CUSCO - SORAYPAMPA - HUMANTAY LAKE - COYROCCOCHA - WAYRACMACHAY

Salkantay Trail - The adventure kicks off at 4:00 a.m. with a private transfer from Cusco to Soraypampa (12,795 ft / 3,900 m). After enjoying a nutritious breakfast with the stunning Andean peaks as a backdrop, the ascent to Humantay Lake (13,779 ft / 4,200 m) begins. This initial challenge offers a view of the turquoise glacial waters, watched over by the majestic Humantay peak. After descending back to the base, the journey enters the sacred realm of the Great Apu Salkantay. The trek continues toward Soyroccocha, where a gourmet Andean lunch is served with spectacular glacier views.

Reaching the Salkantay Pass, the trek’s pinnacle is achieved at 15,190 ft / 4,630 m. This is the highest and most spiritual point of the journey, providing a unique closeness to the summit and a breathtaking panoramic view of the Vilcabamba Range. Finally, a scenic descent leads to the campsite at Wayracmachay (12,834 ft / 3,912 m).

WAYRACMACHAY - CCOLLPAPAMPA - SAHUAYACO

Salkantay Trail - The day begins at 5:00 a.m. with a signature coca tea service delivered to the tent, followed by a high-energy breakfast at 5:30 a.m. A 3-to-4-hour downhill hike toward Ccollpapampa (9,350 ft / 2,850 m) follows. As the descent continues, the crisp mountain air gives way to a warm tropical breeze. Along the path, the towering silhouette of Salkantay Peak fades, revealing wild orchids, crystal-clear waterfalls, and exotic tropical birds. Upon reaching Ccollpapampa, a nutritious gourmet lunch is enjoyed, providing the perfect energy boost to continue the descent. From here, the trek proceeds toward the Sahuayaco sector, locally known as “La Playa” (6,774 ft / 2,065 m). This stretch offers a true sensory experience as hikers walk through organic coffee plantations. Arrival at the Sahuayaco campsite occurs in the late afternoon, where the tropical atmosphere is perfect for recovery and cultural immersion. This is an ideal opportunity to learn about the artisanal Peruvian coffee-making process.

SAHUAYACO - LLACTAPATA - HYDROELECTRIC - AGUAS CALIENTES TOWN

Aguas Calientes - The day starts at 5:00 a.m. with the aroma of freshly roasted local coffee, followed by a high-energy breakfast at 5:30 a.m. After a moderate ascent, the archaeological site of Llactapata (8,976 ft / 2,736 m) is reached. From this privileged location, a unique, direct view of the Machu Picchu Citadel and Huayna Picchu mountain across the valley is enjoyed. This mystical perspective is a rare highlight that few trekkers experience. A descent into the Aobamba River valley follows for a refreshing lunch at Hidroeléctrica. From there, a scenic, 3-hour flat hike alongside the train tracks and the Urubamba River begins. This historic trail follows the same path once taken by explorer Hiram Bingham. By late afternoon, arrival in Aguas Calientes (6,692 ft / 2,040 m) occurs for hotel check-in. The evening is free to enjoy a relaxing dinner and rest, ensuring full recharge for the grand tour of the World Wonder the next day.

AGUAS CALIENTES TOWN - CHACHABAMBA(KM 104)- SUN GATE - MACHUPICCHU

Machupicchu Cusco - At 6:00 a.m., the expert guide meets at the hotel for the transfer to Chachabamba (Km 104), the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail. After passing the government checkpoint, the Chachabamba archaeological site (7,053 ft / 2,150 m) is explored. A 3-hour upward hike continues until reaching Wiñay Wayna (8,694 ft / 2,650 m). Widely considered the most beautiful and best-preserved site on the entire trail, it is renowned for its stunning agricultural terraces and ritual water fountains. Here, a gourmet box lunch is enjoyed, surrounded by living history and pristine nature. Following the break, the final section through the cloud forest is trekked to reach Inti Punku. From this sacred threshold, the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu bathed in the soft late-afternoon light is captured. Finally, a descent through the upper terrace sector allows for capturing those classic postcard photos before heading to the exit. The shuttle bus is then taken down to Aguas Calientes.

MACHUPICCHU - OLLANTAYTAMBO - RETURN TO CUSCO

Cusco - The most anticipated day begins with a strategic goal: beating the crowds. After an early breakfast, one of the first shuttle buses is taken to the citadel to witness Machu Picchu awaken under the magical morning light. Accompanied by an expert Ali Perú Treks guide, an in-depth two-hour tour begins. The most significant temples, plazas, and astronomical sectors are explored, unveiling the secrets of Inca engineering and spirituality. Following the tour, free time is available to connect with the site’s energy and capture unique photographs from the best vantage points. After descending to Aguas Calientes, time for lunch is available before staff escorts to the station. The scenic train journey back to Ollantaytambo offers spectacular views of the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival, private transportation awaits for a direct and comfortable transfer to the hotel door in Cusco, bringing an unforgettable expedition to a close.

• Pick up from your hotel for the tour.
• 2 nights at a 3-star hotel
• 2 nights’ accommodation in comfortable tents
• All transportation for the duration of the hike.
• Entrance ticket to Salkantay and the Short Inca Trail
• Professional tour guides (fluent English)
• Safety briefing the day before the excursion at 18:00 in our office.
• First aid kit, satellite telephones, oxygen
• Private portable toilets
• Experienced chefs and porters.
• Drinking water and snacks every day.
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Complimentary luggage storage.

• Dinner on the last day.
• Gratuities for staff.

Discover the most varied trekking path in the Andes with Ali Perú Treks. This iconic adventure merges the rugged, alpine splendor of the Salkantay and Short Inca Trail, guiding you from towering glacial summits to the vibrant, green high jungle. Skilled local guides accompany you through a terrain of striking contrasts, guaranteeing a secure, engaging, and genuinely authentic link to the land of the Incas.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.