6 Day Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek | Salkantay Inca Trail trek (Unforgettable)

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6 Day Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek | Salkantay Inca Trail trek (Unforgettable)
6 Day Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek | Salkantay Inca Trail trek (Unforgettable)
6 Day Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek | Salkantay Inca Trail trek (Unforgettable)
6 Day Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek | Salkantay Inca Trail trek (Unforgettable)
6 Day Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek | Salkantay Inca Trail trek (Unforgettable)
6 Day Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek | Salkantay Inca Trail trek (Unforgettable)
6 Day Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek | Salkantay Inca Trail trek (Unforgettable)
6 Day Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek | Salkantay Inca Trail trek (Unforgettable)
6 Day Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek | Salkantay Inca Trail trek (Unforgettable)
6 Day Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek | Salkantay Inca Trail trek (Unforgettable)

6 days Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek

Embark on the ultimate adventure of your life with the 6 days Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek. This exclusive journey allows you to explore the best of the Peruvian Andes, combining two of the world’s most stunning and challenging treks. You’ll traverse the majestic Salkantay, one of the region’s highest peaks, and follow the ancient Inca Trail, where every step connects you to the rich history of the Incas. Along the way, you’ll witness breathtaking landscapes, lush valleys, mysterious ruins, and unique flora and fauna, all leading to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This is more than just a trek; it’s a transformative experience where effort and beauty merge to create lifelong memories. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the magic of Peru!

The Salkantay Trek is named after Mount Salkantay (6,271 m / 20,574 feet). This Sacred Mountain is higher than any mountain in North America. On the Salkantay trek, you will see gorgeous blue lakes, stunning glaciers, cloud forests, and rainforests. The last portion of this particular trek has an ecosystem more typical of the Inca Trail with lush green vegetation and many archeological ruins. This trek is a great blend of the two most popular hikes within Peru.

Cusco I Mollepata I Soraypampa I Salkantay Pampa I Pampa Japonesa I Inca Chiriaska (Frozen Inca) I Paucarcancha I Wayllabamba I Warmiwañusca I Pacaymayo I Phyupatamarca I Wiñayahuayna I Sungate I Machu Picchu
Duration of the trip:

6 Days / 5 Nights

Total Distance

50 miles

Physical Level:

Moderate

Altitude:

5000 msnm

Type of Tour:

Trekking Nature & Culture

Group SIze:

08ppl Max

6 days Inca Trail Salkantay Trek overview

The Salkantay trail to Machu Picchu takes you through diverse landscapes, including high mountain passes, cloud forests and lush valleys, and then connects to the Classic Inca Trail which is the most famous and iconic route to Machu Picchu. It follows the ancient paved road used by the Incas centuries ago. The trail is known for its archaeological sites, including Wiñay Wayna and Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), which offer breathtaking panoramic views of Machu Picchu.

Salkantay and Classic Inca Trail trek Summary

  • TOUR NAME: Salkantay and Classic Inca Trail To Machu Picchu
  • GROUP SIZE: 02 People Minimum (04 – 06 Average) and 08 People Maximum
  • 100% LOCAL COMPANY: fully licensed Inca Trail Operator, Highly Recommended! Check out our reviews on Trip Advisor & Youtube what our Passengers say about us
  • STARTING POINT: Pick-up from Cusco & Sacred Valley Hotel/Airbnb. From 4:30 am to 5:00 am
  • ENDING POINT: Drop-off in Cusco at Hotel/Airbnb 10:30 pm
  • DEPARTURE: Daily (Based on Availability). If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as large group service). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in cusco.
  • HIKING DISTANCE: 76km /37miles
  • PHYSICAL LEVEL: Level 3. Salkantay and Classic Inca Trail Requires some physical preparation and we Also recommend to Aclimatize 2 days befor we begin the inca trail
  • MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: Salkantay Trail Incachiriasca Pass (Frozen Inka) is at 5,338-metre-high (17,513 ft) and Classic Inca Trail Warmiwañusca Pass (Dead Woman’s Pass) 4,200 m / 12,000 ft
  • TRANSPORTATION: Private Van/Bus from Cusco Challacancha (Salkantay Trailhead) and Private Van/Bus to Km 82 (for Porters who will do the Inca Trail Because Horses are not Allowed on the Inca Trail) Tourist Expedition Train Back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and Bus back to Cusco
  • ACCOMMODATIONS: 1 night in Green Eco Dome ( Private Campsite of Sky Dome at Soraypampa) 4 Nights in Camping in 4 Season Tents/02 ppl per Tent (Sleeping bag and Self-Inflating air Mat are included)
  • HORSES & HORSEMAN: Horses and Horseman to carry all the camping equipment as well as food till the 2nd control point of the Inca Trail where we meet our Porter to start the Classic Inca Trail
  • PORTERING SERVICE: 7 Kilos/14 Pounds Extra Portering service is included. We will provide you a duffel bag for your personal Stuff and (This will be Carried by the porter), Water Bottle, Rain Poncho & Inca Trail T-shirt at the briefing time
  • MEALS: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners, 4 tea times + wake-up teas (Vegetarian, Vegan and Free Gluten with NO extra cost, Upon Request)
  • CLASSIC INCA TRAIL & MACHUPICCHU: Inca Trail Permits & Machupicchu entrance fee Included.

6 days Salkantay and Classic Inca Trail Salkantay Trek Short Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa
  • Day 2: Soraypampa – Inca Chiriaska Pass (Frozen Inca) – Sisaypampa
  • Day 3: Sisaypampa – Paucarcancha – Huayllabamba
  • Day 4: Huayllabamba – Dead Woman Pass – Pacaymayo
  • Day 5: Pacaymayo – Runkurakay Pass – Phuyupatamarca
  • Day 6: Phuyupatamarca – Sungate – MachuPicchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

6 days Salkantay and Classic Inca Trail Trek Highlights

  • Humantay Lake (Laguna Humantay): A stunning turquoise glacial lake at the base of Humantay Mountain. Often visited on Day 1 as a short acclimatization hike. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks—perfect for photos and meditation.
  • Inca Chiriasqa Pass: (Approx. 5,100 m / 16,732 ft) The highest point of the trek. Known as the “Frozen Inca” due to its icy winds and elevation. A remote, less-traveled pass with panoramic views of the Vilcabamba range.
  • Transition from Andean Highlands to Cloud Forest: The trail descends dramatically from cold alpine terrain into lush, subtropical cloud forest. Rich biodiversity including orchids, hummingbirds, and spectacled bears (if you’re lucky!).
  • Wiñay Wayna Ruins: A beautiful and well-preserved Inca site just before Machu Picchu. Features terraced agriculture, ceremonial fountains, and dramatic mountain views. A peaceful spot that’s often a spiritual highlight for trekkers.
  • Sun Gate (Inti Punku) & First View of Machu Picchu: The classic Inca Trail entrance to Machu Picchu. Arriving at sunrise provides a magical first glimpse of the lost city of the Incas. A rewarding emotional climax to the 6-day adventure.

Please, Note: Allocations or Itinerary are subject to change depending on time of booking and campsites provided by INC (institution that runs the Classic Inca Trail they allocate campsites for all Travel Companies) Because the 1st 250 spaces go to Wiñayhuayna Campsite which is 2 hours close to Machupicchu and the rest goes to Phuyupatamarca which is 5 hours walk to Machupicchu. So we recommend to book well in advance in order to get Wiñayhuayna campsite.

DAY 1
Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa+

DAY 2
Soraypampa – Inca Chiriaska Pass (Frozen Inca) – Sisaypampa+

DAY 3
Sisaypampa – Paucarcancha – Huayllabamba+

DAY 4
Huayllabamba – Dead Woman Pass – Pacaymayo+

DAY 5
Pacaymayo – Runkurakay Pass – Phuyupatamarca+

DAY 6
Phuyupatamarca – Sungate – MachuPicchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco+

6 day Salkantay and Classic Inca Trail Trek Includes:

  • PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION/ Private Tourist transportation Cusco – Mollepata and then Soraypampa (The Trailhead) (We never share Bus service with other companies as most agencies do here to minimize costs) and Please, Note. we always use the same tourist transportation for our porters. we wont send them by an unconfortable truck as most do here.
  • Transportation for our porters from Cusco to km 82 (they will join us on Huayllabamba campsite to do inca trail)
  • EXPEDITIONS TRAIN BACK TICKET/ Tourist Expeditions train Back ticket (Between 2:30pm to 7:00pm) from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and then bus back to cusco and we will drop you off at the hotel.
  • PROFFESIONAL GUIDES/ English – Spanish speaking guide for 6 days of the Inca Trail and Machupicchu.(All our Guides work for us only) All of them speak Fluent English & Second Guide Over 08 people Group(Large Group Service)
  • Day 1: Private Soraypampa Campsite at our Green Eco SKY DOME
  • CAMPING EQUIPMENT/ Thermarest air-inflate Confortable sleeping Mattress (While others agencies are using foam mat) Thats why many of them run away from us. Because they dont want their passengers to see the Quality of our Camping equipment)
  • MASTER CHEFFS/Cook and assistance of the Cook.(We have chosen the best cook/cheffs and all are trained by Quechuas Expeditions every month)
  • Cooking equipment (We use New cooking equipment and change all every 3 months) Snacks (Fruits, energy bars)
  • Daily tea service (Wake up Coca tea and afternoon tea time(Happy hour) with full of popcorn and special snacks made by our cooks)
  • Dining equipment including portable chairs and tables
  • FOOD/Food service in the campsites (5 breakfast, 5 lunches, 5 dinners, 5 snacks) – nutritionally balanced menu: Buffet style Plenty of food you will never be hungry with us! as well as Guinea Pig for free because we want you to taste all from Peru.
  • Vegetarian and free Gluten menu at no extra cost (Please let us know at the time of booking)
  • Two person tents (3-people capacity tent used as doubles – Kayla Doite) 4 season tent Aluminium poles Tents
  • Horses and Horseman to carry all our Camping equipment as well as to carry your personal Stuff
  • Porter Service. As detailed in the table authorised by the INC. (To carry our camping equipment and food) We Never overload our porters. Please, see a detailed page where you can see how we threat our porter Chaskis: And dont be fooled by some agencies who are offering free portering service of 12kg. thats why many of our brother porters are forced to carry.
  • SALKANTAY AND INCA TRAIL PERMITS AND ADMISION TICKETS/Inca Trail and Machupicchu Permits & entrance fees as well as all the porters and cooks valid for 6 days as well as insurance policy of life for all our staff.
  • Visit to Machu Picchu on the 6th day (2 hours guide tour to explore the whole incan site)
  • Camping equipment and basic field equipment for our porters as well as adecuate clothing like: (Sleeping bag, Mat, Jacket, T-shirt, pant, rain poncho, shoes, hat, belts, proper backpack to carry the equipment and all of them are limited to carry 20kg only).
  • Private Transportation from the train station of Ollantaytambo to Cusco(2 hours drive) and drop off at the hotel.(we only use our Private Transportation. so you will never wait at the train station till the bus of 30 ppl gets full)
  • First-aid kit (Our Guide will carry while on the Inca Trail) Please, note all our Guides are trained every year in first-aid)
  • Emergency oxygen bottle (Our guide will carry while on the Inca Trail)
  • Rain waterproof cover for your day backpacks
  • Pre trek Orientation – briefing (Hotel or Office) Let us know once you are at the office or by email.
  • Single Tents upon request with no extra cost.
  • Water for Driking: we will supply with filtered and boiled water and your bottles will be filled at each meal time.
  • Free “I survived ” T-shirt and certificate (only for PEOPLE who successfully complete the trek!!!)

6 day Salkantay and Classic Inca Trail trek Doesnt Include: (Please, No hidden costs or surprises)

  • Breakfast – Day 1
  • Lunch and dinner – Day 6
  • Tips (optional)
  • Travel and health insurance.(bring copies with you please):Quechuas Expeditions highly recommend to get an insurance of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance.

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DISCOUNTS (to apply discounts. Please send us an email at info@quechuasexpeditions.com)

 

  • UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD (Students must be below 25 years) : US$30. Please send us a a scanned copy of the student card at the time of booking.
  • Under 17 years old: US$30 Please send us a copy of passport at the time of booking.
  • Under 12 years old: US$30  Please send us a copy of passport at the time of booking.
  • Group of 5 or more: US$20 per person. All you need is to book the trek together at the same time.

UPGRADES:

  • Huaynapicchu Mountain (Based on Availability): US$90 Based on Availability (Let us at the time of booking)
  • MachuPicchu Mountain (Based on Availability): US$90 Based on Availability (Let us at the time of booking)
  • Upgrade to Vistadome Train (First Class Train) (Includes Private Transportation From Ollantaytambo to Cusco) USUS$70
  • Extra Night in Aguas Calientes US$30 per person (Twin Bed room, 3 Beds room & 4 Beds Room with Private shower & Bathroom)
  • A night in Cusco at our Quechuas Guesthouse: from US$20 per person / Twin Bed room (Before we do the tour/trek or after the tour/trek)

RENTALS

  • Goose Down sleeping bag (Mummy style): US$30 for the entire trip
  • (Black Dimond) Walking Poles Rubber Tips Included: US$20 for the entire trip
  • Day Pack 20 – 30 liters (Rain cover included): US$15 for the entire trip

ADITIONAL INFO:

 

  • BRIEFING for all our treks is a Night before we do the trek at 6:30pm in our office, But if you want us to come to your Hotel let us know in advance.(You will get a chance to meet you guide and as well as to give you your duffel bags)
  • STORAGE Most Hotels have storage where you can leave the rest of your stuff while you hike to Machupicchu, But if they dont have a place you can leave your stuff in our storage with no extra cost. (Let us know at the time of briefing)

We need at least 02 of you and Leave any day you suit. All Departures 100% Guaranteed If You’re Booked, You are Going !!! To Confirm and Secure the Inca Trail Permits. Send us the filled out booking form as well as a deposit of 30% and you are ready to go…6

6 Day Salkantay Trek & Classic Inca Trail to Machupicchu (Prices for 2025)

Availability (Based On Availability): Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We wont Cancel your Trip !!!

How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information as well as a Deposit of 30% and the Final Balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.

Group Service: Price per person: US$1350

(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities): From 04 Persons to 08 Persons (Maximum)

Private Service: Price per person: Upon Request

(PRIVATE SERVICE) Prices are based on Number of people/ We will leave with Minimum of 02 ppl
This Service Includes: First Class Vistadome Train Back, Private bus back from Ollantaytambo to Cusco, Walking Poles, Bus & Down to Machu Picchu as well as a 3 stars Hotel

01 Person Group / US$2600 per person
02 People Group / US$1650 per person
03 People Group / US$1600 per person
04 People Group / US$1550 per person
05 People Group / US$1500 per person
06 People Group / US$1450 per person
07 – or More People Group / US$1400 per person

If you are a group of 02 we depart (Group size Upon Request). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in Cusco.

Recommended for Honeymooners, Families with children & Groups of Friends (02 Persons Minimum)

If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as GROUP SERVICE). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in cusco.5

What you need to bring on Salkantay and Classic Inca Trail Salkantay Trek:

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

List of things you must bring:

  • Original Passport (and some copies) If you have changed your passport Bring a couple of copies of the one that you have used to purchase the inca trail permit.
  • Travel insurance  is essential (and some copies)
  • Airline tickets (and some copies)
  • US$ cash and Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
  • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
  • Camera and Memory cards
  • Rechargeable batteries and adapters
  • Reading/writing material
  • Binoculars
  • Cover for backpacks
  • Pocketknife.
  • Fleece top
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket
  • Small towel and swim wear
  • Shirts/t-shirts
  • Sun hat
  • 2 pairs of shorts
  • 2 pairs of long trousers *zipp off
  • 1 pair hiking pants/track pants
  • Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes (with ankle protectors)
  • Knee-length socks (to be used with rubber boots, if provided at the jungle lodge)
  • Sport hiking sandals
  • Sun block
  • Sunglasses
  • Toiletries (biodegradable)
  • Watch or alarm clock
  • Water bottle
  • Purifying tablets or filter (Micropur recommeded)
  • Insect Repellent (for mosquitos)25 % of deet at least you can also by in cusco.
  • Flashlight (head light recommended)
  • Money belt
  • Sleeping silk liner (for sleeping bags)
  • Wool hat, mitts or gloves (preferably waterproof)
  • Rain poncho, plastic bags for your personal stuff to keep dry
  • Sleeping bag (it can be hired form us) we have goose down or syntetic sleeping bag
  • Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
  • Thermal underwear
  • Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhoea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)

FAQs covering both the Salkantay and Classic Inca Trail 6-day trek

What is the Salkantay and Classic Inca Trail 6-day trek?
It’s a 6-day trekking itinerary that combines the scenic Salkantay route with the historic Inca Trail, culminating in a visit to Machu Picchu.

What makes this combined trek different from the standard Inca Trail?
It includes the stunning Salkantay Pass and the lesser-known Inca Chiriasqa Pass, offering both rugged mountain scenery and archaeological sites.

What is the Inca Chiriasqa (Frozen Inka) Pass?
It’s a high-altitude mountain pass (around 5,100 m / 16,732 ft) known for its cold temperatures and spectacular panoramic views.

How difficult is the Salkantay and Inca Trail combination trek?
It’s considered challenging due to high altitudes, long days of hiking, and varied terrain.

Do I need a permit for this trek?
Yes, especially for the Inca Trail portion, which has limited permits regulated by the Peruvian government.

What are the main highlights along this route?
Salkantay Pass, Humantay Lake, Inca Chiriasqa Pass, Llactapata ruins, Wiñay Wayna, and Machu Picchu.

How many kilometers is the trek in total?
Approximately 70–75 km (43–47 miles) over 6 days.

What is the highest point on the trek?
Inca Chiriasqa Pass at roughly 5,100 m (16,732 ft).

Does the trek include a visit to Humantay Lake?
Yes, most itineraries include a side hike to Humantay Lake on Day 1 or Day 2.

Will we be walking on the original Inca Trail?
Yes, you join the original Classic Inca Trail after the Salkantay portion.

What is the weather like on this trek?
It varies: cold and windy at high altitudes like Chiriasqa Pass, and warm and humid near Machu Picchu.

When is the best time to do this trek?
Dry season (May to September) offers the most stable weather.

Is altitude sickness a risk?
Yes. Proper acclimatization is essential, especially before attempting high passes like Salkantay and Chiriasqa.

How cold does it get at Inca Chiriasqa Pass?
Temperatures can drop to -10°C (14°F) or lower at night.

What should I do to acclimate properly?
Spend at least 2–3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek.

Where do we sleep during the trek?
You’ll sleep in tents at designated campsites, sometimes near mountain lakes or Inca ruins.

Are there toilets and showers?
Basic facilities are available at some campsites. Portable toilets are often carried by trek staff.

Is it possible to stay in lodges?
Most combined treks are camping-based, but some premium options may include lodge stays early on.

Are sleeping bags and mats included?
Many tour operators rent or include them; check in advance.

Will I be cold at night?
Yes, especially at higher elevations. Bring or rent a -10°C rated sleeping bag.

What kind of food is provided?
Nutritious, local meals prepared fresh by a trek chef—usually soups, rice, veggies, meats, and tea.

Is water safe to drink?
Water is boiled and filtered before being given to trekkers.

Can I bring my own snacks?
Yes. Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit are recommended.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, most operators can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.—but notify them early.

Do I need a guide for this trek?
Yes. The Inca Trail requires a licensed guide and is only accessible with authorized tour operators.

Are porters or horses included?
Horses are used on the Salkantay section; porters take over for the Inca Trail segment.

How much weight can I give to the porters or horses?
Typically 5–7 kg (11–15 lbs) per person, depending on the company.

Can I hike with just a daypack?
Yes, if you use the porter/horse service.Does the trek end at Machu Picchu?
Yes, you enter through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and explore the ruins on Day 6.

How do I return to Cusco after Machu Picchu?
Most tours include a train to Ollantaytambo and then a bus to Cusco.

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