Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – Trek Salkantay 6 Days
Tour Details
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is a six-day adventure through some of the most stunning landscapes in Peru. During the trek, we will hike through snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and Inca ruins, blending natural beauty with history. We will start in Cusco and travel to Ichupata, where our hike begins. We will gradually climb to Humantay Lake and reach our first campsite with views of Salkantay Mountain.
We will cross the Incachiriasca Pass at 4,950 meters (16,236 feet), the highest point of the trek. We will experience breathtaking views of Salkantay and descend into Pampacahuana, a remote area near an ancient Inca canal. The next day. We will hike from Pampacahuana to Llulluchapampa, passing Inca ruins and stunning landscapes, before camping in a mountain valley.
Explore the Heart of the Andes
Will take us through more archaeological sites as we hike from Llulluchapampa to Cachicocha. Along the way, we will visit Runkurakay and Sayacmarca, where we will learn about Inca history.
We will then go down into the cloud forests and camp at Cachicocha to rest before the final part of the trek. We will trek from Cachicocha to Wiñaywayna. Passing through Phuyupatamarca, a spectacular site known as the “town over the clouds”.
We will wake early and hike from Wiñaywayna to Machu Picchu. Our first view of the ancient citadel will be from the Sun Gate, a stunning moment of achievement. After the guided tour of Machu Picchu, we will take the train back to Cusco, recalling our unforgettable adventure. The Salkantay Trek is a perfect mix of challenge, cultural immersion, and natural beauty, leaving you with lifelong memories.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is a famous Inca site in the Peruvian Andes, located at 2,430 meters. Built in the 15th century, it is believed to have been a royal estate or religious site for Inca emperors.
The site remained hidden from the outside world until its rediscovery by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911. Machu Picchu is famous for its amazing stone buildings, including the Intihuatana stone, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows.
This breathtaking site offers stunning panoramic views of surrounding mountains and valleys, attracting visitors from all over the world. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, it is also considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Machu Picchu can be reached by train or the Salkantay Trek. It represents Inca creativity and is a must-see for anyone wanting to explore ancient history and stunning landscapes.
Salkantay
Salkantay is one of the highest and most majestic peaks in the Peruvian Andes, standing at 6,271 meters (20,574 feet). Known as the “Savage Mountain”, it is revered by locals as a sacred site and a protector of the region. The mountain is part of the Salkantay Mountain Range, near Cusco, and is a main feature of the popular Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
The Salkantay Trek takes adventurers through different landscapes, from snowy mountains and high plains to lush cloud forests. Hikers enjoy stunning views of Salkantay, as well as diverse plants, animals, and Inca ruins along the trail. The trek is known for its tough climbs, especially at Salkantay Pass, but offers stunning natural beauty and a remote experience, making it one of the most rewarding hikes in the area.
| Departure Return Location | Cusco Hotel Transfer |
| Departure Time | 04:00 am |
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Day 1
Cusco to Ichupata
We will leave Cusco at 4:00 AM in a private vehicle for a scenic three-and-a-half-hour drive to Soraypampa. Along the way, we will pass the town of Limatambo and the archaeological site of Tarawasi. The road continues through Mollepata and Cruzpata before reaching Soraypampa, our starting point at 3,800 meters (12,464 feet).
After breakfast. We will hike to the stunning Humantay Lake Lagoon at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) with impressive crystal-clear turquoise water and where wallatas (Andean Geese) may be spotted. We will have lunch at Salkantaypampa, then climb to Ichupata, where we will camp with great views of Apu Salkantay.
- Meals: L, D
- Total distance: 12 km (7,46 miles)
- Estimated hiking time: 6-7 hours
- Maximum altitude point:4,400 m (14,432 ft)
- Campsite altitude: 4,400 m (14,432 ft)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Day 2
Ichupata to Pampacahuana
We will wake up at approximately 6:00 AM to begin our day. After breakfast, we will hike steeply towards the highest point of the trek, Incachiriasca Pass at 4,950 meters (16,236 feet). We will stop to enjoy the views of the Salkantay Mountain before descending towards Sisaypampa for lunch.
Afterward, we will continue to Pampacahuana, located near an ancient Inca canal. We will camp here and enjoy a peaceful evening.
- Meals: B, L, D
- Total distance: 13 km (8.08 miles)
- Estimated hiking time: 6-7 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 4,950m (16,236 ft)
- Campsite altitude: 3,900 m (12,792ft)
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Day 3
Pampacahuana to Llulluchapampa
We will begin the day with a downhill walk along the Pampacahuana River, stopping at the Incaracay archaeological complex. After lunch in the Wayllabamba community. On the way down we visit the Paucarcancha archaeological complex.
After approximately four hours. When we arrive in Wayllabamba we will start our ascent to the Warmihuañusca Pass (Dead Woman’s Pass). Which is known for its steep climb.
We will stop at Llulluchapampa, where we will camp for the night. During our hike, we might see llamas and alpacas grazing at high altitudes and possibly spot the Andean Spectacled Bear.
- Meals: B, L, D
- Total distance: 11 km (6,84 miles)
- Estimated hiking time: 7 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 3,900 m (12,792 ft)
- Campsite altitude: 3,700 m (12,136ft)
Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging
Day 4
Llulluchapampa to Chaquicocha
Today, we will cross the second pass, Abra Runkurakay, at 3,970 meters (13,022 feet). After exploring the Runkurakay archaeological site, we will descend to Yanacocha (Black Lagoon) and enter the cloud forest.
We will then visit the Sayacmarca complex, known for its narrow streets and terraces. This is a beautiful complex made up of semicircular constructions, enclosures at different levels, narrow streets, and liturgical fountains. From here, we will descend to Chaquicocha, an impressive Inca site. We will camp near this complex and enjoy a relaxing evening.
- Meals: B, L, D
- Total distance: 16 km (9,94 miles)
- Estimated hiking: time 8 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 3,900 m (12,792 ft)
- Campsite altitude: 3,550 m (11,644 ft)
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Day 5
Chaquicocha to Wiñaywayna
After breakfast, we will continue our ascent to the third pass, Abra de Phuyupatamarca, at 3,700 meters (12,136 feet). We will visit the Phuyupatamarca archaeological site, one of the best-preserved on the Inca Trail.
From here, we will go down into the cloud forest and reach Wiñaywayna. Where we will explore another amazing archaeological site. Afterward, we will camp for the night and rest for the big day ahead.
- Meals: B, L, D
- Total distance: 9 km (5,59 miles)
- Estimated hiking time: 5- 6 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 3,700 m (12,136 ft)
- Campsite altitude: 2,650 m (8,692 ft)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Day 6
Wiñaywayna to Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
On the final day, we will wake up early to hike to the Intipunku (Sun Gate). Where we can get our first view of Machu Picchu. After an hour of hiking, we will enter Machu Picchu from the House of the Guardians.
We will explore the site with a guided tour, learning about its history and significance. Afterward, we will have the option to hike Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu for a panoramic view. In the afternoon, We met in the town of Aguas Calientes where, if you like, you can visit and relax in its hot springs. From here we take the train back to the city of Cusco, where we arrive after nightfall.
- Meals: B
- Total distance: 5 km (3,11 miles)
- Estimated hiking time: 1.40 – 2 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 2,745 m (9,003 ft)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
This 6-day trek to Machu Picchu offers an adventure travel experience like no other. With beautiful landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and challenging hikes, this trek will become a cherished memory.



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