Salkantay Inca Trail – 6 Days

After a hearty breakfast, your Salkantay Inca Trail adventure continues with a challenging yet rewarding journey to the highest point of the trek: the Inca Chiriasqa Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft). This ascent is the highlight of the day, offering awe-inspiring views of the towering Salkantay Glacier (6,264 m / 20,551 ft) and the breathtaking Andes. Standing at this altitude, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, is truly an unforgettable experience.

After taking in the incredible scenery at the pass, the descent begins toward Pampacahuana and Sisay Pampa (3,700 m / 12,139 ft). Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque valleys and may even spot remnants of an original Inca canal, a testament to the engineering brilliance of the ancient civilization.

The day ends with your campsite set up at Sisay Pampa, where you’ll enjoy a well-earned dinner and a peaceful evening under the Andean stars.

• Hiking Time: 8 hours
• Weather: Moderate during the day, cold at night

Your Salkantay Inca Trail journey continues as you leave the Sisay Pampa campsite at 8:00 AM, beginning a scenic downhill hike along the Pampacahuana River. This day is marked by a gradual descent through picturesque valleys, lush Andean landscapes, and rich cultural history.

One of the highlights of the day is a visit to the fascinating Incaraqay (Paucarcancha) archaeological site, an ancient Inca complex featuring rectangular buildings, plazas, and terraced walls. Your guide will bring the site to life, explaining its significance and the role it played in the Inca civilization. It’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the ingenuity of the ancient empire while taking in the stunning surroundings.

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Wayllabamba (3,000 m / 9,843 ft), a charming Andean community and the starting point of the Classic Inca Trail, which you’ll begin tomorrow. Settle into the campsite, enjoy a warm meal, and rest up for the exciting journey ahead.

• Hiking Time: 5 hours
• Weather: Moderate during the day, cold at night

The fourth day of your Salkantay Inca Trail adventure begins with an early 6:00 AM wake-up call and a hearty breakfast to prepare for the most challenging section of the trek. Leaving Wayllabamba, you’ll embark on a 9 km steep ascent to the iconic Warmiwañusqa Pass (Dead Woman’s Pass), the highest point of the Inca Trail at 4,200 m / 13,780 ft.

As you ascend, the scenery transforms dramatically from lush sierra vegetation to the barren and rugged puna landscape, offering a stark yet beautiful contrast. Along the way, take in stunning views of Mount Veronica, a snow-capped peak towering over the Andes.

The climb is demanding, so we recommend packing your backpack with essentials like sweets, chocolates, and coca leaves to maintain your energy and combat any effects of the altitude. Reaching the summit of Warmiwañusqa is a triumphant moment and a rewarding milestone of your journey.

After a short break to celebrate your achievement, begin the descent into the Pacaymayu Valley (3,500 m / 11,483 ft). Surrounded by dramatic mountain views, this serene valley will serve as your campsite for the night. Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by our trekking chefs and rest up for the next day of your Inca Trail adventure.

• Hiking Time: 6 hours
• Weather: Cold throughout the day and night

The fifth day of your Salkantay Inca Trail adventure is often regarded as the most beautiful and rewarding. Energized by a delicious breakfast, you’ll begin your journey to some of the most breathtaking archaeological sites on the Inca Trail.

The day starts with a visit to the fascinating ruins of Runkurakay (3,800 m / 12,464 ft). Perched on a rocky outcrop, this ancient tambo (resting place) is believed to have provided shelter for Inca messengers traveling the trail. From here, you’ll continue uphill to reach a high mountain pass (3,950 m / 12,959 ft), where stunning views of the surrounding Andes await.

Descending from the pass, you’ll arrive at Sayacmarca (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), a remarkable archaeological site with narrow streets, houses, terraces, and fountains. This “inaccessible town” offers a glimpse into the ingenuity of the Incas, who built these structures amidst the rugged mountains.

The trail becomes gentler as you pass through an Inca tunnel carved into the rock and walk through a lush cloud forest. Soon, you’ll reach the final high pass of the trek (3,700 m / 12,139 ft) and the mystical ruins of Phuyupatamarka (“The City Above the Clouds”), located at 3,800 m / 12,464 ft. Here, you’ll be amazed by the circular walls and intricate aqueduct system, which still supplies water to the Inca baths. The views of the snow-capped peaks and the Urubamba Valley below are absolutely breathtaking.

The descent takes you through a dense bamboo forest, eventually leading to the extraordinary ruins of Wiñay Wayna (2,700 m / 8,829 ft). Nestled on a rocky ridge in the heart of the jungle, this complex features cascading terraces, ceremonial areas, and sweeping views of the Urubamba River. Its name, meaning “Forever Young,” reflects the vitality and beauty of this site.

Wiñay Wayna will be your final campsite for the trek. Enjoy dinner under the stars as you reflect on the incredible journey that has brought you to the doorstep of Machu Picchu.

• Hiking Time: Approximately 8 hours
• Weather: Moderately cold, warm in some areas

The final day of your Salkantay Inca Trail is here, and it’s nothing short of magical. After an early breakfast at 4:30 AM, you’ll set out with your headlamps to hike toward Inti Punku (The Sun Gate). Arriving at Inti Punku is a moment to cherish as you witness your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu, illuminated by the soft glow of the sunrise. This awe-inspiring sight is the culmination of your incredible journey through the Andes.

From the Sun Gate, it’s a gentle 1-hour descent to the world-famous Machu Picchu Citadel (2,400 m / 7,874 ft), where you’ll arrive around 8:00 AM. During a 2-hour guided tour, your expert guide will bring the citadel to life, sharing fascinating stories about the Inca civilization and the significance of Machu Picchu’s structures, from its temples and terraces to its ceremonial spaces.

After exploring the site, descend to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time to relax and unwind. Treat yourself to the soothing hot springs (optional, cost of S/10) or enjoy lunch in one of the town’s charming restaurants.

In the afternoon, you’ll board the train from Aguas Calientes for your return journey, marking the end of your unforgettable Salkantay Inca Trail adventure.

• Hiking Time: 2 hours
• Weather: Warm, with mosquitoes in the lower areas
• Note: Camp locations and schedules are subject to change based on local authorities, your guide’s discretion, and group progress.

Thank you for choosing Karikuy Tours for this incredible journey! We hope the stunning landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences leave you with cherished memories of Peru.