Salkantay + Inca Trail 7 Days to machu Picchu

Detailed Itinerary – 7-Day Salkantay Inca Trail

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa

We will pick you up at 5:00 a.m. to begin your 7-day Inca Trail adventure. Our journey starts with a two-hour drive to Limatambo, where we will take a short break to stretch our legs and visit the important Inca archaeological site of Tarawasi. After exploring this fascinating area, we will continue toward Challacancha, passing through the picturesque district of Mollepata.

Upon arrival at Challacancha, we will enjoy a hearty breakfast before starting our first hike. The trail begins with a gentle uphill section for about 20 minutes, followed by mostly flat terrain with mild ascents and descents until we reach Soraypampa. Along the way, we will admire rich flora and fauna, including hummingbirds and, with luck, Andean deer. Stunning views of the Salkantay and Humantay glaciers will accompany us throughout the hike.

After lunch prepared by our chef, we will rest briefly before hiking to the breathtaking Humantay Lake. This round-trip hike takes approximately two hours. After enjoying the serene turquoise waters, we will return to camp for dinner and spend the night in Soraypampa.

• Altitude Gain: 753 m / 2,470 ft
• Altitude Loss: 414 m / 1,358 ft
• Hiking Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles
• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
• Starting Elevation: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
• Highest Elevation: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
• Campsite Elevation: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Accommodation: Tents

Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa – Inca Chiriasca Lake – Pampa Japonesa

We will wake you up with a warm cup of coca tea and a hearty breakfast. The hike begins with a gradual ascent toward Salkantaypampa through a scenic valley surrounded by towering Andean peaks. As we climb, the majestic Salkantay Glacier dominates the landscape.

At Salkantaypampa, the trail divides, and we will take the right path connecting to the Inca Trail. The ascent continues steadily to our campsite at Pampa Japonesa. Along the way, moraines, highland grasses, and cooler air mark our transition into high alpine terrain.

After lunch, we will take a short afternoon hike of approximately 20 minutes to visit Incachiriasca Lake, located at the base of the Salkantay Glacier. We will return to camp to enjoy sunset views, dinner, and a clear night sky filled with southern constellations.

• Altitude Gain: 644 m / 2,112 ft
• Altitude Loss: 32 m / 104 ft
• Hiking Distance: 6 km / 3.72 miles
• Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
• Starting Elevation: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
• Highest Elevation: 4,734 m / 15,531 ft
• Campsite Elevation: 4,734 m / 15,531 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Accommodation: Tents

Day 3: Pampa Japonesa – Inca Chiriasca Pass – Yana Ccaca – Inca Canal

Today we reach the highest point of the entire trek. We will begin with a 30-minute uphill hike to the Incachiriasca Pass (also known as the Frozen Inca Pass), reaching 4,928 m (16,168 ft). From the summit, we will enjoy breathtaking views of two valleys and the immense presence of Mount Salkantay.

Wildlife sightings may include viscachas, white-tailed deer, and occasionally Andean condors. From the pass, we will descend for approximately three hours to Yana Ccaca, where lunch awaits us. Afterward, we continue descending for another three hours to our campsite at Inca Canal.

• Altitude Gain: 271 m / 889 ft
• Altitude Loss: 1,238 m / 4,061 ft
• Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.45 miles
• Hiking Time: 8–9 hours
• Starting Elevation: 4,734 m / 15,531 ft
• Highest Elevation: 5,100 m / 16,732 ft
• Campsite Elevation: 3,853 m / 12,641 ft
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Accommodation: Tents

Day 4: Inca Canal – Paucar Cancha – Wayllabamba – Ayapata

After breakfast, we descend the valley toward Paucarcancha, reaching the site in approximately three hours. Our guide will explain the historical importance of this impressive Inca archaeological complex before lunch.

Here we transition from horse-supported logistics to porter-supported trekking to protect the Inca Trail. After presenting passports and permits at the checkpoint, we hike to Wayllabamba and continue to Ayapata, where we camp for the night.

• Altitude Gain: 381 m / 1,250 ft
• Altitude Loss: 892 m / 2,926 ft
• Hiking Distance: 11 km / 6.83 miles
• Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
• Starting Elevation: 3,853 m / 12,641 ft
• Campsite Elevation: 3,323 m / 10,901 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Accommodation: Tents

Day 5: Ayapata – Dead Woman Pass – Pacaymayo – Runku Rakay Pass – Sayacmarca – Chaquicocha

This is one of the most challenging days as we cross two mountain passes. We hike approximately four hours to Dead Woman’s Pass, followed by a descent to Pacaymayo for lunch. Later, we ascend to Runku Rakay Pass, visiting the Runku Raqay archaeological site along the way.

After exploring Sayacmarca, we continue to Chaquicocha, a peaceful campsite known for spectacular sunset views.

• Altitude Gain: 1,273 m / 4,176 ft
• Altitude Loss: 1,057 m / 3,467 ft
• Hiking Distance: 16 km / 9.94 miles
• Hiking Time: 8–9 hours
• Highest Elevation: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
• Campsite Elevation: 3,623 m / 11,881 ft
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Accommodation: Tents

Day 6: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Intipata – Wiñay Wayna

Today is more relaxed, with gentle terrain through cloud forest scenery. We hike along Inca Flat toward Phuyupatamarca, then continue to Intipata for panoramic views of the Urubamba River. After lunch and rest at Wiñay Wayna, we explore the impressive ruins before dinner and early rest.

• Altitude Gain: 157 m / 515 ft
• Altitude Loss: 1,058 m / 3,471 ft
• Hiking Distance: 9 km / 5.54 miles
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Campsite Elevation: 2,623 m / 8,605 ft
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Accommodation: Tents

Day 7: Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

Today is the most important day of the trek. After breakfast, we hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate) for our first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. We then continue to the Guard House for the classic photo before entering the citadel for a guided two-hour tour.

After the tour, we descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and free time before returning by train to Ollantaytambo and private transport back to Cusco, arriving around 7:00 p.m.

• Hiking Distance: 5 km / 3.14 miles
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Highest Elevation: 2,720 m / 8,923 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate

• Includes
• Satellite Phone: Many areas along the route do not have cell phone reception. In case of emergencies, our guide will use a satellite phone to ensure communication at all times.
• 7 Kilograms of Personal Belongings: You only need to carry your essential items during the hike. The rest of your belongings (up to 7 kg / 14 lb) will be transported by our team.
• Duffle Bag: We provide a duffle bag for your 7 kg / 14 lb of personal items (including toiletries, sleeping bag, and other essentials).
• Hot Water: Hot water is provided each evening for washing and freshening up before bed.
• Rain Poncho: A complimentary rain poncho is included to protect you from unexpected rain showers.
• Guided Tour in Machu Picchu: A professional guide will lead a comprehensive two-hour tour of the Machu Picchu Citadel.
• Drinking Water: We boil, cool, and filter water daily to ensure safe drinking water is available for refilling your bottles several times a day.
• Day Pack Cover: To protect your belongings from rain and dust during the hike.
• Inca Trail T-Shirt: Upon completing the trek, you will receive a beautiful Inca Trail souvenir T-shirt as a memento of your adventure.
• Free Storage for Extra Belongings: We offer secure storage in our Cusco office for any items you wish to leave behind during your trek.
• Pick-Up and Drop-Off Service: We provide convenient pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at the beginning of your trek and drop you off at your hotel upon your return.
• Tourist Transportation: Private transportation from Cusco to Soraypampa, the starting point of the trek.
• English-Speaking Guide: A professional, experienced, and knowledgeable guide will lead your hike throughout the 7 days of the expedition.
• Radio Communication: Used for coordination between the guide and the cook, ensuring smooth logistics and safety during the trek.
• Foam Mattresses: We provide comfortable foam mattresses that do not deflate, ensuring a good night’s rest.
• Professional Chef: Our highly skilled chef will prepare delicious and nutritious meals throughout the trek.
• Kitchen Tent: A dedicated tent where our team prepares all meals with care and hygiene.
• Dining Tent: Equipped with chairs and tables, offering a comfortable space to enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Portable Biodegradable Toilet (The Pett): We set up a private and eco-friendly toilet at each campsite so you do not need to use public facilities at night
• Meal Service at Campsites: Includes 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners, and 6 snacks. Vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose-free, and allergy-friendly options are available upon request
• Tent Accommodation: High-quality, 4-season tents for two people (Eureka Timberline, 3-person capacity used as double occupancy for extra comfort)
• Porter Service: Our dedicated porters will carry all camping equipment and food supplies
• Inca Trail Permits: Official permits that allow you to hike the Classic Inca Trail
• Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets: Includes entry to Circuit 1 for the classic panoramic photo and Circuit 3 to explore the main citadel
• Humantay Lake Entrance Fee: The visit to the stunning Humantay Lake is included
• Entrance to Private Land (Salkantay Area): Some sections of the trail pass through private lands—these entrance fees are already included
• Bus Ticket: One-way bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes after your guided tour.
• Train Ticket: Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (departing at 14:55 or 15:20 hrs)
• Return Transportation: Private transportation from Ollantaytambo train station back to your hotel in Cusco
• Emergency Oxygen Bottle: Our guide will carry an emergency oxygen bottle at all times for safety
• First Aid Kit: A comprehensive first aid kit is carried by the guide to handle any unforeseen medical situations
• Pre-Departure Briefing: A detailed Inca Trail expedition briefing is held at our office in Cusco at 6:00 p.m., one day before the trek
• Wake-Up Tea: Enjoy a comforting cup of hot tea delivered to your tent each morning before breakfast

• Not Included
• Sleeping Bag (Can be hired from us)
• The last lunch in Calientes town 
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain
• Tips
• Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trip

Important:

The Peruvian Ministry of Culture and SERNANP manage all the rules for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, including the permits and campsites. To go on the 7-day Inca Trail trek, you must have a permit with your full name, passport number, nationality, and age, issued by the Ministry of Culture.

Only 500 people are allowed on the Inca Trail each day, which includes support staff like porters, cooks, and guides. This limit is strictly enforced. Once the 500-person limit is reached, no more reservations can be made for that day. Permits are not held on the trail, so it’s recommended to buy them a year in advance.

Things To Know

• For high season, which is May, June, July and August, you should book your 7 day Inca trail permits 8 months in advance.
• Bottled water is available for buying at some places along the trail on the first and second day, and then not until Machu Picchu.
• This 7-day trek to Machu Picchu is not recommended for travelers with back problems,
• Daily departures with a group of 2 or more.
• No departures in February due to trail maintenance.
• DON’T FORGET THE ESSENTIALS: Original passport, insurance card and personal medications.

Pro Tips

• Make sure your trekking shoes are worn in before your Machu Picchu hike.
• Spend at least 3 days in Cusco before your 7-day Inca Trail hike to adjust to the altitude.
• Cut your toenails very short before your Machu Picchu trek to avoid pain or injury during the hike.
• Keep your clothes inside your sleeping bag at night so they stay warm for the morning, making it easier to get dressed.
• Always be prepared for rain, even during the dry season, to avoid wet and uncomfortable conditions.
• Bring sandals or comfortable shoes to wear after hiking all day in your trekking boots.
• If you’re visiting Rainbow Mountain with budget companies before your 7-day Inca Trail trek, avoid eating the salad, as some people have gotten sick and had to cancel their hike.

Student Price For Our Trek

• Students aged 18 to 25 with a valid student ID: $1110 USD.
• Children aged 3 to 17: $1010 USD.

The Peruvian government offers discounted Inca Trail permits for students. As a result, our seven-day Inca Trail trek also has lower prices for eligible students. To get this discount, you need to meet the following conditions:

• Student Age: You must be under 25 years old when you hike the Inca Trail. If you are under 17, you only need a passport to qualify for the discount. If you are 18 or older, you must have a valid student ID card.
• Student ID Card: Your student ID card must be a physical plastic card, similar to a credit card, with all required information printed on it. Cards made of other materials or with information added by stickers are not accepted. Also, university-issued certificates are not valid.
• ISIC Student Card: The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is not accepted for student discounts in Peru, even though it is accepted in many other countries. Like a passport is necessary for travel, you need an official student card for discounts in Peru.
• Information on the Student Card: Your student card should include the name of your university, your personal information, your photo, and an expiration date that should be valid for at least a year from the date you receive it. For example, if you book the Inca Trail this year for a trip next year, your student card must still be valid at the time of your trek.

Important Note: Peru has strict rules for student discounts. You must have the correct student ID card to qualify. At the Inca Trail checkpoint (Km 82), you will be asked to show your physical student card. If it doesn’t meet the requirements, you will not be allowed on the Inca Trail. So, make sure your student ID complies with Peru’s regulations before planning your trip.

Duffle Bag

We will give you duffel bags at our office one day before your 7-day Machu Picchu tour, right after your briefing. The porters will carry these bags, and you will only be able to access them at the campsites. Please pack your clothes and personal items that you won’t need while hiking in the duffel bag. Items like water, snacks, a first aid kit, and rain gear should go in your day pack. The duffel bag should weigh 7 kg in total. Remember, only 4 kg can be used for your personal belongings, while the other 3 kg will be for your pad and sleeping bag.

Strikes

Strikes and roadblocks happen often in Peru and can affect our hike and train services to and from Machu Picchu. We will do our best to make sure your hike to Machu Picchu goes as planned with as few changes as possible.

If a strike occurs on the first day of your 7-day Machu Picchu tour, we will take you to the trailhead the night before your start date.

If a strike occurs on the day you finish your 7-day Inca Trail hike, we will send our vans to the Hidroelectrica track. You will only need to hike an additional 2 hours from Aguas Calientes to the track. Then, we will drive you in a van to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel.

Returning From Machu Pichu To Cusco

Traveling from Machu Picchu back to Cusco requires careful planning, but we have everything arranged for you.

First, you’ll take a 30-minute bus ride from Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes. The buses run every 15 minutes. From Aguas Calientes, you’ll board a train to either Ollantaytambo or Poroy train station. Our guide will provide you with your train tickets, and you should arrive at the train station 30 minutes before your departure.

• The train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• The train ride from Aguas Calientes to Poroy takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes.

At the train station, our transfer service, identified by the PureqTravel logo, will meet you and take you back to Cusco, then to your hotel.

• The drive from Ollantaytambo to Cusco takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• The drive from Poroy to Cusco takes about 40 minutes.

Inca Trail Weather

The weather in the Andes can change quickly. The dry season for the Inca Trail is from April to October, giving you a 90% chance of clear skies. However, rain can still fall during this time, and sunny days can occur during the rainy season, which lasts from November to March. Regardless of when you hike Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, it’s important to bring rain gear like a rain jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves.

The Inca Trail 7 day  passes through different microclimates, so you could experience four seasons in one day. It’s crucial to be prepared by wearing layers that you can easily adjust to match changing temperatures. Make sure to have a jacket on hand because it will be cold in the early morning and evening.

Travel Insurance

We suggest buying travel insurance because if you cancel your 7-day Inca Trail tour at the last minute, the insurance can help you get back the money you paid for your non-refundable permit. Also, if you get sick or injured while traveling, the insurance can cover medical costs for emergencies.

Physical Requirements:

This hike is difficult, so it’s very important to be in good shape. The Inca Trail lasts 7 days and involves a lot of ups and downs because there are 4 mountain passes. The highest point you’ll reach is 4,938 meters (16,200 feet).

Solo Traveler

If you are a solo traveler, we would be happy to include you in one of our existing groups. Before making a reservation, please send us a message so we can find a suitable group for you. If you choose to book directly through our website, please wait for our manual confirmation. In the event that we are unable to place you in a group, we will offer you the option to switch to a different date.

During the 7-day Inca Trail trek, solo travelers will be paired to share a tent with another traveler of the same gender. If we have two solo travelers of different genders, each will be provided with their own tent.

Pre-Departure Briefing

A pre-departure briefing is scheduled at our Cusco office at 6:00 p.m. one day prior to your hike. If this time is not convenient for you, please arrange an alternative time with the PureqTravel team via email. The briefing typically lasts between 30 to 45 minutes, during which you will meet your guide, who will provide detailed information about your route. This includes a list of items to bring, information on rental equipment, and answers to any other questions you may have. Our office is located at Marquez Street 250, Second Floor, Office 03 in the Historic Centre of Cusco.

Tipping

Tipping is a common practice on the Inca Trail during the 7-day hike. On the morning of the fourth day, you will bid farewell to the remarkable horsemen at Paucarcancha. At this point, the porters will take over from the horsemen, and on the afternoon of the sixth day, you will say goodbye to the porters and the cook. This is when you will have the opportunity to give them a tip, which, although optional, is always greatly appreciated. Please be aware that tipping is not mandatory, and you should never feel obligated to do so.

Typically, our customers combine their tipping funds for the horsemen, chef, and porters. For your tour guide, tipping occurs after your guided tour at Machu Picchu, with the amount being at your discretion based on your experience. It is prefer.

FAQ´S

How To Book The Inca Trail 7 Day Trek With Pureq Travel?

To book your 7-day Inca Trail with our company, begin by clicking on the red “Book Now” button. This will open our booking form, where you will first need to select your departure date. Next, fill in the personal information for each participant. The final step is to make the payment, which can be done using either a credit or debit card.

Our booking platform also offers optional extras, such as Huayna Picchu Mountain, Vistadome, trekking poles, and sleeping bags. It is important to book Huayna Picchu and Vistadome in advance along with your Inca Trail permits, as they tend to sell out early. However, trekking poles and sleeping bags can be reserved even up to one day before departure, as we have an ample supply.

Once we have secured your Inca Trail permits, you will receive a manual confirmation that everything is fully organized. All confirmed start dates are guaranteed.

What About The Outstanding Balance?

The remaining balance can be paid in cash two days before your trek in USD, euros, or soles. If you prefer to pay with a credit card in advance, you can do so through our We Travel account, though a 2.9% transaction fee will apply. All major credit cards are accepted. Additionally, you can pay by credit card at our office, subject to a 5% service fee. Please inform us of your preferred payment method. If paying in cash, the payment must be made two days before your trip.

Is It Possible To Reach Machu Picchu In The Afternoon By Hiking The 7-Day Trek?

Yes, it is possible. To achieve this, we would need to adjust your final campsite to the Puente Ruinas campsite. On the fifth night, you will stay at the Phuyupamarca campsite. From there, on the sixth day, you will hike for approximately six hours, arriving at the Sun Gate around 2 PM. Afterward, you will continue your hike to Machu Picchu, where you will stop at the viewpoint to take panoramic photos. You will then descend to the Puente Ruinas campsite to spend the night. On the seventh day, you will hike back up to Machu Picchu for your visit. Please note that if you wish to choose this option, you must inform us at the time of booking, as we cannot make changes after the permits have been purchased.

Once I Book The 7-Day Option, Is It Possible To Skip The First Three Days And Join The 4-Day Inca Trail Hike?

Unfortunately, this is not allowed. If your permit is for the 7-day trek, you must enter through the Paucarcancha checkpoint. It is not permissible to join via the 4-day Inca Trail checkpoint, as each Inca Trail permit is designated for specific entry points.

Can I Store My Luggage At Your Office?

Yes! During the Inca Trail 7 day trek to Machu Picchu, you can store your luggage at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you.  Please bring what you will only need during your Machu Picchu 7 day hike.

How About The Student Discount?

As per Peruvian law, to qualify for the student discount on the 7-day Inca Trail hike, you must be under 18 years old at the time of the hike. If you are 18 or older, a valid student card is required. Our student discount is $40 USD.

Students aged 18 to 25 must submit a copy of their passport and student card when booking to receive the discount. Please send these documents to info@pureqtravel.com.

Is There A Waiting List Available For Trekking Dates That Are Already Fully Booked?

Unfortunatly, there is no waiting list available for the 7-day Inca Trail hike. If a reservation is canceled, the permits will not be reissued for new purchase.

May I Change The Departure Date After The Permits Have Been Bought?

Yes, it is possible to make the change. However, we would need to purchase a new Inca Trail 7 day permit for your preferred date and incur a penalty for altering the train tickets. Consequently, the additional cost for changing the departure date is $100 per person. Please note that before changing your departure date, you must first check our availability for the new date. If we do not have availability for your new desired date, the change will not be possible.

What Happens With Our Duffle Bags On Day 7?

On the seventh day, all porters will depart from the campsite at 4:00 a.m. to catch the 5:30 a.m. train back to Ollantaytambo. However, some porters will hike to Aguas Calientes, carrying your duffle bags and storing them at our secure facility. After your visit to Machu Picchu, you will return to Aguas Calientes to collect your duffle bags before proceeding to the train station for your journey to Ollantaytambo.

What Is The Schedule Of My Train Ticket?

We schedule return train tickets from Aguas Calientes for either 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm for our 7-day Inca Trail itinerary, which will get you to Cusco by 7:30 pm. This allows ample time for rest and to participate in any tours the following day, including a visit to Rainbow Mountain.

Can I Stay In The Sacred Valley For My Inca Trail 7 Day?

Yes, but it’s not a good idea because it will cost an extra $30 for pickup. Also, staying in the Sacred Valley won’t help you get used to the altitude. We suggest staying in the Sacred Valley for the first few days, then coming to Cusco

If I Cancel My  Trek, Will I Get A Refund?

If our country closes its borders, we’ll refund your entire deposit. However, if you can’t come for any other reason (like getting sick, missing your flight, a strike, or a natural disaster), you will lose USD $200 automatically. Once we purchase the Inca Trail permit, it cannot be refunded or transferred to another person. The Inca Trail permits are issued by the Ministry of Culture of Peru, and they do not offer refunds. We know that things can change unexpectedly, so we’ll try to be fair and only charge you for expenses we’ve already incurred and cannot recover.

What Time Will We Arrive  To Machu Picchu On Day 7?

Our groups will arrive at the Sun Gate at 7:00 am. It will take about 45 minutes to walk from the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu, so you’ll get to Machu Picchu by 8:00 am

Will Water Be Provided?

Our groups will arrive at the Sun Gate at 7:00 am. It will take about 45 minutes to walk from the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu, so you’ll get to Machu Picchu by 8:00 am

What Kind Of Reusable Water Bottles Should We Bring On The Hike?

Beginning in March 2022, you are not allowed to use single-use plastic water bottles or other plastic waste on the Inca Trail. You need to bring your own reusable water bottle to refill with the water we provide. You can choose between a bladder, a hard-shell bottle, or a pouch—whichever is easier for you.

Is There An Age Limit For The Inca Trail Hike?

There is no age restriction for the 7-day Inca Trail hike. At PureqTravel, we suggest that children be at least 9 years old, as some of the steep parts might be challenging for younger kids.

How Many Kilos Are We Allowed To Carry On The  Trek?

There is no restriction on the weight of items you can carry, whether heavy or light. However, porters should not carry more than 20 kilograms.

How Can I Prepare For The Altitude And Avoid Altitude Sickness?

To minimize the risk of altitude sickness, it is strongly advised to arrive in Cusco at least two days prior to your planned activities. On your first day, you may explore the city by visiting museums and local markets, or opt for a guided tour of Cusco. On the following day, consider hiking to Cristo Blanco, which is located 3 km from Cusco and involves a challenging uphill trek, serving as a useful acclimatization test. Alternatively, you might take a Sacred Valley tour to explore various Inca sites outside the city.

Additionally, on your first day, it is advisable to consume soft foods. Eating heavy meals may divert oxygen to your stomach rather than your brain, potentially leading to nausea.

Is There Any Location Where I Can Plug And Charge My Electronic Devices On The Hike?

None of the campsites are equipped with electricity, so it is advisable to bring additional portable battery packs or power Banks

What Is The Temperature Rating Of Pureq Travel Sleeping Bags?

We offer mummy-style sleeping bags for rent, designed to be effective in temperatures as low as -15° C / 5° F. The sleeping bags are from the brand Mountain Hard Wear.

What Circuit Is Included In Your Inca Trail 7 Day Trek?

During our 7-day hike on the Inca Trail, our itinerary includes Circuit 1 – Ruta Terraza Superior and Circuit 3 – Ruta Realeza Diseñada. Upon reaching the Sungate, you will proceed directly to the upper terrace, where you can capture the iconic photograph of Machu Picchu. Following this, you will explore the stunning terraces on Circuit 1 before temporarily exiting the site. After a short break, you will reenter to embark on Circuit 3, which takes you through the most important temples and structures of this ancient Incan city. This carefully curated route ensures that you fully experience the grandeur and historical significance of Machu Picchu from various vantage points.

I Heard The Circuit 2 Is The Most Complete, Can You Include The Circuit In Your Inca Trail 7 Day?

Unfortunately, this is not possible. The permits for the Inca Trail are automatically combined with Circuits 1 and 3. However, it is possible to purchase an additional ticket for $45 with Circuit 2. With this option, your guided tour of Machu Picchu will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Afterward, with the extra ticket, you will be able to re-enter Machu Picchu at 11:00 a.m. to explore on your own by following Circuit 2.

Is It Worth Buying An Extra Machu Picchu Ticket?

Half of our customers who bought the extra ticket felt it wasn’t worth it. After the 7-day hike, they were tired and didn’t enjoy visiting the site twice. The other half enjoyed seeing Machu Picchu twice. However, we think it’s not worth it because you will have already seen many beautiful Inca sites along the way.

Why On Day 7 Does Everybody Wake Up At 3:30 Am?

Everyone who hikes the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu needs to get up very early, around 3:30 am. This is because there is only one train for the porters each day. The train arrives at 5:45 am at Km 107, and the porters need to catch it. If they miss it, they will have to wait until the next day, which is not ideal for them. Therefore, everyone needs to wake up early and then hike for about 5 minutes to the checkpoint. You’ll have to wait for 2 hours until the gate opens at 5:30 am.

Can I See The Sunrise In Machu Picchu?

The Wiñaywayna gate is open at 5:30 am. It takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to get from Wiñaywayna gate to the Sun Gate – so you will get to the Sun gate at 6:50 am. The sunrise in Machu Picchu is usually from 6 a.m. to 6:40 a.m., which means you won’t see the sunrise in Machu Picchu. If another tour company promises that you will see the sunrise here – it is a lie!

Do I Need Walking Sticks Even Though I’m Young,  In Good Shape, And Used To Hiking A Lot?

We strongly suggest using walking sticks if you have knee issues, as they help reduce the impact on your knees, especially when going downhill. They’re also useful for beginners who might struggle with balance on rough trails. However, if you’re an experienced hiker and manage well without them, you don’t need to use walking sticks

If I Get Sick One Day Before My Departure And Cancel My Trip, Can I Use My 7-Day Permit To Hike The Inca Trail 2 Days And Catch Up With My Group?

Unfortunately, it’s not possible to switch to the 2-day Inca Trail hike after canceling the 7-day hike. If you want to do the 2-day hike, you need to buy a separate permit for it, so you’ll have to pay again. Also, keep in mind that even if you switch to the 2-day hike, you won’t be able to join the main group. You’ll arrive at Machu Picchu in the afternoon, while those who took the 7-day option will get there in the morning.

If I Get Sick One Day Before My Departure And Cancel My Trip, Can I Use My 7-Day Permit To Visit Machu Picchu And Catch Up With My Group?

Yes, it is possible. If you cancel your trip a day before you leave or come back from the trail on the first day, we can help you plan a Machu Picchu tour. You can choose a 1-day or a 2-day tour. For a 1-day trip, you will need to buy a train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes ($70 per person), transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo ($30 in total), and a ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu ($12 per person). If you want to stay overnight, you’ll need to book a hotel in Aguas Calientes, which costs around $30-90. We recommend the Tara Machu Picchu, a 3-star hotel.

You can still use the things included in your original 7-day Inca Trail package, such as your Machu Picchu ticket, the bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, the train ticket from Aguas Calientes, and transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo.

Can We Rent Sleeping Bags And Walking Sticks Last Minute – Or Does Everything Need To Be Rented Up-Front When Booking?

You don’t have to reserve walking sticks and sleeping bags ahead of time. We have plenty available, so you can rent them at our office one day before your trip, right after the briefing session.

We Are 5 People, However 3 Of Us Want To Hike The Inca Trail Whilst The Other 2 Would Like To Take The Train – Can We Visit Machu Picchu Together?

We would like to accommodate all of you in the same group if possible However, if you’re hiking the Inca Trail, you’ll have to follow Circuit 3 to visit Machu Picchu. If you’re taking the train, you’ll follow Circuit 2. When we buy permits for the Inca Trail, your Machu Picchu ticket automatically comes with Circuit 3. To solve this, we’ll buy extra Machu Picchu tickets with Circuit 2 for those hiking the Inca Trail 7 days, so everyone can visit Machu Picchu together. There will be an extra $45 charge for these tickets. Keep in mind, you will leave your Inca Trail group to visit Machu Picchu with your friends who took the train, and you’ll join their guide for the tour of the site.

I see your first campsite is at a higher altitude. Could you move it to a lower altitude?

We can switch your first campsite to Soraypampa instead of Salkantaypampa. We understand that some of you might not be fully acclimated, so we will help with that. The only change to the original plan is that on the second day, you will hike for one more hour. Note:  Please let us know at the time of booking so we can make the necessary arrangements.