Salkantay plus Inca Trek to Machu Picchu

On Day 1, your guide, chef, and porters will pick you up from your hotel (must be located in Cusco) at 4:30 a.m., and drive you to the trailhead, Marccoccasa (2.5 hours away). You will go from 9,500 feet to about 12,500 feet elevation at your trailhead.

At the trailhead you will meet your horseman and horses, and have some time to prepare for the day and enjoy your breakfast. You will experience views of the Andes, lush green valleys, and beautiful waterfalls. Today will be a moderate in difficulty day, but one of the longer days of hiking. There will be a gradual uphill climb lasting about three and a half hours until lunch. After lunch, the hike will be less of an incline and more of a relaxed walk.

The views along the Salkantay vs Inca Trail change drastically as you go. The trailhead is all green, lush valleys, but in the afternoon, you will be right at the foot of the Humantay snow-capped mountain. You will also experience a temperature drop from warm to cold. Be sure to have your warm jacket, and gloves in your daypack for the cold afternoon. After arriving at the Soyapamapa campsite (12,500 feet), your team will welcome you and provide warm drinks and dinner.