Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek

Fly Cusco, one-time capital of the Incan Empire. Upon arrival, transfer to selected hotel for 1 night stay. At the appointed time you will participate in the trek briefing session, where you will meet with your trekking guide who will explain and provide useful information. (None)

Early in the morning, embark on a challenging 4-day trek along the alternative Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Stunning views and Inca ruins fill the days as you hike past the striking peaks of Salkantay, Humantay, and Ausangate, among others. The first day is a mixture of uphill, downhill and flat path, during which we will have stunning views you head up out into the wide open valleys on your way to Soraypampa, where you will camp for the night. Approximately 6 hours of hiking. (Lunch, Dinner)

Today you will enjoy the biggest challenge in the trail ascending to the highest pass on the route, Salkantay Pass. From the pass, the views of the snow-capped mountains are incredible. Once having crossed the pass it is the start of a long path downhill on the way to your campsite in Huayramachay. The trail weaves its way down the flank of the mountain and parallels to the Salkantay River that grows exponentially as you make your way down the valley. Approximately 7 hours of hiking. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Another early start, on this part of the hike you will walk on a narrow trail on the mountainside, discovering various types of orchids, hidden exotic waterfalls, and fields with several species of plants and fruits. On the way, you will pass by the Andean community known as Arranniyuc and continue to descend into the edge of the jungle on your way to your campsite at Lluskamayo. Approximately 6 hours of hiking. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

In the final day of the trek, you will head off in the direction of Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly Aguas Calientes Town). This walk will bring you through exotic plantations as coffee, bananas, avocado, pineapple and coca crops. Continuing the trail you will pass by Sahuayaco, where you will enjoy an unusual view of Machupicchu. Finally, you will arrive at the Hydroelectric, where you will board the train that will finally take you to Machu Picchu Pueblo for overnight. Approximately 7 hours of hiking. (Breakfast)

Rise early and enjoy a tour of Machu Picchu, the ‘Lost City of the Incas’, one of the most impressive ancient sites in the world. Overlooking the Urubamba River, Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century at the height of the Inca Empire. Although this “Lost City” was revealed to the rest of the world by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911, its location was long known to locals. Its original purpose, however, remains a matter of some conjecture, as the Incas left no written records. Explore the ruins with your expert local guide and, as you wander amid the age-old stone walls, picture life as it might have been in this majestic citadel, set some 8,000 feet above sea level. Later, return to Cusco on board the late afternoon train. End of services. (Breakfast)