Salkantay – Inca Trail to Machupicchu

The journey begins. A connection with history. The first encounter with Andean giants. Early in the morning, we pick you up from your hotel in Cusco, the starting point of a journey that will transform body, mind, and spirit. We head toward the archaeological complex of Tarawasi, an Inca ceremonial site that still preserves its ancestral energy. Here, among perfectly assembled stone walls, we begin to connect with the legacy that awaits us.

The route then leads through changing landscapes to Soraypampa (3,900 m.a.s.l.), where the air becomes purer and the snow-capped peaks of Humantay and Salkantay rise majestically like guardians of the Andes. This is the first great visual highlight of the journey: a living postcard of glaciers, deep skies, and sacred silence.

After a pause for acclimatization and preparation, we begin the uphill hike toward Pampa Japonesa, our first campsite. This section, surrounded by high-altitude vegetation and panoramic views, marks the true beginning of the trek. Each step brings us closer to the essence of Salkantay, as the body adapts and the soul expands.

Approximate camp altitude: 4,250 m.a.s.l.

Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours

After a restorative rest at Pampa Japonesa, we begin the day with a gradual ascent toward Incachiriaska Pass (4,880 m.a.s.l.), one of the highest and most symbolic points of the route. Its name, which in Quechua means “where the Inca got cold,” evokes legends of endurance and spirituality. Here, amid pure mountain winds and snow-covered peaks, it is possible to spot high-Andean birds such as the Andean caracara or the mountain tyrant, silently accompanying our progress.

From this point, the trail descends gently through a wide, winding valley where the landscape transforms: golden grasslands, crystal-clear streams, and remnants of ancient Inca paths guide us toward Pampacahuana, a village that preserves its rural essence intact.

In the afternoon, trekking becomes a human experience as we share moments with local residents, learning about their customs, textiles, crops, and ways of life in harmony with the mountains. This authentic encounter adds an emotional dimension to the journey, reminding us that tourism can also be an act of respect and reciprocity.

Maximum altitude: 4,880 m.a.s.l. (Incachiriaska Pass)

Camp altitude: 3,850 m.a.s.l. (Pampacahuana)

Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours

After sunrise in Pampacahuana, we begin a day of progressive descent through a valley that gradually narrows, revealing a more intimate and winding landscape. The river that accompanies us becomes narrower, setting the rhythm for a contemplative walk, ideal for connecting with the living geography of the Andes.

Along the way, we reach the archaeological complex of Inkaracay (Paucarcancha), a lesser-known Inca site rich in symbolism. Its terraces, channels, and stone structures speak of a civilization that mastered engineering and spirituality in perfect harmony with the mountains. Here, we enjoy a guided visit, ideal for photography, reflection, and cultural connection.

The route continues to Wayllabamba (3,000 m.a.s.l.), a village that marks the end of the first trekking phase. Upon arrival, a logistical transition takes place: our support team and horses return to Yanama, and we welcome the porters who will accompany us during the second phase along the legendary Inca Trail.

This day represents a transition: from the wild, glacial trekking of Salkantay, to the ancestral path that leads directly to Machu Picchu. The body adapts, the mind prepares, and the heart beats stronger.

Minimum altitude: 3,000 m.a.s.l. (Wayllabamba)

Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours

From the campsite at Wayllabamba, we begin a day that many consider the most demanding and transformative of the Inca Trail. The hike starts through the Wayllabamba Valley, where vegetation gradually changes from fertile temperate zones to high-altitude cloud forests, and finally to Andean grasslands. This section is a living lesson in ecological zoning, ideal for observing flora and fauna.

The main challenge of the day is the ascent to Warmiwañusca Pass (4,200 m.a.s.l.), also known as the “Dead Woman’s Pass.” Its name evokes the silhouette of a mountain that, according to Andean worldview, represents a female figure in eternal rest. Reaching this summit requires not only physical effort but also emotional strength: each step is an affirmation of will, endurance, and connection with the environment.

From the summit, we begin the descent toward Pacaymayo, our next campsite. The change in altitude brings new landscapes, cooler temperatures, and a deep sense of achievement. This section is ideal for contemplation, introspection, and high-altitude photography.

Maximum altitude: 4,200 m.a.s.l. (Warmiwañusca)

Camp altitude: 3,600 m.a.s.l. (Pacaymayo)

Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours

The day begins with renewed energy from the Pacaymayo campsite as we face the second major challenge of the Inca Trail: the ascent to Runkurakay Pass (3,920 m.a.s.l.), surrounded by cloud forest vegetation and mystery. Although demanding, this section is rich in symbolism, as ancient pilgrims are said to have crossed it as part of their spiritual preparation before reaching the sacred city.

Throughout the day, the trail leads us through a sequence of archaeological complexes suspended in time. First, Sayacmarca, an Inca citadel built on a rocky promontory with breathtaking views. Then, Phuyupatamarca, known as “the city above the clouds,” where water channels still flow as if time had stood still.

The descent continues along stone stairways and subtropical vegetation until we reach Intipata, a set of agricultural terraces with panoramic views of the valley. Finally, we arrive at Wiñaywayna, the last campsite before Machu Picchu. Its name means “forever young,” and its energy confirms it: this is where the body rests while the soul prepares for the final revelation.

Maximum altitude: 3,920 m.a.s.l. (Runkurakay)

Camp altitude: 2,650 m.a.s.l. (Wiñaywayna)

Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours

The day begins before dawn, when mountain silence still holds the dreams of ancient travelers. From Wiñaywayna, we begin the final walk toward the mythical Intipunku (Sun Gate), the ceremonial entrance to Machu Picchu. As the sun rises between the peaks, the sacred citadel reveals itself before our eyes, a vision that moves, inspires, and transforms.

After taking time to contemplate this unique moment, we enter Machu Picchu for a guided tour through its temples, plazas, and viewpoints, uncovering the mysteries of its architecture and spirituality. Every step within the citadel is a direct connection to the legacy of the Incas.

At the end of the visit, we descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where there is time for lunch or a brief walk. Later, we board the panoramic train back to Cusco, traveling through valleys, rivers, and dreamlike landscapes. Upon arrival, a company representative will be waiting to provide private transportation to your hotel, closing this experience with the care and attention you deserve.

Altitude at Intipunku: 2,720 m.a.s.l.

Altitude at Machu Picchu: 2,430 m.a.s.l.

Hiking time: approximately 2 hours

Transportation: Bus to Aguas Calientes + Train to Cusco + Hotel transfer

Peak moment: Viewing Machu Picchu in its entirety from the Sun Gate