Start a Conversation
Hello! Have questions about our destinations? Chat with one of our team members on WhatsApp
Start a Conversation
Hello! Have questions about our destinations? Chat with one of our team members on WhatsApp
Ready for an unforgettable journey? Join our Inca Trail Salkantay Trek 7 Days Tour to Machu Picchu, a unique experience that brings together two of Peru’s most iconic routes in one epic adventure. Over seven days, you’ll cross breathtaking landscapes throughout Cusco.
Moderate
Hike, Camping, Culture Adventure
5,100 meters (16,732 feet)
02ppl MIn Average 06ppl - 08ppl Max
The 7-day Salkantay and Inca Trail offers an ideal route for those adventurers seeking a unique experience, combining the majesty of the wild nature with the opportunity to explore the historical marvels of the original Inca Trail. Throughout this impressive journey, hikers traverse spectacular landscapes that include towering snow-capped mountains, challenging rocky trails, and deep valleys, creating a striking contrast with the lushness of the cloud forests. Along the way, you’ll encounter various Inca ruins, each with its own history and significance, and you’ll visit Wiñay Wayna, a fascinating Inca archaeological site nestled on a mountainside.
The adventure culminates with the arrival at the iconic Sun Gate, where you’ll get your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu, the Lost Inca Citadel. This moment is an unforgettable reward after days of effort and connection with nature and history. Every step on this trail is an opportunity to reflect on the legacy of the ancient Incas as you walk along the same paths they once traveled.
Your Andean adventure begins at 5 a.m. with a pickup from your hotel and a drive to the trailhead at Soraypampa. En route, you’ll pass through two charming indigenous villages, Iscuchaca and Limatambo, and enjoy breathtaking views of the scenic valleys and the snow-covered Salkantay Mountain.
Upon arrival at Soraypampa, savor a delicious breakfast while taking in the spectacular views of the glaciers of Humantay (19,356 feet) and Salkantay (20,396 feet). Hike for 2.5 hours round-trip to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake. Afterwards, trek to Salkantaypampa, where appetizers and hot beverages await you with a view of the majestic glacier. Settle into your pre-arranged tent before dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 13 km / 8.1 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Start your day with a warm cup of tea or coffee before breakfast. Today’s trek involves about 3 hours of uphill hiking on less-traveled paths. Pause for lunch along the way before continuing to the campsite, situated roughly one kilometer from the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain. Enjoy the stunning vistas of surrounding snowy peaks, glacial lakes, and valleys. Afterward, relax with afternoon tea and appetizers before dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Enjoy a hot drink in your sleeping bag before a hearty breakfast. Begin your day with a gradual 4-hour climb to the Incachiriaska Pass (4,880 m / 16,010 ft), known as “the place where the Inca cools down.” This area is home to the Andean Condor, the largest flying bird in the world. Your guide will assist you in spotting this magnificent bird. From this pass, the trail levels out as you reach the Sisaypampa campsite.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
After a satisfying breakfast, bid farewell to your horsemen as your camping gear will now be carried by porters. Hike through the Pampacahua valley, where you’ll encounter an operational Inca Canal still used by local farms. At the valley’s end, explore the first Inca archaeological site, Paucarcancha, before reaching Wayllabamba for lunch. Post-lunch, embark on the Classic Inca Trail, tracing the steps of the Incas. Walk for 3 hours through the Llullucha Valley to reach the Llulluchapampa campsite, where you can enjoy afternoon tea amid panoramic mountain views.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Note: During the Salkantay portion of the trek, camping gear is transported by pack horses. For the Inca Trail section, porters will carry your camping gear as horses are prohibited on this part of the trail.
Begin the day with breakfast, then hike for approximately 2 hours on an original Inca path to the Warmiwañusqa Pass, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass, at 4,217 m / 14,047 ft. Enjoy the incredible views of the valley you’ve ascended. Next, descend to the Pacaymayu River for lunch. Afterward, climb for 2 hours to the Runcurakay Pass (3,977 m / 13,127 ft) and marvel at the surrounding mountains. Continue your descent for 3 more hours to Phuyupatamarca (3,650 m / 12,047 ft), where you will camp for the night.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
Difficulty: Moderate/Challenging
This is the most breathtaking day of the trek. Start with an early breakfast, catching the sunrise over Urubamba Canyon, Machu Picchu Mountain, and other stunning Inca sites. Descend for 2 hours through the cloud forest to the impressive Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna for lunch. Continue for 1 hour to the Sun Gate, where you’ll get your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu and its surrounding peaks. Proceed to Machu Picchu, entering from the top through the “House of the Guardians” for iconic photographs. Afterward, take a bus to Aguas Calientes, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and stay overnight in a hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
3 Accommodation:* Hotel Ferre´ Machu Picchu
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Today is dedicated to exploring Machu Picchu! After an early breakfast, take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise—an unforgettable experience. Your guide will provide a tour of Machu Picchu, lasting around two hours, highlighting the key areas of the citadel.
Once you’ve enjoyed the spectacular views, return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train schedule, you might have time for shopping, sightseeing, or a visit to the museum or hot springs.
Huayna Picchu is an optional hike within the Machu Picchu Citadel, typically undertaken independently after your Machu Picchu tour. If you prefer a guided hike, please request this in advance at an additional cost.
The Expedition train will return you to Ollantaytambo at either 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., following the scenic Urubamba River. En route, you’ll pass through narrow canyons with beautiful whitewater sections and might catch a glimpse of Wiñay Wayna high on the canyon wall. At Ollantaytambo, a driver will meet you to transport you back to your Cusco hotel, with an expected arrival around 7:00 p.m.
Meals Included: Breakfast at your hotel
Difficulty: Easy
Important Notes:
What’s Included?
Included in the Salkantay Trekking & Inca Trail Trek:
***Note: During the Salkantay portion, camping gear is transported by pack horses. For the Inca Trail section, camping gear is carried by porters due to trail protection regulations.
Not Included in the Salkantay Trekking & Inca Trail Trek:
Huayna Picchu: This is an optional hike within Machu Picchu Citadel, usually done independently after your Machu Picchu tour. A guided Huayna Picchu hike can be arranged in advance at an additional cost.
Price & Availability:
The Salkantay Trekking & Inca Trail is available on dates that suit you, provided there are at least 2 participants.
Prices:
Personal pack horse and porter are included!
Discounts:
Extras:
Added Value with Incas Expeditions:
Note: For the Salkantay portion, camping gear is carried by pack horses. On the Inca Trail section, gear is carried by porters due to trail protection.
Duffel Bag and Small Backpack:
Trek Difficulty and Fitness:
Inability to Finish the Trail:
Tipping:
Sustainability:
Packing Checklist:
Essential Items:
Duffel Bag Contents:
Toiletries:
Daypack Contents:
Feel free to ask if you need more details or have other questions!
The 7-day Salkantay and Inca Trail is a combination of adventure, culture, and history. This trek offers a unique opportunity to experience both the rugged beauty of the Salkantay route and the ancient wonders of the Inca Trail. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for this incredible journey.
The weather on the 7-day Salkantay and Inca Trail can vary significantly due to the altitude and diverse ecosystems. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
The Salkantay & Inca Trail 7 Days is a demanding trek that requires a good level of fitness. Here’s how to prepare:
The 7-day Salkantay and Inca Trail offers an unforgettable experience, blending the natural beauty of the Andes with the historical intrigue of ancient Inca ruins. Proper preparation, from physical conditioning to packing the right gear, will help ensure that you fully enjoy the journey.
This trek is challenging but highly rewarding, making it a must-do for adventure seekers and history lovers alike.
What If the Inca Trail Is Sold Out for Your Desired Dates?
If permits for the Salkantay Trekking & Inca Trail are sold out for your preferred date, there are several beautiful alternative treks to Machu Picchu that you can consider. These alternatives are less crowded and offer stunning views and experiences in the Andes:
Alternative Trek Options:
Booking Information:
The Salkantay & Inca Trail 7 Days trek combines the scenic beauty of the Salkantay mountain route with the historic Inca Trail. Over seven days, trekkers experience high-altitude passes, cloud forests, and ancient ruins, culminating with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
The Salkantay and Inca Trail 7 Days trek is moderately challenging, rated 4 out of 5 in difficulty. The route involves high altitudes, steep climbs, and rugged terrain. Good physical preparation and acclimatization to altitude are essential for a comfortable experience on this demanding trek.
The highest point on the Salkantay & Inca Trail 7 Days trek is the Salkantay Pass, which reaches an altitude of 4,630 meters (15,190 feet). This pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, making it one of the most scenic parts of the entire trek.
The ideal time to hike the Salkantay and Inca Trail 7 Days is during the dry season, from May to October. During this period, there is less rainfall, making the trails less slippery, and the weather is generally clearer, offering better views of the surrounding landscapes and Machu Picchu.
Permits are required for the Inca Trail portion of the Salkantay & Inca Trail 7 Days trek. These permits are limited and can only be obtained through licensed tour operators. It’s recommended to book your trek several months in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.
Hikers embarking on the Salkantay and Inca Trail 7 Days should be in good physical condition. The trek involves long days of walking, steep climbs, and challenging terrain. Cardiovascular fitness, strength training, and previous hiking experience, especially at high altitudes, will help you comfortably complete the trek.
Yes, porters are available to assist with carrying gear on the Salkantay & Inca Trail 7 Days trek. They can carry up to 7kg of your belongings, allowing you to focus on the hike. It’s essential to pack light and adhere to the weight limits when utilizing porter services.
The Salkantay and Inca Trail 7 Days trek passes through a variety of ecosystems, offering opportunities to see wildlife such as Andean condors, spectacled bears, and various bird species. In the cloud forests, you may also encounter orchids, butterflies, and unique plants native to the region.
For the Salkantay & Inca Trail 7 Days, pack essentials like sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking layers, a waterproof jacket, and a hat for sun protection. Include a first aid kit, snacks, and a refillable water bottle. A sleeping bag and trekking poles are also recommended for comfort and stability on the rugged trail.
The Salkantay and Inca Trail 7 Days trek covers approximately 72 kilometers (45 miles) over seven days. The distance is spread across varied terrain, including steep ascents, rocky paths, and lush cloud forests. Each day involves about 6-8 hours of hiking, offering a balance between challenge and awe-inspiring scenery.
Need help deciding on the right trip? Whether it s a quick question or full itinerary advice, we re here to help.
