Salkantay & Short Inca Trail Package

Cusco

Overview of this adventure

Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Tour Difficulty: Hard

Languages: Spanish & English

Location: Peru

6-Day Salkantay & Short Inca Trail: The Perfect Hybrid

TrueAndes presents an exclusive route that combines the two most spectacular treks in Cusco. Over 6 days, you will experience the best of both worlds: the snow-capped majesty of the Salkantay Trek and the historic significance of the Short Inca Trail.

You will hike past the turquoise Humantay Lake and cross the Salkantay Pass, traverse the Santa Teresa valley, and then connect with the Inca Trail at Km 104. This allows you to arrive at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)—a privilege usually reserved only for the Classic Inca Trail. It is the ultimate trekking combination.

Combined Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Humantay Lake

Hike to Soraypampa and visit the Humantay Lake. Camp at Sky Camp (glass igloos).

Day 2: Salkantay Pass

Cross the Salkantay Pass (4,630m) and descend into the cloud forest to Collpapampa.

Day 3: Cloud Forest

Trek through the lush valley to Lucmabamba. Visit coffee plantations. Stay in Jungle Domes.

Day 4: Llactapata & Train

Hike to the Llactapata ruins for a distant view of Machu Picchu. Descend to Hidroelectrica and take the train to Aguas Calientes.

Day 5: Short Inca Trail

Train to Km 104. Hike the Inca Trail past Wiñay Wayna to the Sun Gate. Sunset view of Machu Picchu. Hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Day 6: Machu Picchu Tour

Sunrise guided tour of the citadel. Return train to Cusco.

What’s Included in This Tour?

  • Accommodation: Unique glamping (Sky Camp/Domes) and Hotel.
  • Permits: Salkantay & Short Inca Trail permits.
  • Meals: Chef-prepared meals on trek.
  • Transport: Private bus, train to Km 104, return train.
  • Guide: Expert trekking guide.
  • Porters/Mules: Luggage transport included.

Travel Information & Policies

Permits & Booking

Inca Trail Connection: Because this tour includes the Short Inca Trail (Day 5), it requires a specific government permit. This means you must book months in advance, and permits are non-refundable.

Physical Demand

Endurance: This is a long trek with varied terrain (high altitude cold, tropical heat). You hike for 6 consecutive days. Good fitness is essential.

Luggage

Logistics: We transport your main duffel bag between camps. You only carry a daypack.

$1,800.00

per person

If you have questions about the Tour, please call us to customize your adventure and learn more making your trip a once-in-a-life experience.

Pay a 50% deposit now and the rest when you arrive in Peru.

Select Group Size


Packing list for the Salkantay & Short Inca Trail Package

Sleeping bag

Insect repellent

Cash & cards

Medications & first‑aid

Toiletries

Headlamp

Hat & gloves

Snacks

Water bottle

Sun protection

Rain gear

Layered clothing

Comfortable hiking boots

Travel insurance

Passport & ID

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose this combo?

It offers the high-mountain scenery of Salkantay AND the exclusive Sun Gate arrival of the Inca Trail, which the standard Salkantay trek does not offer.

Where do we sleep?

You will experience our exclusive glamping accommodations (Sky Camp igloos, Jungle Domes) and a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Do I need a sleeping bag?

Yes, for the first few nights. You can bring your own or rent a high-quality -15°C sleeping bag from TrueAndes.

Is the Inca Trail part hard?

Day 5 (Short Inca Trail) is moderate, about 12km. The hardest part is the Salkantay Pass on Day 2.

Are meals included?

Yes, our chefs prepare amazing meals during the camping portion. In Aguas Calientes, we include breakfast at the hotel; other meals are at your leisure.

How early should I book?

Due to the Short Inca Trail permit requirement, we recommend booking at least 4-6 months in advance.

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Your trusted tour operator in Machu Picchu

We bring a genuine local touch to every adventure. As a 100% Peruvian-owned company, we offer an authentic perspective rooted in respect for our team and a deep connection to the culture and history of the region.

Our Machu Picchu team is fully equipped with satellite phones to provide 24/7 emergency support. Your safety is our highest priority, which is why every trek includes oxygen tanks and first aid kits. Our experienced guides lead each journey with professionalism, care, and expert knowledge.

We provide seamless, worry-free service, including hotel-to-hotel pickups and drop-offs in Cusco. Every detail is thoughtfully arranged to ensure your trek is comfortable and stress-free.

Choosing us means supporting a company with an industry-leading safety record and a strong commitment to excellence. Let our team guide you through the beauty of Machu Picchu while making your journey truly unforgettable.