Salkantay Trail To Machu Picchu

Day 1 CUSCO – SORAYPAMPA – CAMP

We will depart from your hotel in Cusco early in the morning, embarking on a 2.5-hour journey to the town of Mollepata. Here, you will enjoy a brief rest and have the chance to purchase any last-minute necessities.

Our journey continues to Challacancha, the starting point for a two-and-a-half-hour trek to Soraypampa, situated at an elevation of 3,800 meters. Upon arrival, you will find our camp, featuring igloos with transparent roofs that offer a stunning view of the starry night sky.

After enjoying a picnic, we will embark on an excursion to Humantay Lagoon, featuring a one-and-a-half-hour trek each way. Here, you'll have the chance to make a traditional offering of coca leaves to the mountain, seeking protection for the journey.

Nestled at 4,200 meters, Humantay Lagoon offers breathtaking vistas of the majestic snow-capped Salkantay mountain. Its pristine turquoise waters create a picturesque scene, and for the adventurous, a quick swim is an option.

We will then return to the Soraypampa camp to rest, savor our first group dinner, and spend the night.

Day 2 SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY PASS – COLLPAPAMPA

Rise early for breakfast and a hot cup of tea before tackling the most challenging day of the Salkantay trek. We will embark on a 4-hour ascent to the trek's highest point, known as Abra de Salkantay or Salkantay Pass, standing at 4,650 meters.

Marvel at the stunning landscapes and the awe-inspiring vistas of the Vilcabamba mountain range. We will then begin a three-and-a-half-hour descent to Wayracmachay, where we'll pause for lunch and a brief rest.

Our journey continues with a 3-hour descent to Collpapampa, where the Salkantay River transforms into the Santa Teresa River. Here, we will spend the night in a camp boasting transparent roofs and panoramic views of the Andean starry sky.

Day 3 COLLPAPAMPA - AGUAS CALIENTES

After breakfast, embark on a descent through the scenic Santa Teresa River valley, following a lush, verdant trail for about 5 hours. As you journey towards Machu Picchu, you'll traverse fields of bananas, passion fruit, coffee, and avocado, while observing local flora and fauna such as condors and diverse plant life.

Upon reaching "La Playa Village," you'll have the option to take transport to the hydroelectric train station. From there, you can either board the train or continue walking alongside the railway tracks to reach the town of Aguas Calientes.

After checking into your chosen hotel, we will share a final dinner with the guide and coordinate the visit to Machu Picchu for the following day.

Day 4 AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

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

Machu Picchu, meaning Old Mountain, is a masterpiece of Inca architecture, constructed in the 15th century and brought to the world's attention by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911. Be captivated by the history of one of the 7 wonders of the modern world and a World Heritage Site.

Following the guided tour from the guardhouse, you can explore Machu Picchu independently or continue with the guide for an additional hour, walking through the enigmatic citadel to the Huayna Picchu mountain entrance (optional). Afterward, enjoy free time to further explore Machu Picchu.

Later, return by bus to Aguas Calientes and board the train back to Ollantaytambo station. Our transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, where you'll be dropped off at your hotel.