Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail - 7D/6N

We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and drive to Soraypampa (3,800m). We start our trek by hiking up to the magnificent, turquoise Humantay Lake for acclimatization. After returning to Soraypampa for a gourmet lunch, we continue hiking gently uphill to our first campsite at Salkantaypampa (4,100m), located right at the base of the imposing Salkantay glacier. • Trekking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles • Estimated Time: 6-7 hours • Starting Altitude: 3,800m / 12,467ft • Campsite Altitude: 4,100m / 13,451ft

Today we conquer the highest point of the entire 7-day trek. We ascend steeply to the Inkachiriaska Pass, enjoying close-up views of the massive avalanches and glaciers. We then descend and veer off the beaten path, hiking through the beautiful, isolated Pampacahuana valley to our second campsite, near an ancient Inca canal. • Trekking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles • Estimated Time: 8 hours • Highest Altitude: 5,028m / 16,496ft • Campsite Altitude: 4,000m / 13,123ft

We descend alongside a rushing river, noticing the transition into greener landscapes. We visit the impressive, rarely seen Inca ruins of Paucarcancha, where we have lunch. In the afternoon, we hike a short distance to the village of Wayllabamba (3,000m). Here, we officially join the Classic Inca Trail route, say goodbye to our horses (which are not allowed on the Inca Trail), and meet our team of Quechua porters who will carry our gear for the rest of the journey. • Trekking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles • Estimated Time: 5-6 hours • Highest Altitude: 4,000m / 13,123ft • Campsite Altitude: 3,000m / 9,842ft

Today is the most challenging day of the Inca Trail portion. We begin a 4-hour, steep ascent through beautiful native Polylepis forests up to Warmiwañusca, also known as Dead Woman's Pass (4,215m). From the summit, you can look back at the Salkantay mountain you conquered days ago. We then descend steeply down ancient Inca stone steps into the Pacaymayu valley, where our camp and dinner await. • Trekking Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles • Estimated Time: 7 hours • Highest Altitude: 4,215m / 13,828ft • Campsite Altitude: 3,580m / 11,745ft

The most beautiful day of the trek. We climb the second pass, Runkurakay (3,950m), and visit its semi-circular ruins. We then descend into the lush, tropical cloud forest, walking on perfectly preserved original Inca stone paths. We explore the spectacular archaeological sites of Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca before a long descent via thousands of stairs to Wiñay Wayna ('Forever Young'), our final and most impressive campsite. • Trekking Distance: 16 km / 10 miles • Estimated Time: 8-9 hours • Highest Altitude: 3,950m / 12,959ft • Campsite Altitude: 2,680m / 8,792ft

We wake up very early and hike for two hours to Inti Punku, the legendary Sun Gate. Here, we witness the sunrise over the majestic Machu Picchu citadel. We descend into the ruins for a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour. Unlike the classic 4-day trekkers who return to Cusco today, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, check into a comfortable hotel, take a hot shower, and enjoy a celebratory dinner in town. • Trekking Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles • Estimated Time: 2-3 hours • Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,400m / 7,874ft • Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,040m / 6,692ft

After a comfortable night in a hotel, you have the option to return to Machu Picchu early in the morning to explore further or hike Huayna Picchu mountain (if tickets were purchased in advance). Alternatively, you can relax in the hot springs of Aguas Calientes or explore the local market. In the afternoon, we board the panoramic train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport will transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco, completing your epic 7-day adventure. • Trekking Distance: Optional exploration • Estimated Time: Varies • Highest Altitude: 2,400m / 7,874ft • Return to Cusco: Afternoon/Evening