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Salcantay trek-Inca trail


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Salkantay Trek & Classic Inca Trail Hike 7 Days

Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

Places to visit

  • Humantay Lake
  • Salkantay Mountain
  • Abra Incachiriasca
  • Inca Trail
  • Sun Gate
  • Machu Picchu
  • Aguas Caliente
Group Size Up to 8 people
Max Altitude: 4880 m.s.n.m
Type Service: Group/Private
Transportation: Van, Bus, Train
Difficulty: Formidable
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

View Map

The Salkantay & 4 Day Inca Trail trek is a great route for those who wish an wilderness experience as well as the chance to see all the archeological wonders and history of the original Inca Trail. This spectacular trail twists and turns, ascends through high mountain ranges and descends down steep valleys, passing through pockets of misty cloud forests. Visit many ancient ruins while you trek and arrive to Winay Wayna, a fasinating Inca ruin perched on the side of a mountain. Walk to the Sungate where you will get your first view of the Inca Citadel, Machu Picchu.

Details of the trip

Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa

Your Andean mountain adventure begins at 5am when you are picked up at your hotel and driven to the trailhead at Soraypampa. Along the way, pass through two picturesque indigenous villages called Iscuchaca and LimatamboMarvel at the spectacular views of stunning valleys and the snow-capped, famous Salkantay Mountain.

On reaching the trailhead in Soraypampa, have a delicious breakfast while admiring the breathtaking views of the mountain glaciers of Humantay (19,356 feet) and Salkantay (20,396 feet). Hike 2.5 hours round-trip to visit the turquoise Humantay Lake. Next, climb to Salkantaypampa, appetizers and hot drinks are ready and waiting, right in front of the majestic glacier! Have time to settle into your tent, which are set up for you, before dinner.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities
  • Distance: 13kms/8.1 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Salkantaypampa – Pampajaponesa

The guide will wake you with a hot mug of tea or coffee to enjoy before you get up for breakfast. Today, we will be walking off the beaten track for about 3 hours mostly uphill. Stop to have lunch along the way and continue the trek until we reach the campsite, which is approximately a kilometer away from the snow-capped mountain Salkantay. , Enjoy the magnificent views of all the surrounding snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes and amazing valleys. We have afternoon tea and appetizers before dinner.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities
  • Distance: 14kms/8.7 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 3: Pampajaponesa – Sisaypampa

This morning enjoy another hot drink in your sleeping bag before a tasty and hearty breakfast. Our day begins with a slow climb of approximately 4 hours to reach the Incachiriaska Pass (4,880m/16,010ft) which translates to “the place where the Inca cools down.”  In this area lives the Andean Condor, the world’s largest flying bird. The guide will help you keep an eye out, hoping to get a glimpse of this majestic bird. From here, the trail levels off and we reach our campsite for the night at Sisaypampa.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities
  • Distance: 10kms/6.2 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4: Sisaypampa – Wayllabamba- Llulluchapampa

After a delicious breakfast, we say goodbye to our horsemen. From this point, your camping equipment will be carried by the porters.*** We start hiking to a wider valley called Pampacahua. There, we find an Inca Canal that is still in full use by the local farming settlements. At the end of the Pampa, we see our first Inca archeological site called Paucarcancha before arriving at Wayllabamba for lunch. After another hearty and tasty lunch, we start the Classic Inca Trail, walking in the footsteps of the Inca! walk for 3 more hours through the Llullucha Valley to reach the campsite at Llulluchapampa, to enjoy our afternoon tea surrounded by expansive mountain views.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities
  • Distance: 11kms/6.8 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate

***On the Salkantay portion of the trek, camping gear will be carried by pack horses. To protect the trail, horses are not allowed on the Inca Trail. For this section of the trek, your camping gear will be carried by porters.

Day 5: Lluluchapampa – Pacaymayu – Phuyupatamarca

Early in the morning, have breakfast then start to climb for about 2 hours following an original Inca path and trek up to the Warmiwañusqa Pass, also called Dead Woman’s Pass, at  4,217m/14,047ft. Here have magnificent views back down the valley where we just ascended. Later descend the Inca Trail down to the Pacaymayu River and have lunch. Afterwards, we climb for 2 hours to the Runcurakay Pass (3,977m/13,127ft).  From this vantage point, we enjoy the unbelievable views of all the surrounding mountains. Then we descend  for 3 more hours to Phuyupatamarca (3,650m/12,047ft), where we spend the night.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities
  • Distance: 16kms/9.9 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate/Challenge

Day 6: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna – Aguas Calientes

Today is the most spectacular day of our trek. We have our breakfast early in the morning enjoying the sun rise, Urubamba Canyon, Machu Picchu Mountain and stunning Inca sites.  After that, we descend for 2 hours through the cloud forest to the stunning Inca Ruin of Wiñay Wayna for lunch. Later, we walk for 1 hour to the Sun Gate, where you can enjoy your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu and all the surrounding mountains. Afterwards, we walk down to Machu Picchu. We enter the Citadel of Machu Picchu from the top through the “House of the Guardians”where you can take the famous postcard pictures of Machu Picchu. After finishing with photos we take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where we have dinner at a restaurant, spend the night in a hotel.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
  • 3* Accommodation: Hotel Ferre´Machu Picchu
  • Distance: 12kms/7.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 7: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Today is the day, Machu Picchu! After an early breakfast, take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu and witness the sunrise. It is a truly extraordinary site and not something you’ll want to miss! The guide will give a tour of Machu Picchu, which takes about two hours. You will see many of the most important parts of the Machu Picchu Citadel. 

When you have had your fill of the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may also have time for some shopping, sightseeing or a visit to the museum or hot springs. 

Huayna Picchu is an optional trek within Machu Picchu Citadel which does not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour. 

The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55pm or 3:20pm, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Close to Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow and the river has many beautiful sections of whitewater. You can also see Wiñay Wayna from the train, if you look up high on the steep canyon wall! Back at Ollantaytambo, the driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to the hotel in Cusco in our private vehicle. Expect to arrive at your hotel by 7:00pm.

  • Meals included: Breakfast at your hotel
  • Difficulty: Easy

***IMPORTANT:

  •  On the 4 day Inca Trail, we will be doing the circuit #3 and there is no way to do another circuit unless you buy an additional entrance to Machu Picchu.
  • You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same times, 2:55pm or 3:20pm, 4:22pm, or 4:43pm. The cost is $67 USD.
  • Early trains can be organized by requested and it has to be done by booking time.
  • The Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike depends on availability and let us know about it at booking time.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Included for the Salkantay Trekking & Inca Trail Trek

  • Transfer from the airport to your hotel for free
  • Pick up at your hotel in the morning of the trek departure
  • Private transport from Cusco to Soraypampa (starting point of the trek)
  • Entrance fee to the Inca Trail
  • Entry fee to Machu Picchu
  • English speaking, experienced professional guide
  • Private guided tour of Machu Picchu
  • Comfortable tents (sleeping 2 people in a 4 person tent)
  • All camping equipment such as: dining tent, table, chairs, kitchen tent and toilet tent
  • All the gear for our porters and cook
  • 3 Bus tickets Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
  • First Aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
  • Expedition Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
  • Private transport from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco
  • Hotel in Aguas Calientes with private room and bathroom
  • Porters, horseman and pack horses, to carry all camping and personal equipment (7 kilos of your personal items such as extra clothes, you need to include the sleeping bag in the 7kgs, carried by our horses and porters).***
  • Provision of a horse in case of emergency such as illness, to ensure trek can be completed by all participants
  • Comfortable foam mattress and camping pillow
  • Boiled water for drinking and washing purposes
  • Taxes

***On the Salkantay portion of the trek, your camping gear will be carried by pack horses. To protect the trail, horses are not allowed on the Inca Trail. For this section of your trek, your camping gear will be carried by porters.

Not included for the Salkantay Trekking & Inca Trail Trek

  • Sleeping bag 15°C -$25 USD
  • Air Mattress -$25 USD
  • Walking Poles -$20 USD
  • Lunch on the last day
  • Entry to Huayna Picchu -$75 USD
  • Vistadome – $67
  • Extra activities such as zip line and barbecues
  • Additional horse for extra personal luggage in addition of the one for personal item allowance
  • Optional upgrade (train and hotel)
  • Tips for the cook, horsemen and guide (SAM TRAVEL PERU’s staff receive fair wages immediately after they end their trip. However tips are greatly appreciated by them)

**Huayna Picchu is an optional trek within Machu Picchu Citadel which does not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour. 

Price & Availability

The Salkantay Trekking & Inca Trail is available on any date that is best suited to you, as long as we have a minimum of 2 participants!

PRICES:

  • $1177 USD per person with 3* hotel
  • $1157 USD per person without hotel

Personal pack horse and porter included!

***This price includes the extra pack horse which will carry your belongings up to 7 kgs. We will provide you a duffel bag in which you may put your things.

***We provide large Eureka 4 person tents for each 2 trekkers.  

DISCOUNTS

  • 18 to 25 years old: $30 USD Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval for discount.
  • Under 18 years old: $30 USD Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
  • Under 11 years old: $40 USD  Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

CHECK YOUR TREK AVAILABILITY BY CLICKING ON THE DROPBOX AND CHOOSING YOUR MONTH & YEAR

EXTRAS

  • Sleeping Bag –$25 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress –$25 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles –$20 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
  • Personal tent- $30 USD – (Tent for solo trekkers only)
  • Additional Night in Aguas Calientes– From $60 USD (depending on availability)
  • Vistadome Train Upgrade  -$67 USD per person (Return only)
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain  -$75 USD per person (Please request when you book your trek)
  • Single supplement-$40 3* USD per night (for solo travelers with single room)

**Huayna Picchu is an optional trek within Machu Picchu Citadel which does not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour. 

ADDED VALUE WITH SAM TRAVEL PERU

  • EXTRA PACK HORSE AND PORTER:*** you will receive a small duffel bag at your briefing held the evening before you start the trek.
  • BOILED WATER – for drinking included along the entire trek
  • SMALL GROUPS  – average group 4 to 6 with a maximum of 8 hikers
  • FLUENT ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE
  • DUFFEL BAG – for your belongings
  • CAMPING PILLOW AND FOAM MATTRESS

***Please note: On the Salkantay portion of the trek, your camping gear will be carried by pack horses. To protect the trail, horses are not allowed on the Inca Trail. For this section of your trek, your camping gear will be carried by porters.

WHAT IF THE INCA TRAIL IS SOLD OUT

FOR YOUR DESIRED DATES?

If permits are sold out for the Salkantay Trekking & Inca Trail on your preferred date, you have so many options that will still allow you to trek and enjoy the Andes on the way to MACHU PICCHU. Alternative treks are just as beautiful as the Salkantay & Inca Trail Trek. They are less crowded because we take you off the beaten track in the Andes and we make sure you don’t miss anything on your trek to MACHU PICCHU.

*Sam Travel Peru requires only a 2 participant minimum for our departures! You can choose any day that is best for you as long as we have a minimum of 2 trekkers.

*If you are a solo traveler and are flexible with your start date, we will make sure you have a group to travel with and you won’t miss out on any of the fun.

ALTERNATIVE TREK OPTIONS: 

  • LARES TREK 4D/3N
  • SALKANTAY TREK 5D/4N
  • HUCHUY QOSQO 3D/2N
  • CHOQUEKIRAW TREK 8D/7N or 4D/3N
  • AUSANGATE RAINBOW TREK 6D/5N or 4D/3N 

 Note: We will buy your Inca Trail trek permit using the names and passport numbers that you send us with your trek booking application (they must to complete and accurate). If the name or number on your passport does not match the name and number on the trek permit, the government authorities will not allow you to start the trek and you will not be entitled to a refund.
You must bring the same passport with you to Cusco and take it with you on the Inca Trail.

RENEWAL OR CHANGE OF NAME ON PASSPORT

If you plan to renew or change your name on your passport between making your trek booking and starting your trek, you can book your trek or tour with your current passport or name but you must send us a copy of your old passport and a copy of your new passport when you have them.  We can then make the change with the government before you arrive.  The extra cost to do the change is $25 USD per person. (This will cover the change in number or name for your Inca Trail Permit, Machu Picchu Entrance, and Train.)

If you do not advise us of the change or do not want to pay the fee, bring the original of both passports (the old and new one).  You can enter Peru with your new passport but you must show the government authorities your old passport in order to enter the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu or Train. If  you cannot do so, you will not be allowed to start your trek by the government officials. All names and numbers must match!!

WHY CHOOSE SAM TRAVEL?

SAM Travel Peru is a family owned travel agency and a local tour operator based in Cusco with personal experience over many years of trekking. SAM Travel Peru is a 100% Cusqueñian Company without any shareholders.

 Our dream as a locally based company is to create small personalized tours & treks strictly and only operated by local professional staff catering in PERSONALIZED and HIGH QUALITY SERVICE.  

We take pride in our reputation as a RESPONSIBLE & SUSTAINABLE tour operator. Our staff are our extended family. We ensure they are supported financially by offering them a fair salary. We are so proud of our team! Without them, we wouldn’t be able to offer the best service and lifetime experiences to our clients.

SMALL GROUPS

To ensure a more personalized service for our guests, at SAM Travel Peru we have a policy that our groups will not exceed 8 people. This fact alone sets us apart from other companies that operate departures with bigger groups.

OUR TOUR GUIDES 

We are so proud of our guides! They are highly professional and speak fluent English. They are very knowledgeable and passionate for Inca heritage and history.  Our guides are dedicated to continuous personal and professional development. They do research to ensure that you receive accurate and recognized theories in Inca and Andean culture. Our crew is fun lovinggreat sports and well-educated. They all hold degrees in one of the following: Archeology, Tourism, Botany, History or Anthropology.

OUR SUPER COOL PORTERS

Trekking with SAM Travel Peru is a life changing experience with a fully portered trek, where your comfort and enjoyment are our first priority. We make sure that you get the best experience for your holiday in Peru, while you interact with the locals, explore fantastic sites and re-discover remote ancient Inca towns. Our porters will carry your gear, prepare your meals, set up your tents by avoiding crowded campsites and take care of you while you sit back and relax.

On the Salkantay portion of the trek, your camping gear will be carried by pack horses. To protect the trail, horses are not allowed on the Inca Trail. For this section of your trek, your camping gear will be carried by porters.

We provide the following items to our horsemen and porters for free: Jacket, sun hat, warm hat, t-shirt, pants, hiking boots, comfortable duffel bags, canteen, a girdle for protecting their spine, sleeping bags, mattresses and travel insurance. All of our porters are hired from isolated mountain communities and are given the opportunity to work with our company. This will better their economic circumstances as well as provide help for their children’s education!  We ensure that all of our porters are treated like family!

OUR EQUIPMENT

Our team (Guides, cooks and porters) and our equipment are what really makes SAM Travel Peru stand out from all of our competitors…. For all our adventurous hikes we include the following items:

  • OUR TENTS: Enjoy a good night sleep in our 4 season EUREKA Timberline tents. All our tents are 4 person tents,  ONLY 2 will sleep in them, leaving lots of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a little vestibule in front, giving you some extra outdoor space to leave your boots and walking sticks so you don’t have to bring in dirt.
  • OUR FOAM MATS: They are included to insulate you from the ground.
  • AIR MATTRESSES can be rented for $25 USD.
  • OUR KITCHEN & DINING TENTS: The dining tent is used as our meeting room at meal times. This is a great time to sit back relax and catch up for a chat.
  • OUR TABLES & CHAIRS: The interior of the dining room includes tables and chairs with two doors on each side, easily adaptable to the day’s weather.
  • DUFFEL BAGS:  Will be provided at briefing time the night before the trek.
  • MORE: Pillows, backpack rain covers, survivor t-shirts, hot shower and bio-chemical toilet are all provided on the trek.

Please note: On the Salkantay portion of the trek, your camping gear will be carried by pack horses. To protect the trail, horses are not allowed on the Inca Trail. For this section of your trek, your camping gear will be carried by porters.

OUR SERVICE PROJECTS

SAM Travel Peru have always believed that we should give back to the local isolated communities.  Therefore, as part of our commitment to responsible tourism, we always do many service projects and hire locally.

SAM Travel Peru is so proud to be able to support these people, not only employing them but go back to our grassroots as they share with their families. It makes us happy to have this holistic approach with our highland employees and their families!

Important Info

Please read carefully the following information as it will help you answer all of your questions about our services and the Salkantay Trekking & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu!

ARRIVAL TO CUSCO

You will be welcomed at the Cusco airport and taken to your hotel. Please ensure that you inform us of your flight details at least 14 days prior to arrival. Look for our representative holding an orange  SAM Travel Peru board at the arrival terminal. You must exit the terminal in order to find our representative (they cannot enter inside).

THE BRIEFING

The briefing will take place the night before the trek at 6pm in our office, which is located at Calle Garcilaso 210, office 213 (second floor) in the La CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Of course! During the Inca Trail Tour 5 day, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you. Please pack only what you will need for the 5 day trek!

HOW TO BOOK THE INCA TRAIL ?

FIRST, to book your Inca Trail Tour 5 day, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click here the link BOOK NOW.

Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group).  We cannot purchase an Inca Trail permit without the following information:

  • Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
  • Gender
  • Passport number
  • D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
  • Nationality

*** Copies of each participant’s passport will be required at the time of booking.

SECOND, we require a deposit of $211.00 USD per person in order to purchase a permit for the Inca Trail Tour 5 day.  You can make you deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on the top of our home page, or you can click on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on our booking page.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

If you would like to avoid the high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. There are many ATMS within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by VISA or PAYPAL online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service fee, charged by VISA and PAYPAL.  To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account and use our email address samtravelperu@gmail.com. 

MAY I CHANGE THE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?

Unfortunately the answer is No. Once the permits have been bought the Peruvian government does not allow any changes, so we can’t change any date(s) after the permit have been bought. Permits are not transferable nor refundable. If you cancel your Inca Trail Tour 5 day, the deposit is not refundable at all!

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE 5 DAY INCA TRAIL TREK?

Yes! You have to bring your original passport as it is very important that it is the same passport, you sent to us at the time of booking your permit. Passports will be checked when you enter Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail and board the train.  In case you are renewing your passport, go ahead and send us a copy of your old passport to secure your permit and we can change it when you get your new passport. Please send us a copy of your new passport as soon as possible.

DUFFEL BAG AND SMALL BACKPACK 

The evening before you start your 5 day Inca Trail trek, you will be given a SMALL DUFFEL BAG to pack your clothes for the next four days. Your weight allowance is up to 7kg/15lbs. By Peruvian law, a duffel bag must not weigh more than 7 kilograms (15lbs). This limit is set to protect the health of the porters and animals. All bags will be weighed before being accepted. If you require more than 7 kilograms, it will then be your responsibility to carry the extra weight with your day pack. In this 7 kilos, please count 2 kilos for your sleeping bag and 1 kilo for your sleeping pad (foam or air). This leaves you about 4 kilos for your personal gear. Your team of porters will carry your duffel bag for you, together with the food and camping gear. It’s important to be aware that you will not have access to your items in the duffel bag until the end of each day, as the porters will always be ahead of the group. During the trek, you need a day backpack big enough to carry your personal belongings such as a warm jacket, a rain jacket, your camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, etc. A 30 to 50L backpack is sufficient.

IS THE TREK DIFFICULT? DO I NEED TO BE FIT?

The 5 Day Inca Trail Trek is a 42km (24.4 mile) hike through the Andes in the Cusco region. The maximum altitude reached is 4,217m/13,907ft. On the second day of the trek, we climb two mountains. The trail is a fairly difficult trek and you should be well prepared and healthy prior to starting it. You have to be moderately fit and take regular exercise. In preparation: try walking 15kms/9 miles in a day or working out in the months leading up to the trek. It is also important to be well acclimatized to the altitude. Try to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco (3350m/11,047ft) prior to starting the trek.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE TRAIL?

In the unlikely scenario, that you are unable to finish the trek due to a health reasons, Sam Travel Peru will assist you to the nearest town for help with transportation. We always carry oxygen on the trek for any respiratory problems. In extreme cases, a helicopter pick up can be arranged at your own expense. (Travel insurance required). There are no refunds in the unlikely situation that you are unable to finish the trek.
Generally, those who have to be assisted off the trail are taken to Ollantaytambo and if they recover quickly they continue the journey to Aguas Calientes (cost incurred by trekker) and visit Machu Picchu according to the original plan.

TIPPING

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the trek.  It inspires excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many SAM Travel Peru destinations. Of course, you are free to tip as much as you want, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

ARE YOU SUSTAINABLE? 

Yes, we are a local, sustainable & responsible tourism operator that incorporates universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know and understand, respect the places and the local people.

PACKING CHECK LIST

WHAT YOU HAVE TO TAKE WITH YOU

  • Original passport (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek)
  • Valid student ID card (if you booked as a student)
  • Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
  • Water storage:  2-3L (Please bring reusable bottles, not disposable ones).
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented from SAM Travel)
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Toilet paper

WHAT TO PUT IN THE DUFFEL BAG

As a Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra porter who will carry up to 7 kgs or 14 pounds including your sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing. By Peruvian law, a duffel bag must not weigh more than 7 kilograms (15lbs). This limit is set to protect the health of the porters or horses. All bags will be weighed before being accepted. If you require more than 7 kilograms, it will then be your responsibility to carry the extra weight with your day pack. In this 7 kilos, please count 2 kilos for your sleeping bag and 1 kilo for your sleeping pad. This leaves you about 4 kilos for your personal gear.

  • 2 t-shirts
  • 2 hiking pants at least
  • 4 sets of undergarments
  • 3 sets of hiking socks
  • 2 Fleece/ Thermals
  • Warm clothes, down jacket — 2nd campsite temp around 3º C.
  • Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
  • Comfortable shoes for camp
  • Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger.
  • Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to wash.
  • Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek.
  • Large plastic bags will be provided at the office — Please ask for them.
  • Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us for $25 USD.

TOILETRIES

  • Face moisturizer
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and paste
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.

WHAT TO PUT IN THE DAYPACK

We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40L for hiking in the day. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.

  • Water: Please supply your own water until the first lunch. Bring your own water bottles.
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Wool hat
  • Rain gear
  • Fleece
  • Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruits
  • Rain plastic poncho
  • Gloves
  • Camera
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips

Salkantay Trek & Classic Inca Trail Hike 7 Days
Inca Trail peru

Join SAM Travel Peru for an Unforgettable Travel Experience In Peru

  • 100% Locally Owned and Operated
  • Years of Experience in all Areas of Peru
  • Knowledgeable Staff ready to Help You
  • Uniquely designed Adventure treks and tours
  • Especially Designed Tours and Treks
  • The Best Quality Personal Service
  • Fantastic Value for Money with Many Added Extras
Your adventure. Our expertise.

Why Travel with SAM travel Peru?

  • Superior Service
  • Inca Trail Specialists
  • 100% value for money
  • Small Groups with a maximum of 8 people
  • Delicious and nutritious meals
  • Sustainable Travel
  • Years of Professional Inca Trail Experience
9.6
K+

Happy Traveler

5.5
K+

Tours Success

99
.5%

Positives Review

24
+

Travel Guide

Excellent!

5.0 Rating out of 5.0 based on 5.107 reviews

Join the Thousands of Satisfied Customers who Rate us #1 on TripAdvisor

Bernie s 2023/03/02

Had a great trip with our guide Ray Herrera and driver Alfredo. Lots of good experiences in a short period of time 4 days. Learnt a lot not just about the main tourist destinations but Peru in general by Ray. Ray has a passion for Inca history and local produce. Ray knows all the good photo spots and we managed the sun out every day .. Good culture and if you want to get on a tour ask for Ray at Sams Travel = amazing

Tanya H 2023/03/02

Ray was our Tour Guide and Alfredo was our driver for a 4 day tour we did with SAM Travel Peru. Ray's knowledge of the history of Cusco and Machu Picchu was outstanding. Ray was very accommodating with all our needs. He stayed alongside us when trekking and helped where he could. His sense of humour was pleasant to be around. Ray spoke very good English. He is such a nice guy. I would strongly recommend Ray to be your tour guide to visit Machu Picchu. Ray explained everyday what the plans were for the next day, which was reassuring what we needed to take etc

Captanjack 2023/01/012

Our 1 day tour thru the Sacred Vally with Danny was wonderful. He was very knowledgeable and able to answer all our questions in detail. I would recommend asking for him personally if you are able.

Sherry 2022/12/26

We booked the Classic Cusco to Machu Picchu tour with SAM travel which we really had a good experience. SAM travel is very responsive during the communication and cater to our changes needed. Our guide is Ray who is also an very awesome guide. He is knowledgeable, patient, humorous as well reliable, he help us take many good photos and also go extra mile to help with our request. Thanks Ray! Thanks SAM travel that gave us good memories in Peru! Highly recommend if you consider booking any tour in Cusco.

Reviews by Trip Advisor

5.0 5,190 opiniones
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C Clark 2023/01/20

Wow. We had such an incredible experience in Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Our guide, Dayvit, is the most knowledgeable guide we have ever had. He has such an extensive knowledge of the history and is very friendly and helpful. If you are planning a trip to Peru, I highly recommend SAM travel and be sure to request Dayvit!

Emma Dinzebach Clark 2023/01/10

2 day tour sacred valley / Machu Picchu highly recommend! David was the best tour guide. He knows an incredible amount about Incan culture and is personable and funny. He also kept us up to date on a political situation happening when we were there and was informative. Overall, this tour checks all the boxes. Thank you!

Nupur Joshi 2023/01/02

We used SAM Travel for a 2D/1N trip from Cusco to Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu on Dec 25-26, 2022. The team was good with communication from the start - both Saul and Junior were very helpful and professional with answering any questions and clearing up any misunderstandings. Our guide, Miguel, was prompt, pleasant, and quite knowledgeable. We enjoyed his company and insight over the 2 day trip and recommend him to anyone booking with SAM Travel.

Xueying Chen 2022/12/20

We booked the Classic Cusco to Machu Picchu tour with SAM travel which we really had a good experience. SAM travel is very responsive during the communication and cater to our changes needed. Our guide is Ray who is also an very awesome guide. He is knowledgeable, patient, humorous as well reliable, he help us take many good photos and also go extra mile to help with our request. Thanks Ray! Thanks SAM travel that gave us good memories in Peru! Highly recommend if you consider booking any tour in Cusco.

Reviews by Google

5.0 700 opinions
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Cheri Buccino April 21, 2024
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Powerful! This journey tests your humanity and leaves you in awe of yourself and the beauty that Pachamama provides. April 2024 We conquered the Inca trail and it was only made possible with the help and guidance from our expert guides Jean Pierre (JP) and Jimmy. The knowledge these gentlemen shared was admired by all of our group and the envy of other trail hikers who stopped to listen. The hike has many layers of challenges including language barriers, altitude sensitivities and food specifications. The team at Sam travel exceeded the needs and went above to ensure our comforts were met. A special mention must be made to Mario, the Chef who somehow performed magic with nutritious flavourful meals to satisfy even the pickiest consumers and Francesco who was our lead porter who orchestrated the harmony that happened behind the scenes to get everything done. Nothing less than marvellous from this team. Thank you to each of the group who made our trek a remarkable experience.

BL
Bhavana Lalwani April 18, 2024
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Jose and Henry were great guides for our first time exploring machu pichu! They were very attentive and kept everything on a smooth schedule. Highly recommend!

RY
Ryan April 9, 2024
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The whole experience was amazing. Ray, our guide answered all of our questions and definitely had our best interest in mind the whole time. Timothy the cook made fantastic food and somehow found a way to prepare a birthday cake with no notice! Boni our head porter and his whole crew were kind, accommodating, and had such upbeat attitudes which really made the experience great!

Isabel Batteria April 17, 2024
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I spent two days with Sam Travel’s guide Raymier, who guided us through the one-day 12-km stretch of the Inca trail and then took us to Machu Picchu the next day. In my group, I was always the last one on the trail because I come from the coast and I’m not used to altitudes, and honestly I could also have prepared physically a little better. Raymier respected my pace, never rushed me, and supported me throughout the ardous trail. He had much knowledge to share. I speak Spanish, but ended up in an English tour, and Ray’s English was very good. He was funny, respectful, and versatile. He knew where to take all the best photos and patiently took photos of all of us. I would trust Sam Travel again especially if I was lucky enough to have Ray as a guide again.

Reviews by Trustpilot

5.0 105+ opinions
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Sam Travel stands out

Sam Travel is a renowned local travel agency based in Cusco -Peru, recognized for its commitment to customer satisfaction, expert travel advice and personalized itineraries that meet the needs and preferences of each traveler.

food on the inca trail to machu picchu - sam travel Peru
Best food on the Machu Picchu hike
best campsite on the inca trail
Best Camping Equipment
Inca trail porters
Our Porters
Empowering Women on the Inca Trail
Empowering Women
Safety on the Trail
Safety on the Trail
Our Christmas Party In The Andes
Tree-Planting-Social-Environmental-
Tree Planting Project
Dreams Come True For Student

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