Salkantay & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 6 Days

Overview

1. Day 1

   Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Salkantay pampa

   • •Maximum altitude: 3,900 m.a.s.l.
   • •Approximate distance: 12 km
   • •Duration: 6 hours
   • •Early departure from Cusco by transport towards the town of Mollepata.
   • •Start of the hike in Soraypampa, with panoramic views of the snow-capped Salkantay and Humantay mountains.
   • •Optional hike to Humantay Lake (recommended).
   • •Arrival and camping at Salkantaypampa, located in a spectacular mountain setting.
   • •First acclimatization day, surrounded by high Andean landscapes and unique glacier views.
2. Day 2

   Salkantaypampa – Paso Inca Chiriasqa – Sisay pampa

   • •Maximum altitude: 5,200 m.a.s.l.
   • •Approximate distance: 13 km
   • •Duration: 7–8 hours
   • •Ascent to the Inca Chiriasqa Pass, the highest point of the trek (5,200 m).
   • •Stunning views of Mount Salkantay and the surrounding valleys.
   • •Pass through ancient Inca irrigation channels.
   • •Descent towards Sisaypampa, where the campsite is set up.
   • •One of the most physically demanding days, but also one of the most rewarding in terms of scenery.
3. Day 3

   Sisaypampa – Incaraqay – Wayllabamba (Start of the Classic Inca Trail)

   • •Approximate altitude: 3,600 m.a.s.l.
   • •Approximate distance: 12 km
   • •Duration: 6–7 hours
   • •Descent through the Pampacahuana River valley, passing Inca agricultural terraces.
   • •Visit to the archaeological site of Paucarcancha (Incaraqay).
   • •Official entry to the classic Inca Trail in the village of Wayllabamba.
   • •Camping in an authorized area in Wayllabamba.
   • •Transition day from the Salkantay alternative route to the historic Inca Trail, featuring archaeological sites along the way.
4. Day 4

   Wayllabamba – Paso Warmiwañusqa – Pacaymayu

   • •Maximum altitude: 4,200 m.a.s.l.
   • •Approximate distance: 11 km
   • •Duration: 6–8 hours
   • •Ascent to the highest point of the Inca Trail: Warmiwañusqa, or the “Dead Woman’s Pass.”
   • •Demanding section with many stone steps, but with spectacular views.
   • •Descent into the Pacaymayu valley, where the campsite is set up.
   • •Intense high-altitude day, known for its physical challenge and stunning mountain scenery.

5. Day 5

   Pacaymayu – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarka – Wiñay Wayna

   • •Maximum altitude: 3,650 m.a.s.l.
   • •Approximate distance: 16 km
   • •Duration: 8–10 hours

   Full day of trekking along the Inca Trail network with multiple archaeological sites:

   • •Runkurakay (Inca control post)
   • •Sayacmarca (hanging citadel)
   • •Phuyupatamarka (“town in the clouds”)
   • •Wiñay Wayna (one of the most impressive sites before Machu Picchu)
   • •Camping at Wiñay Wayna, just a few kilometers from the citadel.
   • •The most culturally and historically rich day of the trek, ideal for photography, reflection, and spiritual connection.
6. Day 6

   Wiñaywayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

   • •Minimum altitude: 2,430 m.a.s.l.
   • •Walking duration: 2–3 hours
   • •Early departure (04:00 a.m.) towards the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu.
   • •Entrance to the citadel and guided tour of the main temples, plazas, and Inca structures.
   • •Free time to explore on your own (optional: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain).
   • •Descent to Aguas Calientes, return by train + land transport to Cusco.
   • •The grand finale: witnessing Machu Picchu from above after an epic journey.

Itinerary

• 1

  DAY 1Cusco – Mollepata (Cruz Pata) – Soraypampa – Salkantay Pampa

  Our exciting trekking route begins early in the morning, departing from the historic city of Cusco at 5:45 a.m. We will first pass through the picturesque village of Mollepata, located at an altitude of 3,000 m.a.s.l. Afterwards, we continue to Cruz Pata, a strategic point at 3,400 m.a.s.l., where we regroup with the rest of our expedition team.

  We then begin a fascinating hike through a stunning Andean valley, surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains that offer breathtaking scenery. Among the impressive glaciers along the route, two giants stand out: Mount Humantay (5,217 m) and the imposing Salkantay Mountain (6,264 m.a.s.l.).

  At the end of the trek, we set up our campsite at Salkantay Pampa, located at 3,900 m.a.s.l., where we can rest and enjoy the spectacular mountain landscapes.

  Important route details:

  • Transportation time: approximately 4 hours
  • Hiking time: approximately 6 hours (12 km)
  • Weather conditions: moderate temperatures during the day, with colder temperatures and a chilly environment at night

  Optional add-on:

  For more enthusiastic adventurers, we recommend an optional extension to Soraypampa. This additional hike lasts approximately 3 hours and allows us to visit the spectacular Humantay Lake and admire the majestic Humantay Glacier up close. The route involves an ascent from Soraypampa (3,900 m.a.s.l.) up to 4,220 m.a.s.l., where the glacier is located.

• 2

  DAY 2Salkantay Pampa – Paso Inca Chiriasqa – Sisay Pampa

  After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we will begin our second trekking stage mid-morning, preparing to face one of the most impressive challenges of our journey through the Machu Picchu Park: the ascent to the legendary Inca Chiriasqa Pass.

  This highlight of our route reaches an impressive altitude of 5,200 m.a.s.l., offering a unique panoramic perspective. From this privileged point, we will enjoy a spectacular view of the majestic Salkantay Mountain, an imposing peak rising to 6,264 m, dominating the Andean landscape.

  We will then begin a gradual descent towards the picturesque areas of Pampacahuana and Sisaypampa, located at 3,700 m.a.s.l. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to explore fascinating remains of an ancient Inca canal, connecting with the rich historical heritage of the region.

  At the end of the day, we will set up our campsite in this charming location, where we will enjoy a well-deserved dinner while taking in the surrounding mountain scenery.

  Route details:

  • Hiking time: approximately 8 hours
  • Distance: 13 km
  • Weather conditions: moderate temperatures during the day, with colder conditions and a chilly environment at night
  • Difficulty level: Challenging
• 3

  DAY 3Historical Trail Trek – Sisaypampa to Wayllabamba

  On the third day of our extraordinary expedition, we will begin our journey early, at approximately 8:00 a.m. We start a scenic descent following the course of the picturesque Pampacahuana River, whose waters will accompany us for several kilometers along the trail.

  During this fascinating route, we will make a strategic stop at the impressive archaeological complex of Incaraqay, also known as Paucarcancha. This important historical site allows us to explore and admire a series of rectangular structures, ceremonial plazas, and finely crafted retaining walls, a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

  Continuing our descent, we will finally arrive at Wayllabamba, a traditional community located at 3,000 m.a.s.l. This charming place will serve as our resting point and campsite for the night, offering a unique natural and cultural setting.

  Wayllabamba is not only our final destination for the day, but also the starting point for our next adventure: the iconic Classic Inca Trail, which we will begin at sunrise the following day.

  Route details:

  • Weather conditions: moderate temperatures during the day, with cold conditions at night
  • Hiking time: approximately 9 hours including rest and lunch break
  • Distance: 15 km
  • Difficulty level: Challenging
• 4

  DAY 4Wayllabamba – Warmiwa-Usca – Pacaymayu

  At dawn, specifically around 6:00 a.m., we will begin one of the most challenging and iconic stages of our Inca Trail journey. After a nutritious breakfast in Wayllabamba, we will prepare to face a section that will test both our physical and mental endurance.

  We then start a steep and demanding ascent that extends for 9 kilometers, representing the toughest segment of the route. During this intense hike, we will witness a dramatic change in landscape, gradually transitioning from high Andean valleys to the dry and majestic high-altitude puna.

  Our main goal will be reaching the mountain pass known as Warmiwañusqa, meaning “Dead Woman’s Pass.” This highest point lies at 4,200 m.a.s.l., offering spectacular panoramic views, including the imposing Veronica Mountain.

  To ensure a smoother experience during this demanding day, we strongly recommend carrying a well-stocked backpack with strategic snacks. Sweets, chocolates, and coca leaves will be essential allies to maintain energy levels and help counteract altitude sickness (soroche).

  Once we cross this challenging pass, we begin a gradual descent towards the picturesque Pacaymayu Valley, located at 3,500 m.a.s.l. We will set up our campsite here, where we will rest and recover while enjoying the grandeur of the Andean surroundings.

  Route details:

  • Hiking time: approximately 7 hours including rest and lunch break
  • Weather conditions: cold, with windy conditions in the afternoon
  • Difficulty level: Challenging
• 5

  DAY 5Pacaymayu – Runkurakay – Chaquicocha – Wiñayhuayna

  Our first stop will be the impressive archaeological site of Runkurakay, an ancient Inca tambo strategically located at 3,800 m.a.s.l. Nestled on a rocky outcrop, this complex allows us to imagine the lives of Inca travelers who once passed through these routes.

  Continuing our ascent, we will reach a mountain pass at 3,950 m.a.s.l., from where we will descend towards the enigmatic ruins of Sayacmarca. This extraordinary Inca settlement, whose name means “Inaccessible City,” will surprise us with its intricate urban design, featuring a maze of narrow streets, plazas, houses, terraces, and advanced hydraulic systems.

  Our route then leads us through a natural Inca tunnel and a lush forest until we reach the final mountain pass of the day, located at 3,700 m.a.s.l. At this point, we enter the legendary site of Phuyupatamarka, known as the “Town Above the Clouds.”

  Phuyupatamarka reveals its architectural splendor through circular walls and a still-functioning aqueduct system. From this privileged location, we enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the snow-capped peaks and the majestic Urubamba Valley. After this moment of contemplation, we begin a winding descent through a dense bamboo forest.

  The highlight of the day is arrival at the extraordinary ruins of Wiñay Wayna, an archaeological complex located at 2,700 m.a.s.l. Strategically built on a rocky promontory in the middle of a lush forest, this site offers unmatched views of the Urubamba Valley.

  Wiñay Wayna, meaning “Forever Young,” is characterized by an impressive series of Inca terraces. A monumental staircase divides the settlement, leading to a ceremonial area of great ritual significance. In this iconic place, we set up our camp, preparing for our final night in the heart of the ancient Inca civilization.

  Route details:

  • Weather conditions: mild and warm, with mosquitoes
  • Hiking time: approximately 6 hours
  • Difficulty level: Moderate

• 6

  DAY 6Wiñayhuayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

  We will start early at 4:30 a.m. with breakfast to prepare for our hike to Inti Punku (“Sun Gate”). We will follow the trail until we reach this impressive viewpoint, where we will get our first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. We will also witness the magical sunrise over the citadel.

  The final descent to Machu Picchu takes approximately one hour. We will arrive at the citadel (2,400 m.a.s.l. / 7,874 ft) around 8:00 a.m., where a 2-hour guided tour will begin. During this visit, we will explore the most emblematic structures and learn about their meanings and uses, gaining a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of this site.

  After the tour, we will take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time to visit the famous hot springs. These natural thermal baths are ideal for relaxing and easing any discomfort after several days of trekking.

  Finally, we will leave the town of Aguas Calientes in the afternoon and return to Cusco.

  Important note: Departure and arrival times are approximate. Campsites and routes may vary depending on local regulations, the guide’s criteria, and the group’s pace.

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