About this experience
The Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail (6D) is the perfect option if you are looking for a complete experience on your way to Machu Picchu. Start by visiting the impressive Humantay Lake, the majestic Salkantay snow-capped mountain, and the vibrant tropical forest.
Then, connect with an original section of the Inca Trail, an exclusive route that will allow you to visit Wiñay Wayna. Your adventure continues to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where you will have your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, a moment that makes this trip truly unforgettable.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking adventure, nature, and culture with the support of expert guides and reliable services.
- Explore Humantay Lake and the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain.
- Walk through the tropical forest and observe its biodiversity.
- Travel along the original Inca Trail to Wiñay Wayna.
- Enter Machu Picchu through Inti Punku (Sun Gate).
- Enjoy a complete 6-day trek that is safe and well organized.
At a glance
- Duration: 144 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 144 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
- Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
- Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
Local guides to help you plan
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Guide
Plan the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with practical guidance on permits, the Km 82 route, timing, published access rates, and booking decisions.
Reading the Stones: A Short Walk Down Hatunrumiyoc
The famous twelve-angled stone is just the start. A 25-minute walking route through the best Inca masonry still standing in the city centre.
Inca Rail vs PeruRail Guide
Compare Inca Rail and PeruRail for Machu Picchu: train services, boarding points, schedules, luggage, costs, and the final trip from Aguas Calientes.
What is included
- Safety: First aid kit, Walkie-talkies, oxygen, and emergency satellite phones
- Pre-departure briefing
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Basic hiking equipment: Sleeping bag, trekking poles, rain poncho, backpack cover, and hand towel.
- Experienced Mountain Guide
- Lunch
- 3 nights camping accommodation (Sky Camp, Mountain Sky View, Super Jungle Domes)
- Dinner
- One-way bus tickets (Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu).
- Breakfast
- 2 nights in a superior 3-star hotel at Aguas Calientes
- Entrance to Machu Picchu (circuit 1-C and 3-B)
- Transportation of personal belongings.
- All private transport and transfers during the tour
- Entry fees to Salkantay Trek and Humantay lake
- Personal duffel bag (up to 5 kg / 11 lb) for your travel gear.
- Private Camping Facilities & Equipment
- Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo tourist train
- Water, Tea Time, and daily snacks on the trail
- Cultural immersion at a local coffee farm.
- Return bus tickets (Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes).
- Expert chef, porters, and horsemen
Not included
- Clothing and personal hiking equipment
- Travel Insurance (Recommended)
- Gratuities for the staff (Optional)
Itinerary and highlights
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- We recommend booking hotels in the center of Cusco. We pick up all travelers from their hotels between 04:30 and 05:00 am.
Languages and tickets
- English — Audio
- English — Guide
- English — Written
- Spanish — Audio
- Spanish — Guide
- Spanish — Written
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Salkantay Trekking
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
- It's recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude.
- Spots at Machu Picchu sell out quickly. Book this trip at least three months in advance to secure spaces.
- Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
- Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
- Children aged 12 and over may participate and must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
- Keep in mind this hike is a challenging trek. travellers have to be in good health and physical shape to fully enjoy every moment of this adventure.
- Vegetarian or, vegan options are available, please advise at time of booking if required
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
What are the pickup arrangements?
We pick up all travelers from their hotels between 04:30 and 05:00 am.
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What accessibility information is provided?
What is the cancellation policy?
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