6 Day Sacred Valley and Salkantay Trek with Short Inca Trail
Begin your Peru adventure with a scenic Sacred Valley tour before exploring the Salkantay Trek, Short Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain in one unforgettable 6-day expedition designed for better acclimatization and deeper cultural experiences.
This 6-day Peru trekking adventure combines the Sacred Valley, Salkantay Trek, Short Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain into one complete Andean experience. Unlike traditional trekking itineraries, this journey begins with a full exploration of the Sacred Valley, designed to help travelers gradually acclimatize before entering high-altitude mountain routes.
The experience blends cultural discovery, scenic landscapes, ancient Inca sites, cloud-forest trails, and iconic trekking paths into a single immersive expedition across Peru’s most spectacular regions.
From the traditional markets and archaeological sites of the Sacred Valley to the glaciers of Salkantay and the legendary Sun Gate of Machu Picchu, every day offers a unique combination of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
If you’re looking for a complete trekking adventure in Peru, the 6 Day Sacred Valley and Salkantay Trek with Short Inca Trail combines breathtaking mountain scenery, original Inca pathways, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain into one unforgettable Andean expedition.
This 6-day Peru trekking expedition combines the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the Salkantay Trek, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain into one complete Andean adventure. Designed for better acclimatization and a more immersive travel experience, this itinerary blends archaeology, mountain trekking, cloud forest landscapes, and original Inca pathways into one unforgettable journey through the Peruvian Andes.
Unlike traditional trekking programs that immediately begin with demanding high-altitude hiking, this route starts with a full exploration of the Sacred Valley, helping travelers gradually acclimatize before entering the Salkantay region. Throughout the expedition, travelers experience glacier-covered mountain passes, panoramic viewpoints, remote Andean valleys, Machu Picchu, and the colorful landscapes of the Ausangate Andes.
This expedition was carefully designed for travelers seeking more than a traditional trek to Machu Picchu. Instead of focusing on a single route, the itinerary combines several of Peru’s most spectacular experiences into one seamless adventure.
The journey begins in Cusco with a scenic exploration of the Sacred Valley, including Pisac and Ollantaytambo, before continuing toward the Salkantay mountain range. Travelers then cross high-altitude mountain passes, descend into cloud forest landscapes, and hike remote sections of the Lucmabamba Inca Trail.
The expedition continues toward Machu Picchu through the famous Short Inca Trail, including Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate viewpoint, before finishing with a guided exploration of Machu Picchu and a final adventure to Rainbow Mountain in the Ausangate Andes.
This trekking expedition is ideal for active travelers seeking a comprehensive Peru adventure that combines trekking, archaeology, mountain scenery, and authentic Andean culture. The route includes moderate-to-challenging hiking days at high altitude, making it best suited for travelers in good physical condition who want a more immersive alternative to traditional Machu Picchu tours.
Thanks to the acclimatization experience included at the beginning of the itinerary, this expedition offers a more comfortable and balanced approach to exploring Peru’s most spectacular trekking destinations.
Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas while gradually acclimatizing to the altitude before the trekking expedition begins.
Cross glacier-covered valleys, ride horseback through the Andes, and relax in the thermal baths of Cocalmayo.
Hike through cloud-forest scenery and enjoy panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
Follow original Inca pathways to Wiñay Wayna and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Explore the legendary Inca citadel with experienced local guides before returning to Cusco.
Discover the colorful landscapes of Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain and the spectacular Ausangate Andes.
This 6-day trekking expedition was carefully designed for travelers seeking a complete Peru adventure that combines acclimatization, mountain trekking, original Inca pathways, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain into one unforgettable journey through the Andes.
Unlike traditional trekking routes that immediately begin with demanding high-altitude hiking, this itinerary starts with a scenic exploration of the Sacred Valley, helping travelers gradually acclimate to altitude before entering the Salkantay region. Over six days, the route connects the Sacred Valley, Salkantay Pass, Lucmabamba Inca Trail, Short Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, and the colorful landscapes of the Ausangate Andes through a balanced and immersive trekking experience.
Your 6-day Peru adventure begins with a scenic journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, one of the most important cultural regions near Cusco. This first day was carefully designed to help travelers gradually acclimatize to the altitude before starting the Salkantay Trek while exploring traditional Andean villages, archaeological sites, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
After an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco, we travel through the Andean highlands toward the Sacred Valley, stopping at panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Urubamba Valley. Along the route, travelers experience the transition between Cusco’s mountain scenery and the fertile valleys that once supported the Inca civilization.
The first major stop is Pisac, famous for its impressive agricultural terraces, ancient Inca stonework, and traditional artisan market. Here, you will explore one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley while learning about Inca engineering, farming techniques, and local traditions that continue to survive in the Andes today.
After visiting Pisac, we continue through the Sacred Valley following the Urubamba River toward Ollantaytambo. Along the drive, travelers enjoy beautiful views of traditional farming villages, snow-capped mountains, and colorful agricultural landscapes, making this region one of the most scenic destinations in Peru.
In Ollantaytambo, you will explore the impressive Inca fortress and ceremonial temples built on the mountainside. This living Inca town still preserves its original stone streets and water channels, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience authentic Andean culture before beginning the trekking expedition.
The relaxed pace of the Sacred Valley tour allows your body to adapt naturally to the altitude while preparing for the mountain adventure ahead. In the evening, you can rest comfortably in Ollantaytambo or return to Cusco, depending on the final itinerary arrangement, before the Salkantay Trek begins the following day.
Buffet Lunch
Easy
2 km / 1.2 miles
1–2 Hours
Cusco: 3,399 m (11,152 ft)
Sacred Valley: 2,800 m (9,186 ft)
Pisac: 3,300 m (10,826 ft)
After exploring the Sacred Valley and acclimatizing to the altitude on the previous day, today begins the real mountain adventure through the spectacular landscapes of the Salkantay region. Early in the morning, we leave Cusco and travel toward Soraypampa, surrounded by impressive glacier views and towering Andean peaks.
TOUR DATA BY SALKANTAY TRAIL: Horseback and Hiking
The route toward the Salkantay Pass offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Peru. Snow-capped glaciers, high-altitude valleys, and dramatic landscapes create one of the most unforgettable trekking experiences in the Andes. Thanks to the gradual acclimatization in the Sacred Valley on Day 1, travelers begin today’s high-altitude route feeling better prepared and more comfortable for the ascent.
After reaching the Salkantay Pass and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, we begin the long descent toward Challway, where the landscape slowly changes from cold alpine terrain to warmer cloud-forest ecosystems near Santa Teresa.
Box Lunch, Dinner
Challenging
13.7 km (8.5 miles)
5–6 Hours
Soraypampa: 3,930 m (12,893 ft)
Santa Teresa: 1,575 m (5,167 ft)
Salkantay Pass: 4,638 m (15,213 ft)
Today’s adventure follows one of the most scenic and lesser-known sections of the original Inca Trail network connecting Lucmabamba with Machu Picchu Pueblo. The route combines cloud forest landscapes, coffee plantations, panoramic mountain views, and remote archaeological sites hidden deep within the Andes.
Tour Activities
After breakfast, we begin one of the most rewarding trekking days of the expedition. The trail gradually ascends through the cloud forest landscapes of Lucmabamba, where travelers can observe local organic coffee plantations and learn about traditional farming practices still used in the region today.
The hike toward Llactapata offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and one of the first distant panoramic views of Machu Picchu from the mountains. This hidden archaeological site provides a unique perspective of the citadel rarely experienced by most visitors arriving by train.
After exploring the area and enjoying the mountain scenery, the route descends toward the Hidroelectrica station before continuing the final walk to Machu Picchu Pueblo along the Urubamba River and railway route surrounded by lush cloud forest vegetation.
Breakfast, Lunch
Moderate
22 km (13.6 miles)
8 Hours
Lucmabamba: 2,000 m (6,561 ft)
Hidroelectrica: 1,890 m (6,200 ft)
Llactapata Pass: 2,800 m (9,186 ft)
Today’s adventure follows one of the most iconic sections of the original Inca Trail network leading toward Machu Picchu. This unforgettable trekking day combines cloud forest landscapes, ancient Inca pathways, archaeological sites, and the classic arrival to Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate.
Hiking Activities
After leaving Machu Picchu Pueblo early in the morning, we follow the railway route toward KM 104, where the Short Inca Trail officially begins. This scenic route enters the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary and follows ancient stone pathways originally used by the Incas centuries ago.
The trail gradually ascends through lush cloud forest vegetation toward the impressive archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful Inca complexes along the Inca Trail. Surrounded by terraces, waterfalls, and mountain scenery, this section offers one of the most rewarding trekking experiences near Machu Picchu.
Continuing along the original Inca pathways, the final section of the trail leads toward Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate. From this legendary viewpoint, travelers enjoy the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from above — one of the most iconic and unforgettable moments of the entire expedition.
After enjoying the views and photographing Machu Picchu from the classic viewpoint, we descend to Machu Picchu Pueblo to rest before the guided visit to the citadel the following day.
Box Lunch
Moderate
16 km (9.9 miles)
7 Hours
Machu Picchu Pueblo: 2,040 m (6,692 ft)
KM 104: 2,100 m (6,889 ft)
Inti Punku: 2,720 m (8,920 ft)
Today is dedicated to exploring the legendary Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. After several days crossing the Andes through remote trekking routes, cloud forests, and ancient Inca pathways, travelers finally experience the highlight of the journey with a guided visit to the Lost City of the Incas.
Activities in Machu Picchu
Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo train station, our staff will be waiting for you with a Kondor Path Tours sign for your transfer back to Cusco.
The guided tour of Machu Picchu offers travelers the opportunity to learn about the architectural brilliance, spiritual significance, and historical importance of the Inca civilization while exploring one of South America’s most extraordinary cultural treasures.
None
Easy
A light walk
2-Hour Guided Tour
Machu Picchu Pueblo: 2,040 m (6,692 ft)
Machu Picchu Citadel: 2,430 m (7,972 ft)
Machu Picchu Upper Sector: 2,430 m (7,972 ft)
The final day of the expedition takes travelers deep into the remote Andes south of Cusco to explore the spectacular Rainbow Mountain of Vinicunca, one of Peru’s most colorful natural landscapes. Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Ausangate mountain range, this scenic adventure offers breathtaking high-altitude views and a memorable conclusion to the trekking journey.
Early in the morning, we depart from Cusco and travel through traditional Andean villages toward the Ausangate region. Along the route, travelers enjoy panoramic mountain scenery, herds of alpacas and llamas, and beautiful landscapes rarely seen outside the Peruvian Andes.
The hike toward Rainbow Mountain gradually ascends through high-altitude valleys surrounded by the majestic Ausangate glaciers. Along the route, travelers can observe local Andean communities, traditional grazing lands, and the impressive natural colors that make Vinicunca one of Peru’s most famous hiking destinations.
After enjoying panoramic views from the summit and photographing the colorful mountain landscapes, we descend back to the trailhead before returning to Cusco in the afternoon.
Thank you for joining Kondor Path Tours on this unforgettable 6-day Sacred Valley, Salkantay Trek, Short Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain adventure through the Peruvian Andes.
Buffet Lunch
Demanding
7 km (4.3 miles)
100 Minutes
Llaqtoc: 4,900 m (16,076 ft)
Cusipata Valley: 3,310 m (10,860 ft)
Rainbow Pass: 5,100 m (16,732 ft)
A complete trekking and cultural adventure through the Sacred Valley, Salkantay mountain range, original Inca pathways, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain in the Peruvian Andes.
Enhance your Peru trekking adventure with optional train upgrades, additional Machu Picchu circuits, and extra hiking experiences.
No, there is no strict age limit for this expedition. However, older travelers should consult their doctor before traveling and spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the trek. We have welcomed travelers from different age groups, including families with children and active senior hikers.
Departure dates may be modified depending on availability. However, Machu Picchu and Inca Trail permits are purchased in advance and are non-transferable. For this reason, changing your trekking dates may affect the itinerary structure and train schedules.
Our trekking meals are prepared with fresh local ingredients and designed to provide energy throughout the adventure. Breakfast usually includes oatmeal, eggs, bread, pancakes, coffee, herbal tea, and hot drinks. Lunches and dinners often include soup, main dishes with rice or pasta, vegetables, chicken, meat, or fish, followed by dessert and tea.
Vegetarian and special dietary options are available upon request.
Yes, vegetarian meals are available during the expedition. Please inform us about dietary restrictions when booking your tour.
Yes, safe drinking water is provided throughout the trekking days. We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle or hydration pack.
Our camping tents are designed for four people, but are generally used by only two travelers for greater comfort and extra space. Private tents are available upon request for an additional cost.
Hotels in Cusco usually offer complimentary luggage storage during the expedition. We recommend leaving unnecessary belongings in Cusco before starting the trek.
Our guides are trained in first aid and carry emergency oxygen and medical kits throughout the expedition. In the event of illness or an emergency, our team will assist you and arrange the safest return option if necessary.
The Andes region has two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Dry season usually runs from April to October, with sunny days and colder nights. The rainy season generally occurs between November and March with more frequent rain showers.
Weather conditions may change rapidly in the mountains, especially at higher altitudes.
The Salkantay Trek is located northwest of Cusco in the Peruvian Andes. The route connects remote mountain landscapes, cloud forest ecosystems, and original Inca pathways near Machu Picchu.
This expedition is considered moderate to challenging because it includes high-altitude trekking, mountain passes above 4,600 meters, and long hiking days. Good physical condition and proper acclimatization are highly recommended.
The best trekking season usually runs from April to October during the dry months in the Andes. These months offer clearer skies and better mountain visibility.
Yes. We strongly recommend spending at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco before starting the expedition. The itinerary also includes a Sacred Valley acclimatization day to help travelers adapt gradually before entering the high-altitude trekking sections.
The trekking route is safe when completed with experienced guides and proper acclimatization. Altitude is usually the main challenge, so travelers should stay hydrated, get enough rest, and follow their guides’ recommendations throughout the expedition.
While some sections of the route can technically be explored independently, we highly recommend completing the expedition with professional local guides due to the altitude, logistics, transportation coordination, and remote mountain areas.
You can reserve your 6 Day Sacred Valley and Salkantay Trek with Short Inca Trail directly through our website or by contacting our team via email. Booking is highly recommended because Machu Picchu and Inca Trail permits are in limited supply.
6 Day Sacred Valley, Salkantay Trek, Short Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain second map
| Persons | Price (p/p) | |
| 2 | $ 1 500.00 USD |
Ready to explore Peru through one of the most complete trekking expeditions in the Andes? Experience the Sacred Valley, the spectacular Salkantay mountain range, the legendary Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and the colorful landscapes of Rainbow Mountain in one unforgettable 6-day adventure.
6 Day Sacred Valley and Salkantay Trek with Short Inca Trail
6 Day Sacred Valley Salkantay Trek and Rainbow Mountain
Short Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek Peru
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