Salkantay Trek + Original Inka Trail to Machu Picchu 5D/4N

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Salkantay Trek + Original Inka Trail to Machu Picchu 5D/4N

Salkantay Trek + Original Inka Trail to Machu Picchu 5D/4N

Original price was: $ 529.00.Current price is: $ 490.00.

INCLUIDO:

Explore the Salkantay Trek and the Original Inca Trail

Experience the Magic of the Andes and the Inca Heritage

This is one of Oki Doki’s most complete and scenic trekking experiences. It combines the breathtaking landscapes of the Salkantay route — including snow-capped mountains, lush jungle, cloud forests, and diverse wildlife — with the mystical charm of the original Inca Trail.

Along the way, you’ll visit incredible archaeological sites like Chachabamba, Wiñayhuayna, and the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Best of all, this tour gives you the unique opportunity to enter Machu Picchu twice, something that is no longer possible with most tours due to new government regulations and strict visitor circuits.

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Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantay

Distance: 12 km (approx. 5 hours hiking)
Max Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft (Humantay Lake)

We will pick you up from your hotel between 4:20 a.m. and 4:50 a.m. and begin our journey with a 2-hour drive to Mollepata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), where we will stop for breakfast and a short rest (breakfast is included). Here, you will also need to purchase the entrance ticket to the community and Humantay Lake (not included, 20 soles per person).

From Mollepata, we continue to Challacancha (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), the starting point of our trek. From here, we begin a 3-hour hike to our base camp in Soraypampa, home of the Sky Lodge Salkantay Oki Doki (3,912 m / 12,834 ft). Upon arrival, we will enjoy a delicious lunch while taking in the spectacular views of the surrounding peaks — Mount Humantay (4,200 m / 13,779 ft) and the majestic Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m / 20,575 ft).

After a short rest, we will hike for approximately 1.5 hours uphill to Humantay Lake, a breathtaking turquoise glacial lagoon nestled between the mountains. After spending time at the lake, we will return to our campsite for afternoon tea and dinner, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Andes.

Sky Lodge Salkantay base camp Okidoki

Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayrapunku – Chaullay

Distance: 22 km (approx. 9 hours hiking)
Max Altitude: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft

Day 2 is considered the most challenging of the trek, but also one of the most rewarding. We will wake up early at 5:00 a.m., and enjoy a hearty breakfast at 5:30 a.m. Our hike begins at 6:00 a.m., starting with a gradual ascent of approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach the highest point of the route: the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft.

At the summit, we will take time to rest and appreciate the breathtaking scenery, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Here, we’ll also participate in a traditional Andean ceremony with our group to honor the Apus (mountain spirits), a meaningful cultural experience.

After the ceremony, we begin our descent to Huayrapunku (also known as Huayramachay, 3,912 m / 12,834 ft), where a well-deserved lunch awaits us.

Following lunch, we continue our descent for about 3 more hours until we reach our second campsite in Chaullay (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), where we will have dinner and spend the night, now immersed in a warmer, more tropical part of the Andes.

Day 3: Chaullay – Playa Sahuayaco – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Distance: 25 km (approx. 7 hours hiking)
Max Altitude: 2,064 m / 6,771 ft

We begin the day early once again, waking up at 6:00 a.m. and enjoying breakfast at 6:30 a.m. Our trek takes us through the high jungle, a region known for its lush vegetation and incredible biodiversity.

As we hike, you’ll be immersed in stunning landscapes filled with rivers, waterfalls, orchids, and plantations of coffee, coca leaves, bananas, papayas, avocados, and passion fruit. It’s also a great opportunity for wildlife spotting—you may see hummingbirds, parrots, and even Peru’s national bird, the cock-of-the-rock.

After about 5 hours of trekking, we arrive at Playa Sahuayaco (also called “La Playa”, 2,064 m / 6,771 ft), where we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch.

Following lunch, we take a local transport (not included in the tour price; approx. 40 to 50 soles per person) for a 1.5-hour drive to the Hidroelectrica Station, the starting point for our final walk of the day.

From Hidroelectrica, we hike approximately 3 hours following the train tracks to reach Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu town (2,000 m / 6,562 ft), where you will check into a comfortable hostel.

In the evening, we’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and get plenty of rest—tomorrow is the long-awaited visit to Machu Picchu!

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – KM 104 Chachabamba – Wiñayhuayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu Viewpoint – Aguas Calientes

Distance: 13 km approx. (6–7 hours of hiking)
Max Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,923 ft

We begin the day early with breakfast at 5:30 a.m. in our hostel. Shortly after, we set off on a 1.5-hour walk along the railway heading towards KM 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.

At Chachabamba (KM 104), we’ll register at the checkpoint before entering the trail. Our hike begins with an uphill climb through lush subtropical forest, where we’ll admire the local flora and fauna and visit the Chachabamba archaeological site, a beautiful Inca complex hidden in the jungle.

From there, we continue trekking for about 3 hours to reach the impressive archaeological site of Wiñayhuayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft). This is considered by many as the most beautiful site on the Inca Trail, thanks to its stunning terraces, ceremonial fountains, and panoramic mountain views. We’ll take time to explore with our guide and enjoy a packed lunch overlooking the Urubamba River valley.

After lunch, we resume our hike for another 1.5 hours toward the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku). From here, you’ll witness the first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu, a truly unforgettable moment.

We then descend for about 1 hour to reach the overlook of Machu Picchu, where we’ll have time for iconic postcard photos. Please note: Due to new government regulations, we cannot explore Machu Picchu at this time. The full guided tour will take place the following day—yes, you’ll visit Machu Picchu twice!

After enjoying the view, we take a 30-minute bus ride down to Aguas Calientes, where we check back into our hostel. Dinner is included, and afterward, you may choose to relax in the local hot springs (entry not included).

Road to the control of chachabamba km 104 (distance 1 hour 30 minutes approximately) to start the original inka trail to machupicchu

Archaeological zone of chachabamba with religious ceremonial function

Original inka path to reach the archeological zone of wiñayhuayna

The beautiful archaeological site of Wiñayhuayna (inka trail)

Sun Gate (Puerta del Sol), official entrance to MachuPicchu in Inka times and where you will have a panoramic view of the Inka citadel of MachuPicchu

The hot springs in the town Aguas Calientes in Machu Picchu

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco

Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Duration of guided tour: 1.5 to 2 hours

We begin our final and most anticipated day very early at 4:30 a.m. with a 1.5-hour hike ascending to the main entrance of Machu Picchu. Those who prefer may take the bus option (ticket not included), but hiking up allows for a quiet and immersive experience in the early morning mist.

Once inside the sanctuary, you’ll enjoy a fully guided tour of about 1.5 to 2 hours, following one of the official circuits assigned by the Peruvian government. During this visit, you’ll explore the most iconic and sacred areas of Machu Picchu, including the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana (the Sun Dial), Temple of the Three Windows, agricultural terraces, and much more—while your guide brings the history and mysticism of the Inca civilization to life.

After the tour, you’ll have some free time to take photos, soak in the scenery, or relax before returning to Aguas Calientes. From there, we’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo (or Hidroeléctrica, depending on the option selected), and then a bus to Cusco, arriving around 8:00 to 9:00 p.m.

A perfect end to a once-in-a-lifetime adventure—you visited Machu Picchu not once, but twice!

TRAVEL PLAN RETURNING WITH THE BUS OPTION AFTER MACHUPICCHU

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu – Hike to Hydroelectric Station – Return by Bus

Distance: 5 km (to Machu Picchu)
Approximate Duration: 1.5 hours hike / 3 hours to Hydroelectric Station

We begin this unforgettable day very early at 4:30 a.m. with a 30-minute flat walk, followed by a 1-hour uphill hike to reach the entrance of Machu Picchu around 6:00 a.m., just in time to witness the sunrise over the majestic Inca citadel.

Upon arrival, you will enjoy a guided exploration of approximately 2 hours, visiting the most iconic sectors of Machu Picchu, while learning about its fascinating history, architecture, and cultural significance from your guide.

After a short rest, you will exit Machu Picchu and begin your descent no later than 10:30 a.m. The journey continues with a 3-hour hike through the lush jungle path leading to the Hydroelectric Station (Hidroeléctrica).

Once there, you’ll board our bus back to Cusco, which departs between 2:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m., arriving in the city center of Cusco around 10:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Then, you will board the train to Ollantaytambo for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, followed by a bus ride of around 1 hour and 30 minutes back to the city center of Cusco.
End of services – Oki Doki Travel Peru, your local tour operator.

TRAVEL PLAN RETURNING WITH THE TRAIN OPTION AFTER MACHUPICCHU

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu – Distance: 5 km (1.5 hours of hiking)

On this day, we will begin very early, at 4:00 AM.

The first part of the route is flat and lasts around 30 minutes. After that, we’ll begin a 1-hour ascent toward Machu Picchu, aiming to arrive at around 6:00 AM — just in time to witness the sunrise and begin our guided tour of Machu Picchu, which lasts approximately 2 hours.

According to the latest government regulations, after your visit to Machu Picchu, you must descend to the town of Aguas Calientes. You can choose between two options, depending on your physical condition after the hike:

  • Option 1: Hike down to Aguas Calientes (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes).

  • Option 2: Take the bus (around 30 minutes, $12 USD per person, not included).

After arriving in Aguas Calientes, you will have free time for lunch (not included).

Later, you’ll board the train to Ollantaytambo (approx. 1 hour and 40 minutes), and then continue by bus to Cusco (approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes) where we’ll arrive in the city center.

End of services – Oki Doki Travel Peru Operator – Classic Salkantay Trekking

Travel Note – Salkantay Trekking

The permit we provide for this option includes access to the Inca Trail, and it is different from other permits because it allows you to visit Machu Picchu twice.

However, if you would like to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will need to purchase a separate ticket, which costs $60 USD per person. This ticket must be booked well in advance, and is subject to availability at the time of booking.

Important Information about the Mountains:

  • Option 1: The Inca Trail permit is a special permit regulated by the Peruvian government.
    It is not possible to combine this permit with an entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
    If you want to climb one of these mountains, you must buy a new ticket for $60 USD per person.

  • Option 2: Huayna Picchu Mountain – Circuit 4

  • Option 3: Machu Picchu Mountain – Circuit 3

❗ Note: You cannot climb both Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain with a single ticket, as they are completely different circuits with separate entries.

Overnight Stay Required:

If you choose to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will need to return to Aguas Calientes and spend an additional night there.
This overnight stay is not included in the tour price, as you will need extra time for the mountain climb the next day.

Booking in Advance:

  • Huayna Picchu Mountain: Must be reserved 4 months in advance during high season (May to September).

  • Machu Picchu Mountain: Must be reserved at least 1 to 2 months in advance, depending on availability.

About the Guide:

The guided tour is included only for the main Machu Picchu citadel.
Climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain is self-guided, and you are free to take your time and enjoy the experience at your own pace.

Important points

Reservation Conditions & Cancellations

📅 Reservation Requirements

To book your Salkantay Trek, you must provide the exact date of your departure.
Please note: Changes or cancellations are NOT allowed once your reservation is confirmed.

💵 Deposit for Reservation

To confirm your booking and participation in the trek, a deposit is required.
This deposit covers the reservation of all services related to your trek, including the purchase of your Machu Picchu entrance ticket.

⚠️ The Machu Picchu ticket is personal and non-transferable. Once issued, it cannot be cancelled, rescheduled, or transferred to another person.

❌ Cancellation Policy

We do not accept cancellations or date changes after the reservation is confirmed.
If you cancel, your deposit is forfeited — no refunds will be given under any circumstances.

💡 The deposit is not for profit. It is used to purchase your entrance ticket and to secure all logistics and services needed for your trek.
All reservations with service providers must be made in advance to ensure a smooth and well-organized trek.

If we cancel a reservation with a supplier, we lose the deposit too — this is not a casual or flexible system. By reserving your spot, we are blocking space that could otherwise be sold to other agencies. This is a serious commitment to both you and our providers.

🎓 Student Discount Requirements

To access the $20 USD student discount on the Machu Picchu entrance ticket, you must meet strict government regulations:

❗ What is not accepted:

  • ISIC cards (due to widespread forgeries)

  • Any type of certificates, notes, letters, or university documents

  • Cards with expiration dates beyond 2026 (e.g., 2027 or 2028)

✅ What is accepted:

  • A valid university student ID with the following:

    • Clearly visible photo

    • Name of your university

    • Expiration date showing 2025 or 2026

  • A copy of your original passport

  • A plastic (PVC) student card – not cardboard or paper

🔺 You must be 25 years old or younger to qualify for the student discount.
🔺 You must bring the original card with you on the trek — no exceptions. If you fail to present it, your ticket will be invalid and you’ll need to buy a new one, which could be unavailable at the last minute.

📤 How to Submit Student Documents

If you qualify, please send your passport copy and student ID immediately at the time of booking — not after your reservation is confirmed.
We need to submit them to the government for validation. They will decide whether your student discount is accepted.

⚠️ If your card does not meet the requirements, we strongly recommend purchasing a regular adult ticket to avoid issues.
We are not responsible if your student ID is rejected.

What’s included

  • 🎟️ Entrance Ticket to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu

  • 📝 Pre-Trek Briefing: A detailed orientation the day before your trek at the Okidoki Travel Peru office
    📍 Address: Calle Nueva Alta #644, Okidoki Hostal, Cusco

  • 🧳 Duffel Bag: To store your personal gear, carried by pack mules

  • 🚐 Transportation from Cusco to the start of the trek

  • 💤 Sleeping Bag included

  • 🍽️ All Meals During the Trek:

    • 5 Breakfasts

    • 4 Lunches

    • 4 Dinners

  • 🌄 Professional Bilingual Guide (English–Spanish) for the full 5-day trek, including Machu Picchu

  • ☕ Hot Drinks provided every night and with meals

  • 🐎 Pack Mules to carry up to 5 kg of your personal items

  • 🏨 Hostel Accommodation in Aguas Calientes for 2 nights

  • 🚌 Bus Ticket for the 30-minute descent from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on Day 4

  • 🚍 Return Transportation Options (choose one):

    • Bus Option: Direct bus back to Cusco on the last day

    • Train Option: Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus to Cusco

What’s not included

  • 🍽️ Dinner on Day 4 – You will have a free afternoon in Aguas Calientes.

  • ♨️ Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes (optional) – Approx. 20 soles

  • 🥢 Last Lunch on Day 5

  • 🚶 Trekking Poles (Pair) – Available for rent at US$ 10

  • 🎟️ Entrance Fee to Mollepata Community & Humantay Lake – 20 soles

  • 🚐 Transport from Sahuayaco (Playa) to Hydroelectric Station on Day 3 – Approx. 40 to 50 soles

    • (Start of the walk to reach Aguas Calientes)

  • 💧 Drinks such as bottled water, soft drinks, beer, champagne, whiskey, etc.

  • ♨️ Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes – Entrance fee: 20 soles

  • 🚌 Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (One Way) – US$ 12 (Day 5 – uphill only)

  • 🚌 Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (One Way) – US$ 12 (Day 5 – downhill only)

  • 🏔️ Huayna Picchu Mountain Entrance Ticket – US$ 60
    (Must be reserved months in advance – limited availability)

  • 🏔️ Machu Picchu Mountain Entrance Ticket – US$ 60
    (Must be reserved months in advance – limited availability)

  • 💸 Tips for Guides, Cooks, and Porters – Optional but appreciated

What You need to bring

  • 📄 Original Passport (mandatory)

  • 🎓 Original Student ID (only if you booked with the student discount – must be plastic, valid for the current year, and meet government requirements)

  • 🎒 Backpack (recommended size: 30 liters)

  • 🌧️ Rain Jacket or Rain Poncho

  • 👟 Comfortable Hiking Shoes

  • 🔦 Headlamp or Flashlight

  • 🧴 Personal Toiletries – Towel, toilet paper, biodegradable soap, etc.

  • 💊 Personal Medications

  • 🌞 Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat

  • 🦟 Mosquito Repellent

  • 🍫 Snacks – Chocolates, candies, protein bars, dried fruits

  • 📸 Camera or smartphone for photos

  • 💵 Extra Cash – For optional expenses, tips, drinks, etc. (in soles and/or dollars)

FAQs

🏞️ What is the Original Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

The world-famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic hiking routes in South America. This ancient path was used by Inca nobility to reach their sacred citadel, Machu Picchu. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a unique opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the Incas and explore stunning archaeological sites accessible only on foot.

Along this historic trail, you’ll hike through breathtaking Andean landscapes, cloud forests, and lush valleys while visiting important Inca sites. The journey culminates with the unforgettable entrance to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — an exclusive experience for Inca Trail hikers.

By combining the Salkantay Trek with the Classic Inca Trail, you get to experience:

  • A unique blend of nature and history.

  • Snow-capped peaks like Ausangate and Salkantay.

  • Sacred Inca sites such as Choquequirao, Paucarcancha, and Llactapata.

  • Peaceful nights camping in nature’s embrace (Apus).

  • A guided exploration of Machu Picchu, entering through the iconic Sun Gate.

⛰️ How many days should I acclimatize in Cusco before starting the trek?

We strongly recommend staying in Cusco for at least 2 or 3 days before the trek to help your body adjust to the high altitude (3,400 m / 11,150 ft). Acclimatization reduces the risk of altitude sickness and allows you to enjoy your hike with more comfort and safety.

Suggested pre-trek activities in and around Cusco:

  • Free Walking Tour Cusco

  • Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour

  • Moray & Salt Mines of Maras

  • City Tour Cusco

  • Rainbow Mountain hike

  • Humantay Lagoon hike

  • Chonta Canyon Condor Viewpoint

  • The Abode of the Gods (Apukunaq Tianan)

🧳 What should I pack for the trek?

Essential items to bring:

  • Original passport and student card (if applicable)

  • Backpack (30L recommended)

  • Comfortable hiking shoes

  • Rain jacket or poncho

  • Warm layers for cold nights

  • Flashlight or headlamp

  • Personal medications

  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat

  • Mosquito repellent

  • Snacks (chocolates, energy bars, candies)

  • Camera

  • Extra cash for tips and personal expenses

🎟️ Can I visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain with my Inca Trail permit?

No. The Inca Trail permit only includes the entrance to Machu Picchu, not Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
If you wish to climb one of these mountains, you need to purchase a separate ticket in advance (USD $60), subject to availability. These spots are limited and sell out months in advance.

Note: If you decide to add one of these mountains, you’ll need to spend an extra night in Aguas Calientes (not included in the tour) and return the next day.

🧾 What are the conditions for booking and cancellation?

  • You must provide the exact start date of your trek.

  • A non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your booking. This covers the purchase of your personal Machu Picchu ticket and trek logistics.

  • Cancellations and date changes are not accepted once the deposit is made. All tickets and reservations are personal and non-transferable.

  • Deposits go towards organizing all your services and paying non-refundable bookings with our local providers.

🎓 What are the requirements for the student discount?

  • The ISIC card is no longer valid (government no longer accepts it).

  • You must present a valid university student ID:

    • Plastic (PVC), not paper.

    • With your name, photo, university name, and valid date (2025 or 2026).

    • You must be 25 years old or younger.

  • We require a copy of your original passport and student card before confirming your reservation.

  • You must bring your original student ID with you on the trek. If you forget it, you will have to purchase a full adult ticket, and entrance may be denied if tickets are sold out.

🐴 Are horses included in the trek?

Yes. We provide pack horses (mules) to carry up to 5 kg (11 lbs) of your personal belongings. You will be given a duffel bag to place these items before the trek starts.

🍽️ Are meals and water included?

  • All meals are included during the trek, except:

    • The last lunch and dinner on day 4 (in Aguas Calientes).

  • We provide hot drinks and snacks during the trek.

  • Drinking water is not included. We recommend bringing purification tablets or buying bottled water when available.

🧼 Are there showers or toilets along the trek?

There are basic toilet facilities and limited access to cold showers at some campsites. We recommend bringing wet wipes and a small towel for hygiene during the trek.

💰 How much extra money should I bring?

Bring between 300 and 400 soles (approx. $80–$100) in cash, preferably in small bills, to cover:

  • Optional services (hot springs, bus tickets)

  • Tips for the guide, cooks, and porters (voluntary)

  • Snacks, water, or drinks along the way

💡 Additional questions?

If you still have doubts, feel free to contact us at info@okidokitravelperu.com or visit our office at Calle Nueva Alta #644 – Okidoki Hostal Cusco. We’re happy to help!

View Trek Map

Salkantay Trek + Original Inca Trail (includes breathtaking archaeological sites such as Chachabamba, the majestic Wiñayhuayna, and the iconic Sun Gate) — all leading to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.

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Original price was: $ 529.00.Current price is: $ 490.00.