Salkantay Trek With Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 7 Days
A Journey Through Sacred Mountains and Ancient Inca Paths
The Salkantay Trek with Classic Inca Trail is one of the most complete and unforgettable adventures to Machu Picchu. This unique 7-day experience combines the breathtaking high-altitude landscapes of the Salkantay trek Peru with the legendary history of the Inca Trail Classic, creating the perfect journey for hikers who want both challenge and culture.
During the first part of the Salkantay and Inca Trail trek, you will cross majestic glaciers, cloud forests, and diverse ecosystems filled with flora and fauna. The Salkantay route is famous for being the best alternative trek to the Inca Trail, offering impressive views and an authentic connection with nature.
Our 7-day Salkantay With Classic Inca Trail trek is a sacred mountain adventure, offering some of the most stunning views in Peru. It’s one of the most challenging alternative routes to Machu Picchu, due to its high elevation — but every step is worth it!
Unlike the 5-day Salkantay Trek, this itinerary connects with the full 4-day Classic Inca Trail, giving you the best of both worlds: dramatic Salkantay landscapes and remarkable archaeological sites on the Inca Trail.
Salkantay Trek Peru: Adventure Through the Andes
The first part of the Salkantay and Inca Trail trek takes you through glaciers, cloud forests, and diverse microclimates. The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is famous as the best alternative when Inca Trail permits are sold out, giving travelers the chance to enjoy dramatic mountain views and unique biodiversity.
Classic Inca Trail Experience
The second part of the Salkantay Trek with Classic Inca Trail follows original Inca stone paths for 4 days. Along the way, hikers explore sacred ruins, breathtaking valleys, and finally enter Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate — the same path used by the Incas centuries ago.
Why Choose the Salkantay Trek with Classic Inca Trail?
- Unique combination of adventure and culture in one trek.
- Professional guides, cooks, and horsemen ensuring the best trekking experience.
- Designed by local experts with deep knowledge of the Andes.
- Focus on sustainable and responsible travel.
- Guaranteed departures so your trip is always confirmed.
The second part of the Salkantay Trek with Classic Inca Trail follows the original Inca stone paths for 4 days, passing through sacred archaeological sites until reaching Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate. This combination allows travelers to enjoy the adventure of the Salkantay mountains and the heritage of the Inca civilization in one incredible trek.
Operated by local experts who know the Andes like the palm of their hand, this trek includes professional guides, cooks, horsemen, and a focus on sustainable travel. With guaranteed departures and a carefully designed itinerary, the Salkantay Trek with Classic Inca Trail is truly one of the best and most complete trekking experiences in Peru.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon – Soraypampa
A high-energy day! Hike to Soraypampa for a scenic lunch. In the afternoon, ascend to the turquoise Humantay Lagoon. Overnight at our Soraypampa campsite surrounded by mountain views.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa – Ichupata or Japanese Pampa
We begin our trek through breathtaking highlands near the mighty Salkantay Mountain. Enjoy lunch mid-route and camp overnight at Ichupata.
Day 3: Ichupata – Inca Chiriasca Pass – Inca Canal – Pampa Cahuana
Reach the trek’s highest point at Inca Chiriasca Pass, then descend through the scenic valley to our campsite near Inca Canal.
Day 4: Canal Inca – Paucar Cancha – Wayllabamba
Trek an ancient trail and explore the Inca site of Paucar Cancha. After lunch, connect with the Classic Inca Trail and continue to camp at Wayllabamba or Ayapata.
Day 5: Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa – Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayo
Today is the most challenging day as we ascend to Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca) — the highest point of the Inca Trail. Descend to Pacaymayo campsite for a restful evening.
Day 6: Pacaymayo – Runkurakay Pass – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca – Intipata – Wiñay Wayna
Hike over the second-highest pass, visit Runkurakay and Sayacmarca, then explore Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñay Wayna — three fascinating Inca archaeological sites. Celebrate your last night with porters and cooks.
Day 7: Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate (Inti Punku) – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Enter Machu Picchu at sunrise through the Sun Gate, taking in your first unforgettable view of this ancient wonder. After exploring the citadel, take the train to Ollantaytambo and return by private vehicle to Cusco.
