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Mt Veronica - It is a beautiful mountain!

Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek

Example 12 Day Tour
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Within the majestic Vilcabamba range, the glacier-capped summit of Mount Salkantay rises grandly above the neighboring peaks. Local Quechua Indians consider Salkantay to be sacred, worshiping the mountain as their ancestors have for thousands of years. After exploring colonial Cusco and the Sacred Valley we begin our 6 day trek, making our way through mountain passes, glacier-carved valleys, and over hillsides decorated with a colorful array of wildflowers. We then join the classic Inca Trail, arriving at the Intipunku Sun Gate for our first magnificent view of Machu Picchu. This journey combines the most popular route in Peru with the road less traveled, making it a perfect two-week alpine adventure!
Conquering the mountain peaksWe couldn't get enough of the rainbow!Hiking the Cachiccata TrekMachu Picchu...exceeds every expectation.Buy lovely handmade goods from the local people at the market in Raqchi during your Peru travelsThe 12 corner stone in CuscoSnow along the trailAbbey built on top of Inca ruins in Cusco, Perufamily photo on the Salcantay trekWatch the llamas - used as lawnmowers - at Machu Picchu on your Peru tourSalcantay, the Wild One, rises through the clouds at sunrise along the Inca TrailTrekking through PeruBegining of the Salcantay TrekViews from the Salcantay trekSun Gate and La VeronicaStarting off againthe colorful life of a local marketPisac marketGood group of folks relaxing in CuscoOur driver in Cusco put on his dancing costume for usFinally at Machu PicchuMt Veronica - It is a beautiful mountain!
Activities
Places Visited
Activity Level: Challenging
Requires high-intensity physical efforts that push the limits of one's fitness. May include tours with multiple days in a row of strenuous physical activity or single requiring more than 7 hours of activity. Recommended for travelers maintaining a demanding fitness level.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive Lima

Arrive in Lima on the flight of your choice today. After collecting your luggage and clearing customs, exit the terminal and walk across the street to the conveniently located 5-Star Wyndham Grand Costa Del Sol Lima Airport hotel. Settle into your room and rest up for your Peru adventure ahead. 

We utilize this airport hotel to provide maximum convenience upon arrival. If you would prefer a more economical accommodation option on night 1, please discuss in advance with your Trip Planner about the hotel options and additional transportation arrangements needed, so that we can secure these for you in advance.

Day 2: Fly Cusco

An early morning flight brings you to the Inca capital of Cusco where Quechua speaking descendants of the Incas bustle back and forth in the busy plazas and markets. Colonial churches sit atop bases of smooth stonework laid centuries before the arrival of the Conquistadors. The church walls have fallen many times throughout the years, but the Inca walls remain. The morning is yours to explore Cusco's narrow streets and bustling markets. In the afternoon, you can tour Cusco's traditional markets, talking to the women selling natural medicines and charms for curing heartache and other afflictions. You will visit the Center for Traditional Textiles in Cusco, a local organization committed to preserving the region's weaving traditions. (If visiting the Sacred Valley on Sunday, you will visit their center in Chinchero instead). Watch weavers demonstrate their craft and learn about the history and processes of Peru's most well-known art form.

Day 3: Explore Cusco

Today is free to relax and explore with your guide or on your own. Travelers can go on a city tour of the churches and surrounding ruins, such as the enormous Sacsayhuamán ruins that overlook Cusco (these ruins showcase building blocks the size of SUVs!). You can also wander through the bustling Plaza de Armas in the heart of Cusco, shop for love potions in the local markets, or people watch from the cafes and restaurants that line these lovely streets. For those bursting with energy, horseback riding, mountain biking, or even whitewater rafting (Class III-IV) can be arranged. The evening is yours to take in some of Cusco's varied and exciting nightlife.

Day 4: Sacred Valley

This morning, journey into one of the most beautiful areas of Peru. The Sacred Valley often becomes one of the highlights of your trip and you will soon see why! The day is flexible based on your interests, market days, and the weather. You'll test your bargaining skills with the locals while visiting one of the great textile markets in the area. Take a short walk through the countryside to the seldom-visited town of Maras, where pre-Columbian salt mines still operate today, and visit the Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, thought to have been a nursery to experiment with and modify different varieties of crops. Return to Cusco in the evening and prepare for the trek that starts tomorrow.

Day 5-10: Andean Trekking and Inca Trail

Early this morning you'll board a van for the five hour trip to the trailhead. To your right as you crest Tika-Tika pass, the imposing peaks of Salkantay and Humantay are visible in the distant horizon. Continuing along the dusty road, you'll arrive in the mestizo farming village of Soraypampa where you'll meet your arrieros and load your gear onto their mules. From here you'll begin your trek into the glacially sculpted terrain of the Andes. The steep slopes and jagged peaks are a testament to the young geologic age of these snow-capped mountains. Your trail through the Vilcabamba range leads you through magnificent mountain scenery, past glacial lakes and down through the lush greenery and colorful orchids of an Amazon cloud forest. Cresting Incachiriasca pass, you'll reach the highest point of our journey at 15,252 feet and are rewarded with breathtaking views in all directions. On Day 8 you'll pass through the small community of Huayabamba and join the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Falling into step with fellow pilgrims from around the world, you'll pass by ever larger Inca ruins that bring to life the rich history of the area. The carefully laid stonework trail gives way to a well-trodden path as you approach the Sun Gate for your first glimpse of Machu Picchu. After exploring the ancient city, you'll relax in the village of Machu Picchu Pueblo (town formerly called Aguas Calientes) below the ruins.

Trek Details
Day 5 - Trek length: 2 hours - 4 kilometers; Camp elevation: 13,500 ft
Day 6 - Trek length: 7-8 hours - 12 km; Camp elevation: 13,776 ft
Day 7 - Trek length: 5-6 hours - 10 km; Camp elevation: 10,332 ft
Day 8 - Trek length: 7-8 hours - 8 km; Camp elevation: 12,589 ft
Day 9 - Trek length: 8-9 hours - 14 km; Camp elevation: 12,067 ft
Day 10 - Trek length: 5-7 hours - 11 km; Overnight in Machu Picchu Pueblo

Day 11: Machu Picchu | Return to Cusco

Today you can return to the ruins at Machu Picchu for further exploration. Depending on your preference in permits, return early with the hope of catching the sun coming up over the mountains at Machu Picchu or arrive in time to hike to the top of Huayna Picchu for incredible views of the entire area. You can choose to book a permit to climb the sacred peak of Huayna Picchu or take a walk through the lush cloud forest to the Temple of the Moon. In the afternoon, you'll return by train to Cusco with your guide. (Let us know if you would like help arranging entrance fees or hiking permits for today – these are not included and sell out in advance!)

Day 12: Fly Lima and Return Home

Accommodations

Wyndham Grand Costa Del Sol Lima Airport

Wyndham Grand Costa Del Sol Lima Airport Facade

Wyndham Grand Costa Del Sol Lima Airport

The nearest airport is Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM) — the hotel is located inside the airport terminal, offering direct access via a covered walkway.
Wyndham Grand Costa Del Sol Lima Airport's Front Desk
Wyndham Grand Costa Del Sol Lima Airport Lobby Lounge
Wyndham Grand Costa Del Sol Lima Airport's Peruvian Restaurant - Paprika

Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) - Hotels

El MaPi Inn

El MaPi Inn

Situated in the heart of stunning Machu Picchu town, only 3 hours by train from Cusco. The stylish El MaPi offers organic gastronomy and contemporary rooms. Enjoy the unique charm of the hotel while you discover an archaeological wonder.
Thundering river in Aguascalientes

Casa Andina Standard Machu Picchu Hotel

The Casa Andina Standard Machu Picchu Hotel is located in Aguas Calientes. Offering 53 rooms, views of the Vilcanota River and a close proximity to Machu Picchu, it is the perfect place to stay during your trip to Peru.
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Machu Piccu Sanctuary Lodge

Sanctuary Lodge

Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge is one of the world's most important heritage sites; the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is a magical place of unforgettable sunrises and shimmering, moonlit nights. Set in its own gardens and the only hotel in such close proximity to the magical ruins, the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge offers twenty-nine well-appointed rooms and two suites.

More Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) Hotels

At the foot of the mighty mountain that hosts the renowned Machu Picchu ruins is a small town called Machu Picchu Pueblo (also known as "Aguas Calientes").

Cusco - Hotels

Novotel Cusco

Novotel Cusco

Novotel Cusco offers a good setting near Tambomachay and features dry cleaning, housekeeping and room services. The building of this property has a colonial style.
San Agustin Plaza Hotel

San Agustin Plaza Hotel

Enjoy San Agustin Plaza Hotel, an elegant hotel in Cusco. Located near the historic center of Cusco, enjoy the calm ambiance and exceptional service of this hotel. Take advantage of the proximity to multiple historic and cultural sites in Cusco.
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Libertador Palacio del Inka

Palacio del Inka

The Palacio del Inka Cusco Hotel, splendidly located within the historical downtown, is the ideal place to live a unique and fascinating experience.
Visit the Plaza de Armas in Cusco on your Peru tour

More Cusco Hotels

Cusco was, and still is, the epicenter of the Inca Empire. It's streets lined with monolithic Inca stone walls and colonial churches that used those same stones to build their cathedrals. Cusco is the ideal place to spend a few extra days exploring ruins, museums, and churches.

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

Special Deal 28323
Get 10% off new bookings on select multisport and trekking programs in Peru. Valid for new bookings made in 2025, with travel completed by December 20, 2025. This offer does not apply to travel on July 28 or 29, 2025. 

This offer is valid only for new bookings, subject to availability, and cannot be combined with other discounts. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.

Note:
Applicable to the entire tour of:
Andean Multisport with Machu Picchu
Andean Whitewater Adventure
Ausangate Trek
Cachiccata Trek
Choquequirao Trek and Machu Picchu
Classic Inca Trail
Classic Salkantay Trek
Cordillera Blanca Trek
Inca Trail Express
Lake Titicaca Kayaking
Luxury Inca Trail
Sacred Valley & Lake Titicaca Multisport
Sacred Valley Multisport Adventure
Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek
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Per person starting at
$4,054 2-3 travelers

Notes

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Included
  • 11 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 5 Dinners
  • 11 Nights Accommodations
  • 10 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Gear Rental: Camping Gear; sleeping bags included
  • Ground Transportation
  • Machu Picchu Entries
  • 5 nights of camping are included on this trekking itinerary.

     
  • Park Entrance Fee: One Day Inca Trail Permit
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Arrival Transfer
  • Departure Transfer
  • Airport Departure Tax
  • Internal Flights: Lima - Cusco - Lima

Map

When to Go

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
Chance for unpredictable weather but with fewer visitors.
Typically not offered during this period because of weather conditions.

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The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
Jack Charney

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