Trade the crowds of the classic Inca Trail for a high-pass route that moves from glacial ridges into cloud forest. This 7-day Salkantay trek combines long alpine days, jungle descent, and a Sun Gate arrival at Machu Picchu.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cold dawn on the high puna opens with thin air and a horizon cut by Salkantay’s glaciated ridges. The group departs Cusco by bus, slipping through the Sacred Valley before horses and porters shuttle tents and gear to a remote Soraypampa campsite. Trekking here feels like stepping between climate zones: alpine moraine gives way to the humid folds of cloud forest, and the path itself leads from windswept passes into a green, explosive jungle.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
7 days
Fitness Level
Requires good cardiovascular fitness and experience with multi-day hikes; ability to hike 6–8 hours at altitude is recommended.
Wildlife
History
The Salkantay route skirts Inca sites used as watchpoints and alternate approaches to Machu Picchu; the mountain itself was revered in Quechua cosmology.
Conservation
Trekking here stresses fragile highland soils and cloud-forest ecosystems—use a licensed operator, pack out waste, and avoid off-trail erosion to protect trails and archaeological sites.
Reserve your spot on the 7 Days Cusco Adventure Trekking Salkantay today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend 48–72 hours in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting to reduce risk of altitude sickness.
Pack for microclimates
Expect sub-zero winds above 4,000 m and warm, humid afternoons in the jungle—use layered clothing and a dry sack.
Footwear and traction
Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good tread will make river crossings and muddy trails far more manageable.
Carry cash and snacks
Small towns on the route accept only cash; bring energy snacks and electrolyte tablets for long trekking days.
Waterproof hiking boots
Support and grip for rocky passes, wet jungle trails and river crossings.
Insulating layers (fleece/down)
Warmth for sub-zero nights and cold, windy passes around 4,600 m.
winter
Lightweight rain shell
Protection against heavy mountain rain and jungle downpours.
summer
Trekking poles
Reduce knee strain on long descents and provide stability on uneven terrain.