Salkantay & Inca Trail 7 Days

The 7 Day Inca Trail offers to hikers the chance to enjoy a mix of both the Salkantay Trek and the Inca Trail . The Andes was chosen by the Incas to build the Inca road system to Machu Picchu. This was the most extensive and highly advanced transportation system at the Incas' time. These paths were

used by the Incas to run messages back and forth to Machu Picchu.During this tour, you will experience the real adventures of the Andes and rain forest with its amazing views of the Salkantay glacier mountain (6200 meters high) rich Rocky Mountains, lush valleys, magnificent rivers, cloud forest, and its amazing flora and fauna, llamas, alpacas, condors and orchids. We also have an opportunity to enjoy some Inca ruins along the way and of course you will have time to enjoy the great services of your porters.

“GET UP. GO. EXPLORE.”

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BRIEFING: The day before the trek you will meet with your trekking guide at our EXPLORE ADVENTURES office and meet all the members of your group. Your guide will explain to you about the trek, route and all the necessary recommendations will be provided to you according to the season you choose. This will take approximately 40 minutes, where you will receive your duffel bags that will be carried by horses and porters along the trail.

OVERVIEW

Passions
Hiking, Camping, Cultural Immersion, Adventure, History, Culture
Good For
Experienced Hikers
Activity Level
Challenging
Consideration
PERMIT REQUIRED

ITINERARY

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Ichupata

Starts with an early pick up from your hotel. We will take a 2.5 hours scenic bus drive to Mollepata. Here, you will be treated to a hearty breakfast before starting your journey. The trek begins on a path through the town with a gradual incline, which leads you into the Andean forest. Along the trail, your guide will stop to point out traditional Inca plants and show you points of interests. As the trek continues, you will get your first views of the mountains. The trek on the first day is 6 hours long with an elevation gain of 3900 masl. When you reach the campsite, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains above and lush valleys below. Then we will have happy hour, which is followed by dinner.
This morning takes you on a beautiful path through vivid green fields and waterfalls in the surrounding hills before you arrive at your lunch spot for a chance to rest and enjoy a delicious hot meal. There is an optional hike to visit a blue glacier – fed lake surrounded by HUMANTAY Glacier Mountains.

Day 2: Ichupata – Inca Chirisca Pass – Inca Canal

After tea and breakfast, it’s time to embark on the most challenging and rewarding part of the hike. Your guide will lead you up the INCA CHIRIASCA pass (5000 masl) with a slow and steady pace while enjoying the amazing views of the glacier mountains. Once you have reached the top, you will be treated to hot coca tea and phenomenal views of the beautiful valleys, lakes and possibly some spectacular birds such as condors and falcons. Then you will start descending where there is an optional hike to a glacier, which only takes 30 minutes. Afterward, we keep descending to your lunch spot where your porters will be waiting with the traditional hot tea and delicious lunch. The rest of the day, you will spend walking down hill through lush green valleys and winding streams with stops along the way for spectacular photos, before reaching your campsite in the little village of 10 families.
Elevation: 4300 masl to 5000 masl then to 3750 masl
Distance: 14 km / 8.6 miles
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Weather: Cold all day

Day 3: Inca Canal – Paucarcancha – Piscacucho km 82

This day we connect to the classic Inca trail. This day gives you a rare glimpse into the past as you wonder through hillside paths used by traditional Peruvian farmers, living as they have since the time of the Incas. Then you will arrive to the famous Inca ruins where your guide will teach you about the place and the Incas. After the ruins, your guide will point out new and different vegetation as you move into the high jungle microclimate. Finally, you will reach the classic Inca trail. During the afternoon’s hike, it will be all downhill until we reach our campsite. Make sure you have your camera ready and fully charged batteries, as you will not want to miss this opportunity to capture the magnificent views of the mountains and enchanting natural waterfalls in the cloud forest.
Elevation: 3750 masl to 3000 masl then down to 2800 masl
Distance: 14 km / 8.6 miles
Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult
Weather: Cold in the morning, warm in the afternoon

Day 4: Piscacucho km 82 – Wayllabamba

Distance: 14 Kilometers / 7.5 Miles
Early morning after breakfast at the community of Piscacucho (Railroad Km 82 – 2,700m/8,856ft), where we cross the Urubamba River by bridge and begin the Inca Trail. Following a trail along the left-hand shore of the Urubamba River, we enjoy stunning views of the snow-capped Mount Veronica (5,830m) and the Inca archeological remains at Llaqtapata. Continuing through lush farmland and woodlands, we gradually climb for approximately 6 hours to our first campsite at Wayllabamba (3,300m/10,829ft).
Approximate walking time: 6-7 hours

Day 5: Wayllabamba – Warmiwañusca Pass – Chaquicocha

Distance: 16 Kilometers / 6.8 Miles , After breakfast and an early start, we begin a steep climb through Andean cloud forest and highland puna to the highest point on our trek, Warmiwanusca, or Dead Woman’s Pass (4,200m/13,776ft). During our ascent, we can appreciate the wide variety of plants, flowers, and bird species supported by this unique eco-climate. Once we reach the pass, our challenge is rewarded by an astonishing panoramic view of the Vilcanota and Vilcabamba mountain ranges. From here, we descend into the Pacaymayo river valley and on to our second campsite.

Approximate walking time: 6-7 hours

Day 6: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – MACHUPICCHU SUNSET – Aguas Calientes

Distance: 10 Kilometers / 10 Miles
On this day, we follow ancient stone paths and steps to the well-preserved Inca remains of Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca. Along our visit to the sites we can appreciate the Incas’ complex architectural style and reverence of natural geography and beauty. Heading down the sub-tropical Andean slope. It will only be around a 4 hours hike including a visit to the three Inca ruins. The first ruin is just after 45 minutes from the camp site called Phuyupatamarca (cloud level-town), which is a very impressive spot where you can observe lovely platforms and houses where Incas nobles made studies about astronomy. The second ruin is nestled in the hillside of many terraces which perhaps was an Inca agricultural experiment station. You can also enjoy great views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba river. Finally, you will reach the last campsite called Wiñay Wayna (2600 masl ), where we will stop for lunch. Wiñay Wayna (forever young) is one of the most important yet underestimated landmarks of the Inca ruins. This place is near the village where you can enjoy the beauty of the water channels, terraces, and temples. The Incas use to live here to make religious ceremonies. After lunch,we carry on to Machu Picchu we have the beautiful sunset. Later this afternoon, it will be your last happy hour and dinner, ended with a small presentation with your porters to say your final goodbyes. They will head back to Cusco on the next day whilst you continue your journey to Machu Picchu; therefore it will be the last time you see the porters that night.
Elevation: 3600 masl to 2600 masl
Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles
Difficulty Level: Easy
Weather: Warm and humid

Day 7: Aguas Calientes – MACHU PICCHU SUNRISE – Cusco

This day is the most anticipated day. You will wake up very early to have breakfast. After that, you will go back by bus 30 minutes to Machu Picchu where you will enjoy the sunrise and experience some spectacular views of the stunning mountains, valleys, rivers and of course the Inca Citadel. On your arrival, your guide will provide 2 hours of information about Machu Picchu, then you will have plenty of extra time to explore the ruins on your own. Make sure that you visit all the sacred places, temples, palaces and the famous Inca bride. When you are ready to make your way back to Aguas Calientes, there will be buses that depart on a regular basis with a journey of approximately 30 minutes. After spending some time in the town of Aguas Calientes, we will make our way to the train station 30 minutes before departure to Cusco

NOTE:
Before the government brought the new legislation about protecting the Inca Trail, horses were the main transport to carry all the equipment from the trailhead to Wayllabamba. The Inca trail was replaced with our porters since they banned using horses on the classic Inca trail.

There will be the same tour guide and cook throughout your tour. All meals are prepared in the same place so that you will have an opportunity to enjoy fresh food. It is highly recommended to book an extra porter to carry your personal belongings so that you will only walk with your day pack. If so, please let us know by booking in advance in order for us to provide you some duffel bags. Unfortunately, you will have to organize your own breakfast on your first day of stay. Come with us and create a lot of memories from the Andes.

INCLUDED

PRICES

Price per person: US$1300 (Minimum 2 persons; departures all year except February)

* We include duffle bags 8kls and a porter-horse that will carry your personal belongings in all of our treks at no additional cost.

*Emergency horse available throughout the trek, in the event someone is not feeling well.

* We include First- aid kit/Emergency Portable Oxygen Tank.

Discounts

Student Discount (with valid ISIC card) – $25
Under 15 Discount – $25
Under 7 Discount – $35

Rentals

Black Diamond Hiking poles - US$15 (pair)
Sleeping bag - 4 season - US$30
Private Tent - US$30
Air mattress -$15

Porters - Our service includes 8kg carried by our porters per person, but if you would like an upgrade:

8Kg extra weight: US$65
15Kg extra weight: US$120

Upgrades

Train upgrade to Vistadome: US$50 one way (Departing from Aguas Calientes) Train will be according to availability and Peru Rail schedules, if train route ends at Ollantaytambo, we will be there waiting for you in order to go to Cusco City. (Our service ends once you are at your accommodation at Cusco City)

Extras

Would you also like to hike Huayna Picchu? Sure, you can make it! Its price is US$65 per person and there are 2 times (at 7 am and 10am). We usually recommend people to take the 10am one (this activity is on the last day of the Inca Trail ) because that way you won’t be running with the time to take your tour. Other option would be on the 5th day in the morning if you want to stay for an extra night at Aguas Calientes. (accommodation is on your own on the 4th night)

CANCELLATION:

1. Because of the strict regulations of the Machu Picchu Park, once you have made your reservation, you cannot cancel the space that you have reserved. You also may not alter the name or date of the reservation. If you are unable to come on the date you have reserved, we cannot reimburse you.

2. The $200 deposit is non-refundable. We cannot reimburse the entrance fee to the Inca Trail because the permits are non-refundable and EXPLORE ADVENTURES PERU purchases the tickets from Machu Picchu Park when you reserve your spot.

3. If you cancel between 30 and 10 days before your trek, you must pay 50% of the total cost.

4. If you cancel between 10 and 3 days before your trek, you must pay 80% of the total cost.

5. If you cancel one or two days before your trek, you must pay 100% of the total cost.

6. In the exceptional case that you decide to head back once you have started the trail, you must pay extra expenses such as food and transportation. You may join the group in Machupicchu for the walking tour and use all of the services onward.

WHYEXPLORE

Peru Behind The Scenes

Cultural Immersion Experience

Travel is about meeting the local people and experiencing different ways of life. That is why EXPLORE ADVENTURES PERU immerses you in the local communities. Visit the most interesting and off the beaten track locations to experience the real Peru! Have a unique cultural adventure at local communities, COMMUNITY STAY and CULTURAL IMMERSION before each trek and take part of our tours.

We are a 100% locally owned and operated company!

EXPLORE ADVENTURES PERU offers an assortment of adventurous treks and exciting tour packages in Peru, specially designed to appeal to most visitors' budgets that doesn't have a negative impact on the environment or adversely affect local communities. EXPLORE ADVENTURES PERU employees are local, Peruvian people. We work to invest in our own country and develop social work to offer our people a better lifestyle and provide opportunities to keep growing. This is the main difference between local companies and foreign companies and associated companies.

Our Group Services have a maximum group size of 8

most tour operators work with a maximum of 16 on the Inca Trail, since this is authorized by law, or even higher on other trekking routes.

We treat our staff

Including chefs, porters and wranglers with the utmost respect and fairness. EXPLORE ADVENTURES not only complies with the Porter Law and Regulation, but our wages are over the minimum requested by law and above the average pay by most tour operators.

We have expert Tour Guides

For special requests (ornithology, history and archaeology, flora and fauna and also generalist guides). All our guides have been trained in advanced first aid by certified doctors in Peru. On all of our treks, not only on the Inca Trail, there will be a guide for every 8 guests. The head guide will ensure the utmost safety to our guests by providing them undivided attention.

We use innovative equipment

Such as an igloo, waterproof, spacious tents, camping equipment specialized for high mountain treks, such as Vaude, Eureka and Doite tents. Each tent has a capacity for 3 people, but are used only for 2 people.

We have one of the most outstanding meal services in the field

Our chefs have been highly trained by several institutes in Lima and Cusco. You should be prepared to not only have a superb trekking experience, but also a culinary one, including generous and delicious breakfasts, snacks, lunches, tea services and dinners. Our delectable menus include a variety of Peruvian and international food and also cater for vegetarian and other dietary needs at no extra cost. EXPLORE ADVENTURES PERU is recognized for its buffet meals, the quantity and quality of food, and its freshness.

EXPLORE ADVENTURES PERU performs responsibly.

Making sure to cause minimal impact on the environment of the natural protected areas where it operates.

We pay legal taxes (19% IGV or consumption tax)on all services contributing to the country’s growth and development. Further to this, we pay a 30% tax on all earnings.

Our superb treatment to our staff is not reduced in the low season: porter and chef wages are maintained, same as guide fees.

Finally, EXPLORE ADVENTURES PERU strives to provide top quality service to its clientele and will continue to listen to their comments on how to improve our services and take it to a higher level. Our clients are extremely satisfied as our numerous testimonials prove. Please read their trip reports on the Testimonials section of our website and also on Tripadvisor.

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TRIP NOTES

Inca Trail & Alternative & Adventure Trek to MachuPicchu Packing Check LIST

During the Alternatuve Trek or Inca Trail to Machu Picchu your main luggage will be stored in Cuzco at your hotel or free storage in our office and you will receive a small duffle bag at your trek briefing (which will be help briefing day before you start the trek) to pack clothes and sleeping bag for 3-4 days.

Gear Checklist

Provided Gear

Tents

Cooking and eating utensils while camping
Sleeping pad (you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer)
Duffel bag, medium-size (used while trekking, approximately 65 liter)

Official Papers

Valid passport
Airline tickets

Luggage

Luggage, one piece, wheels and handle ok
Daypack 2000 cu. in. to carry your camera, water bottles, extra clothing
Luggage tags and luggage locks
Passport pouch or money pouch

Camping Gear

Sleeping bag with stuff sack (rated to 10°-20°F)

CHECK LIST FOR YOU TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

PASSPORT: You MUST take your passport and a photocopy is not sufficient. (Keep it in a plastic bag in case of rain).

City Clothing

Bring a few lightweight, easily washable items for travel and daily wear when not trekking

Clothing

Midweight fleece or wool sweater
Fleece pants or tights
Midweight thermal underwear tops and bottom, synthetic or wool
Hiking pants
Hiking shorts
Long-sleeve shirts
T-shirts
Underwear
Casual socks
Hiking socks
Liner socks, synthetic
Swimsuit

Clothing Accessories

Sun hat
Wool or fleece hat
Bandana
Wool or fleece gloves

Outerwear

Rain jacket, waterproof and breathable
Rain or wind pants, waterproof and breathable. Side-zip pants are highly recommended.
Insulated jacket, down or synthetic

Footwear

Sturdy hiking boots, waterproof, lightweight, broken-in, aggressive tread
Camp shoes such as tennis shoes or sandals or other comfortable footwear for use in town and/or campsites

Travel Accessories

2 one-quart water bottle(s) or hydration system
Flashlight or headlamp and spare batteries/bulb
Watch with alarm or travel clock
1 roll of toilet paper
Sunglasses and retainer strap
Sunblock and lip balm

Toiletry kit

Small washcloth and small towel
Baby wipes
Personal first-aid kit
Hand sanitizer gel
Insect repellent
Several Ziploc plastic bags
Large, heavy-duty plastic trash bags

Optional Field Gear

Camera, spare media card and batteries
Electrical adapter plug
Earplugs
Whistle
Spare contact lenses or glasses
Reading and writing materials
Sewing kit
Knee supports
Travel pillow
Hiking stick or trekking poles (metal tips not allowed on Inca Trail; points must be rubber or covered with duct tape.)
Favorite energy snacks and drinks.

DON'T JUST TRAVEL. EXPLORE! Explore Adventures Peru team!!

Our Treks: Ancascocha Treks – Moonstone Trek – Huchuy Qosqo Trek – Salkantay Treks – Lares Llama Trek – Ausangate Mountain Trek – Choquequirao Trek

Optional Tours / Activities: City Tour Cusco - Sacred Valley Tour - Home Stay - Extreme Sports Cusco - Rainbow Mountain Tours.

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