Salkantay Trail To Machu Picchu

Day 1: CUSCO – SORAYPAMPA – CAMP

We will depart early in the morning from your hotel in Cusco, embarking on a 2.5-hour drive to the town of Mollepata. Here, you can enjoy a short break and purchase any last-minute necessities.

Our journey continues towards Challacancha, the starting point for a two-and-a-half-hour trek leading to Soraypampa at 3,800 meters above sea level. Upon arrival, you'll find our campsite, which features igloos with transparent roofs—perfect for stargazing at night.

After a picnic lunch, we'll set out on an excursion to Humantay Lake, trekking for about one and a half hours each way. During this visit, you'll have the chance to make a traditional coca leaf offering to the mountain, seeking protection for the journey ahead.

Situated at 4,200 meters, Humantay Lagoon offers breathtaking views of the majestic snow-capped Salkantay mountain. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters create a spectacular setting, and for those feeling adventurous, a refreshing swim awaits.

We'll return to the Soraypampa camp to relax, enjoy our first group dinner, and spend the night under the stars.

Day 2: SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY PASS – COLLPAPAMPA

Start your day early with breakfast and a warm cup of tea before tackling the most demanding section of the Salkantay trek. We begin with a 4-hour ascent to reach the highest point of the route, Abra de Salkantay (Salkantay Pass), situated at 4,650 meters above sea level.

Take in the stunning landscapes and mountain vistas, including the impressive Vilcabamba mountain range. Afterward, we’ll descend for three and a half hours to Wayracmachay, where lunch and a well-deserved rest await.

Our descent continues for another 3 hours until we reach Collpapampa. Here, the Salkantay River merges into the Santa Teresa River. Tonight, you'll rest at a camp with transparent roofs, allowing you to enjoy panoramic views of the Andean night sky.

Day 3: COLLPAPAMPA - AGUAS CALIENTES

After breakfast, begin your descent through the lush Santa Teresa River valley. The trail, surrounded by vibrant greenery, takes about 5 hours and passes banana, passion fruit, coffee, and avocado plantations. Along the route to Machu Picchu, you'll encounter diverse flora and fauna, including condors and various native plants and flowers.

On arrival at "La Playa Village," transportation will take you to the hydroelectric train station. Here, you can choose to board the train (optional) or continue your trek alongside the railway tracks to the town of Aguas Calientes.

After checking into your chosen hotel, we'll enjoy a final dinner with your guide and coordinate the Machu Picchu visit for the following day.

Day 4: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

We will rise early to take the bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu. From the famous "Guardhouse" viewpoint, you’ll enjoy the most spectacular views of this Inca sanctuary during a one-hour guided tour.

Machu Picchu translates to Old Mountain and stands as a masterpiece of Incan architecture, built in the 15th century and brought to international attention by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911. Discover the fascinating story behind one of the 7 wonders of the modern world and a recognized World Heritage Site.

Following the guided tour, you may choose to explore Machu Picchu on your own or continue with your guide for another hour to visit areas near the Huayna Picchu mountain entrance (optional). Enjoy your free time to further discover this remarkable citadel.

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