Salkantay Trek and KM 104 Inca Trail 8D/7N

(1 Review)
Send Us An Enquiry
Full Name*
Email Address*
Your Enquiry*
* I agree with Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step
Save To Wish List

Adding item to wishlist requires an account

427

Why Book With Us?

  • No-hassle best price guarantee
  • Customer care available 24/7
  • Hand-picked Tours & Activities
  • Free Travel Insureance

Got a Question?

Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.

+51 984 102 706

info@unitedmiceperu.com

DetailItineraryFAQ'sPhotosReviews
Tour Details Salkantay Trek and KM 104 Inca Trail

Salkantay Trek and KM 104 Inca Trail, delve into the heart of the Andes and trace the path of the Incas with our 8-day, 7-night adventure. This extraordinary trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty, from lush valleys to snow-capped mountains, combined with the rich cultural heritage of the ancient Incan civilization.

Departure & Return Location

Cusco hotel transfer

Departure Time

05:00 AM

Price Includes

  • Professional Guides: Knowledgeable and fluent in the history and significance of the trail and sites.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and wakeup drinks as mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Camping Equipment: Tents, dining tent, and kitchen tent.
  • Transport: Pickup from the hotel, drives to trek starting points, bus rides to and from Machupicchu, and train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
  • Porters: To carry cooking equipment, tents, and other essentials.
  • Entrance fees: Including Machupicchu.
  • Emergency Oxygen: Often carried by guides for high-altitude treks.

Price Excludes

  • Last day lunch (recommended in Aguas Calientes)
  • First day breakfast
  • HUAYNAPICHCU TICKET (85USD entrance fee)
  • Sleeping bag (30USD for the whole trek)
  • Optional late train from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes (35USD)
  • Tipping your trekking stuff is customary

Recommended to Carry

  • A 60 litre rucksack with your personal belongings for the whole period of the trek which is carried on the mules, and a 20 litre daypack
  • Rain gear (annorax and rain trousers if available) and rain poncho (plastic ponchos can be purchased in Cusco)
  • Strong and waterproof trekking boots recommended
  • Foamy mattress
  • Camera, batteries and memory card (batteries consume more quickly under cold conditions)
  • Insect repellent – minimum recommended 80% DEET – no malaria risk has been reported
What to Expect from Salkantay Trek and KM 104 Inca Trail 8D/7N?

On the Salkantay Trek and KM 104 Inca Trail over 8D/7N, expect a transformative journey that seamlessly blends the raw beauty of nature with the mysticism of ancient Incan civilization. Starting in the bustling city of Cusco, you’ll quickly be immersed in the serenity of the Andes, with their majestic peaks, verdant valleys, and cascading waterfalls. The trail’s varying altitudes will challenge and invigorate you, taking you from lush green landscapes to the chill of snow-capped mountains.

As you navigate the path, the imposing Salkantay Mountain will be your constant companion, serving as a silent sentinel watching over your progress. The whispers of history will beckon as you encounter age-old Incan sites, culminating in the iconic Machu Picchu. Here, the fusion of nature’s splendor and human ingenuity will leave you in awe.

The trek will also be a sensory delight. From the songs of Andean birds to the distant rumblings of avalanches, and from the taste of traditional meals to the sights of unique flora and fauna, every sense will be awakened and engaged. By the time you return to Cusco, you’ll have experienced a profound connection to the land and its history, carrying memories that will remain etched in your heart forever.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco - Challacancha – Sorapampa

The adventure starts with the pick up from the hotel, then drive to Challacancha, the beginning of our hike, after two hours of hiking we get to the camp site where our crew will wait for you with a delicious lunch. You will experience views of the Andes, lush green valleys, and beautiful waterfalls. Today will be moderate to challenging in difficulty.

After the lunch we continue to the Humantay Lake, a nice afternoon there, then we get back to our campsite in Soraypampa.

The views along the Salkantay and the Inca Trail change drastically as you go. The trailhead is all green, lush valleys, but in the afternoon, you will be right at the foot of the Humantay snow-capped mountain. You will also experience a temperature drop from warm to cold. Be sure to have your warm jacket, and gloves in your daypack for the cold afternoon.

Elevation: From 2,900 to 3,800 m
 Walking Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles
 Considered: Moderate to Challenging
 Weather: Warm and cold

Day 2Sorapampa – Ichupata – Pampa Japonesa

After a nice wake up call with hot drinks and breakfast you get ready to start the hike up to the next camp site, along the way nice views of the Salkantay mountain, the sunset is a unique moment appreciated by nature lovers.

Today will be a cold day of hiking, so be sure to have your jacket, warm hat, sunglasses, and gloves in your day pack. At the campsite, you will be welcomed by your porters to enjoy hot drinks and dinner.

Tonight, is the perfect night to spot the constellations and the views of Salkantay peak. This site is the closest camp to Salkantay, so it may be possible to hear some avalanches. However, do not let this scare you since they are not close to us. This campsite is the highest, so it should be a cold night.

Elevation: 3,500 – 4,300 meters
 Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
 Considered: Moderate to difficult
 Weather: Cold

Day 3Pampa Japonesa – Inca Chiriasca Pass – Millpo

After a hearty cooked breakfast we set off to hike across one of Salkantay’s ridges and over the mountain pass of Incachiriasca. At an elevation of 4,870 m / 15,970, Incachiriasca is the highest pass of our trek, offering us spectacular views of our dramatic surroundings. After a stop at the pass to rest and take photos, we head down to follow the ancient trail to our next camp at Millpo, set on a lovely little plateau above Lecheria. Overnight: Campsite.

Day 4Millpo – Quellhuacocha

Today we hike from the amazing Millpo camp site over the Yahuar maki pass, having great views of the Salkantay Mountain and the valleys above the Limatambo city. Today is a half day activitie, so after lunch we get ready for the next day, challenging and beautiful nature

Distance: 6 miles
 Considered: Moderate to difficult

Day 5Quellhuacocha – Wayanay – Ancascocha

Another early morning today as we begin our climb up to the Pukaqata mountain pass of our trek, the Ancascocha Pass (4,695 m / 15,400 ft). From here we begin a steady descent, hiking through dramatic mountain scenery and passing two pretty alpine lakes known for their large trout. Tonight we camp near the small farming village of Ancascocha. Overnight: Campsite.

Elevation: 3,500 – 4,800 meters
 Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
 Considered: Moderate to difficult
 Weather: Cold

Day 6Ancascocha – Kamicancha – Ollantaytambo

From Ancascocha, we journey down a narrow valley. This valley’s rivers flow into the vast Amazon. As we move lower, the thin alpine vegetation shifts. We begin to see bigger trees.

This gives us an opportunity to spot Andean birds. Some of these birds include the black-throated flowerpiercer and the great sapphirewing. Additionally, we might see the endangered Andean condor, one of the heaviest flying birds.

Towards the end of our trek, we arrive at Chillca village. From here, we can see the snow-capped Mt. Veronica. After enjoying the views, we savor a tasty lunch. Finally, we travel to Ollantaytambo where we’ll spend the night and have dinner.

Day 7Ollantaytambo – KM 104 Inca Trail to Machupicchu

Departing at 6:10 a.m. from Ollantaytambo train station, we’ll journey alongside the impressive Urubamba River, which feeds into the vast Amazon. At Km 104, our exhilarating trek begins, offering splendid views of farmlands, mountains, and ancient Inca sites.

A highlight of our journey is the stunning Wiñay Wayna site, known for its intricate fountains, temples, and terraces. From here, we trek to the Sun Gate, unveiling the iconic panorama of Machu Picchu. With most day travelers gone, we can enjoy an uninterrupted exploration of this historic wonder.

The day concludes with a descent to Aguas Calientes, dinner at a local restaurant, and an early night to refresh for the day ahead.

Day 8Machupicchu - Cusco

After a recovery night we take the bus to Machupicchu, 30 minutes’ drive and we’ll have around 3 hours guided tour in the site where you’ll learn about the Incas and visit all the most important areas of the citadel.

You will also have time to indulge in a few of the following activities on your own if you choose (not included in the price)
 Climb up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there.

Back to Cusco: You will descend to Aguas Calientes by bus (included) and later after the lunch we get on board the Vistadome train to the Ollantaytambo Train Station “Train departure time can vary according train schedule and availability”. In Ollantaytambo Train station you will meet our private van and be transferred to your hotel in Cusco.

* Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountains hike depends on availability and have a extra cost; please let us know if you want to add one of these extra hikes at the time of your booking.

FAQ's

How difficult is the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?

The trek is considered moderate to challenging. The difficulty often depends on the individual’s physical condition and acclimatization to the altitude.

How long is the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu?

The classic Salkantay Trek is typically 4 to 5 days long, covering approximately 72 kilometers (45 miles).

How do I acclimatize to the altitude?

It’s recommended to spend a few days in Cusco or another high-altitude location before the trek to acclimatize and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

How high does the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu go?

The highest point is the Salkantay Pass, which is around 4,600 meters (15,090 feet) above sea level.

Is there a weight limit for my backpack?

If you’re utilizing the services of a porter or pack animal, tour companies often set a weight limit, typically around 5-7kg for personal items.

Photos
  • Salkantay Trek and KM 104 Inca Trail
  • Salkantay Trek and KM 104 Inca Trail
  • Salkantay Trek and KM 104 Inca Trail
  • Salkantay Trek and KM 104 Inca Trail
  • Salkantay Trek and KM 104 Inca Trail
Read More
1 Review
Sort By:RatingDate

Dave

Couple Traveller

The Salkantay trek was an incredible journey filled with awe-inspiring views and challenging yet rewarding experiences. Trekking through the breathtaking Andean landscape, with towering peaks and lush valleys, left me speechless at every turn. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit and witnessing the majestic Salkantay Mountain in all its glory was truly unparalleled. The camaraderie among fellow trekkers and the expertise of our guides made this adventure unforgettable. Salkantay trek is an absolute must for anyone seeking an authentic and unforgettable adventure in Peru!

March 4, 2024