Want the best of Salkantay and the Inca Trail in one unforgettable adventure? This 5-Day Salkantay Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is designed for travelers who want wild mountain scenery, ancient Inca paths, and the most iconic arrival to Machu Picchu.
Your journey begins deep in the Andes with the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, the wild beauty of Salkantay Mountain, and sweeping high-mountain views. You will hike through quiet valleys, follow a section of the Classic Inca Trail, and then continue along the Short Inca Trail to Wiñay Wayna. Finally, you will enter Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku), enjoy your first views in the soft afternoon light, and return the next morning to explore the citadel at sunrise.
Duration 5 Days / 3 Nights
Activities Trekking, Camping, Cultural
Average Group Size 12 persons
Difficulty Moderate to Challenging
Accommodation Salka Glamp, Camping, Hotel
Max. Altitude 5,100 m / 16,732 ft
Tour Language English, Spanish
Hiking Distance 55 km / 34 miles5 Days Salkantay Trek with Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days / 4 Nights is one of the most complete trekking adventures to Machu Picchu. It brings together the wild beauty of Salkantay, the history of the Classic Inca Trail, the magic of the Short Inca Trail, and the unforgettable arrival to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
This journey is perfect for travelers who want more than a regular trek. You will visit the famous Humantay Lake, sleep at our exclusive Salka Glamp campsite, hike beside the powerful Salkantay Mountain, explore the remote Pampacahuana Valley, walk part of the Classic Inca Trail, and finish with the famous Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Along the way, you will discover quiet valleys, high mountain passes, ancient Inca sites, glacier-fed lakes, and original Inca paths. On Day 4, you will enter Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and enjoy your first breathtaking views from the upper part of the citadel. Then, on Day 5, you return early in the morning to explore the heart of Machu Picchu, including its most important temples, palaces, terraces, water fountains, and sacred buildings.
If you want the landscapes of Salkantay, the history of the Inca Trail, and the most iconic arrival to Machu Picchu in one single trip, this trek is for you.
This trek is ideal if you want:
- A unique route that combines Salkantay, the Classic Inca Trail, and the Short Inca Trail
- Big mountain landscapes, glacier lakes, and peaceful valleys far from the crowds
- A more comfortable camping experience at our exclusive Salka Glamp campsite
- A real Inca Trail experience without doing the full 4-day Classic Inca Trail
- The unforgettable moment of walking into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate
- Two Machu Picchu experiences: first from the upper viewpoint, then a full guided visit the next morning
Tour Highlights
- Visit the famous Humantay Lake, one of the most beautiful turquoise lakes in the Andes
- Sleep at Salka Glamp, our exclusive campsite surrounded by high mountain scenery
- Hike near Salkantay Lake and enjoy close views of the mighty Salkantay Mountain
- Cross the dramatic Frozen Inca Pass at 5,100 m / 16,732 ft
- Walk through the peaceful Pampacahuana Valley, a remote and silent area in the heart of the Andes
- Camp near an ancient Inca canal, far from the busy trekking routes
- Join the first section of the Classic Inca Trail and explore unique Inca sites
- Visit Paucarcancha, Wayllabamba, and Patallacta before exiting at Km 82
- Spend the night in a hotel in Ollantaytambo, one of the most beautiful towns in the Sacred Valley
- Travel by train to Km 104 and hike the famous Short Inca Trail
- Explore Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, two impressive Inca sites hidden along the trail
- Arrive at Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
- See Machu Picchu twice: first from the upper viewpoint in the afternoon, then again the next morning during your guided tour
- Return on the Vistadome panoramic train, with wide windows, comfortable seats, and beautiful views of the Sacred Valley
Salkantay + Short Inca Trail Trek at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco → Soraypampa → Humantay Lake → Salkantaypampa — Salka Glamp
Start your adventure with a scenic drive from Cusco into the high Andes. After breakfast, hike to the famous Humantay Lake, a bright turquoise glacier lake surrounded by dramatic peaks. In the afternoon, continue deeper into the Salkantay Valley and spend the night at our exclusive Salka Glamp campsite, a peaceful place to rest under the stars.
- Hike: 15 km / 9.3 mi • Time: ~8 hrs • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Sleep: Camping at Salka Glamp — 4,150 m / 13,615 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Day 2: Salka Glamp → Salkantay Lake → Frozen Inca Pass → Pampacahuana Valley → Inca Canal Camp
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. Hike near Salkantay Lake, surrounded by glaciers and wild mountain scenery, before crossing the impressive Frozen Inca Pass at 5,100 m / 16,732 ft. Then descend into the silent Pampacahuana Valley and camp near an ancient Inca canal, deep in the heart of the Andes.
- Hike: 13 km / 8 mi • Time: ~8 hrs • Difficulty: Challenging
- Highest point: 5,100 m / 16,732 ft
- Sleep: Camping at Inca Canal Camp — 3,670 m / 12,040 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Day 3: Inca Canal → Pampacahuana Valley → Paucarcancha → Wayllabamba → Patallacta → Km 82 → Ollantaytambo
The trail now changes from wild mountain scenery to ancient Inca history. Walk through the peaceful Pampacahuana Valley and join the first section of the Classic Inca Trail, visiting unique sites such as Paucarcancha, Wayllabamba, and Patallacta. After reaching Km 82, travel to Ollantaytambo for a comfortable hotel night.
- Hike: ~15 km / 9.3 mi • Time: ~6–7 hrs • Difficulty: Moderate
- Sleep: Hotel in Ollantaytambo
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Day 4: Ollantaytambo → Train to Km 104 → Chachabamba → Wiñay Wayna → Sun Gate → Machu Picchu → Aguas Calientes
Take the train to Km 104 and begin the famous Short Inca Trail. Explore Chachabamba, hike through cloud forest to the stunning ruins of Wiñay Wayna, and continue to the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku). From here, enjoy your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu before walking to the upper viewpoint for beautiful afternoon photos.
- Hike: ~12 km / 7.5 mi • Time: ~6–7 hrs • Difficulty: Moderate
- Plan: Short Inca Trail + Chachabamba + Wiñay Wayna + Sun Gate arrival + upper Machu Picchu views
- Sleep: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes — about 2,000 m / 6,560 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner included
Day 5: Early Morning Machu Picchu Guided Tour → Vistadome Train → Return to Cusco
Return early to Machu Picchu for your second visit and a complete guided tour of the central area. Explore the most important temples, palaces, terraces, water fountains, and sacred buildings while your guide brings the history of the citadel to life. Later, return to Cusco on the Vistadome panoramic train, with wide windows, comfortable seats, and beautiful views of the Sacred Valley.
- Plan: Early morning guided tour of Machu Picchu + return to Cusco
- Guided tour: About 2.5 hours inside Machu Picchu
- Meals: Breakfast included
- Train: Vistadome panoramic train + private transfer to Cusco
Note: Hiking times, train schedules, Machu Picchu visit times, and views may vary depending on weather, trail conditions, official regulations, and group pace.
Included
- Hotel pickup on trek departure day
- Private transportation from Cusco to Soraypampa, the starting point of the trek
- Inca Trail permit for Km 104 and Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Experienced, English-speaking professional guide
- Private guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Comfortable camping tents, with 2 people in a 4-person tent for extra space
- Full camping setup: dining tent, tables, chairs, kitchen tent, and toilet tent
- 2 nights camping, including our exclusive Salka Glamp campsite
- Hotel in Ollantaytambo and 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes with private room and bathroom
- Meals during the trek: breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks
- Hotel breakfasts
- Boiled water for drinking and washing during the camping days
- Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen bottle
- Expedition train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 / Chachabamba
- Vistadome panoramic train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel in Cusco
- Celebration dinner at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes
- Mules and horses for camping equipment and your personal duffel bag, with 7 kg allowance
- Horsemen to support the trekking logistics
- Extra horse for emergencies, helping support safety during the trek
- Pillow and comfortable foam mattress
Not Included
- Sleeping bag
- Air mattress
- Hiking poles
- Personal tent or single tent
- Huayna Picchu Mountain permit, optional extra
- Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
- Tips for the guide, cook, horsemen, and trekking crew, optional
Why book with TreXperience?
- Local Peruvian operator: We are based in Cusco, with real local support before, during, and after your trek.
- Unique route design: This itinerary combines Salkantay, part of the Classic Inca Trail, the Short Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu in one journey.
- Small groups: Enjoy a calmer pace, better attention from your guide, and a more personal experience.
- Comfort in the mountains: Salka Glamp, spacious tents, good meals, and a complete camping setup make the trek more enjoyable.
- Professional guides: Our guides are trained, experienced, and passionate about sharing the history, culture, and nature of the Andes.
- Safety first: We carry first-aid equipment and emergency oxygen, and our team is trained to support travelers at high altitude.
- Better logistics: Permits, transportation, hotels, trains, meals, and Machu Picchu entry are carefully organized for a smooth experience.
- Flexible private option: Ideal for couples, families, friends, or travelers who want a more exclusive experience.
- Want more? We also offer the Ultimate Salkantay Trek 5 Days.
Full Itinerary - Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days
Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa (Salka Glamp)
Your adventure begins early with a 4:30 a.m. pickup from your hotel in Cusco. From there, we drive into the high Andes, passing small villages, deep valleys, and beautiful mountain scenery. After arriving in Soraypampa, you will enjoy a fresh breakfast with wide-open views of the mountains around you.
Then, it is time for your first big highlight: Humantay Lake. The hike is a steady uphill walk, but every step is worth it. At the top, you will see one of the most famous glacier lakes in Peru, with bright turquoise water surrounded by dramatic peaks and snow-covered mountains.
You will have time to rest, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the lake before hiking back down for lunch prepared by our trekking chef. In the afternoon, we continue deeper into the Salkantay Valley, surrounded by waterfalls, glaciers, and quiet Andean landscapes.
By late afternoon, we arrive at Salkantaypampa, home to our exclusive Salka Glamp campsite. This is a special place to spend your first night in the mountains, with warm drinks, a delicious dinner, comfortable camping, and clear skies full of stars when the weather allows.
- Distance: 15 km / 9.3 mi
- Hiking time: ~8 hours
- Camp altitude: 4,150 m / 13,615 ft
- Highest point today: 4,280 m / 14,041 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Day 2: Salka Glamp – Salkantay Lake – Frozen Inca Pass – Sisaypampa – Inca Canal Camp
Day 2 is the most challenging day of the trek, but also one of the most unforgettable. You wake up early at Salka Glamp with hot coca tea or coffee and the feeling of being completely surrounded by the Andes.
After breakfast, we begin hiking toward Salkantay Lake, a quiet and beautiful glacial lake located below the powerful Salkantay Mountain. This part of the trail feels wild, remote, and full of energy. The higher you climb, the bigger the mountains feel around you.
We then continue to the highest point of the trek: Inca Chiriasca Pass, also known as the Frozen Inca Pass, at 5,100 m / 16,732 ft. Reaching the pass is a true achievement. From the top, you will enjoy incredible views of glaciers, rugged peaks, and the silent high Andes.
After taking time to celebrate and enjoy the views, we begin descending into the peaceful Pampacahuana Valley. This valley is one of the hidden treasures of the route: quiet, remote, and far from the busy trekking trails. It is the kind of place where you can truly feel the wilderness of Salkantay.
We stop at Sisaypampa for lunch and a well-earned rest. In the afternoon, we continue to our campsite near an ancient Inca canal, a remote area located in the heart of the Andes. Tonight is simple, peaceful, and deeply beautiful, with the sound of nature all around you.
- Distance: 13 km / 8 mi
- Hiking time: ~8 hours
- Highest point: 5,100 m / 16,732 ft
- Camp altitude: 3,670 m / 12,040 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner
- Difficulty: Challenging
Day 3: Inca Canal – Pampacahuana Valley – Paucarcancha – Wayllabamba – Patallacta – Km 82 – Ollantaytambo
After two nights in the mountains, today brings a beautiful change of scenery. We continue hiking through the silent Pampacahuana Valley, where the landscapes become greener and the trail starts to connect with ancient Inca history.
Soon, we reach Paucarcancha, a fascinating Inca site that very few travelers get to visit. Surrounded by mountains and quiet valleys, this place gives you a real sense of how the Incas controlled and connected these remote routes.
From here, we join the first section of the Classic Inca Trail, walking in the opposite direction from the traditional route. You will pass through Wayllabamba, an important area on the original Inca Trail, and continue along ancient paths once used by messengers, farmers, and travelers moving through the Sacred Valley.
Later, we explore Patallacta, also known as Llactapata, an impressive Inca site with terraces, water channels, and beautiful views over the valley. This is one of the best moments of the day because you can clearly see how the Inca Trail connected farming areas, settlements, and sacred places on the way to Machu Picchu.
After lunch, we continue to Km 82, the traditional starting point of the Classic Inca Trail. From here, our private transport takes us to Ollantaytambo, one of the most beautiful towns in the Sacred Valley. Tonight, you will enjoy dinner and sleep in a comfortable hotel, a perfect break before the Short Inca Trail the next day.
- Distance: ~15 km / 9.3 mi
- Hiking time: ~6–7 hours
- Sleep: Hotel in Ollantaytambo
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Ollantaytambo – Km 104 (Chachabamba) – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Today is your Short Inca Trail day, and for many travelers, it becomes the most emotional part of the whole journey. After breakfast, we take an early train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104, the starting point of this famous one-day Inca Trail hike.
After passing the checkpoint at Chachabamba, your guide will introduce you to this beautiful archaeological site and explain its connection with the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. From here, the trail begins to climb through cloud forest, stone steps, orchids, mountain views, and original Inca paths.
The main highlight of the morning is Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful Inca sites on the entire route. Its name means “Forever Young,” and the setting is unforgettable: curved terraces, temples, water fountains, and green mountains all around. It is the perfect place to pause, explore, and feel the magic of the Inca Trail.
After lunch, we continue toward Inti Punku, the legendary Sun Gate. This is the moment many travelers dream about. After days of hiking through Salkantay, remote valleys, and ancient Inca paths, you finally see Machu Picchu from above for the first time.
From the Sun Gate, we continue down toward the upper part of Machu Picchu. Here, you will enjoy some of the most beautiful panoramic views of the citadel, with time for classic photos in the late-afternoon light. When weather and official entry times allow, this part of the day can feel especially magical as the light softens over the mountains.
After enjoying your first visit to Machu Picchu, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes. In the evening, you will enjoy a celebration dinner and spend the night in a comfortable 3-star hotel, ready to return to Machu Picchu early the next morning.
- Distance: ~12 km / 7.5 mi
- Hiking time: ~6–7 hours
- Highest point: 2,720 m / 8,923 ft — Sun Gate
- Sleep: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 5: Sunrise Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Vistadome Train – Return to Cusco
On your final day, you return early to Machu Picchu for your second visit. After seeing the citadel from above the day before, today you will explore its central area with your guide and understand why this place is one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world.
The early morning visit gives you a different feeling of Machu Picchu. When the weather is clear, the light over the mountains can be spectacular, and the atmosphere feels calm, fresh, and powerful. Your guide will lead you through the most important areas of the citadel, including temples, palaces, terraces, sacred spaces, water fountains, and royal buildings.
During the guided tour, you will learn how Machu Picchu was built, how water moved through the city, how the Incas used the temples, and why the location was so important. This visit is the perfect way to complete the journey, connecting the landscapes you crossed with the history and meaning of the Inca world.
If you have an extra permit, you may also hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain after the guided tour. These hikes are optional and must be booked in advance, as permits are limited.
Later, you return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for lunch on your own before boarding the Vistadome panoramic train back to Ollantaytambo. This train is a beautiful way to end the trip, with wide windows, comfortable seats, and amazing views of the Urubamba River and the Sacred Valley.
Once you arrive in Ollantaytambo, our private transport will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, usually arriving around 7:30 p.m.
- Tour time in Machu Picchu: ~2.5 hours guided
- Visit: Central area of Machu Picchu, temples, palaces, terraces, water fountains, and sacred buildings
- Optional hikes: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, with advance permit
- Train: Vistadome panoramic train to Ollantaytambo
- Return: Private transport to your hotel in Cusco
- Meals: Breakfast
- Difficulty: Easy
Important note: Hiking times, train schedules, Machu Picchu entry times, circuits, and views may vary depending on weather, official regulations, trail conditions, and group pace.
Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days - Price
This 5-day adventure combines the wild landscapes of Salkantay, the famous Humantay Lake, a remote section of the Classic Inca Trail, the Short Inca Trail from Km 104, the unforgettable Sun Gate arrival, and two visits to Machu Picchu. It includes camping, hotel nights, professional guiding, Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu tickets, train service, and a scenic return on the Vistadome panoramic train. Final availability depends on permits, train schedules, hotels, and Machu Picchu entrance tickets for your travel date.
Small-Group Tour Price
| Traveler Type | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| Adults | From US$ 998 |
| Children and students | From US$ 968 |
Private Tour Price
A private tour is the best option for couples, families, groups of friends, or travelers who want a more flexible pace, personalized guiding, and a more exclusive trekking experience from Cusco to Machu Picchu.
| Number of Travelers | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 | US$ 2380 |
| 2 | US$ 1498 |
| 3 | US$ 1300 |
| 4 | US$ 1180 |
| 5 | US$ 1120 |
| 6 | US$ 1060 |
| 7 | US$ 1020 |
| 8 | US$ 1000 |
| 9 or more | Contact us for a personalized quote |
Booking and Payment
- Deposit: US$ 400 per person to confirm your reservation. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco by credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer. If you need another payment option, contact us and we will be happy to assist you.
Student and Child Discount
- US$ 30 off
This discount applies to all travelers under 17 years old and students under 25 with a valid university ID. The ID must:
- Show the student’s name, photo, and university name.
- Include a valid expiration date. Expired IDs are not accepted.
- Be valid at the time of travel.
ISIC cards are not accepted. The discount is applied automatically for children. Students must submit a copy of their university ID at the time of booking. If the document is not accepted, the adult rate will apply.
Before You Book
- Spaces for Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu tickets, trains, hotels, and campsites are limited, especially during high-demand travel dates. We recommend booking in advance to secure the best availability.
- Your passport details must match your permits, train tickets, hotel reservations, and Machu Picchu entrance ticket. Please check this information carefully before making your payment.
- This tour includes both trekking logistics and official permits, so availability can change quickly once a departure date starts filling up.
- Private tours can start on any date, subject to permit, hotel, train, and Machu Picchu ticket availability.
Packing List for the Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail 5 Days
Packing well makes a big difference on this trek. You will hike through high mountains, cold campsites, sunny valleys, cloud forest, Inca Trail sections, and Machu Picchu, so the key is to bring layers, keep your daypack light, and pack only what you truly need.
You may travel around Peru with larger luggage, but during the trek you only need your daily essentials and a small overnight duffel. Your extra luggage can usually stay safely at your hotel in Cusco or with us before the trek.
How Your Bags Work
- Daypack: You carry this every day with your water, rain gear, warm layer, snacks, sunscreen, camera, passport, and personal items.
- Duffel bag: 7 kg / 15 lb: This is for your overnight items and is carried by the mules or horses during the trekking days.
- Main luggage: Leave large suitcases or extra bags in Cusco. You will not need them on the trail.
Smart Packing Tips
- Pack in layers: The weather can be cold in the morning, warm during the day, and freezing at night, especially at Salka Glamp and the high camps.
- Use dry bags or plastic bags: They help protect clothes, electronics, and documents from rain or humidity.
- Keep your passport with you: You will need your original passport for the Inca Trail checkpoint, train travel, and Machu Picchu entrance.
- Break in your hiking shoes before the trek: New shoes can cause blisters, especially on long hiking days and stone steps.
- Bring cash in soles: Useful for tips, snacks, drinks, bathrooms, or personal expenses along the route.
- For Machu Picchu: Bring only a small daypack. Large backpacks, drones, tripods, umbrellas, and trekking poles are not allowed inside the citadel.
Must-Bring Essentials
These are the most important items for the trek, especially for permits, checkpoints, high altitude, and changing weather.
What to Wear
Dress in comfortable hiking layers. You will move from cold high-altitude areas to warmer valleys and cloud forest, so avoid heavy single layers and choose clothing you can easily add or remove.
Daypack Checklist
Your daypack should be light but complete. Bring what you need during the hiking day, because your duffel bag will not be accessible until you reach camp or the hotel.
Duffel Bag Checklist
Your duffel bag is for your overnight items, extra clothes, toiletries, and personal camping gear. Please keep it within the 7 kg / 15 lb limit so the mule and horse support team can work safely and comfortably.
We Provide
We include the main trekking logistics so you can focus on the experience: camping equipment, meals, support staff, transportation, hotels, train service, and safety equipment as listed in the tour inclusions.
Optional Rentals and Upgrades
- Sleeping bag: Recommended for cold mountain nights if you do not bring your own.
- Air mattress: A good upgrade if you want extra comfort while camping.
- Hiking poles: Helpful for steep climbs, long descents, and uneven Inca stone steps.
- Single tent: Ideal for solo travelers who prefer more privacy.
- Hotel upgrade: Available on request for Ollantaytambo or Aguas Calientes.
Final tip: Do not overpack. A light daypack and well-organized duffel will make the trek much more comfortable, especially on the long hiking days.
Travel Information - Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days
Permits, Tickets & Availability
This tour includes several limited services: the Short Inca Trail permit from Km 104, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, train tickets, hotels, and camping logistics. These spaces are limited and can sell out, especially during high-demand travel dates. Booking early gives you a better chance to secure your preferred departure date, train schedule, hotel space, and Machu Picchu entry time.
Passport and Booking Details
Your permits, train tickets, and Machu Picchu entrance must match your passport details exactly. Please send your full name, passport number, nationality, date of birth, and passport expiration date as shown on your passport. You must also bring your original passport for the Inca Trail checkpoint, train travel, and Machu Picchu entrance.
Altitude and Acclimatization
This trek reaches high altitude from the first day. You will sleep at Salka Glamp at 4,150 m / 13,615 ft and cross the Frozen Inca Pass at 5,100 m / 16,732 ft on Day 2. We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco or the Sacred Valley at least 2 days before the trek. Drink plenty of water, eat light meals, avoid alcohol before the trek, and tell your guide early if you feel unwell.
Fitness Level and Trail Conditions
This trek is moderate to challenging. It is not a technical climb, but you should be ready for long hiking days, high altitude, uphill sections, downhill trails, and uneven Inca stone steps. Day 2 is the most demanding because of the altitude and the climb to the Frozen Inca Pass. A steady pace, good hiking shoes, and proper acclimatization make a big difference.
Weather, Seasons and What to Wear
Mountain weather can change quickly. Mornings and nights can be very cold, especially at the campsites, while daytime hiking can feel warm under the sun. Rain is possible at any time of year, so layers are essential. Bring a warm jacket, rain jacket or poncho, hiking pants, gloves, hat, sun protection, and comfortable broken-in hiking shoes.
Duffel Bag, Daypack and Luggage Limits
During the trekking days, you will hike with only a small daypack for water, snacks, rain gear, warm layers, sunscreen, camera, and personal items. Mules and horses carry the camping equipment and your duffel bag, with a 7 kg allowance. For Machu Picchu, avoid bringing large backpacks, as entrance rules limit the size of bags allowed inside the site.
Camping, Hotels and Bathrooms
This tour includes 2 nights of camping and 2 hotel nights. On Day 1, you sleep at our exclusive Salka Glamp campsite. On Day 2, you camp near the Inca Canal in a remote Andean valley. On Day 3, you stay in a hotel in Ollantaytambo, and on Day 4, you stay in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. The hotels include private rooms and bathrooms, while the camping nights are more remote and adventurous.
Meals, Drinking Water and Dietary Needs
Meals are included during the trek, including breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks as listed in the itinerary. Our trekking team prepares fresh meals on the route, and boiled water is provided during the camping days. Please bring a reusable water bottle and tell us in advance if you are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, or have food allergies.
Machu Picchu Visit, Circuits and Optional Hikes
You visit Machu Picchu twice. On Day 4, you arrive through the Sun Gate and enjoy your first panoramic views from the upper area of Machu Picchu. On Day 5, you return early for a guided visit of the central area, including temples, palaces, terraces, water fountains, and sacred buildings. The exact circuit and route depend on official regulations and ticket availability for your travel date. Optional hikes such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain require an extra permit and must be booked in advance.
Trains, Transfers and Return to Cusco
This tour includes private transport from Cusco to the trek starting point, train service from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 for the Short Inca Trail, bus tickets between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes, and a scenic return on the Vistadome panoramic train. After arriving in Ollantaytambo, private transport takes you back to your hotel in Cusco. Return times can vary depending on train schedules, traffic, weather, and official entry times.
FAQs - Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days
What makes this trek different from the regular Salkantay Trek?
The regular Salkantay Trek is mostly focused on mountain landscapes and ends with a visit to Machu Picchu. This route gives you much more variety. You experience Salkantay, Humantay Lake, Salkantay Lake, the Frozen Inca Pass, the remote Pampacahuana Valley, part of the Classic Inca Trail, the Short Inca Trail, Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate, and Machu Picchu twice.
Is this a good option if I want the Inca Trail experience but not the full 4-day Classic Inca Trail?
Yes. This tour is ideal if you want a real Inca Trail experience without doing the full 4-day Classic Inca Trail. You walk part of the Classic Inca Trail on Day 3 and hike the Short Inca Trail from Km 104 on Day 4, including Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate, and your first arrival to Machu Picchu on foot.
Which day is the hardest?
Day 2 is usually the hardest day because you hike to the highest point of the trek, the Frozen Inca Pass at 5,100 m / 16,732 ft. The altitude makes this day more demanding, but it is also one of the most rewarding parts of the journey, with Salkantay Lake, glacier views, and the wild Pampacahuana Valley.
Can I do this trek if I have never done a multi-day hike before?
Yes, but you should prepare before the trip. You do not need technical climbing experience, but you should be comfortable walking for several hours a day and hiking at altitude. We recommend doing some training walks, using the hiking shoes you will bring to Peru, and arriving early in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to acclimatize.
What happens if I feel sick, get altitude symptoms, or cannot continue?
Your guide will monitor the group and help you decide the safest option. Our team carries first-aid equipment and emergency oxygen, and an extra horse is available during the trekking section for additional support. Safety always comes first, so the guide may adjust the pace, timing, or plan if needed.
Will I get the classic Machu Picchu photo?
On Day 4, you arrive through the Sun Gate and continue to the upper area of Machu Picchu for panoramic views and photos. The exact photo spots depend on the official route, entry time, and conditions on the day of your visit. Our guide will help you make the most of the allowed viewpoint areas.
Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, if permits are available. Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are optional hikes that require separate tickets and must be booked in advance. These permits are limited, so let us know as early as possible if you want to add one of these hikes to your final day.
Is there Wi-Fi, phone signal, or electricity during the trek?
Phone signal is limited or unavailable in many remote sections of the trek, especially around Salkantay and Pampacahuana. You may have Wi-Fi and electricity at the hotels in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, but not at the remote campsites. Bring a power bank if you want to charge your phone or camera during the camping days.
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for this trek. It should cover adventure activities, high-altitude trekking, medical assistance, trip delays, cancellations, and lost or delayed luggage. This gives you extra protection in case of unexpected illness, travel changes, or emergencies before or during your trip.
What should I book before or after this trek?
Before the trek, we recommend the Cusco City Tour or Sacred Valley Tour to help with acclimatization and give you more cultural context. After the trek, good options include Rainbow Mountain, Maras and Moray, an extra hotel night in Cusco, or airport transfers. If you want a more comfortable experience, you can also ask about hotel upgrades, private service, hiking poles, sleeping bag rental, air mattress, or a single tent.