and coziness.

During your incredible 5-day Inca Trail Trekking & Salkantay Trek, you can opt for full-service accommodations at designated campsites. Our dedicated porters will carry and set up your tents at these sites. While the campsites are basic and exposed to the elements, they provide a genuine wilderness experience. Please note that there will be no access to electricity or shower facilities, and the toilets consist of basic long drop latrines, which, especially in rainy conditions, may become dirty due to shared use with other hikers. However, to ensure hygiene, your crew will provide basins of warm water for daily washing. All camping equipment will be supplied.

HEALTH

All SUNRISE PERU TREK travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on “5-day Inca Trail Trekking & Salkantay Trek” trip. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please note that if, in the opinion of our group leader or local guide, any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, SUNRISE PERU TREK reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.

We recommend you contact your family physician, or your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information at least one month before departure.

Please ensure you have all the inoculations recommended by your doctor for travel in Peru. Be aware that Peru has regions where malaria is present, including the ones visited. We thus recommend that you take malaria medication; your doctor should be able to recommend the necessary prophylactics. Travellers should also carry a basic travel first-aid kit as medical facilities are basic throughout these countries. An important item to include is a liquid or gel hand sanitizer and/or alcoholic/sanitary wipes, as they will aid in personal cleanliness and hygiene throughout the trip. The local tap water should not be consumed, so any water treatment tablets (ex. iodine), drops, etc, would help.

CAMPING EQUIPMENT ON INCA TRAIL TREKKING.

At Sunrise Peru Trek, we ensure your 5-day Inca Trail Trekking & Salkantay experience is comfortable and unforgettable. Our top-notch camping equipment is designed to elevate your outdoor adventure. We provide spacious, 4-man tents that comfortably accommodate only two people, allowing you ample room to relax. Alongside this, we offer portable, eco-friendly toilet tents for your exclusive use, saving you from the distress of poorly maintained park facilities. We understand the importance of a good night’s sleep and thus, each trekker is provided with small pillows and air mattresses for insulation from the cold ground. A duffel bag will be entrusted to you during the briefing held the night prior to the tour, further adding to your convenience. With us, your Inca trail trek will not just be an adventure, but a luxurious escapade into nature’s beauty.

Embark on an extraordinary journey with our 5-day Inca Trail Trekking & Salkantay Trek. Designed as an immersive experience, this trek allows you to delve into the enchanting beauty of Machu Picchu in Peru. Crafted with utmost consideration for your comfort and enjoyment, we offer a comprehensive itinerary that unfurls the fascinating Inca sites before your eyes. The trek spans over 6 days, with an average daily trekking duration of 7-8 hours. The level of difficulty oscillates between moderate to challenging, ensuring an exhilarating experience for all adventure seekers. The tour culminates with a full day dedicated to exploring Machu Picchu, an architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the Inca civilization’s ingenuity. Get ready for a journey that will not only challenge your physical limits but also leave you in awe of the breathtaking landscapes and rich historical tapestry of Peru.

Our carefully curated itinerary takes you through the stunning Salkantay Trail, a lesser-known but equally mesmerizing alternative to the traditional Inca Trail. As you journey through rugged mountain passes and lush valleys, you will get to witness nature at its best. From snow-capped peaks to crystal-clear lakes, this trek presents an ever-changing landscape that will leave you entranced. Along the way, our experienced guides will share fascinating stories and insights about the Inca civilization, adding a unique cultural touch to your adventure.

Trekking Guide

Tour leaders or trekking guides are at the heart of SPT Travel & Tour and are your perfect local and adventure companion.

The perfect private tours, adventure tours or bespoke expeditions do not happen by chance. It takes a team of talented, knowledgeable, passionate and experienced professionals to bring it all together and make it possible. Our SPT Travel & Tour leadership team is made up of local travel veterans, seasoned tour veterans with a wealth of experience in history, archaeology, culture, cuisine, geology, biology, and more.

With the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the travel industry, our Tour leaders/guides safely deliver your unforgettable trip to maximize your travels and adventures in Peru every step of the way. Our trek/tour leaders have worked extensively in Peru’s remote mountains, archeological sites, trekking the Inca Trail (at least 200 times), the Amazon Rainforest and being in Machu Picchu over 400 times at least, this guarantees that your trip be unique and memorable experience.

Important info:

For 5-day Inca Trail Trekking & Salkantay Trek, the night before your trek there will be a pre-trek talk (briefing) in our office or in your hotel at either 6 or 7pm (exact time will be confirmed on arrival to Cusco).

The Map About 5-day Inca Trail Trekking & Salkantay Trek