Cusco, Soraypampa, Humantay Lagoon, Salkantay, Wiñaywayna, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
- Time 7 days / 6 nights
- Tour Type Hiking
- Altitude 6270 m.s.n.m.
- Place Cusco
- Difficulty Hard
Trip Description
Are you undecided between experiencing the Salkantay or the Inca Trail? Worry no more! We have the perfect solution for you: our exciting 7-day tour that combines both routes to Machu Picchu in one breathtaking journey. Both the Salkantay trek and the Inca Trail are considered among the top 25 in the world by National Geographic, and now you can enjoy both in one epic experience! With this tour, we will hike around the majestic Salkantay Mountain, also known as the “Wild Mountain”, visit impressive Inca sites and enjoy the beautiful nature of the Inca Trail. This tour gives you a unique opportunity to explore the two most famous treks in the Cusco region.
Short itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Marcoccasa
We will begin our day by leaving Cusco and starting a hike from Marcoccasa. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to appreciate the impressive glaciers that surround us until we reach our first rest destination in Soraypampa, where we will set up our camp.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Laguna de Humantay – Salkantaypampa – Ichupata
We will start our morning ascending to the Humantay Lagoon to contemplate the majesty of the Salkantay Mountain. Afterwards, we will transfer to our lodging place in Ichupata.
Day 3: Ichupata – Abra Incachiriska – Canal Inca
Hike to the top of the trail to reach the pass and enjoy spectacular views. Afterwards, we will continue through the Andean valley until we reach our campsite.
Day 4: Canal Inca – Paucarcancha – Wayllabamba – Ayapata
Explore an ancient trail and visit the archaeological site of Paucarcancha. Then, you will continue along the iconic Inca trail until you reach the camp.
Day 5: Ayapata – Abra de la mujer Inca – Abra Runkurakay – Yanacocha – Sayacmarqa
In the morning, we will reach the highest point of the Inca Trail, known as the Abra de la mujer muerta. Afterwards, we will continue our route to two more places: Runkurakay and Sayacmarca. In the evening, we will stay in Chaquicocha.
Day 6: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarqa – Intipata – Wiñaywayna
On this day, we will continue along the trail and have the opportunity to visit three Inca sites: Phuyupatamarca, Inti pata and Wiñay Wayna. This will be our last night in the company of the porters and cooks, enjoying their company.
Day 7: Wiñaywayna – Puerta del sol (inti punku) – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
We will enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate and enjoy this impressive site for the first time. Once inside, you will have the opportunity to explore the Inca citadel and marvel at its architecture and landscapes and then take the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, our transportation will take you back to Cusco.
Places to visit and activities to do in the Salkantay + Inca Trail 7 days – 6 nights
Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | |
Exit point | Marccoccasa | Soraypampa | Ichupata | Canal Inca | Ayapata | Chaquicocha | Wiñay Wayna |
Punto de llegada | Soraypampa | Ichupata | Canal Inca | Ayapata | Chaquicocha | Wiñay Wayna | Machu Picchu |
Arrival point | Transfer and Walk | Walk | Walk | Walk | Walk | Walk | Walk |
Distance / duration | 11 Km. | 13 Km. | 14 Km. | 16 Km. | 10 Km. | 10 Km. | 10 Km. |
Breakfast | |||||||
Lunch | |||||||
Snack | |||||||
Dinner |
Complete Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Marcoccasa
The Salkantay and Inca Trail tour begins when we pick you up at your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 am. Together with the guide, chef and porters, you will travel for two and a half hours to the starting point of the trail, Marccoccasa (3,300 meters). There you will meet the muleteer and horses, and have time to prepare and enjoy a good breakfast. During the hike, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes, green valleys and beautiful waterfalls. The trail is of moderate difficulty, with a gradual ascent that will last approximately three and a half hours until lunchtime. After this, the hike will be less steep and more relaxed, and the views will change as you progress. At first, the landscape will be all green and lovely, but later you will reach the foot of the snow-capped Humantay Mountain, and you will experience a change in temperature from warm to cold. later, you will be at the foot of the snow-capped Humantay Mountain and the weather will become colder. Therefore, it is important that you bring warm clothes and gloves for the cold afternoon. After arriving at Soraypampa camp (at 3,800 meters above sea level), the team will welcome you with hot drinks and a delicious dinner.
- Elevation : De 2,900 a 3,800 m
- Walking distance : 11 Km / 6.8 millas
- Considered : Moderate
- Weather : Warm to cold
Day 2: Soraypampa – Lago Humantay – Ichupata
On the second day, you will be awakened with hot drinks and breakfast before getting ready for the day. We will show you the alpine microclimate and breathtaking views of the glaciers of the highest mountains around Cusco, which many Andean people consider to be the father of the other mountains (Apus means God). Then, you will begin a two-hour climb to the most beautiful blue lagoon, located at the foot of the Humantay glacier mountain, where it is believed that the Incas used to hold ceremonies celebrating the God of water and the Apus. Afterwards, you will return to the main trail to the lunch spot at Salkantay Pampa, now we will depart to the Humantay mountain to enjoy the wonderful landscapes that it offers, the Salkantay mountain (6.215m) we will walk this stretch in approximately 1 hour upon arrival you will enjoy lunch, before continuing to the second camp at Ichupata or Pampa Japonesa at 4.200m. Here, the hike will be cooler, so it is important that you bring adequate clothing. At the camp, you will be welcomed with hot drinks and dinner. The night is ideal for observing the constellations and enjoying the panoramic views of the Salkantay mountain. This place corresponds to the closest camp to Salkantay, so you might hear some snowfall. However, there is no need to worry about it, because they will not occur in our proximity to us.
- Elevation : 3,500 – 4,300 metros
- Distance : 13 Km / 8 millas
- Considered : Moderate to difficult
- Climate : Cold
Day 3: Ichupata – Paso Inca Chiriasca – Canal Inca
After enjoying a nice cup of tea and breakfast, it will be time to face the most challenging and rewarding hike so far in the adventure. You will be guided by an expert through the Inca Chiriasca pass, which is located at an altitude of 5,000 meters, with a steady pace so you can appreciate the wonderful views of the glacier mountains. Once at the top, you will enjoy hot coca tea, panoramic views of the valley and lakes, as well as the possibility of spotting native wildlife such as condors and hawks. You can then descend or take a short optional 30-minute hike to a glacier. After this, you will head to the lunch spot, where the porters will be waiting for you with hot tea and a delicious and typical meal. For the rest of the day, you will walk downhill through lush green valleys and winding streams before arriving at the camp, located in a small village inhabited by only ten families.
- Elevation : 4,300 – 5,000 metros, luego a 37,500 metros
- Distance : 14 Km / 8.6 millas
- Considered : Difficult
- Climate: Cold
Day 4: Canal Inca – Cancha Pauccar – Wayllabamba – Ayapata
Durante el recorrido del tour Salkantay y Camino Inca, tendrás la oportunidad de experimentar una parte del pasado y ver cómo vivían los agricultores peruanos tradicionales mientras caminas por las montañas de las laderas. Estas montañas son utilizadas por los agricultores peruanos tradicionales, quienes han vivido de la misma manera desde la época de los incas. Más tarde, visitarás las famosas ruinas incas donde el guía turístico te proporcionará información sobre los incas. Después de la visita a las ruinas, el guía te llevará a explorar la vegetación y otros puntos de interés, mientras avanzas hacia el microclima de la selva. Finalmente, llegarás al icónico clásico Camino Inca, donde los porteadores te recibirán para servirte un delicioso almuerzo. Durante la caminata de la tarde, ascenderás hasta llegar a nuestro campamento. Es importante que tengas tu cámara lista, con baterías completamente cargadas, ya que no querrás perderte la oportunidad de capturar las vistas impresionantes de las montañas y las hermosas cascadas naturales en el bosque nuboso.
Day 5: Ayapata – Warmi Wañusca – Chaquicocha
Today will be a long but amazing day on your journey as you will have the opportunity to witness Inca ruins and the cloud forest, among others. You will start with a nutritious breakfast before climbing for two hours in a rustic and dry area called the Andean Ichu. Although there is little vegetation, you can see llamas and alpacas. Once at the top of the Paso de las Mujeres Muertas at 4,200 meters above sea level, you can rest and enjoy the view of the mountains, glaciers and other nearby mountains. Afterwards, you will descend through a rocky mountain to the place where you will have lunch and on the way you will be able to see orchids and other flowers. It is recommended to walk slowly and carefully to preserve nature. You will also see hummingbirds in this section. After lunch, you will climb for two hours to reach the second peak and on the way you will visit the Inca ruins of Runcu Raccay, a watchtower with an oval shape and a view of the valley. After crossing the second peak, you will descend for an hour to Yanaccoha Lake, where the Incas used to perform ceremonies in honor of the water. Then you will reach the cloud forest and the Inca ruins of Sayacmarca, where you can see the original Inca houses, fountains and water channels, and spectacular views of the valley. Finally, after a 30-minute drive, you will arrive at our campsite called Chaquicocha and have the opportunity to see a variety of flora and fauna in the high jungle.
- Elevation: 3,300 – 4,200 meters (the pass), 3,600 meters (lunch) and again, 4,000 meters (the pass), 3,600 meters (the camp).
- Distance: 16 Km / 9.9 millas
- Considered: Difficult
- Climate: You will experience the four seasons all in one day.
Day 6: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
This is a leisurely day on the Salkantay and Inca Trail tour. In the morning, you will enjoy views of the Andean mountains and the Pumassillo glacier during a hike of approximately five hours. Along the way, you will see three Inca ruins, the first of which is called Phuyupatamarca, which features a platform and houses where Inca nobles studied astronomy. The second is located on a hillside between terraces and may have been used as an agricultural experiment station. You will also have views of the sacred valley and the Urubamba River. Finally, you will arrive at the last campsite, Wiñay Wayna, where you can leave your things and walk five minutes to the most beautiful Inca ruins on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. There you can explore the water channels, terraces, temples and learn about the religious ceremonies that were held there. After lunch, you will have time for a hot shower and a free afternoon to explore Wiñay Wayna. In the evening, you will enjoy a farewell dinner with a presentation by the porters and return to Cusco the next day to continue your journey to Machu Picchu.
- Elevation: 3,600- 2,600 meters
- Distance: 10 Km / 6.2 miles
- Considered: Warm and humid
Day 7: Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
The seventh day of the tour is the highlight as you will visit Machu Picchu. The day will start early and after breakfast, you will walk for two hours until you reach the Sun Gate, where you will have a breathtaking view of the mountains, valleys, rivers and Inca ruins. The tour guide will provide information about Machu Picchu for two hours and then you will have free time to explore the temples, palaces and the famous Inca bridge. After you have explored enough, buses will be available to return to Aguas Calientes for a ride of about 30 minutes. After spending some time in the city, you should be at the train station 30 minutes early to return to Cusco.
- Elevation: 3,600- 2,600 meters
- Distance: 10 Km / 6.2 miles
- Considered: Warm and humid
Including
Including:
- Professional guides: Our tour guides have a license that accredits their knowledge in the field and stand out for their ability to guide and accompany travelers. In addition, they have a deep bond with the Cusco region, where they grew up and acquired a great interest in sharing their culture and the legacy of their ancestors. Although they are fun, they maintain a professional attitude to make sure your travel experience is satisfactory and happy. They will be responsible for making sure you enjoy your trip to the fullest.
- Permits: Once you send us your details and make a deposit, we will reserve your Inca Trail permits, subject to availability on the date you request. The permits will be issued in your name and cannot be modified after confirmation, unless it is necessary to update your passport number. It is important to note that these permits will also allow you to enter Machu Picchu.
- Briefing: Before the trip, you will have a meeting in our office the night before, in which you will be provided with relevant information. You will also be given a duffel bag that you must give to the porters during the trip. It is important that this bag weighs no more than 7 kg / 14 pounds and that it contains your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress.
- Porters: We have a porter who is in charge of carrying your sleeping bag (tarp) during the tour, at no additional cost. However, it is important to note that you will not have access to your sleeping bag until you arrive at the night camp.
- Transportation: During the hike you will have transportation covered. You will be picked up directly from your hotel around 4 a.m., unless you are staying in Ollantaytambo, and then taken to KM 82 to begin the hike. Also included is the Expedition Train from Aguas Calientes, although you can opt to upgrade to the Vistadome train for an additional $75 per person. After arriving at the train station, you will be taken back to your hotel in Cusco. Also included in the package is a round-trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
- Equipment: At RAP Expeditions we have top quality equipment. We use Eureka Timberline 4 tents that are ideal for sharing between two people. In addition, we offer a large dining tent for you to comfortably enjoy your meals.
- Food: RAP Expeditions chefs prepare delicious meals that have been very well received by previous hikers. They respect any dietary restrictions, so it is important that you report these on the booking form and discuss them with your guide during the briefing. Meals are served family style and include breakfast, lunch and dinner every day during the hike, as well as a happy hour of tea and snacks. A snack is also provided each morning to enjoy during the trek. The last meal with the chef will be after breakfast on the seventh day, while lunch on the last day is not included.
- Rentals: All hikers should carry a sleeping bag. In addition, although they are not mandatory, it is recommended that you also carry inflatable mattresses and rubber-tipped walking sticks. In case you do not wish to carry these items, they can be rented on site from:
- Sleeping bag: $ 35
- Inflatable air mattress: $ 30
- Walking sticks (pair): $ 30
- Huayna Picchu: Huayna Picchu mountain is located next to Machu Picchu and can be ascended in a hike of about 45 minutes to reach the top. If you are afraid of heights, the descent can be quite steep. This activity is done after visiting Machu Picchu and costs $75. It is important to make reservations at least one month in advance due to high demand. Keep in mind that the weather is unpredictable and we cannot control it.
Recommendations
What you should bring
- Original passport (the same one used to book your trek)
- Valid university card (if you have booked as a student)
- Good backpack (the smaller, the better – 30L OR 35L)
- Water storage: 2-3 L (Camelbaks recommended)
- Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support.
- Sleeping bag (can be rented at RAP Travel)
- Headlamp: a must
- Toilet paper
- 2 T-shirts
- 2 hiking pants at least
- 4 sets of underwear
- 3 sets of socks
- Thermal Jacket
- Warm clothing, warm jacket
- Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves)
- Comfortable shoes for camping.
- Quick drying towel. We offer small, you may prefer something larger.
- Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water every day for washing.
- Battery charger: No electricity along the hike
- Plastic bags will be provided in the office. Please ask for them.
- Sleeping bag: must be at least -15ºC. It can be rented from us for $20 USD.
Toiletries
- Facial moisturizer
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Personal medications
- First aid kit: band aids, etc.
What to put in your backpack
- We strongly recommend having a small trekking backpack of 30 to 40 L for the day, in which you can carry the following items
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Headlight: unpredictable
- Wool hat
- Rainwear
- Lana
- Snack such as chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dried fruit.
- Coca leaves
- Plastic rain poncho
- Gloves
- Camera
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste.
- Water: provide your own water until the first place for lunch, then we will provide cold boiled water at each meal time. Please bring your canteens.
Prices
SHARED SERVICE TOURSalkantay Trek + Inca Trail PRICE PER PERSON Minimum 02 people | |
Tour Summary
What is included in the Tour
TYPE OF TOURIST TRAIN
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Important note:
The train service THE VOYAGER – Inca Rail or EXPEDITION Train – Peru Rail, if you prefer to add the VISTADOME train service, the additional cost is US$ 45.00 per person round trip.
Differential prices for students, children, infants.
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions from Travelers
What is the best time to travel to Cusco?
The best time to travel to Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C. Nights can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C, especially in June and July.
The rainy season in Cusco runs from November to March, and during this period you can expect regular rains, especially in January and February. The rains can be heavy and can cause disruptions to transportation and tourist activities.
Keep in mind that, although the dry season is the best time to visit Cusco in terms of weather, it is also the busiest time in terms of tourism.
What is the weather like in Cusco?
The climate in Cusco varies according to the time of the year.
- The dry season (April to October): During this time, the weather in Cusco is generally dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 20°C. Nights can be cold, with temperatures dropping as low as 5°C. This is the best time to visit Cusco, as weather conditions are ideal for exploring the city and outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking.
- Rainy season (November to March): During this season, Cusco experiences frequent rains and cooler temperatures, with an average temperature of 16°C. Nights can be colder, with temperatures dropping as low as 3°C. Rainfall can be quite intense and prolonged, which can make outdoor activities difficult.
It is important to keep in mind that the weather in Cusco can be unpredictable, even during the dry season. It is advisable to wear appropriate clothing for the weather and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and rain.
What to see in Machu Picchu
- The Intihuatana, The Temple of the Sun: a large ceremonial building, probably dedicated to the god Inti, the sun god in Inca mythology.
- The Main Temple: A large structure with an impressive panoramic view of the nearby mountains.
- The Main Street: The main road that runs through the center of the city and connects the main areas of Machu Picchu.
- The Sun Gate: The main entrance to Machu Picchu and one of the most iconic points of the city.
- Thermal baths: Inca thermal bath system
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: an optional hike that offers even more impressive panoramic views of the ruins of Machu Picchu, the hike lasts 1 hour uphill to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain.
What to bring on my trip to Cusco?
If you are planning a trip to Cusco, there are some important items you should take with you to make sure you are comfortable and prepared for any situation. Some of the items you might consider bringing are:
- Adequate clothing: Due to the variability of the climate in Cusco, it is important that you bring adequate clothing for different weather conditions. Include warm clothes for cold nights, comfortable clothes for walking and comfortable, sturdy shoes for exploring the ruins and trails.
- Sunscreen: Cusco’s altitude means that the sun can be very strong during the day, so it is important to bring sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Water bottle: The altitude can also cause dehydration, so it is important to stay hydrated.
- Medications: If you take any medications regularly, be sure to bring enough for your trip. It is also a good idea to bring some basic medications for headaches, upset stomachs and colds.
- Cash: Although most places in Cusco accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash in Peruvian soles to make purchases in local markets, pay for cabs and tips.
- Plug adapter: If you are coming from another country, you may need a plug adapter for electrical outlets in Peru.
- Camera: Cusco is a beautiful place with many interesting landscapes and tourist attractions, so you will want to capture many memories in photos or videos.
Where is Huayna Picchu?
Huayna Picchu is a mountain located in Machu Picchu. It is located north of the archaeological site of Machu Picchu and is one of the most iconic mountains in the area.
The ascent to the top of Huayna Picchu is a popular activity for visitors to Machu Picchu, as it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the archaeological site and the surrounding area. However, the ascent is quite steep and can be challenging for some visitors, so it is recommended to be in good physical condition and take the necessary precautions to enjoy the experience safely.
What is Aguas Calientes like?
Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small town located in the Urubamba River valley, near Machu Picchu. It is the starting point for most visitors who want to visit Machu Picchu, as it is where the train stations and access to the buses that take visitors to the entrance of Machu Picchu are located.
Aguas Calientes has a vibrant tourist atmosphere and is a fairly small town. There are a variety of hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, souvenir stores and travel agencies to cater to visitors. Due to its location in a mountainous area, the town has many stairs and steep streets, but also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
In addition to serving as a base for visitors to Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes has some tourist attractions of its own, such as the hot springs that give the town its name, a small historic church and some nearby Inca ruins.
Where is Inti Punku?
Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, is an archaeological site located on the route of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It is located at an altitude of 2,720 meters above sea level, and is the traditional entry point to the citadel of Machu Picchu.
It is a stone structure located on top of a mountain with breathtaking views of the mountains of the area and the Urubamba River valley.
The hike to Inti Punku is the final stretch of the Inca Trail route. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and nature before reaching the ceremonial gate and getting their first view of the citadel of Machu Picchu.
Which camps will you visit during the trek?
- Wayllabamba Camp: Wayllabamba camp is where hikers spend their first night on the Inca Trail after walking a steep and demanding section of the route. The camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to relax and socialize.
- Runkuraqay Camp: Runkuraqay camp is the second camp on the Inca Trail route after Wayllabamba camp. Trekkers spend their second night at this camp after walking up a steep section of the trail and passing through the Warmiwañusca pass (known as the Dead Woman’s Pass) at an altitude of 4,000 meters. The Runkuraqay camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to rest. The area around the camp is rocky and sparsely vegetated, but offers stunning views of the nearby mountains.
- Wiñayhuayn Camp: Wiñay Wayna camp is the third and last camp on the Inca Trail route before reaching the citadel of Machu Picchu the next day. The camp is surrounded by vegetation and close to the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. The Wiñay Wayna camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to rest. The area around the camp has a lot of tropical plants and flowers, making it an ideal place to enjoy nature.