Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Leaving Cusco, you travel into the Sacred Valley, where the landscapes begin to shift from highland city to rural Andean countryside. Arriving at Pisac, you explore the archaeological site set high above the valley, with views across surrounding peaks known as Apus, revered in Andean culture. After time at the ruins, you descend to the village to visit the open-air market, where local communities trade produce, textiles and handicrafts. Continuing through the Sacred Valley, you travel to Ollantaytambo, walking through its historic streets and observing traditional architecture before settling into your accommodation. Accommodation: Sol Ollantay Hotel or similar

Meals: L

Today focuses on the cultural landscapes of the Sacred Valley, beginning with a walk through agricultural terraces near Urco, set beneath Pitusiray Mountain. The site reflects the Inca understanding of farming, weather and seasonal cycles. You continue to the Inkariy Museum, where displays trace over 5000 years of Peruvian history, from early civilisations through to the Incas. In the afternoon, a visit to Lamay offers insight into daily life, including traditional food preparation and local customs, providing a deeper understanding of Andean communities in Peru. Accommodation: Sol Ollantay Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L

A scenic drive leads toward Limatambo, crossing Tika Tika Pass where the peaks of Salkantay and Humantay come into view. From the trailhead near Misquiyaco, your Salkantay trek begins within a protected conservation area established in partnership with the local community. Before setting out, a traditional “Pago a la tierra” ceremony acknowledges Pachamama, reflecting the cultural connection to the land. The trail ascends through a rare Meso-Andean forest, home to native plant species, before opening into high grasslands. Camp is set at Acopía, surrounded by the quiet landscapes of the Andes. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Leaving Acopía, the trail climbs steadily toward Tambomachay Pass (4367m / 14323ft), with opportunities to observe Andean birdlife including condors. Continuing higher, you reach Uspaccasa for lunch, where views extend toward Salkantay and Humantay. The route follows a high ridge to Cruzjasa Pass (4683m / 15360ft), offering expansive views across the Pampacahuana Valley and surrounding peaks. A steep descent leads to camp at Pampacahuana, set within a remote valley where few trekkers pass. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today the trail descends through the Pampacahuana Valley following an ancient Inca canal that still traces the contours of the landscape. As you lose altitude, the terrain becomes greener, with small farm settlements appearing along the route.At Paucarcancha, you explore an Inca archaeological site located at the junction of two valleys. Continuing onward, the route joins a section of the Inca Trail, passing Patallacta before reaching your campsite at Chamana with access to basic facilities including hot showers. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Reaching the edge of the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary, you visit the archaeological site of Huayna Q’ente, known for its terraces and stonework. The trail then follows the Vilcanota River, linking a series of Inca sites along a historic route associated with early access to Machu Picchu. Arriving at Piscacucho, the main entrance to the Inca Trail, you transfer by road to Ollantaytambo before continuing by train to Machu Picchu Village. The journey marks the final stage of the Salkantay trek toward Machu Picchu. Accommodation: El Mapi Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

You visit Machu Picchu for a guided exploration of the site. Built in the 15th century during the reign of the Inca emperor Pachacuti, the citadel reflects advanced engineering and stone construction techniques. The surrounding landscape of steep ridges and cloud forest highlights the strategic location of the site. After your visit, you return by train and road to Cusco. The trip concludes on arrival in Cusco. Accommodationt: Hotel Abbitare or similar. NB - depending on train schedules, we may arrive into Cusco very late at night. *Important: To ensure the protection and conservation of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and enhance the visitor experience, several restrictions and regulations are in place. The site features three main circuits divided into ten predetermined routes. Visitors are limited to a maximum of four hours within the site to reduce congestion and preserve the ruins, and admission is not permitted after 4pm. Additionally, all visitors must be accompanied by a guide. Despite these restrictions, World Expeditions endeavours to ensure you have a memorable and fulfilling Machu Picchu experience. OPTIONAL HUAYNA PICCHU CLIMB OR MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN CLIMB - For the adventurous, you can purchase a permit for either the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climb (please enquire for costs). Choosing this option means forgoing the guided tour of Machu Picchu, which is non-refundable and non-transferable. Huayna Picchu, with its narrow trails, reaches an elevation of 2,963m, while Machu Picchu Mountain, with a wider path, peaks at 3,082m. Both climbs are steep, slippery, exposed, and involve vertiginous drops, requiring a minimum of 3 hours return. Note that these climbs are not guided. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable, and a waiver form must be signed before purchase. Both permits are limited and sell out quickly, so please contact us if interested.

Meals: B,L