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The 6-Day Salkantay Hiking Tour is an extraordinary trek that takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Peru, culminating in a visit to the world-famous Machu Picchu. This extended version of the classic Salkantay Trek allows for a deeper immersion in the Andes, providing more time to explore, acclimatize, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty along the way. From towering snow-capped peaks to lush cloud forests, the 6-day Salkantay trek offers adventurers the ultimate off-the-beaten-path journey to the ancient Inca citadel.
Why Choose the 6-Day Salkantay Hiking Tour?
An Extended and Immersive Experience
The 6-Day Salkantay Hiking Tour offers a longer, more relaxed version of the traditional Salkantay Trek, giving trekkers more time to explore the diverse ecosystems and scenic landscapes along the route. By extending the trek to six days, you’ll have more time to acclimatize to the altitude, enjoy additional cultural experiences, and fully appreciate the majestic surroundings. This slower pace allows for a more comfortable trek and gives you more time to connect with nature and the local Andean culture.
Unparalleled Scenic Diversity
This trek is known for its spectacular variety of landscapes, taking you from high-altitude mountain passes to subtropical jungles. The highlight of the trek is crossing the Salkantay Pass, located at 4,650 meters (15,255 feet), where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain and surrounding glaciers. As you descend, you’ll enter the cloud forest, with its rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, followed by the warm tropical valleys filled with waterfalls, coffee plantations, and fruit orchards.
With such diverse and changing scenery, the 6-Day Salkantay Trek is one of the most visually stunning treks in Peru.
Reach Machu Picchu After an Epic Adventure
The grand finale of the 6-Day Salkantay Hiking Tour is arriving at Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. After several days of hiking through some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the Andes, arriving at this ancient Inca citadel feels especially rewarding. You’ll explore the ruins with a professional guide, who will provide insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of Machu Picchu.
Highlights of the 6-Day Salkantay Hiking Tour
Day 1: Cusco to Soraypampa
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Cusco to Mollepata, a small village where the trek officially starts. From there, you’ll hike through stunning Andean valleys, with views of the imposing Salkantay Mountain. The first day is relatively easy, allowing you to acclimatize to the altitude before reaching the first campsite at Soraypampa.
- Optional: A short afternoon hike to the turquoise Humantay Lake, which is nestled between the mountains, offers an extra adventure for those interested.
- Distance: 12 kilometers (7.5 miles)
- Camp: Soraypampa, at 3,900 meters (12,795 feet)
Day 2: Soraypampa to Salkantay Pass and Descend to Chaullay
Day 2 is the most challenging day of the trek, as you’ll ascend to the highest point, the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters (15,255 feet). The climb is steep, but the panoramic views of Salkantay Mountain and its glaciers are absolutely breathtaking. After reaching the pass, you’ll descend into the cloud forest, where the landscape changes from rugged mountains to lush greenery and tropical plants.
- Distance: 22 kilometers (13.7 miles)
- Camp: Chaullay, at 2,900 meters (9,514 feet)
Day 3: Chaullay to Collpapampa
On Day 3, you’ll continue your descent into the cloud forest, passing through tropical valleys filled with waterfalls, exotic plants, and diverse wildlife. You’ll trek through coffee plantations and fruit orchards, experiencing the warmer climate of this region. This is a peaceful and scenic day, offering plenty of opportunities to interact with local farmers and learn about the agricultural practices of the Andes.
- Distance: 15 kilometers (9.3 miles)
- Camp: Collpapampa, at 2,870 meters (9,416 feet)
Day 4: Collpapampa to Lucmabamba
On Day 4, the trail takes you further into the cloud forest, where you’ll encounter vibrant biodiversity, including various bird species and lush vegetation. The day’s hike is relatively gentle, allowing you to relax and enjoy the tropical surroundings. You’ll also have the opportunity to taste locally grown coffee and visit traditional Andean farms along the way.
- Distance: 12 kilometers (7.5 miles)
- Camp: Lucmabamba, at 2,000 meters (6,562 feet)
Day 5: Lucmabamba to Llactapata and Aguas Calientes
Day 5 takes you along an ancient Inca trail to the archaeological site of Llactapata, a hidden gem that offers a stunning view of Machu Picchu from a distance. After exploring the ruins of Llactapata, you’ll continue your hike down to the hydroelectric station, where you’ll catch a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. After a night in Aguas Calientes, you’ll wake up early the next morning for your visit to Machu Picchu.
- Distance: 14 kilometers (8.7 miles)
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 6: Explore Machu Picchu
The final day of the Salkantay Trek is dedicated to exploring Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca citadel that has captivated travelers from around the world. After an early morning bus ride from Aguas Calientes, your guide will lead you on a tour of the key areas of Machu Picchu, including the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, and the Intihuatana Stone. You’ll learn about the history and significance of this ancient site, which was once a major religious, political, and astronomical center for the Inca Empire.
After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own or hike additional trails like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (additional permits required). In the afternoon, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and take the train back to Cusco, concluding your 6-day adventure.
Who is the 6-Day Salkantay Hiking Tour For?
The 6-Day Salkantay Hiking Tour is ideal for adventurers who want a more extended and immersive experience in the Andes. This trek is perfect for those who prefer a slower pace, allowing more time to acclimatize and fully enjoy the landscapes and cultural experiences along the way. It’s great for:
- Experienced hikers: The trek is physically demanding, with long hiking days and significant altitude gains, making it perfect for those seeking a challenging adventure.
- Nature lovers: The diverse landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to lush cloud forests, make this trek a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
- Travelers looking for a cultural experience: The 6-day trek provides more time to interact with local communities, offering insights into traditional Andean farming and coffee production.
Sustainability and Responsible Trekking
The Salkantay Trek passes through environmentally sensitive areas, and it’s crucial to choose a responsible tour operator that prioritizes conservation and community support. By booking with a sustainable operator like Guiding Cusco Expeditions, you’ll ensure that your trek follows eco-friendly practices, minimizes waste, and provides fair wages to local guides and porters.
Supporting responsible tourism helps preserve the beauty of the Andes for future generations while contributing to the economic development of local communities.
What’s Included in the 6-Day Salkantay Hiking Tour?
The 6-Day Salkantay Hiking Tour package typically includes:
- Permits and entrance fees: All necessary permits and entrance to Machu Picchu.
- Professional guides: Experienced, English-speaking guides who provide insights into the history, culture, and nature of the Andes.
- Meals: Fresh, locally sourced meals prepared by professional cooks during the trek.
- Camping equipment: Tents, sleeping mats, and other necessary camping gear.
- Porters and mules: Porters and mules to carry your camping gear, allowing you to hike with a lighter load.
- Transportation: Transfers from Cusco to the starting point, and return train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.
Conclusion: Why the 6-Day Salkantay Hiking Tour is a Must-Do
The 6-Day Salkantay Hiking Tour offers an extended, immersive adventure through the diverse landscapes of the Andes, culminating in a visit to Machu Picchu. With stunning views of Salkantay Mountain, lush cloud forests, and the opportunity to explore remote Inca ruins, this trek is perfect for those seeking a more leisurely yet challenging adventure.
For more information or to book your trek, visit Guiding Cusco Expeditions, or contact us directly via WhatsApp.
