Wake up early and enjoy a hearty breakfast of pancakes and coffee at our picturesque campsite. Today’s hike takes you to the Inca Chiriasca Pass, the highest point of the trek at 16,270 ft / 4,959 m. The ascent takes about 2 hours and rewards you with spectacular Andean landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see.

On this second day, you’ll also experience a short section of the historic Inca Trail. The trail features gentle undulations and scenic views, making it a unique combination of nature and culture.

After approximately 2 hours of hiking, we reach the lunch spot at Collpa (14,000 ft / 4,267 m). Here, you’ll enjoy a nutritious meal to refuel for the rest of the day’s trek.

The afternoon hike continues for about 3.5 hours, crossing stunning mountains and valleys until we reach our next campsite. At Millpo, your tent is already set up, and tea time awaits. Relax and take in the incredible views of the Salkantay Glacier and the surrounding mountains, a perfect end to an active and memorable day.

• Area: Dry Mountain.
• Temperature: Cold, Warm and Hot.

We wake up early with a warm cup of Coca tea to start the day energized. The hike begins toward Chuscañan Pass (15,190 ft / 4,630 m), taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Remember, this trek is truly “one mountain to the next”, offering continuous high-altitude adventure.

Today’s trail takes you through a fascinating stone forest along gently undulating terrain. We continue to Quellwacocha, our lunch spot, where you can refuel and admire the natural beauty surrounding the second-highest point of the trek: AcoKasa Pass (15,374 ft / 4,686 m). This Red Mountain is stunning, with panoramic views that make every step worthwhile.

After lunch, we hike for about 3 hours to reach the AcoKasa Pass summit, where you’ll get breathtaking glimpses of the Vilcabamba mountain range and the Classic Inca Trail in the distance.

The final stretch of the day is a 1 hour and 45 minutes descent to our campsite at Inca Racay (14,000 ft / 4,267 m). Here, your tent is ready, and tea time and dinner await, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the magical Andean sunset.

• Area: Dry Mountain.
• Temperature: Cold, Warm and Hot.

Today is the final day of hiking. We start early and ascend to Huayanay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft) over approximately 2 hours. Along the way, you may encounter herds of llamas and alpacas, highlighting the trail’s truly off-the-beaten-path character. From the pass, enjoy stunning views of Huayanay Snow-Capped Peak and, for the last time on this trek, the Salkantay Snow Peak.

The descent takes us through a beautiful mountain gorge, with waterfalls, rivers, and the magnificent Ancascocha Turquoise Lake. We also pass a short section of the Inca Trail, adorned with vibrant bromeliads on rocky walls. The scenery is breathtaking, with the Andean mountains, valleys, and cloud forest stretching all around.

We continue downhill to Camicancha (12,000 ft / 3,658 m), back at the tree line with lush vegetation and magnificent views of Veronica Snow-Capped Peak. Here we stop for a well-deserved lunch before a 2-hour hike down to Chillca, where we meet our team for the last time.

From Chillca, we take a private van to Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca town. After dinner at a local restaurant, we board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town). This town lies in the Montane Cloud Forest, surrounded by steep mountains, rich flora and fauna, and serves as the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes.

• Area: humid Mountain. Valleys, River.
• Temperature: Cold, Warm and Hot (it can get hotter than 94fº).
• Train Station: Ollantaytambo (9,160 ft.) to MachuPicchu (6,693ft).

Today is the highlight of your journey: a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca city high in the Andean clouds. Built from finely carved granite, this “white stone city” showcases the extraordinary engineering and cultural legacy of the Inca civilization.

You will enjoy a 2-hour guided tour with your expert mountain guide, who will explain the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of the site. If you opted for an extra hike, you can climb Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain after the guided tour for breathtaking panoramic views.

After exploring, you will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you can relax with a coffee, lunch, or even a refreshing Pisco Sour while waiting for your train. Board the train to either Poroy or Ollantaytambo station, where our team will meet you and provide private transport back to your hotel in Cusco.

This concludes your unforgettable trek combining the Salkantay and Ancascocha routes with the majestic wonder of Machu Picchu.

• Temperature: Chilly, Warm and Hot (it can get hotter than 94fº).

This combined trek through the Andes is moderately to highly challenging due to the varying elevations and rugged terrain. Hikers will navigate high mountain passes, steep ascents, and long daily walks, with altitudes ranging from around 2,400 meters (7,900 ft) to over 4,950 meters (16,200 ft).

It is suitable for travelers with good fitness levels who are comfortable with multi-day trekking. Daily distances range from 10 to 20 kilometers (6–12 miles), with several hours of hiking each day. The route offers breaks and rest stops, but participants should be prepared for altitude changes and physical exertion.

With proper acclimatization, hydration, and pacing, this trek is achievable for most active travelers and rewards participants with incredible landscapes, wildlife sightings, and cultural experiences along the way.

The ideal season for trekking in the Salkantay and Ancascocha region is during the dry months, from May to September. During this period, the trails are mostly free of rain, skies are clear, and views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and the surrounding Andes are spectacular.

The rainy season, from November to March, can make trails slippery and more challenging, though the landscapes are lush and green. Temperatures vary greatly between high-altitude passes and lower valleys, so layered clothing is essential.

Planning your trek during the dry season ensures safer trails, better visibility, and a more comfortable and memorable experience in the Andean highlands.

Yes, it’s highly recommended to book well in advance. The Salkantay and Ancascocha route is less crowded than the Classic Inca Trail, but permits, accommodations, and train tickets can still fill up quickly, especially during peak season (May to September).

Reserving early ensures you secure your preferred dates, guaranteed train seats to Aguas Calientes, and comfortable camping arrangements along the trail. Early booking also allows time to prepare gear, plan logistics, and receive guidance from your tour operator for a safe and enjoyable trek.

During the trek, accommodation is a mix of comfortable camping and hotel stays. For the first four nights, you’ll sleep in well-equipped campsites with spacious two-person tents, foam sleeping pads, dining tents, and access to hot water for washing. Experienced cooks prepare fresh meals at each camp, and a support team manages all gear and equipment.

On the final night, after reaching Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town), you’ll stay in a clean, cozy hotel with private bathrooms and hot showers, providing a restful end to your adventure.

Throughout the trek, all meals are freshly prepared by your experienced chef and assistant cook. You will enjoy nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, plus daily snacks and hot drinks to keep your energy up during long hikes.

The meals are made with local ingredients, and special dietary needs are accommodated, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Simply inform the team in advance so they can prepare meals that meet your preferences.

For a safe and comfortable trek, pack the following essentials in your daypack:

• Original passport (bring both old and new if recently renewed)
• Down or synthetic sleeping bag (available for rent at $20 USD)
• Clothing: trekking boots, warm fleece jacket, t-shirts, long pants, socks, sun hat, gloves, rain jacket, and warm underwear
• Toiletries: toilet paper, wet wipes, personal towel
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Camera to capture stunning landscapes
• Trekking poles (highly recommended for steep descents; rental available)
• Insect repellent

Packing these items ensures comfort during the hikes, protection against varying weather, and a safe journey through the high Andes and cloud forest.

During the trek, your safety is a top priority. Measures include:

• Experienced mountain guides trained in high-altitude trekking and emergency procedures.
• Oxygen bottles carried throughout the trek for any signs of altitude sickness.
• First aid kits with essential medical supplies for minor injuries or illnesses.
• Daily monitoring of participants’ health by the guide, including breathing, pulse, and general wellbeing.
• Acclimatization tips and rest periods to help the body adjust to high elevations.
• Emergency transport plan to quickly evacuate anyone in need to the nearest medical facility.
• Communication devices to contact support if necessary.

These precautions ensure that travelers can focus on enjoying the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and Inca heritage with confidence.

No prior trekking experience is strictly necessary, but participants should have a moderate level of fitness. The trek involves long days of hiking, uphill climbs, and high-altitude conditions ranging from about 2,430 m (7,972 ft) to over 4,950 m (16,270 ft).

Guides provide:

• Support and guidance on pace, breaks, and techniques for steep or uneven terrain.
• Acclimatization tips to help prevent altitude sickness.
• Assistance with logistics such as carrying daypacks or renting trekking poles if needed.

This trek is suitable for adventurous travelers who enjoy mountain landscapes, cultural sites, and nature, even if they are new to high-altitude hiking. Proper preparation, a good pair of hiking boots, and a reasonable fitness level make it fully achievable.

Booking with Andes Peru Expeditions, a local travel agency in Cusco, offers several advantages for a safe, enjoyable, and authentic experience:

• Expert Knowledge: Our guides have deep understanding of the Andes, Inca history, flora, fauna, and cultural traditions.
• Personalized Service: Small groups or private tours allow tailored itineraries and flexible pacing.
• Reliable Logistics: We handle permits, transportation, camping equipment, and meals efficiently.
• Safety First: Our team is trained for altitude-related issues and emergencies, with oxygen support and first aid available.
• Support Local Communities: Choosing Andes Peru Expeditions benefits local families, muleteers, cooks, and artisans.
• Off-the-Beaten-Path Access: Many lesser-known trails, viewpoints, and archaeological sites are accessible thanks to our local expertise.

Travelers gain not only convenience and safety but also an immersive cultural experience that only a local operator like Andes Peru Expeditions can provide.

The trek crosses diverse ecological zones, so you’ll experience a range of weather conditions:

• High Andes (4,500–6,200 m / 14,700–20,300 ft): Cold temperatures, strong winds, and possible frost in the mornings and evenings. Days can be sunny but chilly, especially near snow-capped peaks like Salkantay and Huayanay.
• Mid-Elevation Mountains (3,500–4,500 m / 11,500–14,700 ft): Cool to mild temperatures with occasional rain showers. Layers are essential.
• Cloud Forest & Lower Elevations (2,000–3,500 m / 6,500–11,500 ft): Warmer and more humid conditions, with lush vegetation and occasional rain. Early mornings can be chilly.

Tip: Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and sun protection. Temperatures can vary dramatically within the same day, so being prepared ensures comfort and safety.