Road Salcantay Trail to Salkantay 7 days
Road Salcantay Trail to Salkantay 7 days
Two Ways to Return to Cusco from Machu Picchu
At the end of your Salkantay Trek + Inca Trail adventure, you have two options to return to Cusco: by train or by car. Your choice will depend on your time, exploration plans, and comfort preferences.
1. Return by Train (Recommended)
Traveling by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo allows you to spend more time exploring Machu Picchu. Train schedules vary depending on availability: 1:37 PM, 3:20 PM, 4:22 PM, and 9:50 PM.
Ideal for climbing: If you plan to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, this is the most convenient option.
Travel time: The train takes approximately 2 hours to reach Ollantaytambo.
Transfer to Cusco: Our staff will pick you up in Ollantaytambo, and the drive to Cusco takes around 2 hours, with an approximate arrival at the main square around 7:00 PM.
Main advantage: More time at Machu Picchu and less stress with transfers.
2. Return by Car
If you prefer a direct transfer, you can return by car. This option is faster overland but requires walking along the train tracks to reach Hidroeléctrica, as there is no direct road for vehicles.
Departure time: You must leave Machu Picchu before 10:30 AM.
Walk: Approximately 3 hours to Hidroeléctrica.
Car transfer: From Hidroeléctrica to Cusco, with an estimated arrival between 10:00 PM and 11:00 PM.
Recommendation: If you plan to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, consider spending an extra night in Aguas Calientes and returning by car the next day (Day 6) to make the most of your experience.
Main advantage: Direct and flexible transport for travelers with tighter schedules.
Quick Comparison
- Option Time at Machu Picchu Comfort Ideal For
- Train More time Very comfortable Huayna Picchu / Machu Picchu Mountain
- Car Less time Direct but requires a walk Travelers with tight schedules
LO MAS DESTACADO:
Road Salcantay Trail to Salkantay 7 days of Adventure and Culture
Experience the best of the Andes and Machu Picchu in a private adventure
This trek combines the highlights of the Salkantay Trek and the Inca Trail, offering a full 7-day adventure that takes you from the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the historic Inca ruins of Machu Picchu. Ideal for travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and comfort on a private tour.
Road Salcantay Trail to Salkantay 7 days
Private Itinerary: Salkantay and Inca Trail – An Unforgettable Andes Adventure
Discover the magic of the Peruvian Andes with our Private Salkantay and Inca Trail itinerary, a unique experience combining spectacular landscapes, Inca culture, and challenging hikes. This tour is designed for travelers seeking adventure, nature, and the fascinating history of the Inca civilization, all while enjoying personalized and secure service.
Day 1: Cusco – Challacancha – Soraypampa
Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,800 ft
Your adventure begins very early with a pickup between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. From Cusco, we travel about 2 hours to Mollepata for a nutritious breakfast. Then we continue to Challacancha, the starting point of our hike.
The route takes us through green valleys and towering mountains until we reach Soraypampa, our first campsite. After an energizing lunch, we visit the famous Humantay Lagoon (4,220 m / 13,850 ft), a mirror of water surrounded by dreamlike landscapes. Here, you can take photos and enjoy some personal exploration time. The day ends with a relaxing dinner and a cup of coca tea at Soraypampa.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa – Ichupata
Maximum Altitude: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft
After an early breakfast, we begin the ascent to Salkantay Pass, rewarded with panoramic views of Salkantay Lagoon. Our team of cooks will greet you with a delicious lunch in this spectacular setting. The hike continues descending to Ichupata, where we enjoy a comforting dinner and a well-deserved night of rest.
Day 3: Ichupata – Incachiriasca Pass – Inca Canal
Maximum Altitude: 5,100 m / 16,732 ft
After breakfast, we hike toward Incachiriasca Pass, a high point with impressive glaciers and breathtaking views. After capturing unique photo moments, we descend to the lunch site and continue to the Inca Canal, a place steeped in history, where we enjoy hot tea and a nutritious dinner.
Day 4: Inca Canal – Cancha Pauccar – Wayllabamba – Ayapata
We wake at 5:00 a.m. to start the day full of energy. We hike to the archaeological site of Paucarcancha, where our guide shares stories and secrets of Inca architecture. Later, we join the famous Inca Trail, enjoying spectacular landscapes during lunch. The day ends at Ayapata, a campsite surrounded by nature and tranquility.
Day 5: Ayapata – Warmi Huañusca – Chaquicocha
Maximum Altitude: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft
This day offers some of the most stunning scenery of the trek. We begin by ascending Warmi Huañusca Pass, enjoying panoramic views of the Andes. After a revitalizing lunch, we visit Runcu Raccay, known for its unique semicircular architecture, and then the ruins of Sayacmarca, home to water fountains and well-preserved Inca structures. The day concludes at Chaquicocha, our cozy campsite for the night.
Day 6: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
Maximum Altitude: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
We explore the impressive archaeological site of Phuyupatamarca, followed by Intipata, known for its Inca agricultural terraces. During the hike, we enjoy breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. Finally, we arrive at Wiñay Wayna, where we have lunch and time to explore its ancient Inca ruins before resting at the campsite.
Day 7: Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
We wake early to hike to the Sun Gate, from where we enjoy our first panoramic views of Machu Picchu. After a guided tour of the citadel, we uncover the secrets of the Inca civilization. Then we descend to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Ollantaytambo, admiring the spectacular valley scenery. Finally, we return to Cusco, concluding this unforgettable adventure.
What Makes This Itinerary Unique
- Combines Salkantay and the Inca Trail, offering the best of nature and history.
- Expert guides in Inca history and mountain trekking.
- Comfortable campsites with nutritious meals and coca tea.
- Landscapes that change with each stage: glaciers, lagoons, green valleys, and historic ruins.
- Private and personalized experience, ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and security.
ITINERARIO DETALLADO:
Road Salcantay Trail to Salkantay 7 days
Road Salcantay Trail to Salkantay – 7 Days of Adventure and Culture
Discover the Andes, the Peruvian jungle, and Machu Picchu in a unique, private experience.
This trek combines the Salkantay Trek with the Inca Trail, offering high mountain landscapes, glaciers, tropical jungle, and archaeological sites. Ideal for those seeking adventure, history, and comfort on a 7-day private tour.
Day 1: Road Salcantay Trail to Salkantay from Cusco – Challacancha – Soraypampa
Early transfer from Cusco to Challacancha, followed by a hike to Soraypampa. Visit Humantay Lagoon and overnight at the campsite. TUOR MANU
Day 2:Road Salcantay Trail to Salkantay to Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa – Ichupata
Ascent to Salkantay Pass (4,500 m / 14,764 ft) with panoramic views. Descend to Ichupata and overnight at the campsite.
Day 3: Ichupata – Incachiriasca Pass – Inca Canal
Hike to Incachiriasca Pass (5,100 m / 16,732 ft). Descend to the Inca Canal with time to explore and rest.
Day 4: Inca Canal – Cancha Pauccar – Wayllabamba – Ayapata
Trek through Paucarcancha and the Inca Trail to Ayapata. Overnight at the campsite surrounded by nature.
Day 5: Ayapata – Warmi Huañusca – Chaquicocha
Ascent to Warmi Huañusca Pass and visit Runcu Raccay and Sayacmarca. Overnight at the Chaquicocha campsite.
Day 6: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
Explore Phuyupatamarca and Intipata. Hike to Wiñay Wayna and explore its ruins.
Day 7: Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Early departure to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and guided tour of Machu Picchu. Descend to Aguas Calientes and return to Cusco by train.
Salkantay Trekking & 7-Day Adventure
Why choose this 7-day trek?
It combines the best of two worlds with the private Salkantay Trek and the Inca Trail. During this exclusive experience, you will traverse the stunning landscapes of the Andes and the Peruvian jungle, culminating at the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu. This adventure offers nature, history, and culture at its finest.
Highlights of the Road Salcantay Trail to Salkantay .
Scenic start: Transfer from Cusco with breakfast in Mollepata.
- Humantay Lagoon (4,220 m / 13,850 ft): Admire the stunning lagoon surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
- Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft): Cross one of the most spectacular landscapes of the Andes, with glacier and valley views.
- Gastronomy & comfort: Meals prepared by our chefs and hot coca tea at each campsite.
- Archaeological sites: Discover hidden places such as Paucarcancha, Runcu Raccay, and Sayacmarca.
- Inca Trail: Enjoy the most iconic sections with breathtaking views of the Andean highlands.
- Machu Picchu at sunrise: Reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for an unforgettable first view.
- Comfortable return to Cusco: Through Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo, fully organized for your convenience.
Benefits of booking with Road Salcantay Trail to Salkantay
Choosing our private tour means:
- Fully personalized experience: Flexible pace tailored to your needs.
- Expert local guides: Deep knowledge of history, culture, and nature.
- Safety and comfort: Entire itinerary organized with attention to detail.
- Unforgettable memories: A unique combination of adventure, culture, and spectacular landscapes.
Servicios Incluidos:
What’s Included in the Road Salcantay Trail to Salkantay 7 days
Accommodation
First night in Soraypampa: Sleep in our exclusive 2-person glass cabins with stunning views of the Andes.
Following nights: Stay in comfortable private domes throughout the trek, designed for your comfort and privacy.
Meals
Included: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 6 dinners according to the itinerary.
Professional team: Cook and kitchen staff prepare fresh meals in dining and cooking tents.
Hot beverages: Coca tea each morning and boiled water for coffee or tea at the camps.
Dietary options: Vegetarian, vegan, or special diets (please inform us in advance).
Transportation
- Private transport from your hotel in Cusco to the start of the trek.
- Transfers from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo in tourist transport.
- Tourist transport back to Cusco (hotel included).
Guides and Equipment
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish).
- Porters to carry camping gear, food, and kitchen equipment.
- Sleeping bag included for the private trek.
Pre-trek briefing: The day before departure, between 5:00–7:00 p.m., to review all tour details.
- Guides with a minimum of 3 years of experience, certified, and equipped with first aid kits and oxygen for emergencies.
- Canvas bags for your personal items (up to 5 kg per person).
What’s Not Included
Meals
- Dinner on the last day.
- Boiled water during hikes (we recommend bringing sufficient water; water is available for purchase along the trail).
Optional Activities
- Entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($60 USD per person, advance reservation required).
- Access to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
Other
- Trekking poles available for rent ($20 USD per person).
- Tips for guides, cooks, and staff.
- Shuttle bus between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes ($12 USD per person; walking option available).
- National or international flights.
- Travel insurance.
- Other activities not included in the itinerary.
Preparación para el Viaje
Te recomendamos llevar una mochila pequeña (máximo 5kg para el tren), bloqueador solar, repelente de mosquitos y ropa ligera en capas.
- Lleva tu pasaporte original (indispensable para entrar a Machu Picchu).
- Cambia algo de dinero a Soles (moneda local) para compras pequeñas.
- Reserva con al menos 2 meses de anticipación.
