Trip Itinerary
TRIP ITINERARY
CUSCO - HUMANTAY LAKE - SORAYPAMPA - QUISWARNIYOC
Embark on a captivating journey as we pick you up from your respective hotels or locations in Cusco around 5:15 am, setting off on a two-hour drive to the charming village of Mollepata. Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious breakfast before paying the 20 soles entrance fee to the local municipality (not included in the tour cost).
Continuing by car for another hour, we’ll reach Soraypampa, where our muleteers and horses await, ready to transport our equipment, food, and 7 kilos of personal belongings per hiker during the trek. From here, we’ll begin our two-hour uphill hike to the captivating Humantay Lake.
Once at the lake, spend a couple of hours exploring its beauty, taking photos, and listening to our guide’s insights into the significance of this enchanting lagoon. Following our visit, we’ll embark on a two-hour downhill hike to our exclusive Quiswarniyoc campsite, where a scrumptious lunch will be served.
After lunch, take advantage of free time to explore the spectacular surroundings, including an optional hike to the Salkantay Mirador for awe-inspiring panoramic views. Alternatively, unwind in our Mountain Sky Huts or glass igloos, featuring glass doors, comfortable pillows, sleeping pads, and a mesmerizing illuminated night sky.
Nestled at an altitude of 4,100 meters, the Quiswarniyoc private campsite offers an unparalleled experience with additional short hikes, breathtaking mountain viewpoints, and cascading waterfalls, promising an unforgettable adventure.
DAY 01 TREKKING DETAILS:
- Walking Distance: 13 km, approximately 6 hours of hiking
- Campsite Altitude: 4,100 meters above sea level
- Difficulty: Moderate day (acclimatizing to the Salkantay Trail)
- Weather: Warm and windy during the day, with very cold nights
- Accommodations: Mountain Sky Huts or Crystal Domes
- Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, tea time, and dinner
Embark on an invigorating 13 km hike, lasting approximately 6 hours, through the stunning landscapes of the Salkantay Trail. As you acclimatize to the 4,100-meter altitude at our campsite, prepare for a moderate day of trekking through diverse terrain and ever-changing weather conditions.
Expect warm and windy daytime conditions, but be prepared for cold nights as temperatures drop significantly. At the end of the day, rest and rejuvenate in our unique Mountain Sky Huts or Crystal Domes, offering a comfortable retreat amidst the breathtaking Andean scenery.
Throughout the day, we’ll provide you with nourishing meals, including breakfast, lunch, tea time, and dinner, to keep your energy levels high and your spirits lifted as you immerse yourself in this unforgettable trekking experience.
QUISWARNIYOC - INCAQCHIRIASCA PASS - CANAL INCA - PAMPACAHUANA
On the second day of the combined Salkantay and Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, you’ll conquer the most challenging part of the journey by reaching the highest point of the Salkantay Trail at 5,100 meters above sea level. Your adventure starts bright and early at 5 am with a refreshing wake-up tea, served by our skilled cooks in their cozy dome. By 6 am, you’ll fuel up with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a 3-hour uphill hike.
Your morning hike will lead you to the stunning Salkantay Lagoon, nestled at the base of Mount Salkantay. Here, you’ll have some free time to marvel at the breathtaking glacial landscape and listen to your knowledgeable guide’s explanation about this majestic site. Afterward, you’ll continue your ascent for an additional hour, making your way to the highest point of the trek, 5,100 meters above sea level.
This significant milestone on your journey is known as Paso Incaqchiriasca, which translates to “where the Inca died.” Standing at this impressive altitude, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the awe-inspiring beauty of the Peruvian Andes, with the majestic Salkantay as your backdrop. After soaking in the views for a while, you’ll begin a one-hour descent to Acopampa, where our team of cooks will welcome you with a nutritious and delicious lunch.
Post-lunch, you’ll continue descending for two more hours until you reach the Inca Canal (or Pampacahua) campsite, where you’ll set up camp for the night. This historical site boasts an original Inca canal, providing a glimpse into the engineering prowess of the Incas as they channeled massive rivers. Enjoy a scrumptious dinner and rest up for another exciting day ahead.
DAY 02 TREKKING DETAILS:
- Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
- Accommodation: Camping facilities
- Distance: 16 km (10 miles)
- Difficulty: Challenging day (conquering the highest point at 5100 meters above sea level)
- Campsite Altitude: 3,900 meters above sea level
- Weather: Warm and windy during the day, with cold nights
PAMPACAHUANA - PAUCARCANCHA - WAYLLABAMBA
On day three of this exceptional tour, you’ll experience a more relaxed day compared to the previous one, as you enter the famed Inca Trail. Your day begins at 6 am when our cooks serve you a refreshing coca tea right in your tents. Afterward, you’ll have time to prepare for breakfast, which will be served around 7 am. Your journey resumes at around 8 am with a 2 to 3-hour descent to the fascinating archaeological site of Paucarcancha.
At Paucarcancha, you’ll have ample time to explore this captivating Inca site, accompanied by your guide who will provide insightful information about its history and significance. Following this exploration, you’ll enjoy lunch before continuing with a 1-hour descent towards the Inca Trail control point at Wayllabamba. After passing the control point, you’ll trek for an additional 30 to 45 minutes to reach your campsite at Wayllabamba.
Situated at 3,000 meters above sea level, Wayllabamba is the first campsite of the classic 4-day Inca Trail. Here, you’ll encounter other trekkers who are exclusively embarking on the 4-day Inca Trail journey. All tents will be set up and ready for your rest and relaxation as you spend the night at this remarkable location.
DAY 03 TREKKING DETAILS:
- Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
- Accommodation: Camping facilities
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Note: During the Salkantay portion of the trek, pack horses carry your camping gear. For the Inca Trail section, porters will carry your equipment to protect the trail.
WAYLLABAMBA - WARMICWANUSCA PASS - PACAYMAYO
Day 04 on the the Inca Trail is the most challenging, with a steep ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass, which sits at an elevation of 4,215 meters. The trail is quite steep and can be a bit of a challenge for some, but the views from the top are absolutely stunning.
After reaching the pass, you’ll begin the descent to Pacaymayo, passing through beautiful landscapes and cloud forests. This part of the trail is particularly interesting, as it passes by several Inca ruins, including Runkurakay and Sayacmarca.
You’ll arrive at Pacaymayo in the late afternoon, where you’ll set up camp for the night. This is a good time to rest and recover before continuing the trek the next day.
Today is considered challenging day of the trek, as you will climb up to the highest point of the trail, Warmiwañusca Pass, which stands at 13,780 feet above sea level.
Take breaks along the way to rest and enjoy the stunning views of the Andean mountains and valleys.
Descend into the Pacaymayo valley and set up camp for the night.
DAY 04 TREKKING DETAILS:
- Total hiking distance: 6.8 miles/12km (7-8 hours).
- Campsite altitude: 3700 meters (high) above sea level
- Considered: Top day (you will have survived the two highest passes)
- Area: Andes and Cloud Forest
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
- Accommodation: Camping in tents.
- Weather: Cold
PACAYMAYO - PHUYUPATAMARCA - WIÑAYWAYNA
Day five of the Inca Trail is a bit easier than previus days, with a mostly downhill trek to Wiñay Wayna. This part of the trail is particularly interesting, as it passes by several Inca ruins, including Phuyupatamarca, which is known as the “Town in the Clouds.”
You’ll also pass by some beautiful waterfalls and streams, providing plenty of opportunities to rest and take in the scenery. You’ll arrive at Wiñay Wayna in the late afternoon, where you’ll set up camp for the night.
Today’s hike is a mix of steep climbs and descents, passing through several Inca sites along the way, including Runkuracay and Sayacmarca.
Reach the second highest point of the trail at 12,630 feet above sea level before descending into the cloud forest and arriving at the final campsite of Wiñay Wayna.
DAY 05 TREKKING DETAILS:
- Walking distance: 9.94 miles/16 km (7-8 hours)
- Campsite altitude: 2.600 meters (high) above sea level
- Considered: Moderate day, short uphill, then – all downhill!
- Area: High Cloud Forest
- Weather: Warm and very humid (chilly weather)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
- Accommodation: Camping in tents
WIÑAYWAYNA - MACHU PICCHU - AGUAS CALIENTES - CUSCO
The final day of the adventure Salkantay trek and Inca Trail is the most exciting, as you’ll finally reach Machu Picchu. You’ll start the day early, with a short trek to the Sun Gate, which provides stunning views of Machu Picchu from above. From there, you’ll descend to the ruins themselves, where you’ll have a guided tour.
Machu Picchu is truly awe-inspiring, with its stunning architecture and breathtaking views. After the tour, you’ll have some free time to explore the ruins on your own before taking the train back to Cusco.
Wake up early to arrive at the Inti Punku (Sun Gate) in time for sunrise over Machu Picchu.
Descend into the citadel and enjoy a guided tour of the ancient Inca city.
In the afternoon, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and a train ride back to Cusco.
DAY 06 DETAILS:
- Considered: The most exciting and magical day
- Area: High Cloud and Subtropical Forest
- Weather: Hot and very humid (bring lots of water)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, included
- Bus: Tickets for the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes included
- Train: Train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo included; train at 14:30 or 14:55
- Transfer: From Ollantaytambo to Cusco included 1.5-2 hour’s car ride
- Back in Cusco: You will be back in Cusco around 6:30 pm
Tour Inclusions
Inclusions
Included
The Salkantay trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a multi-day trek that leads to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. Our 6-day/5-night Salkantay trail and Inca trail trekking package includes the following: ALL-INCLUSIVE SERVICE
- Briefing from the tour guide: It is a crucial pre-trek meeting that takes place at our office in downtown Cusco at 6:00 pm, one day before your trek begins. During this informative session, your tour guide will present all essential trek details, hand out duffle bags for your belongings, provide printed tickets, and answer any questions you may have. The tour guide will offer a comprehensive overview of the hike, outlining the planned route, and discussing safety precautions to ensure an enjoyable and secure trekking experience. This briefing is designed to equip you with all the necessary information and preparation required for a successful journey on the trail.
- Transportation: Include transportation from Cusco to the trailhead and back after the trek.
- Permits: A permit is required to hike the Inca Trail, which Machu Picchu Reservations include as part of the package.
- Entrance fees: The cost of the Inca Trail trek includes entrance fees to Machu Picchu and other archaeological sites along the way.
- Packing Horses: For carrying up to 7 Kilos of personal luggage and other required equipment during the Salkantay trek
- Porters: A team of porters will carry the bulk of your gear, leaving you with only a day pack to carry. They will carry the duffle bags with 7 kilos of each hiker and set up your tents, cook your meals, and carry all camping equipment during the Inca Trail
- Professional guide: A licensed and experienced guide will accompany you throughout the trek, providing information about the history and culture of the Inca civilization. Our guias are fluent in English, Spanish and Quechua
- Meals: All meals are included in the trek, from breakfast on the first day to lunch on the final day. The food is typically enough and nourishing, with plenty of carbohydrates to sustain you during the long hikes.
- 06 breakfasts
- 05 lunches
- 05 dinners
- 01 Night Unforgettable Night in Crystal Igloos: Experience Quiswarniyoc’s Majestic Views of Salkantay Mountain
- Camping equipment: For 04 nights You will have a tent and sleeping mat. 01 Tent for every 02 people (Eureka Timberline 4-person tents shared by only 2. + 01 Sleeping Mat for each participant: We provide you with inflatable Thermarest mattresses which guarantee a warm, comfortable night’s sleep on camps of the trail.
- Machu Picchu guided tour: The Machu Picchu guided tour is a comprehensive and educational experience led by an expert guide who will take you through the iconic Inca citadel. During the tour, you’ll explore the most significant structures, learn about the history, culture, and architectural techniques of the Incas, and appreciate the stunning natural surroundings.
- Bus ticket: From Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes town on the last day of the tour
- Train ticket: Expedition or Voyager Train Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo at 14:30 or 14:55 to be back In cusco around 7:00
- Transfer service: From Ollantaytam to Cusco back to the hotel
- Safety equipment: Oxygen and first-aid kits are provided in case of emergencies.
- Private portable toilets
- Vegetarian food: Available on request with no extra charge.
Not included: In the tour are items such as a sleeping bag, walking poles, entry to Huayna Picchu, and tips for the cook, horsemen, and guide. Optional upgrades such as the Vistadome train are also not included. The Huayna Picchu trek is an optional extra that requires an additional fee
What to Pack
What to Pack
If you’re planning on doing the Salkantay trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you’ll need to pack accordingly for the 6-day trek. Here are some essential items to consider bringing
CLOTHING:
- Comfortable hiking shoes/boots
- Moisture-wicking hiking socks
- Quick-drying pants
- Lightweight t-shirts
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Fleece jacket or sweater
- Rain jacket and pants
- Hat or cap
- Gloves
SLEEPING GEAR:
- Sleeping bag (rated for cold weather) if you do not have you can rent one from the company
- Pillow (optional)
TREKKING GEAR:
- Samall backpack of 20 to 30 liters
- Hiking poles, if you do not have you can rent from the company
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Water bottle or hydration system
- Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, etc.)
- Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, etc.)
MISCELLANEOUS:
- Passport and necessary documents
- Original student card if you apply for the student price
- Cash for tipping your guides and porters
- Camera or phone with a good camera for capturing memories
- Portable charger for electronic devices
- Lightweight towel
It’s important to note that there are strict regulations on what you can bring on the Inca Trail, so be sure to check with your tour operator or guide to ensure that you are not bringing any prohibited items. You’ll likely have porters carrying most of your gear, so pack everything in a durable and waterproof bag or duffel.
We provide you with a duffle bag to pack 7 kilos of your personal stuff. The porter will carry the duffle bags during the whole trek
Prices
Pricing
The cost of the trek fluctuates based on the total number of participants who sign up for a specific date. To establish a group for any given date, a minimum of two individuals is required. Ultimately, the final price will be determined by the total number of participants embarking on the tour.
We offer flexible departure options, allowing you to embark on any day of the week, subject to permit availability. Keep in mind that permits are required for the Inca Trail.
Pricing Structure:
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2 people: $ 1,099 per person
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3 people: $ 1,050 per person
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4 people: $ 999 per person
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5 people: $ 950 per person
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6 people: $ 910 per person
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7 people: $ 890 per person
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8 people: $ 860 per person
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9 people: $ 830 per person
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10 people: $ 799 per person
Please note that the prices listed above are subject to change based on the final number of travelers in your group. Joining or starting a group allows you to save on costs while embarking on the Choquequirao Trek with fellow adventurers.
How to Book
How to Book with Machu Picchu Reservation
TO BOOK THE SALKANTAY TREK AND INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 6D – 5N, FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS:
- Choose a reputable, government-authorized tour operator.
- Check the availability for your desired dates on the tour operator’s website. Remember, the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance in February. CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE: https://reservations.web/inca-trail-availability
- Click the “Book Online” button, select the date, and complete the booking form. Have one person fill it out for the entire group to ensure you’re booked together. Keep your passport handy for accurate information.
- Make a payment online using any debit or credit card. There’s a 2.9% fee for online payments, which customers must cover.
- To secure your Inca Trail Trek Tour, provide a $200 deposit per person. This helps obtain necessary permits and tickets from the Peruvian government.
- Optionally, you can pay the full tour amount upfront to avoid any future payment concerns.
- If you choose to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance is due 24 hours before the tour begins. You can pay in cash (soles or dollars) at the office in Cusco or by card (3.9% fee). You can also pay the balance online with any card (2.9% fee).
By following these straightforward steps, you can easily book your Inca Trail experience and focus on preparing for your adventure.
Payment: You can pay for the 4-day Inca Trail online using any debit or credit card. A 2.9% fee applies to online payments, which customers must cover. To book the Inca Trail, a $200 deposit per person is required to secure permits and tickets from the Peruvian government. You can choose to pay the full tour amount upfront to avoid future payment concerns. If you pay only the deposit, the remaining balance is due 24 hours before the tour starts. Pay the balance in cash (soles or dollars) at our office in Cusco, or by card with a 3.9% fee. You can also pay online using any card with a 2.9% fee.
Passport Requirements: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date to Peru. If it’s set to expire within 6 months, renew it before traveling. If your passport expires within 6 months but you want to secure your Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu tickets, book the tour and update your passport details with us after renewal. Failure to do so may result in permit and ticket forfeiture.
Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. Obtain insurance before departing and consider working with a reputable agency for affordable coverage.
Deposit: The $200 deposit per person for the 4-day Inca Trail tour is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Remaining Balance: If you only pay the deposit, the balance is due 24 hours before the tour starts. Pay in cash (soles or dollars) at our office in Cusco or by card with a 3.9% fee. You can also pay online with any card and a 2.9% fee.
Student Discount: If your student card meets Peruvian government requirements, reserve the tour with a deposit and pay the remaining balance upon arrival in Cusco. The student discount will be applied at that time.
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Why Choose Machupicchu Reservations
Why Choose Machupicchu Reservations
Expertise and Experience: Our team of knowledgeable and experienced professionals ensures that you receive accurate information, well-organized itineraries, and top-notch guidance throughout your trip.
Personalized Service: We tailor our tours to cater to each traveler’s unique preferences and requirements, ensuring a customized and memorable experience.
Quality and Safety: Our commitment to quality and safety guarantees an enjoyable and worry-free adventure. We collaborate with professional guides, reliable transportation services, and carefully selected accommodations to deliver the best possible experience.
Sustainable and Responsible Travel: Machu Picchu Reservations is dedicated to minimizing our environmental impact and supporting local communities. We promote eco-friendly practices and contribute to the well-being of the regions we explore.
Competitive Pricing: We offer a range of affordable packages and options, allowing you to experience the magic of Machu Picchu without breaking the bank.
Excellent Customer Support: Our friendly and responsive customer support team is available to assist you at every stage of your journey, from pre-trip planning to post-trip inquiries.
Choose Machu Picchu Reservations for a remarkable and hassle-free adventure, as we strive to make your dream trip to Machu Picchu an unforgettable reality.
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