Salkantay Trek + Classic Inca Trail 6 Days / 5 Nights

At Peru Trails, we take pride in crafting one-of-a-kind and challenging itineraries that set our trekking adventures apart. Our combined Salkantay and Classic Inca Trail trek offers an immersive multi-day journey to Machu Picchu.

Among the many trails carving through the awe-inspiring Andes, the Salkantay and Classic Inca Trails stand out for their legendary status. Both routes ascend to dramatic mountain passes, pass by ancient Inca settlements, traverse remote Andean communities, and showcase unique local flora and fauna. From stark, snow-capped peaks to vibrant cloud forests, the ecosystems shift as dramatically as the altitude, making each step truly unforgettable.

During this week-long expedition, more than half of the journey is spent along the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, arguably the most renowned multi-day hike in the world. With permits now capped at around 200 visitors per day, walking in the footsteps of ancient Incan pilgrims often requires booking well in advance. Naturally, the trail culminates at Machu Picchu—the Incan citadel celebrated as one of the New Wonders of the World in 2000.

However, this trek offers much more than just Machu Picchu. We challenge you with ascents to passes over 4,900 meters (16,096 feet), rewarding you with panoramic 360-degree views of the Andes. Along the way, you will explore some of the best-preserved Inca ruins while our expert guides share their rich historical insights. Enjoy exhilarating train rides that snake along verdant valleys and savor evenings spent camping in some of the most picturesque and secluded spots in the region. Far from urban lights, the Andean skies dazzle with countless stars and shooting meteors. The final night is spent in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, complete with a group dinner at the town’s premier restaurant—perfectly setting the stage for a pre-dawn start to Machu Picchu.

This rewarding experience demands physical effort. As a challenging multi-day hike at high altitudes, it is best suited for individuals with a good level of fitness. If you’d like to discuss your fitness level and see if this trek is right for you, please send us an email.

If you’re after a challenging, unique, and spectacular adventure in Peru, join the leading trekking team at Peru Trails for an unforgettable 7-day journey!

• Type of tour: Historical, guided, train ride, trekking, camping, hotel-based.
• Distance covered: 77 km (48 miles)
• Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
• Lowest elevation: 2,400 m (7,880 feet)
• Highest elevation: 4,900 m (16,076 feet)
• Level of difficulty (1 to 10): 7 to 8 (10 being impossible)

Group size: We keep our hiking groups small, averaging between 2 to 5 participants, ensuring personalized service and a more intimate experience.

Imagine hiking along a secluded trail, undisturbed by crowds, as you explore pristine wilderness in a group that feels just right. This intimate group size guarantees a genuine connection with nature and flexibility throughout your trek.

Accommodation: The trek includes 3 nights of camping and one hotel night. If you are traveling solo, please let us know so we can arrange a private tent for you.

Our guides: Peru Trails was founded with a passion for adventure in 2015. Our lead guide, Jose Condor, started his journey as a porter on the Inca Trail before earning a tourism degree. Today, our team of experienced, professionally trained guides—who are also certified wilderness first responders—ensures your safety and comfort throughout the expedition.

Location: The journey begins in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, depending on your preference. To join, fly into Lima, then connect via a domestic flight to Velasco Astete Cusco Airport.

Departures: Operated exclusively by Peru Trails, this trek departs daily year-round with small groups (averaging 2 to 8 people) to offer you personalized attention. Bookings are accepted year-round; however, due to the limited Machu Picchu permits, planning a few months ahead is advised. When ready, contact us anytime at +51 987467790 or email info@perutrails.com.

Day 0: Briefing

At Peru Trails, we ensure that every traveler has the opportunity to ask questions about the Salkantay + Classic Inca Trail trek—the itinerary, challenges, and necessary gear—before setting off. A pre-trek briefing is held at your Cusco hotel the day prior, with your guide and a representative available to address any final details and payments.

Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa

An early morning transfer takes you to Soraypampa, with a brief stop in Mollepata to pick up last-minute supplies and enjoy a local coffee. Around 9:00 AM, the trek begins toward the turquoise waters of Lake Huamantay. The path starts with a gentle ascent for about 1.5 hours until you reach the vividly colored lake, where you’ll spend some time enjoying the view before descending back to Soraypampa for lunch. In the afternoon, a 2-hour hike along a gradual trail at the base of the majestic Salkantay offers more breathtaking vistas.

• Distance covered: 12 km (7.4 miles)
• Hiking time: 7 to 9 hours
• Lowest elevation: 3,550 m (11,647 feet)
• Highest elevation: 4,200 m (13,779 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Day 2: Salkantaypampa – Inca Chirisqa – Canal Inka

Today’s journey takes you upward to the highest pass, Inca Chiriasca, over a 2-hour climb that rewards you with stunning views of Lake Huamantay and the Salkantay peaks. After reaching this pinnacle and taking time to rest and celebrate, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch followed by a gentle 1.5-hour descent through a valley to the campsite known as Canal Inka, situated at 4,000 m (13,200 feet).

• Distance covered: 11 km (6.8 miles)
• Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours
• Lowest elevation: 4,200 m (13,779 feet)
• Highest elevation: 4,900 m (16,076 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Day 3: Pampacawana – Wayllabamba – Ayapata

The third day features a descent through a lush valley over approximately three hours toward the first Inca site on the trek, Paucarcancha (3,150 m / 10,335 ft), where your guide will share fascinating historical insights. A short 30-minute walk brings you to Wayllabamba for a delicious lunch and the start of the Classic Inca Trail segment to Machu Picchu. At this point, your group transitions to local guides who will carry the equipment for the remainder of the trek, culminating in a 2-hour climb through a cloud forest to the campsite.

• Distance covered: 12 km (7.4 miles)
• Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours
• Lowest elevation: 3,000 m (9,842 feet)
• Highest elevation: 3,800 m (12,467 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4: Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Chaquicocha

The day starts early at 5:00 AM with a warming cup of coca tea in your tent. Today is particularly demanding due to the altitude and extended trek. After a four-hour ascent, you’ll reach Dead Woman’s Pass (WAMIWAÑUSQA) at 4,215 m (13,780 ft). The route then descends to a lunch spot at Paqaymayo (3,650 m / 11,975 ft). In the afternoon, enjoy an additional four hours of trekking—half uphill and half downhill—with two stops at Incan sites, Runcuraqay and Sayaqmarca, where you’ll learn more about their history.

• Distance covered: 15 km (9.3 miles)
• Hiking time: 8 to 9 hours
• Lowest elevation: 3,590 m (11,778 feet)
• Highest elevation: 4,200 m (13,800 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Day 5: Chaquiccocha – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

The fifth day takes you to the Phuyupatamarca archaeological site for a brief exploration of its ruins, followed by a 3-hour descent to WIÑAYHUAYNA—the Inca site renowned for its breathtaking ruins. After a final lunch on the trail, a 2-hour journey brings you to the sacred sanctuary of Machu Picchu. From here, you’ll catch a bus to Aguas Calientes for an overnight hotel stay.

• Distance covered: 15 km (9.3 miles)
• Hiking time: 8 to 9 hours
• Lowest elevation: 2,400 m (7,874 feet)
• Highest elevation: 3,700 m (12,139 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 6: Machu Picchu Tour

Begin the day with an early bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, arriving in time to witness a spectacular sunrise over one of the most remarkable sites on Earth. Experience an emotional journey as you explore the ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

If you’re feeling energetic, consider hiking the steep Huayna Picchu mountain. Once your tour concludes, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes to enjoy a final lunch at a local restaurant before boarding the train back to Cusco.

Why Choose Peru Trails

• Peru Trails creates custom treks and tours tailored to your interests.
• We are dedicated to delivering world-class experiences with exceptional customer service.
• As a locally owned company based in Cusco, our expertise in Peruvian travel is unparalleled.
• Our team boasts decades of hands-on experience in the local tourism industry.
• Our staff speaks English, Spanish, and Quechua, ensuring a rich cultural experience.
• All our guides are professionally trained in Inca history, local culture, first aid, and wilderness trekking.
• We are passionate about environmental conservation.
• We empower local communities through fair labor practices and community support initiatives.
• We actively contribute to local development, including educational and community projects.
• We honor the native communities who have safeguarded the lands you explore.
• An Education Fund supports the schooling of porters’ children, with a percentage of every tour’s income dedicated to this cause.
• Our itineraries range from 1 to 15 days, ensuring an experience tailored to your needs.
• At Peru Trails, we organize worry-free trips so you can fully immerse yourself in your adventure.

Specialists in Small Group Travel

Our tours are designed for adventurers of all ages who cherish exploration, cultural immersion, fine cuisine, and photography. We keep groups small—averaging 4 to 8 people—ensuring a relaxed, personalized experience. Imagine avoiding long lines for coffee in a group of 40; our intimate groups let you truly connect with your surroundings.