Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 6 days - Private service

A once-in-a-lifetime physical, cultural, and spiritual journey that will take you along the magnificent Salkantay Trek and the Short Inca Royal Trail to the legendary wonder of the world, Machu Picchu.

Get a fantastic first impression of Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. It is one of the most important archaeological structures connected to Machu Picchu and is also dedicated to the worship of Inti, the Sun God, because at certain times of the year, the sun rises through this structure.

Enjoy a peaceful sleep under the stars, as you have chosen to spend the night at our Sky Lodge and the other nights camping and in a hotel in the town of Aguas Calientes. Marvel at the elegant beauty of Salkantay Peak.

Share in the culture and customs of local Andean families who maintain centuries-old traditions.

Challenge yourself as you trek through nine different biological zones, changing altitudes, and varied terrain. Enjoy the comfort of our service, our innovative gourmet cuisine, the warmth of our people, and your daily retreat to a Shangri-La to relax your mind and body.

Be inspired by the majesty of your surroundings and the knowledge that you are following in the footsteps of the Incas.

Witness environmental and social initiatives to maintain natural integrity and improve the quality of life in the region.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Cusco – Maras – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Sky Lodge

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Your hotel pickup will be at approximately 4:30 am. We will depart for the village of Maras, arriving around 6:00 am, just in time to enjoy the morning tranquility and the first rays of sunlight on the Andean landscapes.

In Maras, you will not only discover spectacular Andean landscapes and ancient salt mines, but also the warmth and wisdom of its people. We will begin the day with an authentic experience, sharing a delicious traditional breakfast with our porters from the local community.

This special moment is an opportunity to get to know the people who make every adventure in the Andes possible. Around a simple table, yet full of flavor and tradition, you can taste local products while listening to life stories, mountain anecdotes, and customs passed down from generation to generation.

More than just a meal, this breakfast is an act of gratitude and human connection. A space to appreciate the work of the porters, who represent the strength, humility, and solidarity of the Andean communities. We will then continue in our tourist transport to Challacancha, passing through Mollepata. We will travel through rural landscapes with views of Apu Salkantay and Humantay, sacred mountains for the local communities. From Mollepata, we continue for about 40 more minutes by vehicle to Challacancha, the official starting point of the Salkantay trek.

In Challacancha (3,600 m a.s.l.), we will meet our muleteers and horses, who will accompany us throughout the trek, taking care of transporting our luggage. From here, we will begin an approximately 3-hour hike towards Soraypampa, through an open and majestic landscape, with constant views of Apu Salkantay and the glacial valleys.

Our destination will be the welcoming Lodge del Cielo, located in Soraypampa (3,900 m a.s.l.), where we will spend the night surrounded by nature, fresh air, and starry skies. This will be the perfect spot to acclimatize and prepare for the big hike the next day towards the Salkantay Pass.

In Soraypampa, a natural, tranquil, and majestic setting, we prepare to enjoy a comforting lunch and recharge our energy. You'll experience an authentic and refreshing treat: preparing traditional mango ceviche, a local recipe that blends native ingredients with the creativity of the farming communities.

You'll be an active participant in its preparation. You'll be welcomed with a brief explanation of the dish's history. Mango ceviche, unlike classic fish ceviche, uses fresh, ripe mangoes grown in lower-lying areas and brought to this community, where they are combined with red onion, yellow chili pepper (ají amarillo or limo), freshly squeezed lime juice, Maras salt, and a touch of herbs like huacatay or Andean mint.

During the preparation:

• You'll learn to peel and cut the mango at the perfect point of ripeness.
• You'll discover the secrets of Andean seasoning, balancing acidity, spiciness, and sweetness.
• You'll learn the secrets of Andean seasoning, balancing acidity, spiciness, and sweetness.
• You'll hear stories and customs related to the use of mangoes in special celebrations or harvest time.

At the end, you'll share ceviche, accompanied by toasted corn kernels, herbal teas, or local chicha (a fermented beverage). More than a cooking class, it's a profound connection with the flavors, knowledge, and hospitality of Andean culture.

In the afternoon, after enjoying a comforting lunch in Soraypampa, we'll begin a hike up to the impressive Humantay Lake, located at the foot of the imposing snow-capped mountain of the same name. This natural jewel with its turquoise waters is one of the most photographed landscapes on the route and a place imbued with spiritual energy according to the Andean worldview.

After admiring the surroundings and taking unforgettable photos, we'll begin our descent back to Soraypampa, where a magical night awaits us under a starry sky, surrounded by mountains, in our comfortable Sky Lodge.

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Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayraq Machay – Chaullay

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After breakfast, we will begin the most challenging but also the most rewarding day of the trek. We will start our hike crossing the breathtaking landscape of Pampa Salkantay, surrounded by majestic mountains and high-altitude scenery that inspire respect and awe.

As we ascend the left flank of the imposing Salkantay Glacier, the air becomes purer and the connection with nature deeper. Around midday, we will reach the highest point of the trek: Salkantay Pass, located at 4,630 meters above sea level (15,190 feet). From here, we can contemplate in all its splendor the mountain range surrounding Apu Salkantay, with its glaciers, ravines, and valleys sculpted by time. This is a special moment to connect with the power of the Andes and feel the spiritual energy of the Apus, sacred protectors of these lands. At this point, we will leave our apachetas (stone cairns).

According to the Andean worldview, placing a stone on the apacheta is a gesture of respect and gratitude to the apus (mountain spirits) and Pachamama (Mother Earth). By doing so, hikers ask for protection, strength to continue their journey, or leave a symbolic thought for those who have passed on. It is also a way to integrate oneself into the path, to "leave a mark" without harming, offering instead of taking.

There, a well-deserved hot lunch and time to rest await us, surrounded by a more temperate environment, a sign that we are approaching the cloud forest.

After our well-deserved rest in Wayracmachay, we will continue our gradual descent into the cloud forest, noticing how the landscape transforms: the air becomes more humid, the vegetation denser, and the surroundings teem with life. We will walk among mountains covered in cloud forest, with spectacular views of deep valleys, distant waterfalls, and rich Andean biodiversity. After several hours of hiking, we will finally reach our second campsite, located in Chaullay (approximately 2,900 m above sea level), a small area surrounded by lush vegetation and a warmer climate. After a long and challenging day of adventure, it will be time to enjoy a comforting dinner and rest under the starry sky, surrounded by the sounds of the high jungle. Here we will regain our energy to continue our journey to Machu Picchu the following day.

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Day 3: Challway – La Playa – Lucmabamba – Coccalmayo

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After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we'll begin an unforgettable day. Our journey will take us through the cloud forest, a vibrant ecosystem where we can observe the richness of the local flora and fauna. Along the way, we'll encounter coffee, banana, and avocado plantations, which thrive thanks to the area's temperate and humid climate.

This microclimate also favors the growth of wild orchids, considered by many experts to be some of the most beautiful in the world for their intense colors and exotic shapes.

Upon arriving in Lucmabamba, we'll enjoy a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, you'll have the option to visit the relaxing hot springs of Santa Teresa (optional activity; transportation and entrance fees not included). We'll end the day with a warm dinner and a well-deserved rest at our cozy lodge.

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Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

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Very early, right after breakfast, we'll begin an approximately 3-hour hike from Lucmabamba to Llactapata Mountain, an ancient Inca archaeological site offering a unique and panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel. This will be the perfect opportunity to connect with the history and majesty of the Andean landscape.

After exploring Llactapata, we'll descend for about 3 hours to the Hidroeléctrica train station, where we'll enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, we'll continue our hike from Hidroeléctrica to the town of Aguas Calientes, a journey of approximately 3 hours. This section is mostly alongside the train tracks, on a gravel path surrounded by nature.

Finally, we'll arrive in Aguas Calientes, where you'll stay in comfortable accommodations. The guide will coordinate with you the time and place for dinner, as well as the meeting point to pick up your travel bags at the train station.

Note: If you prefer not to hike from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes, you can take the train (approximately 40 minutes). This service has an additional cost not included in the program. The guide will confirm your decision the night before and coordinate your rejoining the group in town.
Overnight stay (complementary).

"Encanto" Lodging: A clean, welcoming, and well-located guesthouse.
It has private rooms equipped with TV, Wi-Fi, hot shower, and breakfast included.
Upgrade to higher category hotels (extra cost).

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Day 5: Aguas Calientes – KM 104 – Chachabamba – Sun Gate / Inti Punku - Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

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We depart very early from Aguas Calientes towards kilometer 104, following the train tracks for approximately 2 hours. At this point, we will pass through the checkpoint and begin our hike. We will immediately visit the archaeological site of Chachabamba, a place where agricultural products were stored before being taken to Machu Picchu.

We will continue our hike through the dense vegetation of the cloud forest, passing by the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. Then, we will enjoy lunch to recharge our energy and continue towards the Sun Gate, from where we will have a magnificent panoramic view of the Citadel of Machu Picchu.

Afterwards, we will descend to the viewpoint with the classic view of Machu Picchu (Circuit 1B), a perfect place to take stunning photographs and appreciate the sunset. Then, we will take a bus to Machu Picchu Town (approximately 30 minutes). Upon arrival, we will enjoy dinner and spend the night at the hotel.

Overnight at the hotel (complementary).

"Encanto" Guesthouse: A clean, welcoming, and well-located guesthouse.

It features private rooms equipped with TV, Wi-Fi, hot shower, and breakfast included.

Upgrades to higher-category hotels are available (extra cost).

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Day 6: The big day! The wonder of Machu Picchu

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Very early, immediately after breakfast at the accommodation, we will travel by bus to the citadel of Machu Picchu (30 min). Upon arrival at the entrance and checkpoint, we will begin a guided tour (Circuit 2 (A or B) or Circuit 3B, depending on availability) through the urban and agricultural areas, including the towers, ceremonial plazas, the sacred fountain, and the terraces.

The guided tour lasts approximately 2 hours, during which the guide will share historical, cultural, and spiritual information about the Inca citadel.

Afterward, in coordination with your guide, we will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. Please note that lunch is not included on this day, so you will have free time to choose where to eat before boarding the return train.

We will go to the train station to board the return service to Ollantaytambo or Poroy (depending on availability and the assigned train schedule).

Upon your arrival at the station, our transportation will be waiting to take you comfortably back to your hotel in Cusco, thus completing this extraordinary experience along the Salkantay Trek and to Machu Picchu.

NOTE: Please check the availability of entrance tours within the Machu Picchu citadel with your sales respresentative.

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End of our Services

INCLUDES

• Pre-departure information: You will meet your Salkantay and Short Inca Trail group at our office for an orientation before your trek. At this time, we will provide you with the duffel bags that our horses will carry. The meeting will be at 6:00 PM the evening before the trek begins. If you cannot attend at this time, please let us know so we can arrange another time.
• Tourist Transportation: We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco in the morning and you will travel by private transport to Challacancha, the starting point of the Salkantay and Short Inca Trail trek.
• Experienced Salkantay Inca Trail Tour Guide: Your English-speaking tour guide is professionally trained and officially certified. They all grew up in this region and have a genuine passion for teaching others about their heritage. Your guide will explain the culture and surroundings along the entire route, including leading your group in ancient ceremonies! He or she will keep you safe, healthy, and comfortable on your trek so you can enjoy your time along the Inca Trail and ensure your safety and happiness.
• Experienced Cultural Machu Picchu Tour Guide: English-speaking, professionally trained, and officially certified tour guide for visiting the sacred city of Machu Picchu.
• Private Campsites: Each campsite is carefully selected for a truly local experience.
  • Night 1: Relax in your plush bed at our Sky Lodge at the Soraypampa campsite under the watchful gaze of the sacred mountains Apu Humantay and Salkantay. Spend as many hours as you like stargazing through your elegant glass roof!
  • Night 2: Enjoy your second night at our Sky Lodge at the Collpapampa campsite. You'll find a comfortable bed and a thick camping mattress at no extra charge. The campsite is surrounded by the sacred mountains.
  • Night 3: Experience your third night at our "Lodge of the Sky" at the Lucmabamba campsite. Inside its dome, you'll find a comfortable double or queen bed (depending on your preference). Surrounded by the raw landscape of the cloud forest, we'll be staying close to local families, heirs to the Inca culture, who are happy to share their land with us.
  • Nights 4 and 5: Your 4th and 5th nights in a hotel in Aguas Calientes are included. The hotel in Aguas Calientes offers double or triple rooms, private bathrooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, breakfast, and luggage storage while you visit Machu Picchu.
  • Note: It is unusual for campsites, lodges, or hotels to change after confirmation; however, changes may occur due to government regulations and authorizations, adverse weather conditions, and the physical condition of our visitors. Any changes will be communicated by Inka Trail Expeditions Perú as soon as possible.
• Camping equipment: dining and kitchen tents, tables, chairs, and cooking equipment (all carried by our porters and horses).
• Entrance ticket to Lake Salkantay/Humantay
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
• 1 duffel bag: You can store your personal luggage, up to 5 kg (11.02 lb), including your sleeping bag; this bag will be carried by our horses. Loading mules/horses: We will give you your duffel bag at your briefing the night before; fill it with the things you will need for the next night and day. You will not have access to your duffel bag until you arrive at your overnight campsite. On days 1 and 2, our mules/horses carry all the camping equipment and your personal luggage allowance (5 kg / 11.02 lb). On days 3 and 4, your luggage will be transported by car or train to your destination until we arrive at Machu Picchu. On day 5, your luggage can be stored at your hotel.
• Professional Trekking Chef: A professional chef specializing in trail cooking, with an assistant, will prepare all your delicious meals throughout our trek to keep your energy up every day. You'll never go hungry!
• Meals: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners (vegetarian, vegan, or special menus available at no extra cost). Please note: the first breakfast and last lunch are not included.
• Boiled Water: From your first lunch to your last breakfast, Inka Trail Expeditions Perú will supply all the necessary water. This water will be boiled, filtered, and then cooled before distribution. You must supply your own water bottles or camel. We recommend carrying around 3 liters. We will refill our water bottles at each meal.
• Wake-up Tea: Every morning at camp, you will wake up to a cup of coca tea! Our staff will bring the tea to your tent so it warms from the inside out before you start your day.
• Tea Time every day during

RESERVATIONS

For availability of spaces for this service, please contact us info@salkantaytrek.org or by WhatsApp (+51) 970 506 205 and we`ll send you detailed information, prices, terms and conditions.

Please keep in mind that significant price reductions are available for groups. All our tours are fully guaranteed, departure every day. Contact us for more information for the tour that you are choosing, or to begin customizing your own itinerary. recommendations:

"Inka Trail Expeditions Perú is a tour operator travel agency in Peru and the city of Cusco, We really know what we do and offer, We are well managed, with several offices in Peru and a long list of travel destinations, offering all travel alternatives in Perú, from family trips, honeymoon trips and luxury travel, including adventure tours and exploring trips to the jungle, for almost any budget”

NOTE: Inka Trail Expeditions Perú, specializes in organizing the ideal travel plan to Peru, with hotels and destinations that you choose, because we have all confidential and promotional rates. For guidance on how to organize your custom package. Please write us.

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