This exclusive experience with Tunqui Expeditions takes you through ancient Inca trails and some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Peru.
The Classic Inca Trail is one of the most famous and popular treks in the world. It follows the original stone paths built by the Incas and leads directly to Machu Picchu. Along the way, you’ll encounter impressive archaeological sites, rich biodiversity, and awe-inspiring views.
The Salkantay Trek, in contrast, is a more adventurous and high-altitude route to Machu Picchu. It traverses dramatic mountain scenery and multiple microclimates, each filled with exotic flora and fauna. It has become the top alternative when Classic Inca Trail permits are sold out — and for good reason.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we’ve combined these two unforgettable routes into one exceptional journey you’ll love: the Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail – 7 Days.
During this short yet immersive trek, you’ll spend the first 3 days on the Salkantay route, followed by 4 days on the Classic Inca Trail, reaching Machu Picchu the way the ancient Incas once did.
The diversity of landscapes, ecosystems, plants, and animals you’ll see along the way is indescribable. We invite you to join Tunqui Expeditions on this trek — a journey that proves why these are two of the best hiking routes in the Peruvian Andes.
A Journey Through Sacred Mountains and Ancient Inca Paths
Our 7-day Salkantay & 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.
This is a rare chance to combine two of the most iconic treks in Peru, blending the beauty of nature with the mystery of ancient ruins. With Tunqui Expeditions, you’ll experience the perfect balance of adventure and cultural exploration — finishing your journey with a majestic arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
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.
We begin our trek through breathtaking highlands near the mighty Salkantay Mountain. Enjoy lunch mid-route and camp overnight at Ichupata.
Reach the trek’s highest point at Inca Chiriasca Pass, then descend through the scenic valley to our campsite near Inca Canal.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Highlight of the Day: Witness the sacred glacier-capped peaks of Humantay and Salkantay.
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:30 and 4:45 a.m. and drive for about 3 hours in our private Tunqui Expeditions transport to Challacancha, where you’ll enjoy your first delicious breakfast prepared by our trekking chef.
After breakfast, we’ll begin a 3-hour hike to Soraypampa, following an ancient Inca aqueduct still used to irrigate the farmlands of Mollepata. Upon arrival at Soraypampa, enjoy a well-deserved lunch, then start the 2-hour uphill hike to the beautiful Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m / 13,779 ft).
Along the trail, you’ll spot Andean geese, deer, and vizcachas (rabbit-like rodents). After admiring the turquoise lagoon, we descend for 2 more hours back to our Soraypampa campsite (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), where we’ll enjoy tea, dinner, and stargazing before resting.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
Hiking Time: 6 – 7 hours
Max Elevation: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
Camp Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
Highlight of the Day: Be awestruck by the majesty of the towering Salkantay glacier.
Wake up with a warm coca tea served in your tent. After a hearty breakfast, your guide will share insights into the sacred mountains of the Andes and their role in local culture.
We’ll begin our moderate hike to Salkantaypampa, where the elevation becomes more noticeable. Take your time and stay hydrated — once you’ve reached the flat section, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the snow-capped Andes.
After enjoying lunch at Ichupata, we’ll continue to Japanese Pampa, our campsite for the night. This scenic spot offers breathtaking views of the Mollepata Valley — perfect for photography and quiet reflection. After dinner, admire the constellations in the Andean sky.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
Hiking Time: 5 – 6 hours
Max Elevation: 4,750 m / 15,584 ft
Camp Altitude: 4,750 m / 15,584 ft
Highlight of the Day: Trek alongside immense glaciers through breathtaking Andean landscapes.
We’ll wake up early with coca tea and a hearty breakfast before starting what is considered the most challenging day of the trek. Ascend slowly with your guide to the Inca Chiriasca Pass (4,850 m / 15,908 ft), enjoying views of glacier valleys and the possibility of spotting condors or hawks.
Optional: Take a 30-minute detour to visit a nearby glacier.
After the pass, descend to your lunch spot, where hot tea and a freshly prepared meal await. The trail then continues downhill through green valleys and creeks before reaching Pampa Cahuana, a peaceful village of about 10 families.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging
Walking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
Hiking Time: 7 – 8 hours
Max Elevation: 4,850 m / 15,908 ft
Camp Altitude: 3,700 m / 12,136 ft
Highlight of the Day: Witness the climate and ecosystem shift as you step onto the legendary Inca Trail.
After breakfast, we’ll hike through a tranquil valley for about 3 hours to reach Paucar Cancha, an important archaeological site where your guide will share stories of its historical significance.
At this point, we leave the horses behind and switch to traditional porters, as pack animals are not allowed on the Inca Trail to protect the ancient path. We’ll also meet the porters who hiked in from Km 82 (Piscacucho) and say farewell to our horsemen.
After checking in at the Inca Trail control point with your passport and permit, we’ll continue hiking for about 1 hour to our next campsite at Wayllabamba.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Easy
Walking Distance: 11 km / 6.8 mi
Hiking Time: 6 – 7 hours
Max Elevation: 3,323 m / 10,901 ft
Camp Altitude: 3,323 m / 10,901 ft
Highlight of the Day: Reach the highest point of the Inca Trail — Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass).
Wake up early with coca tea and a 5:30 am breakfast. We begin hiking at 6:00 am to take advantage of the cool morning air and shade. After a short break at Ayapata, we ascend toward Llulluchapampa, the last point with vendors selling snacks or drinks.
We then face the steepest challenge: climbing to Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca) at 4,217 m / 13,827 ft. The trail transitions from green forest to highland grasslands, offering scenic views and occasional glimpses of llamas.
After celebrating at the summit and taking photos, we descend for 2 hours to the Pacaymayo campsite, where we’ll enjoy lunch and relax for the rest of the day.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging
Walking Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
Hiking Time: 7 – 8 hours
Max Elevation: 4,217 m / 13,827 ft
Camp Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
Highlight of the Day: Explore breathtaking Inca archaeological sites hidden in the Andes.
Today is rich with cultural and historical highlights. After breakfast, we begin ascending to Runkurakay Pass (3,850 m / 12,631 ft), passing the Runkurakay ruins. Continuing along the original Inca Trail, we visit Sayacmarca, a stunning site with sweeping views.
We hike through a tunnel carved into the rock and continue along beautifully preserved Inca stone paths that cling to the mountainside. After lunch at Phuyupatamarca, we descend in zigzag fashion through cloud forest to reach Intipata and finally our last campsite at Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft).
Later in the afternoon, your guide will take you on a tour of Wiñay Wayna, where you’ll learn about its agricultural terraces and ceremonial areas. In the evening, we’ll share a special farewell dinner and a heartfelt porter ceremony — a tradition on the Inca Trail.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging
Walking Distance: 13 km / 8 mi
Hiking Time: 8 – 9 hours
Max Elevation: 3,952 m / 12,966 ft
Camp Altitude: 2,650 m / 8,694 ft
Highlight of the Day: Walk through the Sun Gate and behold Machu Picchu at sunrise.
Today is the long-awaited day — your first view of Machu Picchu! We’ll wake up before dawn, have a quick breakfast, and begin our 2-hour hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). From here, you’ll see the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu glowing in the morning light — an unforgettable sight.
After descending to the site, you’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour guided tour to learn about the architecture, history, and mysteries of the Inca Empire. If you booked Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, now is the time to hike.
Later, take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where your guide can meet you for an optional farewell lunch (not included). You’ll then board the Expedition train (departure around 2:55 or 3:20 pm) to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport to your hotel in Cusco.
Meals: Box lunch
Accommodation: —
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 5 km / 3.1 mi
Hiking Time: 2 hours
Min Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft
Max Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
At Tunqui Expeditions, we clearly specify what is included and not included in each of our tour itineraries. We take care of all the logistics — but please review the following details carefully before booking.
As soon as we receive your complete information and booking deposit, we will purchase your permits (subject to availability). These are issued in your name for a specific date and cannot be changed under any circumstances. Passport number changes are only allowed for renewals and must be accompanied by both the old and new passports.
You’ll meet your guide and group at our office at 5:00 p.m. the day before your trek. You’ll receive your duffel bag (max. 8 kg/17.6 lb including sleeping bag and inflatable mat if rented or brought).
All our guides are licensed professionals fluent in English and Spanish, graduates of Tourism from the National University of San Antonio Abad in Cusco. Born and raised in the region, they are passionate about sharing their culture and ensuring your safety and enjoyment.
All Tunqui guides are certified in first aid and receive annual refresher training. Each carries a first aid kit with oxygen and basic medications for altitude sickness, traveler’s diarrhea, cuts, etc. If necessary, we will evacuate you to a medical center quickly.
All camping gear is carried by our team of porters and horsemen:
Enjoy a more comfortable sleep while camping.
We include small extras that make a big difference:
We provide boiled, filtered, and cooled water from the first lunch to the final breakfast. Please bring your own 2-liter CamelBak or water bottles to refill at each mealtime.
Our founder, Silvio Tunqui, began his career as a porter. That’s why we treat our team like family — offering fair wages, full gear (jackets, boots, tents, etc.), and medical/dental support for their communities.
We organize 4 yearly expeditions for our porters and their families to visit Machu Picchu — many for the first time.
Since 2022, we’ve included female guides, porters, and cooks on our team and continue to work toward full equality on the trail.
We leave no trace behind. We provide biodegradable products, use local food, and include an extra porter to collect waste left by other groups.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your journey to Peru to be as memorable and worry-free as possible. Below you’ll find the most frequently asked questions about trekking with us. If you don’t find the answer you need, feel free to contact us, and we’ll respond as soon as possible.
This trek is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a challenge and are comfortable hiking at high altitudes and long distances. Reaching the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) is not extremely steep, but it is demanding. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2–3 days before your trek to acclimatize properly and avoid altitude sickness.
We highly recommend spending 2–3 full days in Cusco before your trek to adapt to the altitude. Even if you’ve been at high elevation elsewhere in Peru, we suggest taking at least one full day in Cusco to rest and recover before the hike.
All briefings take place at 5:00 p.m. the day before your trek at our main office in Cusco or your hotel. It lasts 30 to 45 minutes and covers everything you need to know. If you can’t attend, please notify us in advance via email or phone to reschedule.
Any remaining balance must be paid at least 2 days before your trek. You may pay in cash (USD or PEN) at our office in Cusco or by card/PAYPAL (5% service fee applies). We do not accept traveler’s checks or personal checks.
Cash withdrawals are available at ATMs along Avenida El Sol in Cusco.
Yes! You’ll receive your duffel bag during the pre-trek briefing, which our porters will carry for you. The size is 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.4 x 8.6 in), and the weight limit is 7 kg / 15.4 lb, including your sleeping bag and mat.
Absolutely. You may store your main luggage at our office or your hotel (most offer this service). For valuables, we recommend using your hotel’s safe and requesting a detailed receipt for insurance purposes. Store sensitive items like cards or cash in a sealed, signed envelope for peace of mind.
Tunqui Expeditions offers hotel pick-up for accommodations within Cusco’s Historic Center. Due to narrow and cobblestone streets, please book lodging with easy vehicle access. Pick-up time may vary by 30–45 minutes depending on traffic.
Group tours may include travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Each person is free to go at their own pace on the trail. If the group wants to make adjustments, your guide will consult everyone before making a decision.
We take care of all the logistics:
Strikes and protests are common in Peru and may affect roads or train services. If needed, we may leave the night before the scheduled trek to avoid disruptions. In rare cases, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled — our operations team will coordinate with you directly. Your safety is our priority.
Please take care of your belongings and always check before leaving any vehicle, campsite, or restaurant. You are responsible for your personal items throughout the journey.
Packing properly is essential for enjoying your trek comfortably and safely. Here’s a complete list of what you’ll need during the adventure:
Our mule and porter team will carry up to 8 kg (17.6 lb) of your personal gear, including your sleeping bag and air mat (together approx. 3.5 kg if rented).
This trek is available any day of the week, year-round — from January to December.
We operate this itinerary in all seasons.
This small-group tour is guaranteed with a minimum of 2 participants.
Note: PayPal charges a 5% service fee for deposits. We kindly ask clients to cover this fee. The remaining balance is paid in cash in Cusco without extra charges.
Enhance your Peruvian adventure with any of the following add-ons:
You can rent the following gear for your trek if you don’t bring your own:
Customize your journey with these popular enhancements:
Once your booking is confirmed, your price is 100% guaranteed, no matter the circumstances. No surprises or hidden fees.
