DAY 1. CUSCO, SORAYPAMPA, HUMANTAY LAKE, AND SALKANTAYPAMPA
Our adventure begins with an early morning pick-up at your hotel in Cusco. We’ll journey by private transportation to Mollepata (2,800 meters (9,186 feet)) for a refreshing breakfast and a chance to stock up on last-minute snacks and drinks.
As we continue our ascent, captivating views of the Salkantay and Humantay mountains unfold before your eyes, nestled amidst picturesque valleys. Our journey then leads us to Soraypampa (3,900 meters/12,795 feet), the official starting point for the trek.
From Soraypampa, embark on a scenic 1.5-hour hike towards the majestic Humantay Lake (4,200 meters, or 13,779 feet). Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery before returning to Soraypampa for a delicious lunch.
Afterward, prepare for the next leg of the adventure. We’ll continue our trek for another 2 hours, arriving at Salkantaypampa (4,200 meters or 13,779 feet)—our cozy campsite for the night.
- Trekking distance: 9 kilometers (5.5 miles)
- Estimated time: 5–6 hours
- Maximum altitude: 4,200 meters (13,779 feet)
- Campsite altitude: 4,200 meters (13,779 feet)
DAY 2. SALKANTAY PASS, WAYRAQMACHAY, AND COLLPAPAMPA
After a refreshing breakfast, we’ll tackle the most demanding yet rewarding part of the trek. Our path ascends towards Salkantay Pass, the highest point at 4,630 meters (15,190 feet).
As we navigate between the towering Humantay and Salkantay mountains, witness breathtaking panoramas of the snow-capped Salkantay peak (6,272 meters/20,575 feet) in all its glory.
Our descent then leads to Wayracmachay (3,919 meters/12,857 feet) for a well-deserved lunch. Refueled, we’ll continue our journey through the lush high jungle for roughly three hours, arriving at our second campsite, Collpapampa (2,950 meters/9,678 feet), by late afternoon.
- Distance: 17 kilometers (10.5 miles)
- Estimated time: 7-8 hours
- Maximum altitude: 4,630 meters (15,190 feet)
- Campsite altitude: 2,950 meters (9,678 feet)
DAY 3. COLLPAPAMPA, PLAYA SAHUAYACU, AND LUCMABAMBA
Our journey today follows a gentle path through the Santa Teresa River valley. Be captivated by cascading waterfalls feeding crystal-clear streams and admire the diverse vegetation, including thriving coffee plantations, verdant banana groves, and abundant avocado orchards.
We’ll arrive at Playa Sahuayaco, a charming village nestled within the valley, before reaching our final campsite for the day, Lucmabamba (2,060 meters/6,758 feet). After a delicious lunch, immerse yourself in a unique cultural experience. Participate in daily activities alongside the local people who work tirelessly to cultivate these organic crops.
- Trekking distance: 15 kilometers (9.32 miles)
- Estimated time: 5–6 hours
- Maximum altitude: 2,950 meters (9,678 feet)
- Campsite altitude: 2,060 meters (6,758 feet)
DAY 4. LUCMABAMBA, LLAQTAPATA, HIDROELECTRICA, AND AGUAS CALIENTES
Embark on a captivating journey through the verdant forest on your final day. The trail leads you to the ancient Llaqtapata Inca site, a sentinel on the original Inca Trail, where your first glimpse of Machu Picchu will leave you breathless.
Prepare for a 3-hour trek culminating at the Mirador or Qelloqasa (2,860 meters or 9,383 feet). From this breathtaking vantage point, soak in the grandeur of the Lost City before descending amidst lush vegetation.
Reaching the Aobamba River valley and the Hidroeléctrica train station, enjoy a well-deserved lunch. Afterwards, embark on a scenic 3-hour hike alongside the majestic Urubamba River, leading you to the charming town of Aguas Calientes.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and reward yourself with a relaxing hot shower—the perfect culmination to your incredible adventure.
- Distance: 22 kilometers (13.6 miles)
- Estimated time: 8–9 hours
- Maximum altitude: 2,860 meters (9,383 feet)
- Aguas Calientes altitude: 2,040 meters (6,692 feet)
DAY 5. MACHU PICCHU TO CUSCO
Fuel your morning with an early breakfast at your hotel before boarding one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. Prepare to be captivated as your expert guide unveils the secrets of this majestic Inca city.
Embark on a comprehensive tour, delving into the significance of the stone structures, temples, and iconic landmarks. Your guide will bring the history and stories of Machu Picchu to life, ensuring you gain a deeper understanding of this ancient wonder.
Our tour typically concludes around 10:00 AM, allowing you to experience the magic within the allotted time slot (circuit 1 or 2) as per the Peruvian government regulations implemented in 2021.
Please note that separate tickets are required for other trails, like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. After your enriching guided tour, descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch.
Later, board the comfortable train back to Ollantaytambo, where your private transportation awaits to take you back to your Cusco hotel.
- Distance by bus: 6 kilometers (3.73 miles)
- Machu Picchu altitude: 2,400 meters (7,874 feet)
- Estimated time: 3-4 hours
