We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco around 6:00 AM and drive through beautiful Andean scenery to Mollepata, where you can enjoy breakfast (not included) and last-minute supplies. Then we continue to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), the official starting point of the trek.
From Soraypampa, the trail gradually climbs into open highland landscapes with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. After a solid trekking section, we arrive at Pampa Japonesa (4,400 m / 14,435 ft)—a spectacular campsite located below the Salkantay glacier. This is one of the most dramatic camping locations in the Andes.
After lunch, we take a short hike to Inkachiriaska Lake (about 1 km / 0.6 miles round trip) where you’ll see crystal glacial water framed by jagged mountain scenery—perfect for photos and quiet moments away from the crowds. We return to camp for a warm dinner and a night under the stars.
Today is the most epic mountain day of the trek. We start with an early hot drink around 6:00 AM, followed by breakfast at 7:00 AM. The morning hike takes us through rugged high-altitude terrain toward the breathtaking Incachiriaska Pass (4,850 m / 15,912 ft)—the highest point of the entire journey.
From the top, the views are extraordinary: wide Andean valleys, snow-capped peaks, and raw wilderness with almost no other trekkers. Your guide will help you pace the ascent and manage the altitude safely.
After enjoying the pass and photos, we begin a long scenic descent into greener landscapes as we approach the Sacred Valley region. By afternoon we reach Paucar Cancha (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), an important and rarely visited Inca site. You’ll have time to explore the ruins and learn about their history before settling into camp for dinner.
After breakfast, we begin a culturally rich day that blends nature and archaeology. We follow ancient paths that connect the highlands to the Sacred Valley, including a section of the Classic Inca Trail—a rare experience for travelers who want the Inca Trail feeling without doing the full multi-day permit route.
Along the way, we visit sites such as Llactapata and Wayna Qente, hidden gems that most visitors never see. Your guide will explain the role these places played in the Inca network of roads, ceremonial spaces, and agricultural terraces.
In the afternoon we arrive in Ollantaytambo, one of the most beautiful living Inca towns in Peru. We enjoy lunch (included) and you’ll have free time to explore the cobblestone streets, local markets, or simply relax.
In the evening, we board the night train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Once there, we walk to the hotel, check in, and rest early—tomorrow is Machu Picchu day.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking distance: ~10 km / 6.2 miles
Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
We wake up early and take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu for the best morning atmosphere. Your guide will lead a comprehensive 3-hour guided tour, covering the most important sectors: viewpoints, temples, terraces, and ceremonial areas. You’ll learn the story of Machu Picchu, the engineering behind it, and the meaning of its most iconic structures.
After the guided tour, you’ll have extra time (depending on entry circuit and schedule) for photos or simply taking in the wonder of the citadel.
Then we return by bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch (not included). Later, we take the train back to Ollantaytambo, and from there we provide private transport back to Cusco, ending the adventure at your hotel.
What to Expect on This Alternative Salkantay Route
Expect a high-altitude mountain trek with big scenery, cold nights, and a rewarding challenge—especially on the pass day. In return, you get a far more exclusive trail experience than the regular Salkantay, plus the added value of walking a section of the Inca Trail, making it feel like two adventures in one.
When choosing the Salkantay Trek and Short Inca Trail for your ethical trekking adventure with Inka Power Peru, it’s important to understand the difficulty levels and weather conditions of each trail.
The Salkantay Trek, for instance, is a challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of the majestic Andes. This makes it an ideal choice for eco-conscious travelers seeking a more demanding adventure. On the other hand, the Short Inca Trail offers a more moderate hiking experience, rich in cultural heritage and history, making it perfect for those who seek a balance of adventure and learning.
Moreover, by choosing Inka Power Peru for your sustainable journey, you are supporting ethical tourism practices that enhance your overall experience. This not only benefits local communities, but also contributes to preserving the environment for future generations.
It depends on what you want:
Choose Regular Salkantay if you want a well-known route with more social trekking and established camps.
Choose Salkantay via Incachiriaska if you want fewer crowds, a higher and more dramatic pass, and a more exclusive trekking experience.
Yes. This trek combines remote Salkantay highlands (glaciers, lakes, high passes) with a section of the Classic Inca Trail on Day 3, plus the grand finale at Machu Picchu.
The highest elevation is Incachiriaska Pass (4,850 m / 15,912 ft).
Yes—vegetarian and vegan options are available. Please request in advance.
