Salkantay - Inca Trail 7D

Highlight of the day: Have a majestic view of the towering Salkantay mountain.

On this second day, after a nutritious breakfast, we will start hiking towards Salkantaypampa. This hike section presents somewhat steep and challenging terrain due to the altitude, so hydration is important to prevent altitude sickness and not feel thirsty. Once the steep section is overcome, the trail becomes flatter and will reward you with incredible views of the snow-capped peaks of the Andes.

We will continue our journey to Ichupata, and have lunch there while observing the wonderful natural views and the majestic Salkantay mountain and surroundings. As you progress along this way, you will be surrounded by picturesque Andean landscapes up to get to Pampa Japonesa, where we will overnight.

Pampa Japonesa is an ideal spot for relaxing and resting after a long hiking day. Here, you will witness the most outstanding panoramic views of the Mollepata Valley, the Apurímac River, and some glacial lakes decorating the trail. Furthermore, you will enjoy exquisite food prepared by our expert cooks while observing a spectacular starry sky.

• Hiking distance: 9 km/5.59 miles.
• Starting altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft.
• Highest altitude: 4,600 m / 15,091 ft.
• Difficulty: Challenging.
• Hiking time: Approximately 7 hours.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Campsite: Pampa Japonesa.

Highlight of the day: Contemplate the huge glaciers and snow-capped peaks standing out in the Vilcabamba Mountain Range.

Start the day with a hearty breakfast and the essential coca tea, as we will face the highest point of the whole hike. We will ascend gradually for approximately 2 hours until we reach the Incachiriaska Pass, located at 5,200 m / 17,060 ft. During this stretch, you will be surrounded by majestic glaciers, the perfect complement to make this adventure unforgettable.

Once at the mountain pass, you will have an impressive view of beautiful valleys and crystal-clear lakes at the bottom. If we are lucky, we might see the majestic soaring of the Andean Condor and take a brief walk close to these glaciers and mountains.

After approximately 1 hour of hiking, we will reach Yanacaca, the place where our chefs will be waiting with a revitalizing diverse lunch. Here, you can relax before continuing hiking. In the afternoon, we will descend to Pampacahuana, crossing beautiful Andean valleys, ideal places to rest and enjoy the views. We will continue the hike, which will last an average of 3 hours, this time on a section of the Inca Trail, which will take us through different Inca sites in the area until we reach the Inca aqueduct.

After learning a bit more about its history, we will continue the hike until reaching Paucarcancha, where we will enjoy a delicious dinner and spend the night to recover energies the next day.

• Hiking distance: 12 km/7.45 miles.
• Starting altitude: 4,600 m / 15,091 ft.
• Highest altitude: 5,200 m / 17,060 ft.
• Difficulty: Formidable.
• Hiking time: Approximately 6 hours.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Campsite: Paucarcancha.

Highlight of the day: Experience a climate change from the cold highlands to an inter-Andean valley as you traverse the Inca Trail.

The fourth day of this trek begins taking a delicious breakfast. You will have the opportunity to observe some villages and communities and feel the peace that the place transmits. Shortly after, we will start the hike towards the archaeological site of Paucarcancha, where you can explore its history and the advanced architecture of the time.

Your guide will also show you the change in flora as you approach the Inca Trail Pass, where the climate becomes warmer and the vegetation is lush. After a 45-minute hike, we will finally reach Wayllabamba, where a revitalizing lunch awaits us. Here, we will have a brief rest to recharge our energy before starting the ascent to our camp.

After 2 hours of hiking through a dense intermountain valley, we will reach our camp in Ayapata. If we arrive during daylight, we can visit the archaeological site of “Tres Piedras” (Three Stones) near the camp. In the evening, you will enjoy dinner before resting. A well-deserved rest awaits you.

• Hiking distance: 14 km / 8.70 miles.
• Starting altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft.
• Highest altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft.
• Difficulty: Moderate.
• Hiking time: Approximately 7 hours.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Campsite: Ayapata.

Highlight of the Day: Enjoy a magical view of the glacial landscape from the Warmiwañusca pass.

On the 5th day of the Salkantay & Inca Trail, we will face the most challenging part of the Inca Trail. After breakfast, we will embark on a 3-hour ascent towards the Warmiwañusca pass (4,215 m / 13,929 ft), where we will test our physical and mental endurance before reaching the highest point on the Inca Trail. At this point, our guide will involve you in an Andean ceremony, giving thanks to Pachamama and the Apus (the protective deities of the Incas).

Afterward, we will descend for about 2 hours on a stone path until we reach Pacaymayu, where we will enjoy lunch. During this part of the trail, you will see native flowers, wild orchids, and the magical flight of hummingbirds (considered as signs of good luck).

After lunch, we will ascend for approximately 45 minutes to the archaeological site of Runkurakay, which, according to most experts, was used as a lookout to watch over the valley that lies ahead. Then, we will continue for another 45 minutes until we reach the Runkuraqay pass, situated at 3,950 m / 12,959 ft.

Here, our guide will give a brief talk while allowing our legs to rest before starting a 30-minute descent to Yanacocha, a place where the Incas worshipped water. As we move towards the cloud forest and approach the archaeological site of Sayacmarca, you will be amazed by the architectural work of the Incas.

After visiting this Inca site, we will continue for another 30 minutes until we reach our campsite at Chaquicocha, where you can appreciate the diversity of local flora and fauna. Finally, you will have dinner and rest to recharge for the next day.

• Hiking distance: 16 km/9.94 miles.
• Starting altitude: 3,300 m / 10,826 ft.
• Highest altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft.
• Difficulty: Formidable.
• Hiking time: Approximately 9 hours.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Campsite: Chaquicocha.

Highlight of the Day: Visit the most beautiful Inca site on the Inca Trail: Wiñay Wayna. 

We will have a much lighter hike, starting with a delicious breakfast. You will enjoy a hike of only five hours and have the opportunity to explore three impressive archaeological sites along the way.

The first Inca site we will visit is Phuyupatamarca, also known as the “Town above the Clouds,” a sacred place for their astronomical observations or stargizing. Then, we will descend over three thousand stone steps for 2.5 hours until we reach Inpata (2,800 m / 9,186 ft), an agricultural production area.

Finally, we will arrive at our lunch and campsite at Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft). After replenishing your energy, you will have the afternoon free to relax and take a well-deserved shower if you wish.

To end this day, you will enjoy a happy hour with hot drinks and delight in the last dinner with our team of porters and cooks.

• Hiking distance: 10 km/6.21 miles.
• Starting altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft.
• Highest altitude: 3,680 m / 12,073 ft.
• Difficulty: Easy.
• Hiking time: Approximately 5 hours.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Campsite: Wiñay Wayna.

Highlight of the day: Explore the world wonder, Machu Picchu, in all its splendor.

Today, we will start very early, beginning a hike of approximately 2 hours to the Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Before departure, you will enjoy a quick breakfast.

We will head to the checkpoint at Wiñay Wayna to be among the first to see the wonderful sunrise at Machu Picchu. Starting at 5:30 a.m., the gates open to begin the hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). From this point, we will have a panoramic view of the wonderful Inca citadel.

After an average of 1 hour of hiking, you will arrive at the Sun Gate, where you will have the first view of the archaeological jewel of Machu Picchu, majestically rising between the mountains.

The final stretch of the hike will be approximately 1 hour descending. The first light of day will highlight the beauty of the place in such a way that you will be amazed and take away unforgettable memories.

Once inside this world wonder, the guide will give a tour for approximately two hours through the most notable places of Machu Picchu, including the sector of the Qolqas (storehouses), the agricultural sector, the set of three gates, the Temple of the Sun, and the house of the Inca.

After exploring Machu Picchu, we will descend by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes to enjoy lunch. Here, you will also receive train tickets to return to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transport will be waiting to take you to your respective hotel in the city of Cusco, concluding our Salkantay & Inca Trail adventure.

NOTE: At the end of your guided tour, if you have purchased the ticket to climb Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, or Machu Picchu mountain, you will have sufficient time to undertake these hikes. These extra routes in Machu Picchu are optional activities, have an extra cost, and must be reserved in advance due to limited space.

• Hiking distance: 5 km / 3.11 miles.
• Starting altitude: 2,680 m / 8,792 ft.
• Highest altitude: 2,730 m / 8,956 ft.
• Difficulty: Easy.
• Hiking time: Approximately 3 hours.
• Meals: Breakfast.

The Inca Trail is an exceptionally preserved section of the extensive network of Inca roads called “Qhapac Ñan.” This ancient road system extends over 30,000 km / 18,641 mi in South America and formerly connected the main towns or llactas of the Inca Empire, Tahuantinsuyo.

Marvel at its elaborate architecture, comprising a series of impressive stone structures, bridges, and tunnels that blend with the imposing Andean landscape and traverse significant Inca sites. It’s interesting how the Incas built roads and architecture on unthinkable places like cliffs and others.

The Salkantay Inca Trail is an adventure with breathtaking landscapes, such as mountains, snowy peaks, glacial lakes, forests, puna grasslands, and Machu Picchu on the last day. It is a challenging and rewarding hike, reaching altitudes of up to 5,200 m.a.s.l., which is part of how challenging is this hike. Also, visit Inca archaeological sites, and enjoy delicious food in cozy tents before getting to Machu Picchu Archaeological Site.

The highest altitude reached on the Salkantay Inca Trail is 5,200 m / 17,060 ft at Incachiriaska Pass on the third day of the trek.

Once you get to this point, you will glimpse all the valleys, rivers, ravines, and mountains in the background. Also, you will reach some of the highest points of any trek that tourists can reach traveling to Cusco.

The Salkantay Inca Trail presents various levels of challenge. Throughout the hike, you will experience different altitudes and weather conditions. In general, it is considered a trek ranging from challenging to formidable.

• Day 1: Challenging, with a hiking time of 6 hours involving steep climbs and uneven terrain.
• Day 2: The most challenging, with a significant ascent and a hike lasting 7 hours.
• Day 3: Formidable, as you will ascend to the highest point of the trek, the Incachiriaska pass. Estimated hiking time is 6 hours.
• Day 4: Moderate difficulty, with descent through uneven terrain and stone steps, lasting approximately 7 hours.
• Day 5: Formidable, as it is another demanding day. Ascend to the Warmiwañusca pass, the highest point of the Inca Trail, with 9 hours of hiking.
• Day 6: Easy, as the entire route descends to the last campsite at Wiñay Wayna.
• Day 7: Also easy, with an estimated hiking time of 2 hours to reach the world wonder, Machu Picchu.

To undertake the Salkantay Inca Trail, an optimal physical condition, endurance, and strength are required to beat the daily hikes with steep ascents and descents.

Pre-hike training is recommended, including regular walks, cardiovascular exercises, and muscle strengthening, to prepare the body for the physical challenge of the Salkantay Inca Trail. It is also important to consult a doctor before taking part in this hike to ensure any medical conditions that could affect health during the journey.

The Salkantay Inca Trail hike begins in Challacancha, and throughout this unforgettable journey, you will have the opportunity to hike spectacular mountains culminating in Machu Picchu.

Booking the 7-day Salkantay Inca Trail with Waman Adventures, your adventure will start and end directly at your hotel in Cusco.

To hike the Salkantay and Inca Trail, you must book a permit through a travel agency authorized to operate the Inca Trail, such as Waman Adventures. However, you should check availability by contacting our sales agents, who will gladly provide available, information and alternate dates.

If you want to get entry tickets for the Inca Trail, you have to book and get them through an authorized travel agency like Waman Adventures.

Contact our sales agents to check the availability of your ideal date.

If the desired date is available, we recommend making the payment as soon as possible to secure your spot. Obtaining permits on your own is impossible, as the Inca Trail needs a guide, chef, and porters.

We recommend making your reservation as soon as possible. The Inca Trail is a famous demanded route, with only 500 daily spaces available (200 for hikers and 300 for porters).

Therefore, we suggest booking well in advance, 6 to 7 months before your travel date.

Every year, in early October, the reservation system for the Inca Trail opens for the following year. As such, spaces for some dates can quickly sell out in a matter of minutes.

Before making a deposit, it is essential to contact our sales agents to verify the availability of the Inca Trail on your preferred travel date.

After confirming the availability for the Inca Trail on your requested date, a deposit of 40% of the total trek amount is mandatory to secure your trip. These deposits can be made via credit or debit card, bank transfer, Western Union, and PayPal.

Once the payment is complete, we’ll confirm you via email to the address provided during the booking process.

The remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, either in US dollars or Peruvian soles, preferably in cash. Once your reservation for the Inca Trail is confirmed, we will provide you with the necessary details to make the corresponding deposit for your trip. Please note that this deposit is NON-REFUNDABLE AND NON-TRANSFERABLE, as it is used to purchase the permit for the Inca Trail and secure the space. Once obtained, no changes to the reservation (dates, names, details, etc.) are allowed.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to make any changes once the permits or entry tickets have been purchased due to government restrictions, and these are non-transferable and non-refundable. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure the correct dates are selected when booking. Upon receiving your form and deposit, we acquire the permits immediately, as spaces are limited in many cases.

It is important to note that once the deposit for the Salkantay Inca Trail is complete, this amount is non-refundable and non-transferable. We use your deposit to buy your own entries for the trek and secure your space on the requested date.

Unfortunately, Inca Trail permits are non-transferable and non-refundable under any circumstances.

It is crucial to acclimate in Cusco for at least 2 days before starting the Inca Trail. Therefore, we recommend the following tours:

• Cusco City Tour: Explore the city of Cusco with an afternoon guided tour.
• Sacred Valley + Chinchero Tour: Discover impressive archaeological sites and ancestral techniques.
• South Valley Tour: Explore the southern route of Cusco while acclimating to the altitude of the Andes.

If the Salkantay Inca Trail is not available for your desired dates, our sales agents will contact you to offer other treks or alternative dates. You can choose from the following treks:

• Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu
• Lares Trek Tour to Machu Picchu 4 Days
• Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days
• Inca Jungle 4 Days 3 Nights

Note: Make sure to check the availability of the Inca Trail with our sales advisors before making any payment. Paying without consulting us first does not guarantee a permit for the Inca Trail. You must wait for confirmation from our team, indicating that we have successfully obtained the permit. This process usually takes up to 24 hours, and if it is a weekend, confirmation may be sent by Monday at the latest.

The best season to hike the 7-day Salkantay Inca Trail is during the dry season, from April to October. During these months, the weather conditions are more stable, with less chance of rain and milder temperatures. This provides a more favorable environment to enjoy the hike and panoramic views.

However, it is important to consider that from June to August, which corresponds to the high season, demand is higher, and reservations are made further in advance.

Considering that the Salkantay Inca Trail has a difficulty level ranging from challenging to formidable, mostly formidable, we only accept reservations from individuals between 15 and 60 years, provided that parents take full responsibility for minors during the hike.

• Minors under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.
• For passengers aged 55, it is essential to be in optimal physical condition.
• Complying with medical recommendations is crucial, even if it means canceling plans.
• Those aged 55 or older are advised to arrive in Cusco at least 3 days prior to acclimate. We highly recommend having insurance.

To ensure optimal adaptation to the altitude and minimize symptoms of altitude sickness (soroche), we advise spending at least two days in the city of Cusco or the Sacred Valley of the Incas before starting your adventure on the Inca Trail. This additional period will allow you gradually acclimate to the mountainous elevation of the gorgeous Andes.

You may experience altitude sickness upon arriving in Cusco if you are not familiar with altitudes over 3,000 m / 9,842 ft. This often manifests with symptoms such as headache, shortness of breath, and nausea. While it is not a big concern, it is essential to be aware of these signs to ensure they do not impact your experience on the Salkantay Inca Trail.

To counteract this discomfort, here are some tips:

• Stay well hydrated.
• Avoid alcohol consumption before and after arrival; wait to adapt.
• Limit red meat consumption in the first few days.
• Opt for light fruits and soups in your initial diet.
• Coca tea is beneficial but avoid drinking it at night as it can cause insomnia, and do not consume large amounts during the day as it speeds up the heart rate.

At Waman Adventures, we consider your dietary preferences and offer a variety of meals on the Salkantay Inca Trail. If you are vegetarian, vegan, or have other dietary needs, you should inform us beforehand to ensure a personalized culinary experience.

The menu includes complete breakfasts with coffee, coca, hot chocolate, teas, eggs, fruits, quinoa, juices, and more.

• Lunches are diverse, with options of meat, chicken, fish, salads, soups, vegetables, and desserts.
• Dinners also vary, with salads, Andean pizza, chicken, pasta, pork, soups, and delicious desserts.
• At the end of the day, during “happy hour,” you can enjoy hot drinks, cookies, popcorn, and stuffed wantan. The agency personalizes your meals to maximize your travel enjoyment.

You can store suitcases and everything at the hotel luggage store.

If your hotel does not offer this option, we will store your luggage securely at our offices.

Yes, it is highly recommended to have trekking poles for the Salkantay Inca Trail. These poles provide additional support when walking on varied and steep terrain, cushioning your knees and offering better balance.

If you do not have trekking poles for the Inca Trail, you can rent them from us for an extra USD 15.00.

The briefing is crucial because it allows you to meet your guide, who will explain the detailed explanation, the clothing you should wear, the weather conditions you will face, and recommendations for the 7-day Salkantay and Inca Trail. Also, you will receive a duffle bag where you can pack everything you need for the 7 days on the trek.

If you haven’t paid the remaining balance for the trek, you can pay to your guide that day. 

On the Salkantay Inca Trail, a team of muleteers (for the first days) and porters (on the Inca Trail) will carry the camping equipment and supplies during the 7-day trek.

The personal luggage weight carried by our porter during the hike is limited to 5 kilograms (included in the tour price). This weight limit ensures that hikers can bring essentials without overburdening the porters who carry the camping equipment and supplies.

Note: If you have luggage exceeding the weight limit and do not wish to carry it yourself, you can hire an extra porter service. This option allows you to enjoy your trek more comfortably. The extra porter’s service is USD 80.00, who will carry a maximum of 7 kilograms.

We recommend bringing a medium-sized backpack for items you will need during the daily hikes.

Yes, even though 5 kg of your luggage will be carried by our muleteers and porters along the trek, we recommend bringing a medium-sized backpack to pack personal items such as snacks, toiletries, a rain poncho, and a water bottle readily available throughout the journey.

• Day 1: Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft) – No showers or restrooms; portable toilet provided.
• Day 2: Pampajaponesa (4,750 m / 15,584 ft) – No showers or restrooms; portable toilet provided.
• Day 3: Pucarcancha (3,120 m / 10,236 ft) – No showers or restrooms; portable toilet provided.
• Day 4: Ayapata (3,300 m / 10,827 ft) – No showers or restrooms; portable toilet provided.
• Day 5: Chaquicocha (3,600 m / 11,811 ft) – No showers or restrooms; portable toilet provided.
• Day 6: Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,924 ft) – Basic showers and restrooms available; portable toilet also provided.

During the Salkantay Inca Trail, it’s normal the inexistence of phone and internet signals due to the mountainous and forested geography. The trek’s purpose is to appreciate the natural surroundings, disconnect from city life, and return renewed.

If you want to enhance your train travel experience after the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, you can opt for the Vistadome train from Peru Rail for an additional cost of USD 50.00. Contact our sales agents for detailed information on this option.

Note: The main difference between the Vistadome train and the Expedition train is the type of service and comfort. The Vistadome offers a more comprehensive service, greater comfort, complimentary snacks, live dance shows, and a fashion show featuring baby alpaca garments.