How much does the Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail Hike cost?

The Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail Hike costs US $3,199 per person on a twin-sharing basis, about US $320 per day across the 10-day itinerary. This combination trip costs more than the standalone Inca Trail hike due to its extra trekking days.The price includes permits for both the Salkantay Trek and the Inca Trail, camping equipment, guides, porters, and most meals.

How difficult is the Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail Hike?

This trip is graded Moderate but is more physically demanding than the classic Inca Trail alone, since it adds a high mountain pass near Salkantay's glaciated slopes before joining the Inca Trail, making it best suited to experienced hikers.The 7 days of hiking across this combination trip is longer than the 4-day classic Inca Trail trek on its own.

What is the best time for the Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail Hike?

The dry season from late April to early October is best for this trip, with May through September offering the most favorable weather, minimal rainfall, and warm, sunny days for both the Salkantay high pass and the Inca Trail sections.The Inca Trail portion of this route is closed each February for maintenance, so trips cannot be scheduled that month. Read our full guide on Best Time to Visit Peru.

How long is the Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail Hike?

This itinerary runs 10 days total, including 2 days of Cusco acclimatization and Sacred Valley sightseeing, the Salkantay high-pass trek, and the classic Inca Trail's final approach into Machu Picchu.This is Himalayan Glacier's longest Peru trekking itinerary, reflecting its combination of two distinct trekking routes.

Is the Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail Hike suitable for beginners?

This trip is better suited to experienced or well-conditioned hikers rather than complete beginners, given its high-altitude Salkantay pass, multiple long trekking days, and greater physical demand than the Classic Inca Trail alone.First-time trekkers to Peru may prefer the standalone Inca Trail hike, which is shorter and less physically demanding.

What is the maximum altitude on this trek?

The maximum altitude is 6,271m (20,575ft) near Salkantay Mountain on Day 4, referring to the peak's elevation viewed from the trail rather than the hiking route itself; the actual trekking pass over Salkantay reaches roughly 4,600-5,000m depending on conditions.This is notably higher than the Inca Trail's own high point of 4,215m (13,829ft) at the Dead Woman's Pass later in the trip.

Do I need a permit for this trek?

Yes, the Inca Trail portion of this trip requires a permit booked through an authorized operator well in advance, typically 3 to 6 months ahead, while the Salkantay section does not require the same limited permit system.Booking early is essential since Inca Trail permit numbers are capped daily by the Peruvian government.

What is the highlight of the Salkantay Trek?

The turquoise waters of Humantay Lake beneath a glacier, and the close-up views of Salkantay Mountain's snow-capped peak, are the signature highlights of the trek's early days before it joins the original Inca Trail toward Machu Picchu.This gives travelers dramatic high-mountain scenery in addition to the Inca ruins found along the classic Inca Trail.

How is altitude sickness managed on this trip?

Altitude sickness risk is managed through Cusco acclimatization days at the start of the trip, a gradual multi-day ascent toward the Salkantay pass, and ongoing guide monitoring through both the Salkantay and Inca Trail sections.The trip's longer schedule compared to the standalone Inca Trail hike allows more time for the body to adjust to altitude.

Where do hikers camp during the Salkantay and Inca Trail trek?

Hikers camp at sites including Soraypampa, Pampa Japonesa, Ayapata, and Chaquicocha during the Salkantay section, then join established Inca Trail campsites before a final hotel stay in Cusco after descending from Machu Picchu.Tents, sleeping mats, and a trekking cook are provided throughout the camping sections of the journey.

What food is provided during this trek?

Full board is provided throughout the trekking days, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by a professional trekking cook, along with a welcome and farewell dinner in Cusco at the start and end of the trip.Dietary requests such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free can be accommodated with advance notice.

How does this trip compare to the standard Inca Trail hike?

This 10-day trip adds the Salkantay Mountain trek and Humantay Lake before joining the same original Inca Trail used on the standalone 7-day hike, making it a longer, more physically demanding option for hikers wanting deeper mountain scenery.Travelers who want a shorter, more accessible trek to Machu Picchu should consider the standalone Inca Trail Hike instead.

What are the best places to visit in Peru on this trip?

Alongside Machu Picchu and the Salkantay range, top nearby destinations include the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Lake Titicaca, and Rainbow Mountain, giving travelers several options to extend their Peru itinerary before or after this trek.Many travelers add a Sacred Valley day tour at the start of the trip, which is already included in this itinerary.

Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail Hike

Day 01

Arrive at Cusco International Airport, Peru

On arrival at Cusco International Airport in Peru, we will be greeted by a representative of Himalayan Glacier who will drop us off at our designated hotel in Cusco. Since Cusco is located at a high altitude, we recommend that you take plenty of rest and rehydrate in your hotel room to take upon the challenges in the upcoming days. In the afternoon at 5:0 pm, we will briefly discuss our trip itinerary with our trip leader. We would probably want to go to bed early after dinner today. Overnight in Cusco.

Maximum Altitude

3,400m/11,155ft

Accommodation

Hotel (Tierra Viva Cusco) or similar

Meals

Dinner

Day 02

Sacred Valley Tour; Pisac and Ollantaytambo Ruins

Today, following an early breakfast at our hotel, we will commence our exploration of the Sacred Valley with visits to Pisac (2,972m/9,750ft.) and Ollantaytambo (2,792m/9,160ft.). Pisac, situated along the Vilcanota River, is renowned for its Incan ruins and bustling market, which attracts many tourists. While at Pisac, we’ll tour the Archaeological Park, which includes the largest Incan burial site, a temple complex featuring a sun temple, ceremonial altars, and intricate water channels. After concluding our visit here, we’ll have some free time to wander through the Pisac local market.

Ollantaytambo showcases magnificent architecture with remarkable stonework and advanced agricultural techniques. The key attractions in this town include the Temple of the Sun, perched atop a pyramid of seventeen terraces, and the Terraces, a distinctive feature of the Sacred Valley. Following a full day of exploration, we will return to our hotel in Cusco. This day tour will help our bodies acclimatize to the lower oxygen levels while offering an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the local culture of the Sacred Valley. We will spend the night in Cusco.

Maximum Altitude

2,972m/9,751ft

Accommodation

Hotel (Moaf Boutique Hotel) or similar

Meals

Breakfast

Day 03

Cusco to Soraypampa

Today, we’ll leave Cusco very early at 5:00 a.m., and travel for about 3 hours to get to Mollepata, which is the starting point for our journey into the Salcantay valley. Along the way, you’ll notice various changes in the weather and landscapes, each with its own unique crops. For example, we’ll pass through Limatambo, known for its avocados. After a quick breakfast, we’ll head to Soraypampa (3,900m/12,795ft.), where our trek begins. After lunch, our first stop will be at Humantay Lake (4,200m/13,779ft.), which has beautiful turquoise waters and is right next to a huge glacier. We’ll then return to our camp in Soraypampa for the night. If the weather is good, you might also get to see a fantastic display of stars and maybe even a shooting star.

Driving:
3-4 hrs

Maximum Altitude

3,850m/12,632ft

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 04

Soraypampa - Salkantaypampa- Pampa Japonesa

hiking from Soraypampa to Salkantaypampa

Today we will wake up early have breakfast, and commence towards Salakantay pass. First, we’ll head to Salkantaypampa, getting closer and closer to this enormous mountain, which stands at an impressive height of 6,271m / 20,574 ft. Its name signifies the powerful and untamed force of nature that governs the creative energies of our world.

Afterward, we’ll set up our camp at Pampa Japonesa (4,600m/ 15,091ft.). This is the last place we can stay before reaching the high pass. Tonight, you’ll experience the chilly presence of the nearby ice and might even hear the distant sounds of avalanches, all from a safe distance.

Hiking:
6-8 hrs

Maximum Altitude

6,271m/20,575ft

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 05

Pampa Japonesa – Incachiriaska – Canal Inca

As each day passes, we are getting closer to connecting with the original Inca Trail that leads to Machu Picchu, and today marks the last day of our journey to reach this historic area. Here, you may have the chance to witness the majestic flight of the Andean Condor. Today’s challenge will be dealing with the high altitude as we climb up to the Incachiriaska High Pass, which stands at 5,338m/17,513 ft. After about 3 hours of ascent, we’ll start a gentler descent into the valley below. Once we reach our camp, we’ll enjoy dinner and some rest. The nighttime views continue to be breathtaking at this elevation because of the thin atmosphere, providing us with a spectacular view of the night sky.

Hiking:
7-8 hrs

Maximum Altitude

5,158m/16,923ft

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 06

Inca Aquaduct – Huayllabamba – Ayapata

traveler enjoying hike from Inca Aquaduct to Huayllabamba

Today, we embark on the renowned Inca Trail journey, beginning with a visit to the Paucarcancha archaeological site. As we proceed, we’ll ascend to an altitude where lush vegetation thrives and encounter diverse plant and animal life in the Andean cloud forest. Along the way, we’ll be treated to impressive vistas of towering mountains and numerous waterfalls. We’ll pause for lunch at a pass along the Inca Trail before a brief trek to our campsite for the night, situated at Ayapata (3,300 m / 10,827 ft).

Hiking:
6-8 hrs

Maximum Altitude

3,475m/11,401ft

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 07

Ayapata – Warmiwañusqa – Chaquicocha

Following a nourishing breakfast to start our trek, we’ll ascend to the high Warmiwañusqa pass (4,200m/13,779 ft). From there, we’ll descend into a forested area teeming with native queuña trees and a vibrant array of hummingbirds, surrounded by abundant flora and fauna. Our next stop is the Pacamayo campsite, where we’ll pause for lunch and relaxation before pressing on toward our Final destination, Runkurakay (3,760m /12,150 ft), which is believed to have served as an astronomical temple for the Incas. We’ll conclude our day at the Chaquicocha campsite (3,400m / 11,154ft), where we’ll enjoy dinner and another night beneath the starry skies.

Hiking:
7-8 hrs

Maximum Altitude

3,970m/13,026ft

Accommodation

Hotel (Tierra Viva Cusco) or similar

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 08

Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna

We are now just one day away from reaching Machu Picchu, and there are several incredible sites to explore along the route. We’ll continue our journey, passing through Runkurakay, and then heading to Phuyupatamarca, which boasts an impressive ceremonial platform with intricate construction techniques. Our final stop will be at Wiñaywayna, often referred to as the “mountain of eternal youth,” known for its remarkable aqueducts, terraces, and temples. As we progress, we will begin to sense and witness the growing energy of Machu Picchu with each step. Along the way, we will also enjoy stunning vistas of the Sacred Valley and the distant Urubamba River valley. Additionally, the surrounding jungle will become denser as we descend. We’ll set up our camp near Wiñaywayna (2,650m / 8,692ft) for dinner and a well-deserved rest.

Hiking:
6-8 hrs

Maximum Altitude

2,650m/8,695ft

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 09

Wiñaywayna – Machupicchu – return to Cusco

Today, we must wake up before sunrise for a brisk hike to the renowned Sun Gate if we want to witness one of the most breathtaking sunrises – the first rays of light gently bathing the crystal city of Machu Picchu. The trek to Intipunku (Sun Gate) at an elevation of 2,730m/8,956 ft. takes nearly 2 hours, offering you the privilege of gazing upon the magnificent Machu Picchu citadel during the most enchanting time of the day. From this vantage point, you can also admire the deep river valleys and towering snow-capped peaks in the surrounding area.

Once inside the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu, our guide will lead you on a brief tour of the most significant sites, providing insights into their history and significance. Following the tour, we will have the opportunity to independently ascend Huayna Picchu Mountain if we have an entrance permit. Later in the afternoon, we will descend to Aguas Calientes and board the train back to Cusco, marking the conclusion of our Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail tour. On this day, we will have our farewell dinner with the guide.

Hiking:
4-6 hrs
Driving:
3-4 hrs

Maximum Altitude

2,745m/9,006ft

Accommodation

Hotel (Moaf Boutique Hotel) or similar

Meals

Breakfast and Dinner

Day 10

Final Departure

Your adventure ends today. A representative of Himalayan Glacier will pick you up from our hotel and drop you at the International Airport for your onward journey or back home. However, you have options to extend your stay and join other tours that Peru has to offer. Himalayan Glacier is more than happy to assist with arranging other remarkable tours and extra nights in the hotel.

Maximum Altitude

3,400m/11,155ft

Meals

Breakfast

Meals

During your Salkantay trek and Inca trail hike, in Cusco, you will be served a welcome dinner upon arrival and will enjoy a farewell dinner before your departure, along with nourishing breakfasts at the hotel where you stay overnight. Throughout the trek, you will have access to three-course meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A professional trekking cook will be responsible for preparing your meals. Additionally, during the trek, you can look forward to afternoon snacks, often referred to as ‘Happy Hours.’

(Please let us know ahead of time if you have any dietary preferences or restrictions (vegetarian, non-vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) so that we may meet your needs during the trek.)

Accommodation

Throughout, your Salkantay trail and Inca trail hike, you will be accommodated at Hotel Moaf Boutique or a similar category of hotel in Cusco. Similarly, as you explore the Soraypampa, you’ll be accommodated in tented camps, experiencing the unique atmosphere of the Winaywayna, known as “the mountain of eternal youth”. While on the Salkantay trek and the Inca trail hiking, hotels serve rooms on the basis of twin-sharing with an attached bathroom and hot shower facilities. Single supplement rooms are served with an extra charge.

33 Years of Guiding in the Himalayas

Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail Hike - 10 Days

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Overview

Altitude Chart of Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail Hike

Trip Itinerary

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DATES & PRICES

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