Embark on one of the most breathtaking treks in Peru: the 7-day Salkantay to Inca Trail, a perfect combination of adventure, ancient history, and dreamlike landscapes. This alternative route connects the majestic Salkantay snow-capped mountain with the legendary Inca Trail, taking you through deep valleys, turquoise lagoons, cloud forests, and ancient Inca sites.
For 7 unforgettable days, you’ll camp under starry skies, cross diverse ecosystems, and connect with the spiritual energy of the Andean Apus (mountain spirits). The journey culminates with a triumphant entrance to Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), just as the ancient Incan pilgrims once did.
A challenging and magical route designed for true adventurers!
Cusco Hotel
Moderate
This 7-day trek along the Salkantay and Inca Trail is filled with stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences. You’ll hike through breathtaking surroundings, with panoramic views of the majestic Andes and explore ancient paths full of history and natural beauty.
This route takes you around the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain, the second highest peak in the Cusco region. It’s one of the most spectacular treks in Peru due to its scenic variety, ecological diversity, and abundant flora and fauna. All of this leads to the final destination — the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
Main Highlights
Machu Picchu
Salkantay Trek
Humantay Lake
Classic Inca Trail
We depart from Cusco at 5:00 am by private transport to Mollepata (2,900 m), passing through Izcuchaca and Limatambo. After a 40-minute breakfast stop in Mollepata, we drive 30 more minutes to Marcocasa, the starting point of our trek. We hike for 4 hours to Soraypampa camp, enjoying views of Humantay glacier (5,480 m). After lunch and rest, we hike 45 minutes to Humantay Lagoon and return to camp. Enjoy coca tea, astronomy talk, and dinner.
We begin our hike toward Choquekiclla, observing Salkantay and Humantay peaks. Camp is set at the base of these sacred snowy mountains.
The most challenging day. We hike to the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m) through steep trails and descend over 1,700 meters through breathtaking Andean scenery to our camp at Sisaypampa.
We hike along the Inca Canal to Paucarcancha, then descend into the Cusichaca Valley toward Huayllabamba (Incaracay).
We hike to the highest pass of the trek, Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass, 4,200 m), then descend to our campsite at Pacaymayo. The route features cloud forests, hummingbirds, and native trees.
We visit Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca ruins, walking through original Inca paths and lush cloud forest. After lunch at Chaquicocha, we camp near the beautiful site of Wiñaywayna.
Early start at 4:00 am with breakfast. We say goodbye to our porters and hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), entering Machu Picchu around 7:00 am. Enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour and optional self-exploration. Afternoon return to Aguas Calientes, lunch, and train back to Ollantaytambo followed by transfer to Cusco.
The “Inca Trail + Salkantay 7 Days” was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Combining two of the most iconic treks in Peru was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The scenery was breathtaking — from snowy peaks to lush cloud forests and ancient Inca paths. Every day felt like a new adventure. Our guides were outstanding, always supportive and full of interesting stories. Reaching Machu Picchu after such an epic journey made it even more special. If you’re looking for the ultimate trekking experience, this is the one!
