Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days

Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu 5 Days

Explore the Salkantay Trek and Short Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu

Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days

The Salkantay Trek is named for Mount Salkantay (6,271 m / 20,574 feet). This Sacred Mountain is higher than any mountain in North America. On this  trek you will see gorgeous blue lakes, stunning glaciers, cloud forest with green vegetation and many archeological ruins. This trek is a great blend of the two very popular hikes, with an incomparable variety of flora and fauna.

So, anyone who knows anything about Peru knows about the Inca Trail, and with good reason. It is an amazing way to get to Machu Picchu, while making the most of what this ancient path has to offer: fascinating Inca ruins, cloud forests, subtropical jungle, not to mention the amazing llamas and alpacas you will meet on the way and the local flora you will marvel at.

This is a very unique version of the Classic Salkantay Trek and short Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu. The first two days follow one of the common Salkantay trails, but on the 3rd day we depart the Salkantay trails to enjoy  the first day  section of the Classic Inca Trail, and the 4th day is the hiking of the Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu.

Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days

Trip Highlights

  • Discover a new path that is little traveled, and full of beautiful landscapes, magnificent snow mountains, turquoise lakes, waterfalls and cloud forests that hide Inca citadels.
  • Explore in a single tour the three best treks to Machu Picchu (salkantay trek, classic inca trail, short inca trail)
  • Visit the network of roads of the Incas, and during the journey you will connect to the first section of the classic Inca trail, you can also contemplate this incredible marvel of the construction of more than 600 years, even in full use.
  • Experience a walk through the wild mountains of Cusco, only traveled by the mountain muleteers, who will share their customs and cultural traditions.
  • Understand in depth about the culture, astronomy, and history of the Incas, with the best local guides.
  • Delight your palate with the best typical dishes of PERU prepared by our chefs.
  • Feel the harmony and energetic force of our mountains, which will leave you without stress or worry, just disconnect from the noise of the cities.

Inclusions of this tour

INCLUDED
PACKING LIST
FAQ
ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days
Day 1

SALKANTAY TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL: CUSCO – SORAYPAMPA – ICHUPATA

Challenging/Tough
4300 m
12 km
8 hrs

We will pick you up from your hotel early in the morning and have a beautiful scenic drive of 3 hours duration to Mollepata. At Mollepata we will have breakfast at one of the local houses. During this portion of the drive we will have our first views of the magnificent Salkantay and Humantay Mountains, as well as observe lush vegetation and the fields of local families growing potatoes, quinua, lima beans, etc.

At this point we will arrive at Soraypampa (3,800 m/12,467 ft), the trailhead for the Salkantay trek, and meet our support staff, who will pack everything for the trek and load the equipment onto horses. The first thing we will do is hike up to the magnificent Humantay Lake. After enjoying the beauty and taking pictures, we will hike back down to Soraypampa and “officially” begin the trek.

The hike today is uphill from Soraypampa to Ichupata (4,300 m / 14,104 ft) in the upper valley. This is a 5 to 6 hour hike. Along the way we will pass Salkantaypampa, which is our lunch spot. Ichupata is our camp for the night. When we arrive, we will settle in, have happy hour and a hearty dinner.

Accommodation: Confortable Camping Tents

Included Activities:

  • Salkantay Trek – Challacancha trail to Soraypampa, Photo stop viewpoint
  • Salkantay Trek – Humantay lake, Photo stop viewpoint

Meals Included:

  • Lunch, Dinner
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days | Inca Trail Expeditions
Day 2

SALKANTAY TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL: ICHUPATA – INCACHIRIASCA – PAMPACAHUANA

Challenging/Tough
4850 m
14 km
8 hrs

After a savory breakfast, we will begin the 3 to 4 hour steep climb to towards the Incachiriasca pass (4850m/15908ft), the highest of the entire route. We will have amazing views of Apu Salkantay and glacial moraines during this portion. We will pause at the top of the pass to take pictures and enjoy the magnificent view.

We will then descend towards our lunch spot at Sisaypampa, a flat area from which one can observe the neighboring Salkantay Valleys. This is a place where we might see Andean condors.

After lunch we continue towards the Pampacahuana community (3,700 m / 12,136 ft), located next to an original Inca canal. This is our camp for the night.

Accommodation: Confortable Camping tents

Included Activities:

  • Salkantay Trek – Inca Chiriaska Pass, Photo stop viewpoint
  • Salkantay Trek – Pampacahuana Valley, Photo stop viewpoint

Meals Included:

  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days | Inca Trail Expeditions
Day 3

SALKANTAY TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL: PAMPACAHUANA – PAUCARCANCHA – HUAYLLABAMBA

Challenging/Tough
3700 m
16 km
8 hrs

We begin by hiking downhill for 2 hours from Pampacahuana to Paucarcancha (3133 m / 10,276 ft)). We will visit the Inca site of the same name.

After to explore we will hike downhill for 3 hours until we reach Huayllabamba village, there we will have our lunch. Afterwards, we will descend to the Urubamba River, following the first section of the Inca Trail, this day we will be able to appreciate the archaeological complex of Patallacta, which is famous for its semicircular constructions, and near there is another Inca compound named Willcaraqay. At dusk we will arrive at Km 82, where we will spend the night.

Accommodation: Comfortable Inca trail camping tents

Included Activities:

  • Inca Trail Hike – The sacred river of Vilcanota, Viewpoint photo stop
  • Inca Trail Hike – K’anabamba, Archeological Site
  • Inca Trail Hike – Patallaqta & Huillcarakay  Archeological Site
  • Inca Trail Hike – Valley of Tarayoc, Viewpoint photo stop
  • Inca Trail Hike – Huayllabamba farmlands

Meals Included:  Lunch, Dinner

Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days | Inca Trail Expeditions
Day 4

SALKANTAY TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL: OLLANTAYTAMBO  – WIÑAYHUAYNA – SUN GATE – MACHU PICCHU

Leisurely/Moderate
2700 m
12 km
10 hrs

Early in the morning we go to the train station. One hour free flowing train ride to 104 kms (2,100m/6,927ft) will take us to the beginning our trek, where we cruise past the first checkpoint with easy. Afterwards we initiate a moderate climb for three hours to the chiselled remnants and remote archaeological site of Wiñayhuayna . (2,650m/8747ft). As we view out with an open mind and heart, we embrace the spectacular plunging views of the Urubamba Canyon, and the ethnic wonder of ancient Inca sites, we make our connection into the traditional four day Inca Trail. After being at one with this beautiful sight, we continue onward towards the Sun Gate (2,730mts/9,007ft). Following the ancient remote footpath we grasp onto our first spectacular view of Machu Picchu in all its brilliance and majestic monumentality. As we move closer to the Citadel of Machu Picchu, you will feel the reasoning of her energetic vibration. Then we take our bus to Aguas Calientes, where we spend the night in our hotel.

Accommodation: Hotel in machu picchu pueblo (1 night)

Included Activities:

  • 2 Day Inca Trail Hike – The sacred river of Vilcanota, Viewpoint photo stop
  • 2 Day Inca Trail Hike – Chachabamba, Archeological Site
  • 2 Day Inca Trail Hike  – Wiñaywayna,  Archeological Site
  • 2 Day Inca Trail Hike – Inca Sun Gate, Viewpoint photo stop

Meals Included:  Lunch, Dinner

Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days | Inca Trail Expeditions
Day 5

SALKANTAY TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL: VISIT OF MACHU PICCHU –  BACK TO CUSCO

Leisurely/Moderate
2400 m
6 km
6 hrs

This day the tour in Machu Picchu will take place early in the morning, after getting ready at the hotel, we will take the bus at 5:30 am. After a trip along the road surrounded by vegetation and impressive views of the Putukusi mountain, we will arrive at the access point for the sacred sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
First, before passing the control, those who wish to use the toilets will be able to do so. Since there are no bathrooms inside Machu Picchu, if you are going to go outside once inside, unfortunately you will not be able to re-enter.
Our visit to the wonder of Machu Picchu will be through circuit number 2, since it is one of the most complete. On this tour you will be able to go up to the famous guardian’s house from where the postcard photo of Machu Picchu will be taken, then you will pass through the main gate, the ceremonial plaza, the Inca’s house, the ceremonial fountains, you will see the temple of the sun, but not up close; You can also access the pyramid where the sundial is located.
Continuing with the circuit you will arrive at the sector of the sacred rock, and finally you will visit the urban area where the royal houses of the Inca nobles were, and also the room of mirrors. After 3 hours of travel we will retire with our guide, and once outside you can have a drink or food. Because inside the complex is prohibited.
Then you can take the bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you will have enough time to have your lunch. At 2:30 p.m. it will be the time of the return train to the Ollantaytambo station, where your return transportation to Cusco awaits you, arriving at approximately 7:00 p.m.

  • Included Activities:
  • 2 Day Inca Trail Hike – Guard House, Viewpoint photo stop
  • 2 Day Inca Trail Hike – Agriculture Terraces in Machu Picchu, Archeological Site
  • 2 Day Inca Trail Hike  – Royal Houses in Machu Picchu,  Archeological Site
  • 2 Day Inca Trail Hike – Great Temple of Machu Picchu, Archeological site
  • 2 Day Inca Trail Hike – Temple of the 3 Windows, Archeological site
  • 2 Day Inca Trail Hike – Temple of the Sun, Archeological site
  • 2 Day Inca Trail Hike – Temple of the Condor, Archeological site
  • 2 Day Inca Trail Hike – Temple of the Sacred Rock, Archeological site
  • 2 Day Inca Trail Hike – Sacred water fountains, Archeological site
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days | Inca Trail Expeditions

Best season to travel

The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, between May and November, when the weather is dry and bright, with more frequent rainfall occurring between November and April.

JANUARY Warm - Heavy Rain
FEBUARY Warm - Heavy Rain
MARCH Warm - Heavy Rain
APRIL Warm - Light Rain
MAY Hot
JUNE Hot
JULY Hot
AUGUST Hot
SEPTEMBER Hot - Warm
OCTOBER Hot - Warm
NOVEMBER Warm - Light Rain
DECEMBER Warm - Heavy Rain

Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu 5 Days

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What to Bring for this tour

Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Warm jackets
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Hydration bladder
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Wool socks
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Camera
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Scarf
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days First aid kit
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Hiking shoes
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Dry bags
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Trekking Poles
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Sun cream
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Snack
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Sun hat
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Bathing suite
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Rain coat
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Sandals
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Insect repellent
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Passport
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Down Jackets
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Toilet paper
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Daypack
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Wool cap
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Head lamp
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Gloves
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Sun glasses
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Cap
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Extra cash
Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike  to Machu Picchu 5 Days Trekking pants

Essential Trip Information

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