Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day
5-Day Wilderness Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail
c5 Days from $ USD 459
5-Day Wilderness Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail
Experience the Short Inca Trail through Salkantay Trek 5 Day
Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day – Great adventure through the trails of Salkantay, walking towards the turquoise lagoon of Humantay, spend the night at the foot of the Salkantay mountain. The next day we have a horseback ride to the Salkantay pass and continue the trek to the Challhuay valley, where the local vehicle awaits us to go to Santa Teresa. Let’s enjoy the experience of walking the Inca trail from Llaqtapata and the first view of Machu Picchu to the town of Aguas Calientes.
Salkantay Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days
End your adventure of the Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day with the trek along the Short Inca Trail, known as the sacred road to Machu Picchu. On the penultimate day of the hike, we visit the Inti Punku ruins to marvel at the second majestic view of Machu Picchu. On the last day, we have our guided tour with a short 02-hour walk inside Machu Picchu to get to know it thoroughly before returning to Cusco.
Overview
Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5-Day Summary
CUSCO, PERU, SOUTH AMERICA – LATAM “Latin America”
Hike in the middle of Peru’s Vilcabamba Mountain Range, then join the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The Salkantay trails present magnificent mountains with their snowy Humantay and Salkantay, where they embellish the Salkantay trekking route to Machu Picchu, and it is much better if we combine the Salkantay excursion plus the Short Inca Trail to observe and reach Machu Picchu three times; the first is via the Inca trail of Lucmabamba, the Sacred Inca Trail and Machu Picchu itself to have one of the best circuits in combinations in outdoor excursions.
Trip Summary: Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day
- Day 2: Cusco: Horseback ride to Salkantay Pass; Salkantay Pass Hike to Challhuay
- Day 3: Lucmabamba Hike to Hidroeléctrica-Aguas Calientes by Train
- Day 4: Join the inimitable Inca Trail (Aguas Calientes)
- Day 5: Machu Picchu Guided Tour | Return to Cuzco by train and by road
- Day 5: Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain on horseback
Trip Details
Trip Details Salkantay Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 nights
- Hiking Distance: 40.9 km – 25.4 miles
- Depart: Cusco
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Season: March to December
- Destination: Machu Picchu
- Type: Adventure – Lodge– Hotel
Photo Gallery Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day
Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day Highlights
- Experience the fascinating trails of the Salkantay towards the Inca Trail of Machu Picchu.
- Enjoy daily incomparable panoramic views of the Salkantay between the Andes, the cloud forest, and the semitropical area of Lucmabamba.
- Experience National Park of Machu Picchu!
- Before exploring the enigmatic citadel, walk and observe Machu Picchu from the Llactapata and Inti Punku viewpoints.
Why You´ll love the Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day
This active excursion covers excellent distances every day. Rely on hiking for up to six hours! But not every day is on tour. The pace is sometimes a little challenging, especially on the second and third days of the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, for customers who choose to do the optional Huayna Picchu trek.
Participants must be in good physical condition to compete in the Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day. Further training does recommend before departure. You will encounter uneven surfaces, stairs, steep steps, rocky and unpaved terrain, and marked slopes. If you climb the Inca Trail from Machu Picchu, you cannot turn back and must complete the trek until you reach the town of Aguas Calientes. When visiting Machu Picchu, remember that canes are not allowed; hiking poles are permitted on the Inca Trail as long as they have rubber tips. Also, selfie sticks are prohibited, and only folding umbrellas are allowed.
Cusco is 3,500 meters – 11,000 feet above sea level, which may be a consideration for those with heart problems or those affected by altitude. We recommend our explorers consult their doctor before signing up for this adventure. Final routes and activities might change due to weather conditions, etc. We recommend purchasing personal travel insurance to cover accidents or events.
Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5-Day Itinerary
Hiking the Salkantay trails towards the Inca Trail to visit Machu Picchu is one of the most incredible vacation adventures in the Andes. In this section, we have the development of a detailed program for each day until we reach the world wonder of Machu Picchu.
BRIEFING Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day
Please note that you will need to attend the pre-hike briefing at 6:00 p.m. the day before the first day of the hike. We organize the informative talk at the hotel reception where the travelers are staying.
We recommend arriving at least a day before your excursion to acclimate to the altitude before your hiking adventure. Spending a full day in Cuzco (3,249 m/10,659 ft) relaxing and drinking plenty of water is usually enough to acclimate most people.
PRESENTATION OF SHORT INCA TRAIL BY SALKANTAY TREK 5 DAY
Cusco – Soraypampa “Horseback” – Challway “Hiking”
In the tourist vehicle, we head towards the northwest of the city of Cusco through the Anta plains, the Limatambo valley, and the town of Mollepata until we reach Soraypampa; In Soraypampa, we start the walk towards the turquoise lagoon of Humantay; During the trek, we have spectacular views of the Salkantay and Humantay mountains. We spend the night in Soraypampa in the domes with views of the starry sky, great for looking for a couple of shooting stars.
Synthesis of the hiking
- Start time of the vehicular trip from Cusco to Soraypampa: 05:00 a.m.
- Start time of the walk: 9:30 a.m.
- Walking kilometers: 3 km/1.8 miles | 05 hours
- Hiking Difficulty: Challenging – Moderate.
- Highest hiking place:
- Lowest trekking site:
- Camp Site: Hotel** at Santa Teresa
Food
Box Lunch, and Dinner
Physical Level
Demanding
Walking Distance
13.7 km/ 8.5 miles.
Hiking Time
5-6 hours “Downhill”
Min Altitude
2,890m/9,481ft.
Max Altitude
4,645m/15,239ft.
Map Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day
Challway – Lucmabamba Inca Trail – Aguas Calientes
At 05:30 am, we start with the horseback riding experience from Soraypampa to the Salkantay pass to shorten the time and enjoy today’s walk more “we recommend bringing what is necessary for your backpacks since we carry our luggage ourselves.” In the Salkantay pass, group photos are excellent with the snowy Salkantay; Once we have enjoyed the top, we descend for 5 hours towards the community of Challhuay. From Wayrac Machay, we enter the cloud forest “the whole panorama changes radically.”
Arriving at Challhuay, we board a local vehicle to go to the community of Lucmabamba, “40 minutes of travel” in the area of Lucmabamba, there are coffee plantations. If we have some time, we can see the plantations or try organic coffee at night since the same community prepares dinner and breakfast for us the next day.
Summary of the hiking
- Start time of the horseback ride: 5:30 am.
- Horseback distance: SORAYPAMPA TO SALKANTAY PASS 3 km/1.8 miles. “Uphill” 3 hours
- Walking distance from SALKANTAY PASS TO CHALLHUAY: 3 km/1.8 miles “Downhill”
- Estimated duration: 03 hours and 40 minutes of hiking
- Hiking Difficulty: Challenging – Moderate.
- Highest hiking place:
- Lowest trekking site:
- Transportation after the trek: Challhuay to Lucmabamba
- Camp Site: Lucmabamba “Local Hostel”
Food
Local brekfast, Lunch and Dinner
Physical Level
Demanding
Walking Distance
10.2 km/ 6.3 miles.
Hiking Time
5 hours
Min Altitude
1,815m/5,954ft.
Max Altitude
2,814m/9,232ft.
Map Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day
Short Inca Trail – Inti Punku – Aguas Calientes
After a delicious Machu Picchu organic coffee sourced from the Lucmabamba valley, we walk the Lucmabamba Inca trail for two and a half hours until we reach the Lucmabamba pass. From the Llactapata ruins, we have our first glimpse of Machu Picchu in the distance from the front mountain; It is impressive to see it from this viewpoint.
We continue descending for about two and a half hours until we reach the banks of the Aobamba River and thus arrive at the Hidroeléctrica train station. During the afternoon, we board the train service to Aguas Calientes; the train ride skirts the base of the great Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Compendium of the hiking
- Start time of the walk: 6:00 a.m.
- Walking kilometers: 16 km/9.9 miles | 05 + 02 hours
- Hiking Difficulty: Challenging – Moderate.
- Highest hiking place: Lucmabamba Pass
- Lowest trekking site: Hydroelectric
- Train: From Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes – By Perurail – Departure at 16:35 – AC arrival at 17:22
- Camp Site: None | 3-Star Hotel “Aguas Calientes Overnight.”
Food
Hotel breakfast, Box Lunch, and Dinner
Physical Level
Moderate
Walking Distance
17 km/10.5 miles
Hiking Time
6-7 hours
Min Altitude
2,065m/6,774ft.
Max Altitude
2,715m/8,907ft.
Map Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day
Visit Machu Picchu | Afternoon Return to Cusco
If we go for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, why not add the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? That is why we have created this itinerary that combines the Inca trails of Salkantay and the sanctuary of Machu Picchu. We walk from the town of Aguas Calientes, following the railway until we reach the control of the Short Inca Trail.
At the Chachabamba checkpoint, we present our passports to enter the network of Inca Trails to climb the mountain, enjoy the beautiful panoramic views that the area shows; we visit and explore the functionality of the Wiñaywayna and Inti Punku ruins from the Intipunku viewpoint, we have one of the best views of the Inca city to take personal and group photos. We walk until we reach Machu Picchu ruins, take more perspective photographs, and then board the bus service that brings us to Aguas Calientes.
Briefly excursion information
- At the start of the walk, “Aguas Calientes 2,100 meters/6,900 feet.”
- Total walking distance: 16 kilometers / 9.9 miles
- Aguas Calientes to KM 104: 02 hours of walking
- KM 104 – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu: 05 hours of hiking
- Maximum elevation “Inti Punku – The Sun Gate”: 2700mt /8540 ft
- Hike Difficulty: Moderate – Challenging – Easy
- Meals: Lunch “Box lunch.”
- Bus service from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes: 1 bus ticket
- Aguas Calientes Overnight: 3-Star Hotel
Food
Hotel breakfast
Physical Level
Easy
Walking Distance
Stroll
Hiking Time
2-hour guided tour
Min Altitude
2,065m/6,774 ft.
Max Altitude
2065m/6,774 ft.
Map Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day
Cusco - Hike to Rainbow Mountain - Cusco
The hikers of the Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day choose the time of visit to Machu Picchu since the choice is free for the walkers of the Inca Trail. You only enter Machu Picchu once for the guided tour.
- Bus service to Machu Picchu (up and down)
- Two-hour guided tour inside Machu Picchu.
- NOTE: NO FREE TIME according to the new regulations of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary since 2015. If you require more time, book a new entrance ticket
AFTERNOON, board your train service to POROY and Return to Cusco City.
Information about the train service from MACHU PICCHU TO POROY
- Railway company: PERU RAIL
- Train Travel Route: MACHU PICCHU TO POROY
- Class: EXPEDITION 34
- Train departure time from Aguas Calientes train station: 15:20
- Travelers must be inside the train facilities: At 14:50; otherwise, you will not be allowed to board the train.
- Arrival time at POROY train station: 19:05
When you arrive at the POROY train station, go to the waiting area where our staff will wait for you. Look for a sign with your name on it.” Group Name: Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day
Private transfer service from Poroy train station to Cusco “Hotel.”
Cusco Overnight: Travelers organize and reserve their hotels
Food
Box Lunch
Physical Level
Challenging
Walking Distance
7 km/ 4.3 miles one way – same mileage return.
Hiking Time
70 minutes one way and 30 minutes back.
Min Altitude
4,900 meters / 16,076 feet.
Max Altitude
5,100 meters / 16,732 feet.
Map Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day
What to Bring
- You must bring your original passport to show to the train service, Inca Trails, and Machu Picchu
- Daypack
- Small travel bag for Machu Pichu (You can store your main suitcase safely at Hotel Cusco.)
- Water bottle “It is forbidden to introduce non-recyclable plastics in Machu Picchu; take precautions and bring reusable bottles.”
- Good sturdy shoes or walking boots
- Warm fleece jacket
- Layers of warm clothing “In Cusco, get some baby alpaca wool.”
- Hats (to protect yourself from the sun and also to keep warm)
- Rain gear, Waterproofing
- Essential Sunglasses
- High SPF sunscreen “In cream.”
- Insect repellent “In cream allowed inside the citadel; let’s conserve flora and fauna of the seventh world wonder.”
Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5-Day Price Information
PRICES PER PERSON [U.S Dollar] 2024.
1 participant, $1,428.
2 participants, $918.
3 participants, $769.
4 participants, $661.
5 participants, $615.
6 participants, $569.
7 participants, $539.
8 participants, $519.
9 participants, $514.
10 participants, $496.
11 participants, $487.
12 participants, $498.
13 participants, $486.
14 participants, $476.
15 participants, $467.
16 participants, $459.
Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day Upgrade
TRAIN SERVICES
By PeruRail / PER PERSON
+ $45 Vistadome train (one way: MACHUPICCHU to POROY) Inbound Journey
+ $445.00 Hiram Bingham train (Train MACHUPICCHU – POROY) Inbound Journey
EXTRA TICKETS
+$75 Huayna Picchu
+$75 Montaña
+$60 RE-ENTRY TO MACHU PICCHU
DISCOUNTS
This applies to the following services:
- Machu Picchu Fee
Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day College students$30 off
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Faqs Short Inca Trail by Salkantay Trek 5 Day
Frequently asked questions about visiting the Short Inca Trail 2 Days
Why is it called the Short Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail is the shortest way to visit Machu Picchu through the Inca Trail. Unlike the traditional Inca Trail, this route takes two days and is done as a private tour.
If you don’t have a lot of time, you can do this hike to visit Machu Picchu, and it’s an easy hike for everyone.
What are the differences with the classic 4-day Inca Trail?
The classic Inca Trail lasts four days; it is moderately difficult and includes camping. There you will visit six archaeological remains of the Incas, and on the last day, we will visit the citadel of Machu Picchu. Usually, this happens in groups of several passengers.
The Short Inca Trail lasts two days. As this is a private tour, the groups are small. In addition, the difficulty of this route is much less, and it does not include outdoor camps since you will be staying in the town of Aguas Calientes. The archaeological sites of Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and IntiPunku will be visited. Finally, we finish with a guided visit to the Citadel of Machu Picchu.
What should I take for the Short Inca Trail?
The weather you will find is not as extreme as the traditional route, but we still recommend packing warm clothing such as jackets, gloves, pants, etc. Our travel experts have compiled a list of the Short Inca Trail elements. We recommend that you follow it and have no problems packing your backpack.
How many days does the Short Inca Trail last? What is the route?
The Short Inca Trail lasts two days.
On the first day, we will travel the route of Chachabamba, Wayllabamba, and Intipunku. You will be able to enjoy the wonder of Machu Picchu from the first day. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes.
On the second day, you will visit the wonder of Machu Picchu with a professional guide. You will learn all the secrets of the citadel and have time to explore on your own before returning to Cusco.
What places will I visit on the short 2-day Inca Trail?
A few minutes from the starting point, you can admire the ruins of Chachabamba. We then passed Wayllabamba. Finally, we arrive at the gate of Machu Picchu: Inti Punku or the Gate of the Sun, where you can enjoy the first view of the Inca citadel.
When is the best time to hike the Short Inca Trail?
We recommend making the Short Inca Trail during the dry season from April to November. During these months, the sunlight lends itself to the best photos of the Andean landscapes.
Is there an age limit for the Little Inca Trail?
All ages are suitable for the Short Inca Trail. Happy families or groups of friends will master this step-by-step adventure without any problem.
What documents do I need to book the Short Inca Trail?
You can see the documents you need to visit the Inca Trail in our guide to the documents required to enter Peru.
Is physical preparation or acclimatization necessary?
Yes. If you live in a place at a low altitude, it is advisable to do prior training to be able to complete the route without complications. We recommend taking walks of half an hour or more to increase your resistance and cardiovascular exercises.
Do not forget to consult your doctor about specific indications for the Short Inca Trail and read other suggestions for your health on the 2-day Inca Trail.
Will we spend the night at the campsite?
During the two days of the Short Inca Trail, the first day, you will stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu. On the second day, return to Cusco.
How is the diet?
On the first day, you will receive a packed lunch. Eat with your travel companions overlooking the ruins of Wiñaywayna. A delicious dinner awaits you in Aguas Calientes. Finally, you will have breakfast on the second day before the Grand Tour of Machu Picchu.
Is there potable water and electricity on-site?
We recommend you bring a water bottle during the hike to stay hydrated. At the end of the first day, you will have drinking water and electricity in the town of Aguas Calientes.
KONDOR PATH TOURS is the operator of all the tourist circuits of tours and hikes.
That means that KONDOR PATH TOURS will never transfer it to another company or a third party. All departures are 100% guaranteed.
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