From
$ 550
/Per Person
:Group Size:
![salkantay-trek- classic machupicchu travel peru cusco okidoki] Salkantay Trek + Original Inka Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days](https://www.okidokitravelperu.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/salkantay-trek-19.jpg "salkantay-trek- classic machupicchu travel peru cusco okidoki] Salkantay Trek + Original Inka Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days")
From
$ 550
/Per Person
:Group Size:
From
$ 550
/Per Person
:Group Size:
From
$ 550
/Per Person
:Group Size:
From
$ 550
/Per Person
:Group Size:
5 days / 4 nights
Daily departures
Max: 14 People
Moderate
The Best Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail Combo Tour
Discover the best and most affordable adventure option with Okidoki. Therefore, the Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail 5-day tour is your perfect choice. This budget-friendly expedition features a grand diversity of changing landscapes. Additionally, you will experience beautiful glacier mountains, dense jungle ecosystems, and local fauna.
We proudly complement this unique mountain route with the classic, original Inka trail. Furthermore, our travel agency secures official government permissions for every client.
INCLUDED:
What is Included in this Adventure Combo?
You will hike through legendary Peruvian history and explore famous archaeological sites along the way. For instance, our daily itinerary includes guided visits to:
- Chachabamba: An ancient Inca checkpoint and religious site.
- Wiñayhuayna: The most beautiful architectural ruins along the trail.
- The Sun Gate (Intipunku): The historic official entrance to the sanctuary.
Most importantly, you will have the unique opportunity to visit the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu twice. In conclusion, this double entry gives you the best value for your money.
Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail: The Ultimate 5-Day Combo
Experience the magic of the Andes and ancient Inca culture with Okidoki. Therefore, this exclusive tour is your best choice to challenge the mountains. We combine the wild beauty of the Salkantay Trek with the historic path of the Short Inca Trail. Additionally, our specialized package secures all official government permits for your group.
Salkantay Trek + Original Inka Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days (Itinerary and Map)
Salkantay Trek + Original Inka Trail to Machu Picchu
5 days / 4 nights, Group Hiking Tour
FORM BOOKING NOW
Trip Highlights
Salkantay Trek + Inca Trail Original: Tour Summary (5 Days)
Exceptional Hybrid Route: This journey combines the challenging scenery of the Salkantay Trek with the archaeological significance of the Short Inca Trail at Km 104.
- Day 1: Altitude and Nature: Ascent to Soraypampa (3,912 m) and visit to the spectacular Humantay Lagoon with views of the Salkantay mountain.
- Day 2: Maximum Challenge: Cross the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m (highest point) and descend safely into the high jungle.
- Day 3: Jungle and Transition: Hike through local coffee and coca plantations. Arrival in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).
- Day 4: Historical Entrance: Begin the Short Inca Trail at Km 104. Visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñayhuayna. Finally, enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Intipunku) for panoramic views.
- Day 5: Full Exploration: Wake up early for a complete guided exploration of the Machu Picchu Citadel during your second visit.
Double Access to Machu Picchu: We include a special permit allowing two separate entries to the park. Therefore, you get one panoramic view day and one deep exploration day.
Optional Add-ons: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain excursions are available with an additional ticket. However, these choices require advance booking due to limited spaces.
Official Machu Picchu Tickets & New Regulations
Please read this important travel note carefully for your upcoming visit to the Inca sanctuary. All official Machu Picchu tickets are fully included in our tour packages.
How many circuits are there now in Machu Picchu?
For the official visit to Machu Picchu, the government currently manages 3 different circuits. Consequently, coordinating logistics has become complicated for travel agencies. It is physically impossible for the guides to be in all circuits at the exact same time.
- Circuit 1 (Panoramic): This option offers the classic panoramic view of Machu Picchu. However, it only includes the exploration of the upper part of the citadel, not the lower interior.
- Circuit 2 (Classic Circuit): This is the most complete route. It provides the classic view of Machu Picchu along with an internal visit to the main sectors.
- Circuit 3 (Machu Picchu Royalty): This path features an internal visit to the lower sectors. Nevertheless, it does not include the standard classic panoramic photo.
Which circuit does our guided tour include?
Our professional guided tour is only included for the classic circuit (Circuit 2). Entry times for this guided service usually start between 6:00 a.m. or 7:00 a.m. For this reason, you must book your expedition well in advance to secure this specific ticket.
Does climbing Huayna Picchu Mountain have an extra cost?
Yes, booking the extra hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain has an additional cost of 20 dollars per person. However, you must know that you will lose the standard group guide service in the main citadel. This happens because the guide cannot split between multiple circuits simultaneously.
Is there enough time to climb Huayna Picchu if returning by bus?
Under the new government regulations, it is possible to return by bus on the same day. Nevertheless, you will miss the group guided service in the lower ruins. Therefore, our team highly recommends returning by train on the last day. As an alternative, you can stay one extra night in Aguas Calientes and return by bus via Hydroelectric the following morning.
How much time do I have to visit Circuit 2 if returning by bus?
You will have enough time to return to Cusco by bus if we book the earliest entry slots. For instance, we aim for the 6:00 a.m., 7:00 a.m., or 8:00 a.m. schedules. The official regulation allows approximately 2 hours inside the citadel. On the contrary, if your entry is after 8:00 a.m., you must upgrade to a return train ticket to avoid missing your transport connections.
How much time do I spend with the guide in the citadel?
You will receive exactly 2 hours of valuable historical information with our certified guide inside Machu Picchu.
How long is the walk to Hydroelectric after visiting the ruins?
From the main exit gates, you will face a 1-hour descent to the Machu Picchu bridge. Subsequently, you will complete a 2-hour and 30-minute flat walk following the Urubamba River valley. In total, the journey requires approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes of walking to reach the Hydroelectric bus station.
Mountain Comparison & Trek Preparation
What is the difference between Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain?
These are two independent mountain peaks strategically located at different altitudes around the valley. Likewise, they offer completely unique views of the landscape.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: This peak contains actual Inca constructions and reaches an altitude of 2,720 meters. The climb takes 1.5 hours to ascend and about 1 hour to descend. It is the iconic mountain that appears directly behind the ruins in classic postcards. As a result, the steep and narrow steps can be intimidating for travelers with vertigo.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: This peak does not feature any archaeological ruins. However, it offers a wider panoramic view of the entire valley at an altitude of 3,100 meters. The trail requires 2.5 hours to ascend and 1.5 hours to descend, featuring less steep and wider pathways.
Should I acclimatize in Cusco before starting the Salkantay Trek?
In general, every trek in the Cusco region requires proper altitude acclimatization. For this reason, we suggest arriving in Cusco 1 to 2 days before your official departure date. Also, consider the local weather variations. It is important to pack a reliable rain poncho in your daypack, even during the dry season.
Can vegetarians or travelers with food allergies join the trek?
Of course you can comfortably complete the Salkantay Trek. Additionally, you must inform our team about your dietary restrictions before the departure date. This helps our professional chef take all necessary precautions. In conclusion, we will finalize all these crucial details during our mandatory pre-trek briefing at the Okidoki office.
DETAILED TOUR ITINERARY
Trek Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Lake Humantay – Salkantay — distance 12 km (5 hours travel)
Sky Lodge Salkantay base camp Okidoki
Trek Day 2: Soraypampa -Salkantay Pass – Huayrapunku – Chaullay – Salkantay — distance 22 klm (9 hours travel)
Trek DAY 3: Salkantay – Chaullay – Playa Sahuayo — Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes town hostel (distance 25 km – 7 hours approximately)
Trek DAY 4: Pueblo of Aguas Calientes – KM 104 Chachabamba – Wiñayhuayna – Sun Gate – Machupicchu – Hostel pueblo Aguas Calientes
Road to the control of chachabamba km 104 (distance 1 hour 30 minutes approximately) to start the original inka trail to machupicchu
Archaeological zone of chachabamba with religious ceremonial function
Original inka path to reach the archeological zone of wiñayhuayna
The beautiful archaeological site of Wiñayhuayna (inka trail)
Sun Gate (Puerta del Sol), official entrance to MachuPicchu in Inka times and where you will have a panoramic view of the Inka citadel of MachuPicchu
The hot springs in the town Aguas Calientes in Machu piccho
DAY 5: Hostel Pueblo Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu
We start very early at 4:30 am with a walk of 1 hour 30 minutes to reach Machu Picchu and have our exploration with our guide in the circuit provided by the government for 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours in machu piccho.
TRAVEL PLAN RETURNING WITH THE BUS OPTION AFTER MACHUPICCHU Day-5: Aguas Calientes – inka citadel of Machu Picchu — distance 5 klm (1 hour ½ travel)
Includes the return by bus from Hidroeléctrica at 2:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and arriving in Cusco between 10:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (approximately 7 hours). Cusco center
Transportation to return to Cusco on the last day of the tour.
TRAVEL PLAN RETURNING WITH THE TRAIN OPTION AFTER MACHUPICCHU Day-5: Aguas Calientes – inka citadel of Machu Picchu — distance 5 klm (1 hour ½ travel)
then you will take the train to Ollantaytambo for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes and then a bus to Cusco for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to the center of Cusco.
end of service okidoki travel peru operator
TRAVEL NOTE SALKANTAY TREKKING:
The permit we have for this option is for the inka trail and it is different because it allows us to visit machupicchu 2 times machupicchu but if we want to reserve the huaynapicchu mountain or the machupicchu mountain we have to pay for a new ticket that the price is 60 dollars per person and you have to book it well in advance and checking the availability of the moment.- First option: the inka trail has a special permit from the government and it is impossible to add the option of huaynapicchu mountain or machupicchu mountain to the inka trail permit. if you want to climb this mountain you have to buy a new ticket price 60 dollars per person.
- Second option: Huaynapicchu Mountain (circuit 4).
- Third option: Mountain Machupicchu (circuit 3). “For example” It cannot be done with the same ticket to HuaynaPicchu and the Machu Picchu mountain because the options are totally different.
What is Included?
- ENTRANCE TICKET TO INCA TRAIL + MACHU PICCHU
- Detailed information about your booked tour 1 day before departure at the Okidoki Travel Peru office. Location (Calle Nueva Alta # 644 in Okidoki Hostal Cusco).
- EQUIPMENT such as: (DUFFEL BAG to place all this equipment on the mules)
- transport from cusco to the beginning of the trek.
- SLEEPING BAG
- 5 breakfasts-4 lunches-4 dinners
- Professional guide english spanish x 5 days including the machupicchu
- Hot drinks at night and at each meal
- Horses (mules) to carry 5 kilos per person
- Hostel in Aguas calientes. x 2 nights
- Day 4 includes… 30-minute bus descent to the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town)
- Return transportation x bus to Cusco the last day (if you return with the bus option)
- Return transportation x train to Ollantaytambo – bus to Cusco the last day (if you return with the train option)
What is Not Included?
- The last dinner day 4 where they will have their free afternoon
- Hot springs day 4
- The last lunch
- Hiking stick PAIR US $ 10
- The entrance ticket to the community of Mollepata – Humantay Lake price 20 soles
- transportation day 3 after lunch from sahuayaco beach to hydroelectric (40 or 50 soles). start of the walk to get to town of Aguas Calientes.
- Water (cold beer champagne wiski etc.)
- hot springs in the town Aguas Calientes 20 soles
- Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machupicchu US $ 12 only up ( day 5 )
- Bus just to go down from Machupicchu to Aguas Calientes US $ 12 only down ( day 5)
- Entrance to huaynapicchu mountain US$ 70 (book months in advance)
- Entrance to machupicchu mountain US$ 70 (book months in advance)
- Tips (voluntary tips)
What to Bring to the Tour?
- ORIGINAL PASSPORT AND ORIGINAL STUDENT CARD (IF YOU MADE YOUR RESERVATION AS A STUDENT)
- BACKPACK (30 LITERS)
- RAIN JACKET OR RAIN PONCHO
- WALKING SHOES
- LANTERN
- TOWEL + BATHING PAPER
- PERSONAL MEDICATION
- SOLAR BLOCKER-SUNGLASSES-HAT HAT ..
- MOSQUITO REPELLENT
- CHOCOLATE CARAMELOS SNACKS
- PHOTO CAMERA
- EXTRA MONEY
Sky Lodge Experience
CONDITIONS FOR MAKING A RESERVATION AND CANCELLATIONS
to make your reservation you need the exact date of your Inka Trail + Salkantay Trek departure because there are no changes or cancellations
RESERVATION MONEY DEPOSIT
To confirm your reservation and your participation in the trekking, you need to make a deposit. This deposit is to reserve all your trek services and, most importantly, the purchase of the Machupicchu ticket (the Machupicchu ticket is personal, it cannot be canceled or change date, or transfer to another person )
CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellations and date changes are not accepted, you simply lose your deposit, there is no refund.
your deposit is not for our pocket ( It is to buy the Machupicchu tickets and these tickets cannot be cancelled.) And it is for the organization of a good trek in okidoki and to have this good organization you have to make advance reservations of all the services that you are going to have during the 4 or 5 days of your trekking and these reservations are made with deposits so as not to have inconveniences or last minute cancellations from our suppliers and if we cancel these reservations we lose our deposits because this is not a game and by making a reservation with our service providers for the treks we are blocking spaces that they can simply give to other tour operators who also need it.
WHAT REQUIREMENTS DO YOU NEED TO OPTAIN THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?
THE ISIC CARD IS NOT VALID BECAUSE THE GOVERNMENT FOUND FAKE COPIES… AND IT IS ALSO NOT VALID, CERTIFICATIONS, DOCUMENTS, NOTE FROM UNIVERSITY STUDENTS, INTERNSHIPS, ETC.
If you are a student, the discount is 20 dollars but you must have a card from your university with the current date (2026 or 2027) not 3 or 4 years later (not 2028 or 2029). Yourimage. The name of your university.
We need the copy of your original passport and your student card to show it to the government and he will say if it is valid or not because the discount is for the entrance of the Machupicchu and not for our trekking.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
you have to take your original plastic (PVC) student card, not cardboard or paper for your classic salkantay trekking because if you don’t have it your ticket will not be valid and you will have to buy another ticket it is a problem because if there are no spaces you will not visit Machupicchu ( you must be 25 years old or younger)… If you do not have this original card or this information on your student card that the government requires, I recommend you buy a normal adult ticket to avoid problems because we will not be responsible for this…
If you have this information and the requirements as a student, send them immediately (it is not valid if you send them after confirming your reservation) to present them to the government and the government approves them whether you are a student or not…
Cancellation Policies & FAQs
CONDITIONS FOR MAKING A RESERVATION AND CANCELLATIONS
to make your reservation you need the exact date of your Inka Trail + Salkantay Trek departure because there are no changes or cancellations
RESERVATION MONEY DEPOSIT
To confirm your reservation and your participation in the trekking, you need to make a deposit. This deposit is to reserve all your trek services and, most importantly, the purchase of the Machupicchu ticket (the Machupicchu ticket is personal, it cannot be canceled or change date, or transfer to another person )
CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellations and date changes are not accepted, you simply lose your deposit, there is no refund.
your deposit is not for our pocket ( It is to buy the Machupicchu tickets and these tickets cannot be cancelled.) And it is for the organization of a good trek in okidoki and to have this good organization you have to make advance reservations of all the services that you are going to have during the 4 or 5 days of your trekking and these reservations are made with deposits so as not to have inconveniences or last minute cancellations from our suppliers and if we cancel these reservations we lose our deposits because this is not a game and by making a reservation with our service providers for the treks we are blocking spaces that they can simply give to other tour operators who also need it.
WHAT REQUIREMENTS DO YOU NEED TO OPTAIN THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?
THE ISIC CARD IS NOT VALID BECAUSE THE GOVERNMENT FOUND FAKE COPIES… AND IT IS ALSO NOT VALID, CERTIFICATIONS, DOCUMENTS, NOTE FROM UNIVERSITY STUDENTS, INTERNSHIPS, ETC.
If you are a student, the discount is 20 dollars but you must have a card from your university with the current date (2026 or 2027) not 3 or 4 years later (not 2028 or 2029). Yourimage. The name of your university.
We need the copy of your original passport and your student card to show it to the government and he will say if it is valid or not because the discount is for the entrance of the Machupicchu and not for our trekking.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
you have to take your original plastic (PVC) student card, not cardboard or paper for your classic salkantay trekking because if you don’t have it your ticket will not be valid and you will have to buy another ticket it is a problem because if there are no spaces you will not visit Machupicchu ( you must be 25 years old or younger)… If you do not have this original card or this information on your student card that the government requires, I recommend you buy a normal adult ticket to avoid problems because we will not be responsible for this…
If you have this information and the requirements as a student, send them immediately (it is not valid if you send them after confirming your reservation) to present them to the government and the government approves them whether you are a student or not…
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS OF OUR TRAVELERS
1. What’s the difference between the classic Salkantay Trek and the original Inka Trail?
Both are epic, but totally different in vibe. The classic Salkantay trek is wilder and freer, featuring snowy peaks and lush jungle. On the contrary, the Inka Trail original is deeply archaeological, full of ancient ruins and original Inca paths. The best part? With us, you do both! 🔥
2. How many kilometers is the 5-day classic Salkantay Trek + original Inka Trail combo?
Roughly 60 km (37 miles). It’s not a marathon, but it is an adventure for your body and your soul! 🚶♂️🌄
3. Do I need to be super fit to do this trekking in Peru?
Nope! You don’t need to be Ironman 🦸♂️. You just need to be healthy, with a bit of stamina and a lot of excitement. Therefore, we go at your own pace, providing pro guides, frequent breaks, and full support along the way.
4. What’s the highest altitude during this treks in Peru?
The highest point is Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m (15,190 ft). After that, the trail descends into tropical cloud forest. Don’t worry because we fully include proper acclimatization and hot coca tea 😄🍃.
5. What’s the best time of year for this tour?
The dry season from April to October is best for the classic Salkantay Trek + original Inka trails. Consequently, you will enjoy blue skies, steady trails, and no rain-soaked selfies! ☀️📸
6. Do I need a permit for this hike?
Yes! The Inka Trail original section requires an official government permit, and they sell out fast. For this reason, you should book early and we’ll handle all the paperwork for you. 📝✅
7. What’s included in your 5-day combo tour?
✨ Everything you need for an amazing classic Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu:
- Pickup & transport from Cusco center.
- Friendly expert guides for your treks 😄.
- Professional chef and full daily meals.
- High-quality camping gear and modern tents.
- Official entry tickets to Machu Picchu.
- And lots of epic moments! 🎒
8. What’s camping like on this trekking?
Imagine waking up next to snow-capped peaks and sleeping under a sky full of stars 🌌. With Okidoki Travel Peru – Salkantay Sky Lodge, camping isn’t surviving. Instead, it is thriving with cozy tents, amazing food, and a team that spoils you.
9. Is this trek safe for solo travelers or first-timers?
Absolutely! You’ll join a guided group, meet awesome new people, and our team is 100% trained to support you. In conclusion, it is safe, fun, and friendly 💪😉.
10. Can I bring a suitcase or only a backpack?
We use pack mules to carry your larger luggage up to 7 kg per person. Subsequently, you only hike with a light daypack containing water, snacks, a camera, and your best smile 😄🎒.
11. How do we get to MachuPicchu at the end?
After 5 epic days, we take a scenic train from Aguas Calientes. Likewise, the next morning we rise early to walk into the magic of Machu Picchu. 🎟️🏞️
12. Can I add HuaynaPicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to my tour?
Yes! Just let us know in advance because tickets are extremely limited. Are you up for one more mini-challenge after the trek? 🧗♂️🏔️
13. What if I get altitude sickness?
We’ve got you covered! We provide hot coca tea, gentle pacing, emergency oxygen, and caring guides. Furthermore, our itinerary gives your body enough time to adjust naturally. No stress—we’ve got your back 🍃⛰️.
14. How can I book this hike with Okidoki Travel Peru?
Easy! Book through our official website www.okidokitravelperu.com, WhatsApp, or social media. However, your valid passport, travel dates, and adventurous spirit are required. 💻📲
15. Why choose Okidoki Travel and not another agency?
Because we don’t just hike. On the contrary, we travel with unique style, joy, and heart! We’re trekking specialists, local passionate guides, and memory-makers for life 🎉🎒🌄.
16. Do I need to book HuaynaPicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain in advance?
Yes, definitely! 🎟️ Tickets for HuaynaPicchu and Machu Picchu Mountain sell out 2 to 3 months in advance. Therefore, if you dream of that iconic photo from the top, reserve early. We will take care of everything 🧗♀️🏔️.
👉 Pro tip from Okidoki: Booking early also secures your preferred entry time to Machu Picchu itself, since entrance slots are now strictly scheduled.
What is the original Inca trail to Machu Picchu?
The world-famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the best hiking trails in South America. You will walk in the footsteps of the Inca nobility to their incredible fortress. Additionally, you will venture to discover its deepest secrets with a local Cusco – Peru Operator.
The original Inca Trail is the perfect choice for adventurous travelers. It leads directly to Machu Picchu, which is a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will visit unique Inca archaeological sites that can only be accessed by following this specific route. Likewise, you will let yourself be enveloped by the impressive mountainous landscape and thick vegetation.
Along the way, natural challenges will be presented. Nevertheless, you will receive the most amazing reward when you enter the Puerta del Sol to see mystical Machu Picchu for the first time.
Enjoy one of the most popular attractions in South America along the original Inca trail + Salkantay trek combo:
- Travel an ancient road and visit incredible Inca archaeological sites that will make you step back into history.
- Witness the natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes with its imposing mountain peaks and its lush green hills.
- Discover the secrets of the Incas along the way and imagine how the ancient Inca empire lived.
- Spend the nights in the protective arms of Mother Nature in our comfortable, private campsites.
- Enter the Inca citadel through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), a unique experience reserved only for hikers of this route.
- Explore the amazing Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and its mountainous village through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
How many days do I need to acclimatize in Cusco before the trek?
It is very important to be well acclimatized to the altitude of the mountains and valleys before starting your hike. For this reason, we recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before you start the trek. This strategy helps you adapt and avoids possible problems with altitude sickness during your journey.
It is likely that you have already visited another high-altitude area of Peru before arriving in Cusco. Even so, we recommend that you rest a whole day in Cusco to recover from your trip. You can enjoy the unique sights and sounds of the city before leaving for the Salkantay Trek + Classic Inca Trail.
Recommended Short Activities in Cusco Before Your Trek
Here you will find some excellent recommendations and suggestions for short tourist activities to do in the surroundings of Cusco before starting your adventure hike:
- Free Walking Tour Cusco
- Classic City Tour Cusco
- The Legendary Sacred Valley
- Moray and Salineras de Maras
- Day Hike to Humantay Lagoon
- Hiking to the Rainbow Mountain
- The Abode of the Gods (Apukunaq Tianan)
- The Condor Flight from Chonta Canyon
Is it safe to do the Salkantay Trek if I have asthma or no high-altitude hiking experience?
Yes, it is entirely safe to complete the Salkantay Trek without previous mountain experience, provided you take the necessary medical precautions. Therefore, our specialized team at Okidoki Travel Peru structures the itinerary with a progressive ascent to give your lungs enough time to adapt naturally. Additionally, if you use an inhaler for asthma, you must carry it in your personal daypack at all times during the route.
The highest point reaches 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) on Day 2. Consequently, we officially mandate a minimum of two full days of acclimatization in Cusco before departure. Furthermore, our certified local guides carry professional emergency oxygen tanks and medical first aid kits throughout the entire journey to handle any altitude complications immediately.
What is the exact packing list for the Salkantay Trek during the dry season?
Packing correctly is essential because temperatures vary dramatically between the high mountains and the tropical jungle sections. For this reason, you must prepare a multi-layered clothing system inside your light travel backpack. During the first two nights near the glaciers, the temperature frequently drops below 0°C (32°F). On the contrary, the high jungle section on Day 3 is hot, humid, and full of mosquitoes.
Your packing list should strictly include thermal base layers, a windproof down jacket, and broken-in trekking boots. Subsequently, you will also need a reliable rain poncho, mosquito repellent with high DEET, and a reusable water bottle. In conclusion, keeping your daypack under 7 kg ensures a comfortable hiking experience while our pack mules transport your main luggage safely.
Can I visit HuaynaPicchu and the classic postcard viewpoint on the same day under the new regulations?
No, under the current government regulations of the Ministry of Culture, it is physically impossible to access the classic postcard photo and climb Huayna Picchu with a single ticket. This happens because the park enforces strictly divided circuits. For instance, the classic panoramic photo is exclusively restricted to Circuit 2, while the Huayna Picchu mountain trail belongs strictly to the lower Circuit 3 (Machu Picchu Royalty).
Nevertheless, our hybrid Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail combo solves this logistical issue beautifully. As a result, our passengers obtain a special double-access permit. You will enter through the Sun Gate on Day 4 for the classic panoramic view. Afterward, you will return early on Day 5 for the deep internal guided exploration of the main archaeological sectors.
Is the Salkantay Trek safe for solo female travelers or first-time hikers in Peru?
Absolutely! Joining a guided group with an official operator is highly recommended and incredibly safe for solo travelers. Indeed, most of our hiking groups consist of independent global travelers looking to share the adventure. Our local company provides a fully controlled environment, managing reliable private transport, certified professional guides, and secure campsites from start to finish.
Furthermore, our office coordinates a mandatory pre-trek briefing in Cusco before the departure date. Consequently, you will meet your tour guide, connect with your fellow group members, and clear up any logistics doubts before hitting the trail. In conclusion, you will never walk alone on the mountains, ensuring a fun, social, and perfectly secure Peruvian holiday.
Salkantay Trek, Inca Trail, diversity of landscapes such as glacier mountains, jungle, forest, fauna, archaeological sites, like Chachabamba, Wiñayhuayna, Sun Gate, visit Machu Picchu twice
Book this tour now
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Starting at Price From:Adult: 570 /per person - Student: 550 /per person
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Tour Name:Salkantay Trek + Original Inka Trail to Machu Picchu
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Trip duration:5 days / 4 nights
Payment Methods
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