SALKANTAY & INCA TRAIL TREK

6 Days 5 Nights

The SALKANTAY & INCA TRAIL TREK is a 6 day/5 night trek that combines two of the most popular treks in the Cusco region.

The Salkantay trail hikes through diverse landscapes and has spectacular views of snow capped mountains, glaciers, Andean plateaus, waterfalls, and high jungle. The Inca Trail is the most popular trek to Machu Picchu and traverses original Inca steps ending at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the entrance to Machu Picchu city. You will trek past 7 archaeological sites along the way and a variety of flora and fauna. This combined trek is approximately 76 km/47.2 miles and goes up to 4,965 m/16,289 ft.  It is classified as a moderate to strenuous trek.

This trail requires a permit and a limited number of people are allowed to trek per day. These spots fill quickly so booking well in advance (at least 6+ months recommended) is essential. Minimum passengers necessary for trek departure: 2 people (1 person or private/custom treks possible with extra fee). Maximum trekkers per group: 10 people (special, private party groups can exceed maximum).

Don’t want to hike both? We have a 5 Day Salkantay Trek and the Classic 4 Day Inca Trail as well.

Meters

Kilometers

Days

Nights

The Nitty Gritty Trek Details

Highlights

Glacial mountains, lush/tropical landscapes, turquoise lakes, Classic Inca Trail, 7 ruin sites, original Inca steps, Machu Picchu!

Location/Terrain

Glacial, snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, multiple high passes, high jungle, plateaus, Inca steps, rocky terrain

Acclimatization

3 day acclimatization and multi-day trekking experience recommended

Duration

6 Days/5 Nights

Distance

76 km/47.2 miles

Altitude

1,870m/6,135ft to 4,965m/16,289ft

Adventure Rating

★★★★☆
Moderate to strenuous, lengthy, high altitude

Solitude Rating

★☆☆☆☆
Both trails are touristy/busy

When to Go

Year round (Inca Trail closed in February)

Departures

Daily departures with 2 or more people

Prices USD

6-10 trekkers: 1200, 3-5 trekkers: 1300,  2 trekkers: 1600 per person

Customizable

Yes! Private, custom, add-ons all available.

DAY 1: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – CHALLACANCHA – HUMANTAY LAKE – SORAYPAMPA – ICHUPATA

Today we begin our trek! After an early pick up from your hotel we take private transport to the village of Mollepata (2.5 hours) where we will have breakfast and look around the village. You can also buy last minute supplies here. We continue driving for 45 minutes to Challacancha (3400m/11,154ft). Here we begin our trek with a short climb to a pretty channel of water. From here it is a 2 hour gradual climb to the stunning Lake Humantay where we have time to rest and take pictures, after which we have lunch in Soraypampa. After lunch we hike 3 hours up to Ichupata where we camp for the evening.

  • Walking distance approximately: 12km/7.45 miles (5-7 hrs)
  • Campsite elevation: 4200m/13,779ft
  • Meals: box breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks on the trail, boiled water at lunch and camp
  • Overnight: Mountain Hardwear Tent (double occupancy)

DAY 2: ICHUPATA – INCACHIRIASCA PASS – SISAY PAMPA

Today we wake up early and start hiking for 3-4 hours past Pampa Japonesa towards the highest summit on the trek, the Incachiriasca Pass (4965m/16,289ft) where you will have stunning views of glacial Salkantay Mountain. After a rest at the pass we then descend about 20 minutes to our lunch spot.  After lunch we hike for 2 hours down to Sisay pampa (4100m/13,451ft) where we will camp for the night. Sisay pampa is a lovely, flat area with views into the neighboring valleys.

  • Walking distance approximately: 12km/7.45 miles (5-7 hrs)
  • Campsite elevation: 4100m/13,451ft
  • Highest Pass on the trek: 4965m/16,289ft
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks on the trail, boiled water at breakfast, lunch and camp
  • Overnight: Mountain Hardwear Tent (double occupancy)

DAY 3: SISAY PAMPA – WAYLLABAMBA (ENTRANCE TO INCA TRAIL) – AYAPATA

This morning we continue 3.5 hours down towards the Pampacahuana community which is next to an original Inca water canal. From Pampachuana we have a 1-2 hour hike down through a narrow, steep valley to Inkarakay, an Inca fortress ruin (otherwise known as Paucarcancha). We will have time to explore this small Inca Ruin that most people never get to see. We then continue walking for approximately 1 more hour down to the small village of Wayllabamba which is where we join the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu! Since horses are not allowed on the Inca Trail due to the stone steps, we now say goodbye to our horsemen and horses and meet our amazing porters who will take over carrying all of our gear for the next few days. After eating lunch we start hiking up towards Warmihuañusca or Dead Woman’s Pass via a steep ascent that is 9km/5.6 miles in length. We do not hike this entire distance, however, as we stop part of the way up the pass at Ayapata where we will camp for the night.

  • Walking distance approximately: 14km/8.7 miles (6-7 hrs)
  • Campsite elevation: 3400m/11,154ft
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks on the trail, boiled water at breakfast, lunch and camp
  • Overnight: Mountain Hardwear Tent (double occupancy)

DAY 4: AYAPATA – CHAQUICOCHA

Today we continue our climb to Warmihuañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass, 4200m/13,776ft), about 2 hours uphill. This is the highest point on the Inca Trail (though not on this combined trek). After we summit the pass we then descend into the Pacaymayo Valley (3600m/11,811ft) and then hike up to the second pass, Runkurakay (3970m), stopping halfway to visit the beautiful archeological ruin known as Runkurakay (3800m). Experts believe that this small oval structure was used as a watchtower. After summiting the Runkurakay pass, we then hike down towards Yanacocha (black lagoon) and into the cloud forest, finally arriving at an impressive semicircular ruin known as Sayacmarca (3624m/11887ft). After we explore Sayacmarca we hike a further 20 minutes to Chaquicocha (3600m/11,811ft) where we will camp for the night.

  • Walking distance approximately: 17km/10.5 miles (7 hrs.)
  • Campsite elevation: 3800m/12,467ft
  • Inca Trail Trek high point: Dead Woman’s Pass (4200m/13,779ft)
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks on the trail, boiled water at breakfast, lunch and camp
  • Overnight: Mountain Hardwear Tent (double occupancy)

DAY 5: CHAQUICOCHA – WINAYWAYNA

After an early morning breakfast we start an easy, gentle climb to the Phuyupatamarca pass (3700m/12136ft) where we will explore the Phuyupatamarca ruin site, one of the most complete and best preserved archeological complexes along the Inca Trail. Located on the highest point of the mountain, Phuyupatamarca means town over the clouds. From here there are beautiful views of the Urubamba River valley below. After exploring this ruin site we hike down the stone steps to Wiñaywayna (2650m/8692ft) where we will camp for the night. The Wiñaywayna archaeological complex is an impressive ruin made up of an agricultural center with numerous terraces as well as a religious sector and an urban sector. This is one of the most beautiful ruin sites along the Inca Trail and only 5 minutes away from the campsite! Get some sleep tonight as we have a very early wake up tomorrow in order to hike directly into Machu Picchu via the sungate!

  • Walking distance approximately: 10km/6.2 miles (5 hrs)
  • Campsite elevation: 2650m/8694ft
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks on the trail, boiled water at breakfast, lunch and camp
  • Overnight: Mountain Hardwear Tent (double occupancy)

DAY 5: WINAYWAYNA – MACHU PICCHU – AGUAS CALIENTES – CUSCO

After waking up at 4am we begin our early morning hike that takes us across a steep mountainside through lush, humid cloud-forest of giant ferns and broad-leaf vegetation. At the top we cross the stone threshold of Intipunku (Sun Gate) and encounter an unforgettable sweep of natural beauty and human artistry –a backdrop of twisting gorge and forested peaks framing the magical city of Machu Picchu. 

We complete the final leg down the royal flagstone walkway, past outlying shrines and buildings and into the heart of Machu Picchu, where we spend the rest of the morning with a guided tour of the city’s highlights and some time for individual exploring among Machu Picchu’s multitude of hidden nooks and crannies. If you wish you can book one of the extra hikes within Machu Picchu (Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain). These hikes are permitted, incur a fee, and spots are limited. These hikes must be booked well in advance, at the same time the permit is secured. If you choose one of these hikes you may miss out on part of the guided tour. After the guided tour, a shuttle bus takes us to the small town below Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes, where you will have time to eat lunch in a restaurant of your choosing and then take the train back to Ollantaytambo where private transport will take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

  • Walking distance approximately: 7km/4.3 miles (2 hrs)
  • Meals:  breakfast on the trail and snacks for the morning tour
  • Machu Picchu entrance included for the first morning slot. Further slots can be purchased to extend your time in the ruin site.
  • Overnight: Not included

NOTE: The times cited in the itinerary are approximate. Walking times depend upon the group and lunch stops and campsites vary according to the progress of the group.  Also, camping sites may be subject to change based on when permits are purchased and how the government assigns camp sites – your guide will inform you of any changes at the briefing

HIKES WITHIN MACHU PICCHU

There are hikes within Machu Picchu that you can do on your own if you wish. The hikes that historically have not required an entrance ticket are: The Inka bridge and the Sun Gate (where the Inka Trail ends with a view of Machu Picchu city),  although these may become subject to permits and charges in 2021. Further, all permitted hikes are subject to closure due to weather, erosion, pandemic/epidemic, etc., and is outside our control as this is regulated by the Peruvian Government.

Wayna Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu Mountain hikes both require a paid ticket and there are a limited number of spots (200 at 7am and 200 at 10am). If you want to hike one of these please let us know well in advance as these spots fill up very quickly. Please note we cannot guarantee you a spot for the mountains requiring tickets and that the Wayna Picchu trail is very steep and slippery and not for those afraid of heights or with vertigo).

We recommend the 10am time slot as Machu Picchu tends to be cloudy in the morning. You are only allowed to hike one of these mountains on a given day so if you would like to do both you would need to return the next day to hike the other one. 

Extra hikes are affected by the time slots meaning you can:

  • Stick with one entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (6am entrance time) that we include in the cost of our trips and go on the extra hike starting at 7am. This means you would miss the guided tour of Machu Picchu unless we customized your trip and added an extra time slot later. 
  • Book an extra entrance ticket (second time slot) along with the extra hike to enter Machu Picchu at 6am, have the guided tour first and some free time and then stay for the extra hike at 9 or 10am and depart after the hike.

Inca Trail and Extra Hikes: Inca Trail has not been affected as much by the new rules. You will still enter Machu Picchu via the sungate as you arrive and will have a guided tour of the ruin site. You can only start your extra hike at 9 or 10am for the Inca Trail due to when you arrive to the ruin site. You would exit Machu Picchu after completing the extra hike. You can also opt for another entrance ticket if you wish to stay longer of course.

General Info about the Extra Hikes and Machu Picchu:

  • You can only hike one of the extra hikes per day – these are Peruvian Government rules. If you wish to hike both you would need to stay overnight and return to Machu Picchu the next day to hike the second one. We can help arrange this.
  • The hikes are permitted and require a paid ticket that is linked to your passport info
  • There are 200 slots at 7am for Machu Picchu Mountain and 200 slots at 7am for Wayna Picchu and 200 slots at 9am for Machu Picchu Mountain and 200 slots at 10am for Wayna Picchu Mountain.
  • If you want to hike both you need to return the following day to complete the second one.
  • guide is required to enter Machu Picchu with you but would not go on the extra hike with you unless you specifically request that.
  • In 2019 they are no longer allowing box lunches to be brought into Machu Picchu so please plan accordingly with plenty of snacks (beyond the ones we provide if you feel you’ll need them). 
  • In 2019 they are no longer allowing plastic water bottles so come prepared with reusable water bottle(s). 
    INCLUDED ON THE TRAIL
    • Pre-Trek briefing the night before the trek to go over the itinerary, meet your guide(s) and answer any questions
    • Collection from your Cusco hotel in the morning on the first day
    • Private bus transport to the starting point of the trek
    • Personal horse/porter to carry your overnight gear up to 8kg/17.6lbs
    • Drybag to carry your overnight gear so it won’t get wet or dusty
    • 3 person, 4 season tents (2 people in large and comfortable Mountain Hardwear Expedition tent)
    • One-inch-thick foam mattress sleeping pad to put under your sleeping bag
    • English speaking professional guide
    • Full meals on the trek (3 meals per day, tea time every afternoon, snacks on the trail)
    • First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank and emergency horse
    • Porters (to carry tents/food/cooking equipment) – Inca Trail portion
    • Horsemen and horses (to carry tents/food/cooking equipment) – Salkantay portion
    • Dining tent with tables and stools
    • Cook, kitchen tent and cooking equipment
    • Toilet, Toilet tent and toilet paper – Salkantay portion
    • Campsite with toilets – Inca Trail portion
    • Hot water every morning/evening for hand washing purposes
    • Boiled and purified water to fill water bottles every morning/afternoon
    • Inca Trail Permit
    • Entrance fee to Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex (first time slot)
    • Bus ticket from Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes
    • Tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
    • Guided tour of Machu Picchu
    • Hotel (double room) in Aguas Calientes and dinner in a local restaurant
    NOT INCLUDED ON THE TRAIL
    • Flights
    • Hotel before/after the trek
    • Lunch and dinner on the last day
    • Sleeping bags and walking poles (poles must have intact rubber bottoms)
    • Entrance to hot springs (25 soles)
    • Extra hikes within Machu Picchu: Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain – please note if you choose this option we cannot guarantee a spot will be available. We recommend booking well in advance for these hikes. If you choose on of these while trekking the Inca Trail it will reduce the time you spend on the guided tour.
    • Extra time slot in Machu Picchu (in 2019 the government split the entrance ticket into three time slots. We include the first one 6-11am)
    • Items of a personal nature and souvenirs
    • Travel interruption & travel medical/evacuation insurance (required)
    • Tip for your guide(s) and support staff are optional but highly encouraged if you enjoy your trek
    WHAT TO CARRY - DAYPACKS

    On the trail you should carry a day pack with your camera, water bottle or bladder, snacks, hand sanitizer, face mask, cold weather clothing and rain gear or poncho in case of rain (unlikely in dry season – May to October) and anything you will need before dinner as horses/porters do not walk alongside you. We will provide you with a dry bag for your overnight gear to be carried by horses/porters. A recommended packing list is sent after you book the trip and can be found below under the “what to pack for your trek” tab. Yes we do offer luggage storage and most hotels/hostels in Cusco also offer this service.

    PRICE AND NUMBER OF TREKKERS

    A minimum of 2 trekkers required for this trek. Maximum of 10 trekkers in a group. Price for 6-10 trekkers: 1200 USD per person. Price for 3-5 trekkers: 1300 USD per person. Price for 2 trekkers: 1600 USD per person. Private treks, single trekker, custom treks, large groups, and packages welcome, Please email us to customize.

    COVID 19 PRACTICES

    We take your health and that of our staff very seriously. We adhere to the recommended rules as outlined by the Peruvian Government, including border closures, trail closures, face-covering orders, quarantine orders, negative COVID19 test results, and the eventual need for proof of COVID19 vaccination. We have instituted a number of increased hygiene precautions for food preparation and treks/tours outlined below. Face coverings will be worn at all times by the guide/staff and are required of guests in towns and ruin sites and anywhere else it is mandated per Peruvian rules. Social distancing will be observed to the best of our ability, especially along the trail if you wish to remove face coverings while hiking. Increased hand hygiene will be practiced and temperatures checked daily. Anyone exhibiting COVID19 symptoms will need to self-quarantine.

    Machu Picchu has been declared a Safe Travels destination. In line with the good news that Peru is opening to a wider range of international visitors, we have updated our safety protocols to help keep you safe while you are travelling with us. 

    Trips will take place in small groups (8 people per group, including guide), and according to the instructions we receive from the Ministry of Tourism. All of our transport will continue to be private services. 

    Our guides, drivers, and representatives:

    • Will wear masks and use antibacterial gel at all times
    • Will be monitored continuously with temperature and symptom checks. If anyone has symptoms, they will be obliged to rest and recover, and substituted with other staff members

    We will ensure social distancing by:

    • Keeping 1-meter distance between passengers when boarding vehicles.
    • Restricting physical contact between our staff and customers. 

    To add to your packing list:

    • Cloth or medical face masks
    • Face shields
    • Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol)
    • Disinfectant wipes (at least 70% alcohol) for surfaces
    • Digital thermometer

    We recommend the following steps to protect yourself and others when you travel:

    • Always maintain a distance of 6 feet (2 meters) between you and others
    • Avoid crowds
    • Wear a face mask and a face shield
    • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
    • Cover coughs and sneezes
    • Do not travel if you are feeling sick
    • Disinfect your hands often. It’s especially important after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose
    • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 30 seconds
    • If soap and water aren’t available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub your hands together until they feel dry

    With our updated protocol, we hope to offer you a safe stay without compromising on our excellent service. We will continue adapting our standards according to the recommendations of health experts.

    The Inca Trail 2D is open again as of Nov 2020 with a capacity of 150 people per day (down from 500).

    We do not have confirmation as yet for the Classic Inca Trail 4D but we will keep you posted.  There are vulnerable communities along this trail and they are being closely monitored by the Peruvian Government.

    The minister has informed that only 675 people will be allowed inside Machu Picchu per day, which is 30% of its capacity pre-pandemic.

    Visitors will enter in groups of 8, with a tour guide, and will need to maintain a distance of 1.5-2 meters apart. Visitors will only be permitted entry when accompanied by a professional guide and have their tickets booked through a registered travel agent, such as Killa Expeditions. 

    All of the above information is subject to change. Right now Peru has opened its borders to most countries but we recommend checking specifics for your country as these are updated regularly. 

    Wishing you happy and safe travels!

    Blog Post: https://killaexpeditions.com/covid-19-travel-safety-protocols-with-killa-expeditions/ 

    WHEN TO GO AND DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY

    Year round except when Inca Trail is closed in February. This trek is rated as a moderate to strenuous hike considering the high altitudes, multiple passes, and length of walking. It is recommended that you acclimatize in Cusco for at least 2-3 days before trekking.

    WHAT TO BRING ON YOUR TREK

    What to bring: for your trek: The weather varies a lot in Peru, having 28 climates and 84 of the worlds 104 ecosystems. Cusco is set high up (3,380 mts, 11,089 ft) near the Andean Mountain Range and the dry season (winter) is from April/May to October/November with the wettest part of the year (summer) being January through March. Temperatures don’t vary too much between these seasons but the amount of precipitation does. If the sun is out it can be quite warm, but in the shade it gets cool fast. Temperatures change quickly and you will need layers as you hike during the day. At night it is quite cold in the mountains (usually near or below freezing) and most people will need long underwear and layers to sleep in, nice warm socks, gloves, and a hat. Everything you need for the day should be kept in your daypack that you carry because all the items you leave with your porter will not be available to you until the evening at the campsite. It is recommended not to hike in cotton or jeans in the event of rain as cotton takes a very long time to dry. It is also recommended to bring true hiking boots or trail running shoes as regular running shoes do not get very good traction especially when it has rained

    • Sleeping bags and walking poles (poles must have intact rubber bottoms)
      • Recommend a sleeping bag rated for below freezing
    • Sleeping bag liner (for your sleeping bag if you wish)
    • Mattress pad – while we provide a mattress pad, being rested is essential for a great hiking experience and we find that sleep habits are very individualized. Therefore we recommend bringing your own pad that you know you are comfortable sleeping on, as well as any other sleep items you might want to have (camp pillow, etc).
    • Sunscreen: the sun is very strong in Cusco
    • Sun hat
    • Sunglasses
    • Lip balm
    • Hiking shoes/boots
    • Hiking pants and shirts (layers)
    • Layers – long underwear and/or warm sleep pants for cold nights
    • Hand warmers if you wish
    • Warm hat, gloves, scarf and thick warm socks (or you can buy a traditional Peruvian hat and scarf – they are beautiful!)
    • Daypack and rain cover
    • Rain gear – rain jacket and rain pants (optional for the pants), can buy an inexpensive poncho before the trek
    • Cash for tipping porters, cooks, horsemen, guides, buying items along the trail, for in town, emergencies, etc. Note: Cash should be in perfect condition (ripped, damaged soles are NOT accepted anywhere in Peru)
    • Swim suit, flip flops, towel for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes if you wish to go
    • Sandals
    • Torch/flashlight/headlamp (and batteries)
    • Insect repellent
    • Hand sanitizer and face covering (for COVID-19 Pandemic)
    • Extra snacks if you wish (beyond snacks provided by us)
      • E.g. if you have a favorite protein bar as Cusco doesn’t sell items like this
    • First aid kit, including blister protection (though your guide will have one, you may wish to carry one of your own)
    • Personal medication and toiletries you might want
    • Camera, extra memory cards/film, batteries
    • Water bottle or water bladder to refill
    • Passport (must be valid 6 months past your travel dates for most countries)
    • Copies of passport (keep copies separate, give to travel friends to keep, etc)
    • Power adapter/converter
    • Travel lock(s) approved by TSA (or they cut them off – US only)
    • Tickets, itinerary, emergency contact information
    • Any medications you currently are taking or need/may need (see suggestions below)
    • Small quick-dry pak towels and/or wipes for a quick wipe down at the end of the day

    What to bring: medications – medications are optional and depend on your specific needs

    • Antibiotic for travelers diarrhea or UTI
    • Antibiotic for a severe bacterial infection
    • Medication for upset stomach/indigestion
    • Anti-diarrhea medication
    • Anti-nausea medication for motion sickness/altitude sickness if needed
    • Cold/flu medication
    • General pain killer/fever reducer
    • Vaccinations – recommend bringing all boosters up to date (MMR, tetanus, etc)
    • COVID19 negative test result (currently within 72 hours of departure) and eventually will likely need a COVID19 vaccination card

    View latest travel advisories and recommended vaccinations and medications for the regions you plan to visit. For Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu there are generally no vaccinations required. If you are going to the jungle or any other higher risk area you may need: yellow fever vaccine, medicine for malaria, typhoid vaccine, etc. Click here for updated info: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/peru.aspx NOTE: Please visit your doctor several weeks before your trip to discuss any health restrictions you may have, medications he/she might recommend for you personally, and to seek more information about any vaccinations or medications recommended for Peru (or any of your other destinations). Additionally: speak with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter and/or prescription medications alone or combined.

    PAYMENT, PERMITS & PASSPORT INFO

    Deposit: A 400 USD deposit will be charged to your card when you book the trek. This allows us to purchase time-sensitive items such as permits, train tickets and entrance fees. This is non-refundable.

    Payment of Balance: The balance of the trek is due 60 days prior to departure and will be auto-debited via the booking software system on that date. If you wish to pay early, or use a different card to the one you have on file, you may do so by clicking on the reservation number in your confirmation email and entering the pin that was provided to you in the original confirmation email. If you wish to make other arrangements (e.g. pay cash in Cusco), please contact us. Please note if you book your trip within 60 days of departure, the balance of the trek will be auto-debited the next day. If you do not wish this to happen please contact us.

    Passport: We need a photo of your passport bio page ASAP in order to book the above items (your permit being very time sensitive) in your name (Peruvian Government Requirement). Please note that each traveler is responsible for knowing the re-entry rules for their country of residence/citizenship. Some countries require 6 months of passport validity beyond the final date of travel. Please ensure that your passport is up to date and meets your country and residency requirements. We can use an old/expiring passport to book your permit/tickets but we will need a copy of the updated passport as soon as you receive it in order to update your tickets.

    Inca Trail Permits: There are only 500 spaces per day (including guides, porters and trekkers). Permits are NOT transferrable or refundable for any reason (not even medical). Once you have booked your date we are unable to alter the date of departure. These are Peruvian Government rules. We must have a snapshot of your passport bio page (old/expiring one is ok) in order to book the permit. Without this we are unable to reserve your spot. Permits sell out VERY fast, especially for April to August, therefore it is essential to book at least 7+ months in advance.

    Visa’s: Most countries are allowed to obtain a visa upon entry at immigration. Very few countries require a visa to be granted in advance. Please note that each traveler is responsible for finding out and obtaining a visa prior to entry if required. Please also note that tourist visas are for 90 days or less (typically) and you must show proof of return travel.

    BOOKING TERMS/CANCELLATION

    Please review our booking terms carefully.

    • The minimum number of trekkers required for departure is 7 for the price quoted online. If the minimum is not met within 2 weeks of departure, Killa Expeditions reserves the right to offer the 1-2 paid trekkers the option of 1) paying the difference to take a private trek, 2) transferring their payment to another trek with more trekkers booked, or 3) cancel the trek and provide a full refund. Please contact us with questions.
    • Deposit: At the time of booking only a deposit is charged. The trek deposit is required to secure your spot on a trek and is non-refundable. It is used to purchase non-refundable items such as train tickets, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, etc. The balance of the trek is due within 60 days of departure.
    • Cancellations: Initial deposit is non-refundable. You may cancel your booking by notifying Killa Expeditions or Agent used and the applicable cancellation fees shall be determined based on when the request is received by Killa Expeditions or Agent. (a) Cancellation received 60 days or more before departure of the first Product to depart in relevant booking: 60% of the Product total shall be refunded to you (Inca Trail excepted where 25% of the Inca Trail product total shall be refunded to you). (b) Cancellation received 59-30 days before departure of first Product to depart in relevant booking: an amount equal to 25% of the total Product shall be refunded to you. (Inca Trail excepted where no refund is payable). (c) Cancellation less than 30 days before departure of first Product to depart in relevant booking: no refund shall be payable to you.
    • Travel Medical Insurance: is required to depart on any trek (including emergency evacuation coverage and high altitude hiking). We also suggest travel interruption insurance in the event of inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances that may arise. Killa Expeditions is not responsible for losses incurred due to any travel interruption (ex: weather/natural phenomena, missed/delayed/canceled flight, acts of war/terrorism, pandemics/epidemics, strikes, etc.), passport, visa, family emergency, or illness/medical issues.
    • Please be advised that due to COVID19 pandemic and any subsequent variants – there may be border closures, quarantine measures, changes in entry requirements, etc. We will do our best to change your trek to a different date if issues arise that are outside of our control on our end. The Peruvian Government has only ever allowed date transfers for permits (not name changes/transfers) due to the pandemic and will not continue past this period). Please note you may also be required to show proof of a negative COVID19 test within 72 hours of departure and potentially a vaccination card once vaccines are widely available. As these terms change we will alert travelers to the new regulations.
    • For Full Terms and Conditions please see the policy linked at the bottom of our website in the footer. It is also available to read during the checkout process. https://killaexpeditions.com/terms-conditions-peru/
    HELPING LOCAL PEOPLE

    Helping Local Children or Andean People (Optional) Along certain treks we may encounter some local children and Andean people.  If you wish to lend a helping hand you may bring some clothes, toys, books and school equipment (used or new), toiletries and other essentials, and new/sealed medication for a variety of ailments.  You will be rewarded with their gratitude and beautiful smiles. Please do not give candy or sweets as they do not have access to dental/medical care and tooth decay can lead to serious illness. For those who wish to help but take a trek that does not pass local people or villages you can leave your donated items with a Killa Expeditions representative and we will distribute them to one of the local communities that we support.  There are a variety of other ways in which to lend a helping hand to local communities (charity events, building schools, and much more). If interested please get in touch!

    WHY CHOOSE KILLA EXPEDITIONS

    ETHICAL, SUSTAINABLE, ECO-FRIENDLY  Our mission is to provide exceptional treks, tours, and adventure trips with a strong commitment to environmentally responsible, sustainable, ethical, and socially conscious travel. During our trips, we make every effort to minimize negative impacts and maximize the benefits to the local people and natural environments we visit. We pay fair, livable wages, ensuring we hire and maintain the absolute best guides and support staff. We are committed to international sustainable tourism guidelines and have developed ongoing community projects and charity events supporting 4+ local Andean communities.

    EXCELLENCE We pride ourselves on providing 5 star service before, during, and after your trip. Killa Expeditions is dedicated to excellent customer service and adventure experiences. We have been awarded the 2017, 2018 & 2019 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence!

    QUALITY When trekking through rugged mountain terrain, at high altitudes, with unpredictable weather, it is essential to have the best equipment available. We provide Mountain Hardwear 4 season tents (3 season for Inca Trail due to warmer weather), extra thick mattress pads, dry bags for your overnight gear, and more, to ensure a safe and pleasant journey.

    NO HIDDEN COSTS Our treks and tours are truly 5 star and all inclusive. We do not charge extra to “upgrade” as we offer the best option included in the price already. There are no hidden meal costs, we are transparent about all inclusions, and best of all no booking fees!

    SMALL GROUPS Our groups average about 8 guests per departure, and are typically a mix of solo travellers, friends travelling together, and couples, all of varying ages, backgrounds and nationalities. Come prepared to make lots of new best friends. If you book a custom/private large group we provide 1 guide per 8 travelers, ensuring a small group feel and specialized attention.

    GOURMET Only the best, quality ingredients are selected from local farmers. Our chefs prepare a specially designed menu to maximize energy and facilitate acclimatization.  And the dishes, a mix of traditional Peruvian cuisine and contemporary cuisines, are delicious too! And yes, we cater to any dietary need.

    PERSONALIZED We can customize any trek or tour to suit your travel, fitness, budget, and time preferences. Got a corporate or work shindig, charity group, or other major event you’d like to book a trek or tour for? Get in touch, we can arrange everything for you!

    LEAVE NO TRACE Our trips leave behind nothing but smiles and footprints, as it should be.

    REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE We love our planet, which is why we reduce, reuse and recycle. Our gear is reusable (no paper or plastic plates/cups/utensils), we buy local goods that do not come in paper/plastic wrapping, and we recycle everything we can. This is not the norm in Peru but we hope to help it become the norm one day soon!

    PASSIONATE All of our employees are passionate about what they do. Who wouldn’t be with majestic mountains and never-ending vistas as your office! We are proud to offer our guides and staff the highest wages.

    WE GIVE BACK We buy locally produced food, hire native tour guides, and book locally owned hotels and restaurants whenever possible. We hold numerous charity events throughout the year in various traditional Andean communities. Events often involve distributing food, drinks, daily essentials (such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and more), toys for the children, shoes and clothes donated by many of our wonderful guests, and we are currently raising funds to finish building a school in the Willoc Community.  Ask us about how you can help!

    For further information about us please see the following links:

    Equipment: learn about why we provide the best! https://www.killaexpeditions.com/our-equipment/

    Our Team: meet some of our amazing guides! https://www.killaexpeditions.com/our-team/

    Reviews – find us on Trip Advisor! Killa Expeditions Trip Advisor Page (Awarded 2017, 2018 & 2019 Certificate of Excellence)

    Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up with the latest from our team

    Don't Be Shy

    If we didn't answer all of your questions, feel free to drop us a line anytime.

    Stay Connected

    Join our mailing list to receive the latest updates and special offers 

    You have Successfully Subscribed!

    Stay Connected

    Join our mailing list to receive the latest updates and special offers 

    You have Successfully Subscribed!

    PERMIT UPDATE: 2021 and 2022 ON SALE for both 4 Day Classic Inca Trail and

    2 Day Short Inca Trail 

    4D/3N Inca Trail Permits are now open! On sale for 2021 and 2022. Contact Us to secure your spot

    2 D/1N Inca Trail is open and on sale! Contact Us to hike this iconic trail! Combine it with another trail (like Rainbow) to make it the perfect blend of remote and classic trails!

     Get in touch if you want to trek this iconic trail in 2021 or 2022!  

     

    DROP US A LINE!

    Don’t want to book online? Have a private group or want to build your own adventure? We can help you book over the phone. Give us a call at +1 (619) 736-TREK or drop us a line with your number and we will call you back!

    7 + 9 =