The Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This is perfect for those travelers who wish to experience a wilderness trek and also hike part of the original Inca Trail. Experience the Apurimac River to the Urubamba River, the stunning Mount Salkantay, with twists and turns it ascends through high mountain ranges and descends down steep valleys, passing through pockets of misty cloud forest. Lastly but you walk in the footsteps of the Inca on the Inca Trail! The ancient and remote foot path takes you through archeological sites, to the Sun Gate and on to majestic Machu Picchu. This six-day trek offers the best of both worlds- untamed wilderness and a taste of Inca history-culminating in an unforgettable visit to one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Lake – Salkantaypampa
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Cusco, driving through picturesque Andean villages before arriving at the trailhead at Soraypampa. After meeting your trekking team and enjoying a hearty breakfast, you set off on a gradual hike to the stunning turquoise water of Humantay Lake, cradled beneath the towering Humantay Glacier (5,900m/19,356ft) and Salkantay (6,217m/20,396ft). This hike offers breathtaking views and is the perfect introduction to the dramatic Andean landscapes. After a delicious lunch, we gently ascend to Salkantaypampa (4150mtrs), the camp for the night. Camp beneath the snowcapped peaks of the Vilcabamba range, sorrounded by the quiet majesty of the mountains. Hot drinks and appetizers will be ready in camp, and the tents will already be set up, so you can settle in before dinner. The views on this day are truly breathtaking!
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping facilities
- Distance: 13kms/8.1 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Salkantaypampa – Pampajaponesa
Your second day on the Salkantay Trek is both scenic and challenging. Start by gradually ascending along the rugged trails with panoramic views of The Salkantay Mountain looming above. Before we set our the guide will wake you with a hot mug of tea or coffee to enjoy before breakfast. Stop for another delicious and hearty lunch along the way. The route to Pampajaponesa campsite is around 3 hours, offers a quiet and remote experience. The terrain becomes steeper and more exposed as you approach. Pampajaponesa is approximately 1km away from the mountain, Salkantay. On the way, enjoy the magnificent views of all the surrounding snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes and amazing valleys. Expect changing weather, high altitude conditions and breathtaking alpine scenery. Appetizers and drinks will be waiting at camp. The amazing views of Salkantay will be towering over as you have a rest before dinner.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping facilities
- Distance: 14kms/8.7 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 3: Pampajaponesa – Sisaypampa
This morning a hot drink will help you brave the cold morning and a hearty breakfast will get you ready for the trek ahead. Today takes you from our campsite to the peaceful highland meadows of Sisaypampa. The day begins with a slow uphill climb of approximately 4 hours offering stunning views of snowcapped peaks, including Humantay and Salkantay mountins. As you climb, he rugged terrain and high-altitude air challenge your stamina, but the breathtaking scenery provides constant motivation. Reaching the Incachiriaska Pass at 4,880mt / 16,010ft, Incachiriaska is a Quechua word which translates to “the place where the Inca cools down” this is the highest point on the trek. Around this area lives the Andean Condor, the world’s largest flying bird. From here, the trail levels off downhill and we reach the campsite for the night at Sisaypampa. Surrounded by expansive plains and star-studded skies, spend the night reflecting on your journey and rest before another exciting day.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping facilities
- Distance: 10kms/6.2 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Sisaypampa – Wayllabamba- Km82 – Ollantaytambo
After a delicious breakfast, we hike to a valley called Pampacahua. There, we find an Inca Canal that is still in full use by the local farming communities. At the end of the Pampa, we will visit our first Inca archaeological site named Paucarcancha. On our gradual descent to our next destination, experience native flora and the occasional sighting of Andean wildlife. The trail leads us to Wayllabamba, where we have a wonderful freshly prepared lunch. Later, walk 4 hours to KM 82. From there, take the private van to the charming Inca town of Ollantaytambo and check into our hotel, take a long hot shower and rest before exploring the cobblestone streets of this charming Inca town. Later that evening, have dinner in Ollantaytambo before retiring and a well-earned rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Dinner
2* Accommodation: Veronica View or Tunupa Lodge
Distance: 9 kms/6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 5: Ollantaytambo – km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu
We start this exciting day early by leaving the hotel with your guide at 5:30am. At the train station, receive your boxed lunch to put in your daypack. The train departs Ollantaytambo at 6:10am onboard enjoy the passing scenery and maybe even have breakfast (not included).The hotel can provide a picnic breakfast to take on the train, if requested the day before.
On arrival at KM 104 get off the train, here the trek begins! (2,000m/6,560 ft. above sea level). After crossing the Urubamba River on the picturesque foot bridge, show your passport at the checkpoint and visit the first Inca site nearby. The first hour and a half is a gentle upward climb. Along the way, stop at several outlooks and have a stunning view of the Urubamba River. Passing through several microclimates, including cloud forests, these are damp or rainy at any season of the year. The next hour or so are a slightly steeper but a beautiful waterfall is your reward at the end, take the time to take photos.
When you cross the bridge below the waterfall, from here you will find yourself gazing up at the spectacular Wiñay Wayna! (2,600m/8,500ft above sea level) These amazing Inca ruins have a fascinating history and some parts are still hidden by the jungle. You are now hiking through lush sub-tropical jungle and will notice the change in temperature. The guide will an informative talk about the ruins and the incredible flora and fauna of this area, he will answer any questions before the short 5-minute walk to where we have lunch.
Take your time enjoying your boxed lunch while admiring the tropical flowers around the campground. Be sure to notify us of any food allergies or dietary restrictions when you book!
Later take the walk on a gentle up and down path, which ends with a set of steep stairs carved directly into the bedrock by the Inca, known as the Gringo Killers. After the stairs turn the corner and enjoy the first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate. Take the time to savor this moment and take many photos. The last 60 minutes walk from the Sun Gate provides many opportunities for more photos of Machu Picchu from these unique vantage points. Make sure to go slowly and enjoy the walk down to Machu Picchu.
Once you reach the view points above Machu Picchu, take photos from the platforms above the site (Guard House). Arrive in the afternoon, as the archeological area starts to empty of tourists, which gives the opportunity to take beautiful photos in the afternoon light with fewer people in the shots. Take in this magical experience before taking the bus down to Aguas Calientes and checking into the hotel. Have a delicious dinner, later walk around this picturesque little town, visit the hot springs or just go to the hotel and rest after such an exciting day.
- Meals: Box Lunch, Dinner in a restaurant in Aguas Calientes
- 3* Accommodations: Hotel Ferre´ Machu Picchu
- Difficulty: Moderate
- You will leave your duffel bag at the Ollantaytambo train station to be sent by train directly to Aguas Calientes.
Day 6: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Rise early to board the bus to Machu Picchu and experience the majestic citadel in the quiet morning light. With your expert guide, explore the terraces, temples and the sacred plazas of this world wonder. Learn about the Inca history and the site’s spiritual significance. Machu Picchu is located high in the Andes Mountains, see how the Inca took advantage of location to build the citadel and take advantage of beautiful surroundings. The tour of Machu Picchu, will take about two hours, giving you enough time to take the all-important photos. See many of the most important parts of Machu Picchu Citadel.
When you have had enough of the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on the train departure time, you may also have time for some shopping, sightseeing or a visit to the museum or hot springs.
The Expedition Train will take you to Ollantaytambo at 2:55pm or 3:20pm, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Upon leaving Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow and the river has many beautiful sections of whitewater. See Wiñay Wayna from the train, look up high on the steep canyon wall! Back in Ollantaytambo, the driver will meet you at the exit from the train station and drive back to the hotel in Cusco in our private vehicle. Expect to arrive at the hotel by 7:00pm.
Note After the tour, for those who have booked in advance the extra hike up to Huayna Picchu Mountain, the hike up to Huayna Picchu will be done without a guide.
- Meals:Breakfast
***IMPORTANT:
An upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same times, 2:55pm or 3:20pm, 4:22pm, or 4:43pm. The cost is $57 USD.
Early trains can be organized by request and bit it has to be done at booking time.
The Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike depends on availability and let us know about it at booking time.
Included
- Transfer from the airport to your hotel for free
- Pick up at your hotel in the morning of the trek departure
- Private transport from Cusco to Soraypampa (starting point of the trek)
- Entrance fee to the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Entry fee to Machu Picchu
- English speaking, experienced professional guide
- Private guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Comfortable tents (sleeping 2 people in a 4 person tent)
- All camping equipment such as: dining tent, table, chairs, kitchen tent and toilet tent
- All the gear for our porters and cook
- 3 Bus tickets Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
- First Aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
- Expedition Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 and from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Private transport from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco
- 3* Hotel in Aguas Calientes with private room and bathroom
- Horseman and mules, to carry all camping and personal equipment (7 kilos of your personal items such as extra clothes, you need to include the sleeping bag in the 7kgs, carried by our mules)
- Provision of a horse in case of emergency such as illness, to ensure trek can be completed by all
- participants
- Camping pillow and foam mattress
- Meals as indicated on the itinerary
- Boiled water for drinking and washing purpose
- Taxes
Not Included
- Sleeping bag 15°C –$20 USD
- Air Mattress –$20 USD
- Walking Poles -$15 USD
- Lunch on the last day
- Entry to Huayna Picchu –$70 USD
- Additional horse for extra personal luggage in addition of the one for personal item allowance
- Upgrade to Vistadome train – $67 (return only)
- Optional upgrade (train and hotel)
- Tips for the cook, horsemen and guide
Price & Availability
Group service:
$950 USD Per person.
***For groups of 5+ travelers, $20 USD discount each.
The Salkantay & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is available on any date that its best for you as long as we have a minimum of 2 hikers and Inca Trail Permits for the 2 day Inca Trail.
*** This price includes the extra pack horse which will carry your belongings up to 7 kilos except on the 2 day Inca Trail portion of the trek it is not possible (including the sleeping bag : 2kgs), we will provide you a duffel bag to put your belongings in.
***We provide large Eureka 4 person tents for each 2 trekkers.
Student Discount
$30 USD off per person Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. For those using a University Student Card our under 17-years-old, we need to see a copy of their card or passport at the time of booking to receive the discount.
$40 USD off per person
For kids under 11 years old, this discount will be applied by default. Send passport copy at the booking time.
Please send all information to info@waynatrekkers.com
Extras
- Sleeping Bag –$30 USD
- Air Mattress –$30 USD
- Walking Poles –$25 USD
- Personal tent –$30 USD
- Additional Night in Aguas Calientes – From $80 USD at 3* hotel (ask for availability)
- Vistadome Train Upgrade -$57 USD per person (Return only)
- Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain– $70 USD per person (book in advance)
HOW TO BOOK THE SALKANTAY TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL 6 DAYS WITH WAYNA TREKKERS?
To book your Inca Trail 2 days with us, click on the BOOK NOW button, then select the day of your departure, then, fill out all the personal information of each participant and the last step is the payment. You can pay us with your credit card or debit. Send us only the deposit of $190USD.
On the booking platform, you will find extras. The Huayna Picchu Mountain, the Vistadome train, Machu Picchu Mountain, Walking Poles. You have to book the Huayna Picchu, Vistadome and Machu Picchu together with your 2 days Inca Trail, these sell out quickly like Inca Trail Permits. However, you can rent the walking poles in Cusco 1 day before your trip.
When we have your Inca trail permits, we will send you a confirmation. All start dates, once confirmed, are guaranteed.
CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?
Yes! During the 2 days Inca trail hike, you can store your luggage at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you. Please bring what you will only need during your Short Inca Trail & Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
WHAT ABOUT THE OUTSTANDING BALANCE?
The outstanding balance can be made in cash one day before your trip in USD or soles, if you prefer PayPal or Card at least 48 Hours prior to your trip (a 5% service fee applies). Also, you can pay us with a Credit card (a 5% service fee applies). Please let us know what you prefer. Cash payment MUST be paid 1 day prior to your trip.
HOW ABOUT THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?
According to Peruvian law, you have to be under 18 years old at the time of your hike to the Inca trail 2 days (if you are 18 or over, you need valid student cards). Below is a sample of a valid student card
All students from 11 to 17 years old have a discount of $30 USD. All students have to send a copy of their passport and student card at the time of their booking to get the student discount. Send us a copy at info@waynatrekkers.com
MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE PERMITS HAVE BEEN PURCHASED?
Unfortunately, it is not possible. The Peruvian government doesn’t allow us to change once the two-day Inca trail permits have been bought. Short Inca Trail permits are not transferable nor refundable. The only information that the government allows us to change is passport numbers.
HOW DOES IT WORK IF I BOOK HUAYNA PICCHU?
For our customers who hike the Salkantay trek & Short Inca trail 6-days, we will always book the 09 – 10 am Schedule for Huayna Picchu Mountain. You will get to Machu Picchu by 6 a.m. on the second day. So you will have a guided tour of Machu Picchu citadel from 06 until 08:30 am. Then you will enter Huayna Picchu at 10:00 a.m (ideally). This hike takes around 2 hours and a half roughly. Therefore You will finish this hike at 12:00 roughly. Then you will take the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes which takes around 30 minutes. So you will be in Aguas Calientes at 12:30 pm.
When you hike Huayna Picchu Mountain, we generally book the 2:55 pm 3:20 or 3:48 pm train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Therefore you will get back to Cusco around 19:30.
Note: The 09 am and 10 am Huayna Picchu tickets run out quickly, so it is better to book the Huayna Picchu together with your 2-day Inca trail hike permits in Advance.
HOW DOES IT WORK IF I BOOK MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN?
In case you book the Machu Picchu Mountain, we book the Schedule of 08 – 09 am. So you will have a guided tour of Machu Picchu citadel from 6 to 8 am then you need to exit Machu Picchu, use the toilet, and reenter Machu Picchu then you need to walk for 10 minutes until the Machu Picchu Mountain checkpoint. You will access the Mountain at 8:45 a.m. This hike takes 3 hours roughly so you will be back in Machu Pichu Citadel at 12 pm then you will take the bus to Aguas Calientes which takes 30 minutes. You will be in Aguas Calientes around 12:30, then you will have time to explore the town and have lunch until 14:25 pm.
IS THE MACHU PICCHU TICKET INCLUDED IN THE SHORT INCA TRAIL + SALKANTAY TREK 6D/5N?
Yes, it is Included Machu Picchu ticket for circuit 3 (based on the Ministry of Culture regulations).
IS THERE ANY SPECIFIC SCHEDULE TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU WHEN I HIKE THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?
There is no specific Schedule. With those tickets, you can visit any time of the day. We go to Machupicchu on the first Schedule at 06 a.m. because you beat the crowd and see the sun rise over the Inca site. However, you can arrange a later starting time with the group and the guide
HOW HARD IS THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?
This hike is classified as easy-moderate, no need to be an athlete but being in good health conditions would be great.
DO I NEED TO BRING MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE SHORT INCA TRAIL + SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 6 DAYS?
Yes! You must bring your original passport and it is very important that it should be the same passport you sent us to reserve your Short Inca Trail 2 days permit. Your passport will be checked at the Short Inca trail checkpoint, Machu Picchu, and when you board the train.
UPDATING PASSPORT NUMBERS
If you are renewing your passport, go ahead and email us a copy of your old passport to book your Machu Picchu 2 day hike permits. If you no longer have your old passport, any government-issued ID will be accepted, as long as the name is the same. Once you receive your new passport. Please email us a copy of your new passport ASAP to change the information on your permit.
WHAT IS THE SCHEDULE OF MY TRAIN TICKET?
We usually book the 06:10 am schedule from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 104 on day 1 and the return train ticket is at 02:55 pm so you arrive in Cusco at 06:30 pm and you have enough time to sleep and do any tour the next day, like Rainbow Mountain.
CAN I STAY IN THE SACRED VALLEY FOR MY INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS?
Yes, you can stay in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo. by staying in the Sacred Valley, your pickup will be 1 hour and a half after the Cusco pick up so you will sleep more.
CAN I BOOK MY OWN HOTEL IN AGUAS CALIENTES?
You can book any hotel in Aguas Calientes. It will decrease the price of your hike $40 per person. If you decide to book your own hotel, don’t forget to tell us where you plan to stay so our guide will take you there safely.
IS INCA TRAIL 2-DAY PET FRIENDLY?
Unfortunately, you can’t visit Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu with a dog. Only Guide Dogs are allowed. But you need permits to bring them.
WHAT KINDS OF REUSABLE WATER BOTTLES SHOULD WE BRING TO THE INCA TRAIL 2 DAY HIKE?
Starting on March 01st, 2022, single-use plastic water bottles and other plastic waste are prohibited in Inca Trail 2 days. You must bring your own personal reusable water bottles to fill out the wáter. You can buy a bladder hard shell bottle, or pouch whichever is convenient for you.
IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT FOR THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?
There is not any age limit for the Inca Trail 2-day hike. We at AB Expeditions recommend that the minimum age should be 7 because there is some steep section that would be difficult for Little legs.
HOW MANY KILOS IS IT ALLOWED TO CARRY ON THE SORT INCA TRAIL?
There is no weight limit for you, you can carry heavy or lightweight. However, the porters should carry no more than 20 kilograms.
WHAT TIME WILL WE GET TO MACHU PICCHU?
On day 01, our groups reach the Sun Gate at approximately 2:00 pm roughly, and from Sun Gate to Machu Picchu takes 45 minutes so you will get to Machu Picchu at approximately 3 pm. You will take a postcard shot then you will take a bus to Aguas Calientes.
HOW MANY DAYS IN ADVANCE SHOULD I ARRIVE TO HIKE THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?
It is recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days prior to your departure, especially if you are coming from sea level. However, if you live in places over 2000 m( 6,561 ft), you can arrive 1 day before your departure.
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE ALTITUDE OF THE INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS?
Cusco, where we pick you up. It is located 3,500 m (11,251 ft)
KM 104(Chachabamba), where we start hiking at 2,170 m (7,120 ft).
The highest point of 2 day Inca Trail tour is at 2,708 m (8,884 ft).
Machu Picchu, where the 2 day Inca trail Trek ends, is 2,431m (7,973 ft).
Aguas Calientes village, where we board the train back to Cusco, is 2,042 m (6,693 ft).
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO HIKE THE 2 DAY INCA TRAIL?
The Best time to hike the Short Inca Trail is April to October which is the dry season in the Peruvian Andes. The driest months in Short Inca Trail are May, June, July, and August. But, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu will be very busy with tons of visitors.
The wet season begins in November and finishes in March. It is possible to hike the Machu Picchu 2 day trek in the rainy season but you need to bring good rain gear.
WHEN IS THE SHORT INCA TRAIL CLOSED?
The short Inca Trail is closed all month of February due to landslides, heavy rain, and maintenance of the trail.
WHAT ABOUT FOOD ON THE 2-DAY HIKE TO PICCHU?
The first breakfast is included in our tour, which we will provide you in Ollantaytambo town before you board the train.
Lunch is included on the first day. We will provide you Picnic at Wiñaywayna campsite where you will eat.
Dinner is also included, you will eat in the restaurant in Aguas Calientes town.
The second-day breakfast is included too. The hotel will provide you with it. The only meal that is not Included is the last lunch. However, there are many restaurants in Aguas Calientes that you can choose from.
DO YOU INCLUDE PORTERS IN YOUR SHORT INCA TRAIL TOUR?
Porters are included in our Short Inca Trail 2 day with the hotel. However, they only carry your box lunch, not your belongings. If you want to hire a personal porter, the Price will be $45 per porter. Note: Porters are not allowed all the way to Machu Picchu. They will only go to Wiñayywayna campsite then they go straight to Aguas Calientes where they will leave your belongings.
CAN I HIKE THE SHORT INCA TREK WITHOUT A TOUR GUIDE?
You can’t hike the 2 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu without hiring a registered travel Agency. You must be accompanied by a tour guide to hike Machu Picchu two day hike.
WHAT CIRCUIT WILL I FOLLOW IN MACHU PICCHU AFTER HIKING THE INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS?
After having the first glimpse of Machu Picchu at the Sungate, you will hike for 45 minutes straight to Guardhouse where you will take a Classical shot of Machu Picchu on day 01 in the afternoon and the next day you will access Machu Picchu by the lower part and you have to follow the Circuit 03 to visit Machu Pichu. So this rule is applied to everyone who hikes the Inca Trail 2-day hike.
Packing check list
What you have to take with you
- Original Passport (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek)
- Valid student card (if you booked as a student)
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: 2-3L (Camelbaks are encouraged)
- Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
- Sleeping bag (can be rented from Wayna Trekkers)
- Headlamp: essential
- Toilet paper
What to put in the duffel bag
- 2 t-shirts
- 2 hiking pants at least
- 4 sets of undergarments
- 3 sets of hiking socks
- Fleece/ Thermals
- Warm clothes, down jacket — 2nd campsite temp around 3º C
- Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
- Comfortable shoes for camp
- Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger
- Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to wash
- Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek
- Large plastic bags will be provided at the office — Please ask for them
- Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us for $20 USD
Toiletries
- Face moisturizer
- Hand Sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Personal medications
- First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc
What to put in the day backpack
- Water: You will need enough water until we arrive at Winay Wayna, where you can purchase more.
- Sun Hat
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Headlamp: essential
- Wool Hat
- Rain gear
- Fleece
- Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruits
- Rain plastic poncho
- Gloves
- Camera
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips
