Salkantay + Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 7 Days 6 Nights
Embark on the Ultimate Adventure: Salkantay & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Are you ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Peruvian Andes? The Salkantay and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (7 Days / 6 Nights) is a powerful combination of adventure, cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty. This unique trek takes you from snow capped peaks to ancient Inca paths, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience that few routes can match.
A Journey That Combines Wilderness and History
This trek merges two of Peru’s most renowned hiking routes. The Salkantay section crosses remote mountain terrain and pristine valleys, while the final days connect directly to the Classic inca trail allowing you to walk along original Inca stone paths, pass through archaeological sites, and arrive at Machu Picchu via the famous Sun Gate. Unlike traditional routes, this six day itinerary provides access to both high altitude solitude and cultural immersion. It’s ideal for experienced hikers who are looking for a more in depth experience beyond the standard tourist circuits.
- Location: Cusco, Peru(Inca Trail and Salkantay Trail – 7 day Hike to Machu Picchu.
- Tour Type: Expeditionary Trekking, Cultural Immersion, and Camping.
- Total Distance: 51.5 miles / 83 km.
- Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights.
- Difficulty: Challenging – Optimized for experienced and physically fit hikers.
- Max Altitude: 15,190 ft / 4,630 m (Salkantay Pass).
- Operator: Ali Perú Treks (Native-Owned & Community-Focused).
Overview
Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Fusion
7D/6N: The Ultimate Andean Expedition
This is not just a hike; it is the most complete odyssey in the Andes. We have meticulously engineered a technical and geographical connection that merges the raw power of the Salkantay Glaciers with the ancestral engineering of the 4-Day Classic Inca Trail.
Tour Highlights
- Double Challenge Conquered: Summit both the Salkantay Pass (15,190 ft / 4,630 m) and the Dead Woman’s Pass (13,828 ft / 4,215 m) in one epic expedition.
- Premium Comfort: Sleep as you deserve. We include high-quality inflatable air mattresses to guarantee a restful night under the Andean stars.
- Ethical Support Team: Your crew of porters and chefs comes from my home community, Huayllaccocha. We pride ourselves on fair wages and dignified working conditions.
- 7kg Personal Porter Included: Hike light and free. We include 7 kg (15 lbs) for your personal gear, allowing you to focus on the scenery while we handle the heavy lifting.
- Gourmet Mountain Cuisine: Enjoy fresh meals prepared by professional chefs. Forget basic camp food; savor hot, varied banquets in our private dining tent.
Dawn at the Sun Gate: Experience the most anticipated moment of the trek: a triumphant entrance into Machu Picchu through the Inti Punku at sunrise.
SUMMARY SALKANTAY + CLASSIC INCA TRAIL
DAY 1 Cusco – Marcoccasa – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa
- Distance: 7.5 miles / 12 km
- Max Altitude: 13,780 ft / 4,200 m (Humantay Lake)
- Camp Altitude: 12,795 ft / 3,900 m
- Highlight: Acclimatization hike to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake under the towering Salkantay Glacier.
DAY 2 Soraypampa – Salkantay Pampa – Ichupata
- Distance: 11.2 miles / 18 km
- Camp Altitude: 14,107 ft / 4,300 m (Ichupata)
- Difficulty: Challenging. Conquering the majestic Andean continental divide.
DAY 3 Ichupata – Inca Canal – Paucarcancha
- Distance: 8.7 miles / 14 km
- Environment: Transition from high alpine tundra to the lush lush cloud forest.
- Inca Sites: Exploring the ancient Inca Canal and the secluded ruins of Paucarcancha.
DAY 4 | Paucarcancha – Huayllabamba – Ayapata
- Distance: 7.5 miles / 12 km
- The Connection: Official entry to the Classic Inca Trail network. We meet our expert team of porters from the Huayllaccocha community.
- Camp Altitude: 10,827 ft / 3,300 m (Ayapata – Quiet, premium campsite).
DAY 5 | Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayo – Chaquiccocha
- Distance: 9.9 miles / 16 km
- Highest Point: 13,828 ft / 4,215 m (Warmiwañusca Pass)
- Difficulty: High. Scaling the iconic stone steps of the Inca ancestors to reach the scenic Chaquiccocha camp.
DAY 6 | Chaquiccocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
- Distance: 6.2 miles / 10 km
- Inca Sites: Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and the stunning Phuyupatamarca («The Town Above the Clouds»).
- Highlight: A breathtaking sunset over the Wiñay Wayna archaeological complex.
DAY 7 | Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Distance: 3.1 miles / 5 km
- The Grand Finale: Sunrise entrance through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for the first panoramic view of the Citadel.
- Return: Executive train service to Ollantaytambo and private door-to-door transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
When is the Best Time for this Expedition?
Choosing the right season is crucial for the Salkantay & Inca Trail hybrid trek, as you will cross two different mountain ranges:
- The Dry Season (April to October): This is the premier window for this 7-day odyssey. You will experience crisp mountain air and clear blue skies, essential for the panoramic views at the Salkantay Pass (15,190 ft) and the Dead Woman’s Pass. These months offer the most stable conditions for high-altitude photography.
- The Rainy Season (November to March): During these months, the Andes turn into a lush, emerald paradise. While you should expect periodic rain, the orchids are in full bloom and the mist over the Inca ruins creates a mystical atmosphere. You’ll also enjoy the trails with significantly fewer hikers.
- Important Note: The Inca Trail portion of this trek is closed every February for government maintenance. However, we offer alternative Salkantay routes during this month.
Why Choose Ali Perú Treks for this 7-Day Journey?
- Proven Trust & Local Authority: We are a 100% reliable and punctual operator based in Cusco. Our reputation is built on excellence; check our traveler reviews on TripAdvisor to see why we are leaders in high-altitude expeditions.
- Professional Chef & Gourmet Mountain Meals: Forget basic trekking food. Our professional chefs prepare fresh, hot, and varied meals. From high-energy breakfasts to 3-course dinners in our private dining tents, we fuel your 83 km journey with the best Andean ingredients.
- True Small Group Experience: We limit our groups to a maximum of 12 travelers to ensure personalized safety and attention. We guarantee an intimate connection with the mountains, far from the crowds.
- Seamless Door-to-Door Logistics: We handle everything. From picking you up at your hotel on Day 1 to dropping you off at your door on Day 7, your professional guide accompanies you every single mile.
- Official & Native-Owned Operator: Ali Perú Treks is a licensed Inca Trail operator. By booking with us, you support a native-owned business that directly benefits the local economy and the families of our staff.
- Direct Social Impact (Huayllaccocha): Our porters and support crew come from the indigenous community of Huayllaccocha. We practice ethical tourism by ensuring fair, immediate, and dignified pay for our entire mountain team.
- 100% Guaranteed Departures: Your reservation is sacred to us. Unlike other agencies, we do not outsource. If you book for two people, we depart with two people. We never «sell» our clients to other companies.Optimized Return Times: We respect your rest. We organize your return train from Aguas Calientes at strategic times (2:55 PM or 3:20 PM), allowing you to maximize your time in Machu Picchu and still get back to Cusco early enough to enjoy a hot shower and a soft bed.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Marcoccasa – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa
We begin our high-altitude expedition with a private pickup from your hotel at 4:30 a.m. We will enjoy a scenic two-hour drive to the village of Mollepata (9,196 ft / 2,803 m), where we will make our final technical stop for last-minute supplies. Afterward, we continue for another 45 minutes to Marcoccasa, the official starting point of our journey.
In Marcoccasa, our professional chef will welcome you with a high-quality, high-energy breakfast specifically designed for the demands of the trail. Following the meal, you will meet your support crew: the chef, the porters, and the muleteers, who will be responsible for managing the logistics and safety of your journey.
We will begin a 4-hour hike across a dynamic terrain of gentle ascents and descents. This section offers spectacular panoramic views of Mount Salkantay, allowing for gradual acclimatization while you enjoy the majesty of the Vilcabamba Range. Upon arriving at our base camp in Soraypampa (12,795 ft / 3,900 m), our chef will be waiting for you with a nutritious and rejuvenating lunch.
After a well-deserved 30-minute rest in your private tent, we will begin a one-hour ascent to the jewel of the Andes: Humantay Lake (13,780 ft / 4,200 m). This turquoise mirror of water sits at the foot of an imposing glacier, offering one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes.
At this sacred site, your expert guide will share in-depth knowledge of the local flora and fauna. Additionally, we will participate in an ancient ceremony of gratitude to the Apus (mountain spirits) and Pachamama (Mother Earth) a spiritual experience that connects the traveler with the very essence of the Andes.
We will begin a one-hour descent back to camp. Upon arrival, the team will welcome you with our «Tea Time» service (hot drinks and appetizers) served directly at your table, followed by a gourmet dinner.
To end the day, we will enjoy an Inca Astronomy session. Under the clear skies of Soraypampa, your guide will explain the significance of the Andean Constellations and how the Incas interpreted the cosmos for agriculture and spirituality, before you retire to rest in the absolute silence of the mountains.
- Starting Altitude (Marcoccasa): 11,154 ft / 3,400 m
- Campsite Altitude (Soraypampa): 12,795 ft / 3,900 m
- Max Altitude (Humantay Lake): 13,780 ft / 4,200 m
- Total Distance: Approx. 7.5 miles / 12 km
- Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours (including lake exploration)
- Elevation Gain: +2,626 ft / +800 m (cumulative)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate (Active Acclimatization)
- Day Highlights: First breakfast by our chef, panoramic views of the Salkantay Apu, the turquoise Humantay Lake, and an ancestral Pachamama Ceremony.
- Meals Included:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pampa – Ichupata
Your day begins in the most authentic and comforting way possible. At 5:00 a.m., our staff will wake you in your tent with a hot cup of coca tea, perfect for oxygenation and acclimatization. You will have 30 minutes to prepare while enjoying the first light hitting the glaciers before heading to the dining tent for a gourmet energy breakfast prepared by our chef.
We begin a two-hour hike with a gradual ascent toward Salkantaypampa. As we progress, the geography becomes more imposing as we approach the base of the mountain. You will be so close to Mount Salkantay that you can appreciate the intricate details of its ice walls and feel the energy of one of Cusco’s most sacred Apus (mountain spirits).
In this privileged setting, our culinary team will set up our dining area for a high-mountain lunch, allowing you to recharge your strength without losing sight of the snow-capped peaks.
After lunch, we continue our journey with two more hours of steady climbing to reach Ichupata (approx. 14,107 ft / 4,300 m). This is an exclusive campsite, significantly less crowded than standard routes, guaranteeing an experience of peace and seclusion.
Upon your arrival, the Ali Perú Treks team will already have your tents prepared and will welcome you with «Tea Time»a selection of hot drinks and appetizers to comfort your body after the day’s effort.
At 7:00 p.m., a three-course dinner will be served, specifically designed to provide the thermal comfort needed at this altitude. Following dinner, we will witness a unique natural spectacle: due to our proximity to the glacier, the moonlight and stars reflect off the Salkantay ice, causing it to glow with a majestic, ethereal light. The absolute silence of Ichupata is only interrupted by the distant echo of the glacier’s natural movement, reminding us that we are in the very heart of the Andes.
- Starting Altitude: 12,795 ft / 3,900 m
- Campsite Altitude (Ichupata): 14,107 ft / 4,300 m
- Total Distance: Approx. 6.2 miles / 10 km
- Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours of active trekking
- Highlight: Personalized wake-up service and overnight stay at the foot of the Salkantay glacier.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day: 3 Ichupata – Inca Canal – Paucarcancha
Following a high-performance breakfast, we begin the ascent to the most spectacular and highest point of our expedition: the Inca Chiriasca Pass. At a steady, expert-led pace, we will reach 16,404 ft (5,000 m)—an altitude achieved by only a select few travelers in the world.
At the summit, our crew will welcome you with hot coca tea to celebrate your achievement. From this privileged natural vantage point, you will witness a 360-degree view of hanging glaciers and deep valleys, with the unique possibility of spotting the Andean Condor and falcons soaring in their natural habitat.
As an Ali Perú Treks signature experience, we offer an optional 30-minute hike to the base of a pristine glacier. This «off-the-beaten-path» experience allows you to touch the eternal ice before we begin our descent into the valley.
We continue trekking down to our lunch spot, where our porters will greet you with our hallmark hospitality. The afternoon turns gentle as we walk downhill through lush green valleys and winding streams, following original trails used since the time of the Incas.
Finally, we arrive at our campsite located in a small, authentic village. This is a key moment for Responsible Tourism, where you can observe rural Andean life firsthand before enjoying our gourmet dinner.
- Maximum Peak: 16,404 ft / 5,000 m (Inca Chiriasca Pass).
- Total Distance: Approx. 8.7 miles / 14 km.
- Hiking Time: 7 to 8 hours of pure Andean immersion.
- Highlights: Condor sightings, exclusive glacier access, and original Inca trails.
- Social Impact: Overnight stay in a local subsistence community, directly supporting the family economy.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 4: Paucarcancha – Huayllabamba – Ayapata
Today, you step away from the modern world and into the timeless rhythm of the Andes. We navigate ancient pathways still used by local farmers whose lifestyle has remained virtually unchanged for centuries. This isn’t just a hike; it’s a privileged encounter with the living culture of my people. At Ali Perú Treks, we believe in showing you the soul of the mountains through the eyes of those who call them home.
We arrive at the secluded Paucarcancha ruins, a strategic Inca checkpoint where your guide reveals the secrets of Andean architecture and social organization. As we leave the high-altitude valleys, you will witness a breathtaking environmental shift. The landscape transforms into a lush cloud forest microclimate, bursting with exotic orchids, bromeliads, and vibrant birdlife.
Midday marks a milestone in our expedition: our arrival at the official Classic Inca Trail. Here, our expert culinary team serves a revitalizing lunch to prepare you for the afternoon’s steady ascent. We trek through an enchanting atmosphere of hanging moss and hidden waterfalls, feeling the transition from the high peaks to the heart of the cloud forest. We settle for the night at Ayapata, a quiet, high-altitude camp carefully selected to give you a head start on tomorrow’s challenge.
- Route: Paucarcancha – Huayllabamba – Ayapata.
- Camp Altitude: 10,827 ft / 3,300 m (Ayapata Camp – Exclusive and serene).
- Total Distance: 7.5 miles / 12 km.
- Highlights: Private tour of Paucarcancha, high-jungle biodiversity, and official entrance to the world-famous Inca Trail.
- Our Social Pledge: Your presence directly supports the traditional farming communities we visit, ensuring a sustainable future for their heritage and fair wages for our team.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 5 : Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayo – Chaquiccocha
Your day begins with a comforting cup of coca tea served directly to your tent, followed by a high-energy breakfast prepared by our chef. This is the most demanding day of the trek, but also the most rewarding. We depart from Ayapata early to begin a steady ascent through the Llullucha Valley.
The first major goal is to conquer the legendary Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca), the highest point of the trail at 4,215 m (13,829 ft). Upon reaching the summit, you will feel an incredible sense of accomplishment while enjoying breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks. After a well-deserved break and a group photo, we will begin a steep descent into the Pacaymayo Valley to enjoy a delicious gourmet lunch.
After lunch, the journey continues with a second, shorter ascent toward the Runkuraqay Pass (4,000 m). Along the way, we will explore the circular ruins of Runkuraqay and then descend toward the magnificent site of Sayacmarca, an architectural gem perched on the edge of a cliff. We will conclude the day at our scenic campsite in Chaquicocha, where you can relax and enjoy the sunset over the Vilcabamba mountain range.
As always, the Ali Perú Treks team will have your campsite ready upon your arrival. Enjoy our «Tea Time» with hot drinks and snacks before a well-earned gourmet dinner to replenish your energy. After dinner, under the pristine Andean sky, your expert guide will show you the Andean constellations, and you will learn about fascinating Inca cosmology beneath the stars.
- Starting Altitude (Ayapata): 10,827 ft / 3,300 m
- Campsite Altitude (Chaquicocha): 11,811 ft / 3,600 m
- Highest Point (Dead Woman’s Pass): 13,829 ft / 4,215 m
- Total Distance: Approx. 10 miles / 16 km
- Hiking Time: 9–10 hours
- Difficulty Level: Challenging (The most intense day)
- Highlights: Dead Woman’s Pass, Sayacmarca exploration, and Inca astronomy.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 6: Chaquiccocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
After the most intense day of trekking, the third day begins with a nutritious breakfast to recharge your energy. This section welcomes us with spectacular landscapes and a more relaxed pace, designed to deeply connect with nature. We begin our hike from Chaquicocha, entering the fascinating cloud forest. For many travelers, this is the most beautiful sector of the entire Inca Trail, where we will cross original stone tunnels and observe a vibrant biodiversity unique in the world.
Our first stop is Phuyupatamarca («Town Above the Clouds»), located at 12,073 ft (3,680 m). From this strategic point, we will enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Salkantay and the majestic Urubamba Valley. After exploring its ritual fountains, we will begin the descent via perfectly preserved Inca stairways toward the site of Intipata, an impressive agricultural terrace offering an unparalleled panoramic view of the river and mountains.
Finally, we will arrive at our campsite at Wiñaywayna. Here, you will have plenty of time to enjoy a refreshing and revitalizing shower. In the afternoon, we will take a guided tour of the stunning Inca site of Wiñaywayna («Forever Young»), considered the most spectacular and mystical archaeological complex before reaching the citadel of Machu Picchu.
As night falls at our camp, the Ali Perú Treks team will have everything ready for our final Andean gourmet dinner. This evening is truly special: we celebrate the success of the expedition and say goodbye to our incredible team of porters and chefs with an emotional thank-you ceremony. It is the perfect moment to share experiences and reflections before the grand final reward the following day.
- Starting Altitude (Chaquicocha): 11,811 ft / 3,600 m
- Campsite Altitude (Wiñaywayna): 8,792 ft / 2,680 m
- Total Distance: Approx. 6.2 miles / 10 km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours of scenic trekking.
- Comfort: Free time for a shower and relaxation at the camp.
- Highlights: Phuyupatamarca, authentic Inca tunnels, Intipata terraces, and detailed exploration of Wiñaywayna.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 7: Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Today marks the culmination of your epic Classic Inca Trail adventure. We will wake up before dawn to be among the first at the final checkpoint, which opens promptly at 5:30 AM. After crossing, we begin the final one-hour hike toward the legendary Inti Punku (Sun Gate).
From this ancient vantage point, you will witness a sublime moment: the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu bathed in the first rays of the rising sun. It is a truly unforgettable experience and the ultimate reward for every step taken along the trail.
From the Sun Gate, we will descend for approximately 1 hour to reach the main platform of Circuit 1, the perfect location to capture the classic postcard photographs of the citadel. After immortalizing this moment, we will take a brief technical break and exit the Inca site to use the restrooms located outside the archaeological area.
Following the break, we will re-enter through Circuit 3 to begin your private, two-hour guided tour. Your expert Ali Perú Treks guide will lead you through the most iconic areas, revealing the deep history and mysteries surrounding this World Wonder.
Optional Challenge: Huayna Picchu
For adrenaline seekers who booked the Huayna Picchu permit in advance, you will embark on a challenging one-hour ascent to the summit, followed by a one-hour descent. From the top, you will enjoy a unique and dizzying aerial perspective of the entire citadel (please note: this requires booking months in advance due to high demand).
Once the exploration is complete, we will take the shuttle bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes. You will have time to enjoy a revitalizing lunch (optional) before your guide accompanies you to the train station. We will travel by train to Ollantaytambo, where our dedicated staff will be waiting to transfer you in our private transportation directly to your hotel door in Cusco, concluding an incomparable life experience.
Starting Altitude (Wiñaywayna): 8,792 ft / 2,680 m
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 7,972 ft / 2,430 m
- Total Distance: Approx. 3.1 miles / 5 km
- Hiking Time: 2 hours to the photo platform.
- Highlights: Sunrise at Inti Punku, Classic postcard photos (Circuit 1), Specialized tour (Circuit 3), and private return to Cusco.
- Meals Included: Breakfast.
Includes
Includes
- Official Entrance Tickets & Guaranteed Circuits: We secure your entry to the most iconic parts of the sanctuary. Our tours automatically include:
- Circuit 1 (Panoramic): Access to the upper platforms for the legendary “postcard” photo of Machu Picchu.
- Circuit 3 (Royal Sector): Exploration of the lower citadel, including the Temple of the Sun and the House of the Inca.
- Full permits for Salkantay National Park and the Classic Inca Trail.
Pre-departure Meeting: Mandatory briefing at your hotel the day before the trek at 5:00 PM (17:00). - Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the trailhead.
- Machu Picchu Shuttle Bus: Includes the bus tickets down from the Machu Picchu archeological site to Aguas Calientes.
- Return Train Service: Expedition Class Train ticket from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo.
- Private shuttle from Ollantaytambo station directly back to your hotel in Cusco.
- Emergency Horse: An additional horse is always available for our clients in case of fatigue or physical exhaustion.
- Oxygen & First Aid: Medical-grade oxygen tanks and a professional-grade first aid kit carried by the team at all times.
- Satellite Communication: Satellite phones and 10 km range radios for constant coordination with our Cusco base.
- Licensed Guides: University-accredited, bilingual experts with 5–12 years of experience.
- Professional Chefs: Specialists in modern Andean and international cuisine (Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-free options available).
- Porters & Horsemen: Dedicated team to handle all group gear and logistics.
- Full Porter Service (7 kg Duffel Bag): We include a personal porter service for 7 kg (15 lbs) of your belongings. This weight includes your sleeping bag. We provide the official Duffel Bag during your briefing.
- Professional Camping Gear:
- 4-Season Tents: High-mountain tents designed for extreme weather (2 people per tent).
- Dining & Social Tents: Spacious tents with tables, chairs, and private eco-friendly toilet tents at every lunch spot and campsite.
- Sleeping Pads: High-density foam mattresses for thermal insulation.
- Purified Water: Boiled and filtered water provided from the first lunch to the last breakfast.
Not Include
- Professional Gear Rentals: If you do not wish to bring your own, we offer top-tier equipment for rent:
- Sleeping Bag: $25 USD (Cold-weather rated).
- Inflatable Air Mattress: $20 USD (For extra cushioning).
- Trekking Poles (Pair): $20 USD (Must have rubber tips to protect the trails).
- Final Day Lunch: Lunch in Aguas Calientes on Day 7 after your tour of the citadel.
- Additional Mountain Challenges ($80 USD per person): Enhance your experience by climbing one of the peaks surrounding the sanctuary:
- Huayna Picchu: The famous “Young Peak.” A steep, rewarding 80-minute round-trip hike (40 mins up / 40 mins down) with vertical views of the ruins.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: The “Great Peak.” A longer, panoramic trek (approx. 3.5 hours round-trip) to the highest vantage point of the entire sanctuary. Important: These permits must be booked months in advance due to strict government quotas.
Packing List
Expert Guidance by Ali Perú Treks – Local Expertise
Proper preparation is the key to enjoying the Andes. This list covers the diverse ecosystems you will traverse, from high-altitude glaciers to the lush tropical cloud forest.
The Essentials (In your Daypack at all times)
These items must be on your person or in your 25L-30L backpack. Remember: large hiking packs are not allowed inside Machu Picchu.
- Original Passport: The exact document used for your booking (Checkpoints are strict).
- Valid University Card: If you booked with a student discount.
- Water Storage: 2-3 Liters. (Reusable bottles or Camelbaks are mandatory; single-use plastic is prohibited).
- Footwear: Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support.
- Headlamp: Essential for navigating campsites and early morning starts.
- Rain Gear: High-quality poncho or rain jacket (Essential for the cloud forest).
- Cash: Small denominations in Soles (PEN) for tips, snacks, or extra water.
The Ali Perú Duffel Bag (Porter Service Included)
As a 100% Direct Local Operator, we provide a duffel bag during your briefing. We INCLUDE a porter/mule service to carry 7 kg (15 lbs) of your belongings.
Porter Welfare Note: By Peruvian Law, duffel bags cannot exceed 7 kg. A sleeping bag (~2 kg) and mattress (~1 kg) stay inside the bag, leaving you 4 kg for personal clothing and items.
Inside your Duffel Bag:
- Base Layers: 3 moisture-wicking t-shirts, 2 pairs of hiking pants, 4 sets of undergarments, 4 pairs of hiking socks.
- Extreme Cold Gear: Thermal base layers, a fleece, and a warm down jacket (Salkantay temperatures can drop to -5°C / 23°F).
- Accessories: Waterproof gloves and a warm beanie (essential for cold mornings).
- Camp Shoes: Comfortable sneakers or sandals to rest your feet at camp or in the hotel.
- Sleeping Bag: Rated for at least -15°C (Available for rent at Ali Perú Treks for $25 USD).
- Quick-dry Towel: For personal hygiene at campsites.
- Power Bank: Critical, as there is no electricity along the trek.
Health & Skin Care
- Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, sun hat, and polarized sunglasses.
- Skin Care: Lip balm and moisturizer (The Andean air is extremely dry).
- Insect Repellent: High DEET content is essential for the final days in the cloud forest.
- Personal Meds: Prescriptions and a small First Aid kit (Band-aids, moleskin for blisters, pain relief).
Daily Trail Logistics (Keep these handy)
Since you won’t have access to your duffel bag until the evening, keep these in your daypack:
- Camera: To capture the breathtaking views of the Salkantay Peak and your arrival at the Sun Gate.
- First Morning Water: Please bring your own water for the first 4 hours; we provide boiled/filtered water after the first lunch.
- High-Energy Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, or dried fruits.
- Trash Bag: A small bag for your waste (We practice «Leave No Trace»).
Travel Info
Travel Information
Expert Logistics for your Salkantay & Inca Trail Expedition
Thank you for choosing Ali Perú Treks. To ensure your journey through the Andes is seamless, safe, and professionally organized, please review the following essential logistical details.
The Professional Pre-Departure Briefing (Mandatory)
Preparation is the cornerstone of a successful trek. Your briefing is a face-to-face orientation with our experts to finalize all logistics.
- Time: 6:00 PM (18:00) sharp, the evening before your trek departure.
- Location: Our Central Office in Cusco (Address: [Insert Exact Address Here]).
- Meet Your Guide: During this session, you will meet your lead professional guide, who will provide a detailed technical breakdown of the route, weather updates, and safety protocols.
- The Official Ali Perú Duffel Bag: We will provide you with your 7 kg (15 lbs) duffel bag. This bag is for your personal gear (clothing, sleeping bag, etc.), which will be carried by our porters or mules during the expedition.
- Final Q&A: This is the designated time to resolve any last-minute questions regarding gear, physical preparation, or trail expectations.
Booking, Deposit, and Final Payment
To guarantee high-demand permits, train tickets, and elite field staff, our payment structure is firm and transparent.
- Non-Refundable Deposit:$200 USD per person.
- The Logic: This deposit is used immediately to purchase your Machu Picchu entrance permits (Circuits 1 & 3) and Expedition Train tickets in your name. Per Peruvian government regulations, these documents are non-refundable and non-transferable.
- Settling the Balance:
- The remaining balance of your tour must be settled in full during the Briefing at 6:00 PM.
- Payment Methods: We accept cash (USD or PEN — bills must be crisp and in perfect condition) or Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex). Note: Card payments are subject to a standard service fee.
- Settling your balance during the briefing ensures a smooth, stress-free start on the morning of your departure.
Mandatory Documents
Original Passport: You must bring the physical passport used for your booking to the briefing and on the trail. Photocopies or digital images are not accepted at government checkpoints. Without your original passport, entry to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu will be denied.
Gear & Rentals
The briefing is your final opportunity to secure professional rentals if you have not done so in advance:
- Professional Sleeping Bags: $25 USD (Cold-weather rated).
- Trekking Poles: $20 USD (Pair with rubber tips).
- Inflatable Air Mattresses: $20 USD (For enhanced comfort).
Our Commitment to Safety
As a Direct Local Operator, we provide premium safety equipment included in your tour:
- Emergency Horse: Available for high-altitude sections.
- Oxygen & First Aid: Medical-grade equipment carried by our team at all times.
- Satellite Communication: Constant contact with our Cusco base via satellite phone.
Faqs
Frequently asked questions
Since this route includes the Classic Inca Trail, you must book 4 to 6 months in advance. Government permits are strictly limited and sell out rapidly.
The $200 USD deposit is mandatory and non-refundable. We use it immediately to purchase your Machu Picchu entrance tickets and Expedition Train tickets in your name. Per Peruvian government regulations, these documents cannot be refunded or transferred.
At Ali Perú Treks, we automatically include Circuits 1 and 3. Circuit 1 guarantees the classic “postcard” view from the upper platforms, while Circuit 3 allows you to explore the Royal Sector and the main temples.
Unfortunately, no. Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu tickets are issued for a specific date and name. The government does not allow any changes to dates or personal information once the ticket is issued.
The briefing is a mandatory safety and orientation meeting with your expert guide. It takes place at 5:00 PM (17:00) the day before your departure, right at your hotel in Cusco.
We provide you with an official Duffel Bag during your briefing. We include a porter who will carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal belongings (including your sleeping bag). You only need to carry a small daypack for your daily essentials.
Keep essentials handy: water, sunscreen, insect repellent, a rain poncho, your camera, and your original passport (the same one used for booking).
We are one of the few agencies that includes an Emergency Horse during the mountain sections to assist guests experiencing fatigue. Additionally, our guides carry medical oxygen tanks and professional first aid kits at all times.
Our guides are certified in wilderness first aid. We strongly recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco before your trek to properly acclimate to the altitude.
Yes. Every group carries a satellite phone and high-frequency radios to maintain constant contact with our Cusco office in case of any emergency.
We use professional 4-season tents specifically designed to withstand heavy rain, wind, and freezing temperatures, ensuring a safe and dry night.
We include high-density foam mats for thermal insulation. If you would like extra comfort, you can rent an inflatable air mattress for an additional $20 USD.
Our professional mountain chefs prepare gourmet meals, including 3-course lunches, daily “Tea Time,” and specialized dinners. We cater to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets at no extra cost.
We provide boiled, filtered, and cooled water from the first lunch to the last breakfast. You only need to bring your own reusable water bottles or a Camelbak (3L recommended).
We include the Expedition Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transportation directly back to your hotel in Cusco.
Yes. We include the bus tickets down from the citadel to Aguas Calientes to ensure a comfortable conclusion to your tour.
These must be requested at the time of booking for an additional $80 USD. They sell out 4 months in advance.
- Huayna Picchu: 2.5 hours round-trip (includes Circuit 3).
- Machu Picchu Mountain: 3.5 – 4 hours round-trip (includes Circuit 1).
They are highly recommended to protect your knees, especially on steep descents. They must have rubber tips to protect the trail. You can rent a pair from us for $20 USD.
Yes, we are 100% Direct Local Operators. We manage all our own logistics, which guarantees quality control and ethical treatment for our team of porters, chefs, and guides.
Tipping is voluntary but greatly appreciated by our field team. It is customary to give tips at the end of the staff’s service before your final night or visit to Machu Picchu.
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