Salkantay Trail To Machu Picchu

Day 1 CUSCO – SORAYPAMPA – CAMP

We will depart early in the morning from our hotel in Cusco, embarking on a 2.5-hour drive to the town of Mollepata. Here, you'll have a short break to rest and purchase any last-minute essentials.

Our journey continues to Challacancha, where we begin a two-and-a-half-hour hike toward Soraypampa, situated at 3,800 meters above sea level. At this location, you'll find our camp, featuring igloos with transparent roofs that offer a stunning view of the starry night sky.

After a delightful picnic, we'll set off on an excursion to Humantay Lagoon, embarking on a one-and-a-half-hour trek each way. Here, you'll have the chance to make a traditional coca leaf offering to the mountain, seeking protection for the journey ahead.

Humantay Lagoon, at 4,200 meters above sea level, offers breathtaking views of the majestic snow-capped Salkantay mountain. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters create a spectacular landscape, and for the adventurous, a dip is possible.

We'll return to the Soraypampa camp to relax, enjoy a group dinner, and spend the night.

Day 2 SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY PASS – COLLPAPAMPA

You will rise early for breakfast and a hot cup of tea, preparing for the most challenging day of the Salkantay trek. We'll embark on a 4-hour uphill hike to reach the highest point, known as Abra de Salkantay or Salkantay Pass, at an elevation of 4,650 meters.

Prepare to be captivated by the stunning landscapes and mountain vistas surrounding you, along with the magnificent Vilcabamba mountain range. Following this, we'll descend for three-and-a-half hours to Wayracmachay, where lunch and a brief rest await before we continue.

Our descent continues for another 3 hours until we reach Collpapampa. Here, the Salkantay River transforms into the Santa Teresa River. We'll spend the night in a camp offering transparent roofs and sweeping views of the Andean starry sky.

Day 3 COLLPAPAMPA - AGUAS CALIENTES

After breakfast, you'll embark on a descent through the picturesque Santa Teresa River valley, following a lush, green path for nearly 5 hours. Along the way, you'll pass through banana, passion fruit, coffee, and avocado orchards. The journey to Machu Picchu offers glimpses of local flora and fauna, including condors and various plants and flowers.

Upon reaching "La Playa Village," you'll take transportation to the hydroelectric train station. From here, you have the option to board the train or continue walking along a path by the railway tracks to the town of Aguas Calientes.

After checking into your chosen hotel, we'll have our final dinner with the guide and coordinate the next day's visit to Machu Picchu.

Day 4 AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

We will rise early to catch the bus to the entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel. From the "Guardhouse," the best viewpoint, you'll enjoy unparalleled views of this Inca sanctuary. We'll embark on a one-hour tour of this extraordinary site.

Machu Picchu, meaning Old Mountain, is a masterpiece of Inca architecture, built in the 15th century and rediscovered by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911. Prepare to be amazed by the history of one of the 7 wonders of the modern world and a World Heritage Site.

After the guided tour from the guardhouse, you can explore Machu Picchu independently or continue with the guide for another hour, walking through this enigmatic citadel to the vicinity of the Huayna Picchu mountain entrance (optional). You will then have free time to explore Machu Picchu further.

We will return by bus to Aguas Calientes and board the train back to Ollantaytambo station. Our transportation will be ready to take you back to Cusco, dropping you off at your hotel.