Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
4 Dias / 3 Noches

Itinerary

1. Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon – Salkantaypampa – Soyrococha (Camp)

   We begin our adventure early in the morning with a scenic drive from Cusco into the Andean highlands, passing through small villages and breathtaking valleys. After approximately 3.5 hours, we arrive at Soraypampa (3,900m / 12,795ft), the starting point of our trek. Here, we enjoy a hearty breakfast while our guides provide a briefing on the trail ahead.

   Our first challenge is the ascent to Humantay Lagoon (4,200m / 13,780ft), a 1.5 to 2-hour climb along a rugged path surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks. At the top, we are rewarded with stunning views of the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, reflecting the glaciers above. After taking in the beauty and capturing some incredible photos, we descend back to Soraypampa.

   From here, we continue through the valley towards Salkantaypampa (4,100m / 13,450ft), where we stop for a well-deserved lunch. The afternoon hike is a steady uphill climb along the glacial moraine, leading us deeper into the remote and rugged Andean landscape. By late afternoon, we reach Soyrococha, our first campsite, set beneath the majestic Salkantay Mountain (6,271m / 20,574ft).

   Highlights of the Day:
   • Humantay Lagoon’s turquoise waters
   • Breathtaking glacier and valley views
   • Sleeping beneath the stars at Soyrococha

   Trekking Distance: 13 km (7.5 miles)
   Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
   Elevation Gain: +500m (1,640ft)
   Overnight: Camping at Soyrococha

2. Day 2: Soyrococha – Salkantay Pass – Rayampata – Colpapampa – Sawayaku (Camp)

   Today is the most challenging yet rewarding day of the trek. We begin before sunrise, steadily climbing toward the Salkantay Pass (4,630m / 15,190ft), the highest point of our journey. The air is thin, and the climb is steep, but the breathtaking views of Salkantay Glacier and the surrounding peaks make it all worthwhile. At the summit, we take a well-earned break to admire the spectacular Andean landscape.From here, we begin our descent into a dramatically different ecosystem. The cold, barren terrain slowly transforms into lush high-altitude cloud forest, home to diverse flora and fauna. As the temperature warms, we continue towards Rayampata (3,500m / 11,480ft), where we enjoy a delicious lunch in the heart of the mountains

   After lunch, we continue for 1.5 hours through beautiful valleys until we reach Colpapampa (2,900m / 9,515ft), a small Andean settlement. Here, a private vehicle takes us on a 1-hour drive to Sawayaku (2,100m / 6,890ft), where we spend the night in a lush jungle environment.

   Highlights of the Day:
   • Crossing the mighty Salkantay Pass
   • Descending into the lush cloud forest
   • Experiencing a dramatic change in ecosystems

   Trekking Distance: 14 km (8.5 miles)
   Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
   Elevation Change: -2,530m (-8,300ft)
   Overnight: Camping in Sawayaku

3. Day 3: Sawayaku – Coffee Farm – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes (Hotel)

   We wake up to the sounds of the jungle and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of organic Peruvian coffee, grown in the region. After breakfast, we visit a local coffee farm, where we learn about the traditional process of harvesting, roasting, and preparing coffee. This is a great opportunity to taste some of the world’s finest coffee, cultivated at high altitudes.

   Next, we embark on a hike along an ancient Inca Trail leading to Llactapata (2,700m / 8,860ft). This route provides a rare and stunning first glimpse of Machu Picchu from a unique perspective, far from the crowds. The Inca site of Llactapata itself is a hidden gem, offering an exclusive and serene experience of history and archaeology.

   After exploring Llactapata, we descend towards Hidroelectrica, where we stop for a well-deserved lunch. The final stretch of the day is a 3-hour scenic hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes (2,040m / 6,693ft), a vibrant town at the base of Machu Picchu. Here, we check into our comfortable hotel, enjoy a hot shower, and relax over a delicious dinner before our grand finale at Machu Picchu.

   Highlights of the Day:
   • Authentic Peruvian coffee experience
   • Hiking an ancient Inca Trail to Llactapata
   • First breathtaking views of Machu Picchu

   Trekking Distance: 18 km (11 miles)
   Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
   Elevation Change: +600m (1,970ft) / -1,000m (-3,280ft)
   Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

4. Day 4: Machu Picchu Visit – Guided Tour – Return to Cusco

   Start your day early with breakfast at the hotel before boarding the bus to Machu Picchu. The 30-minute ride offers stunning views as you ascend to the entrance of the ancient citadel. Upon arrival, present your ticket at the checkpoint and step into one of the most breathtaking archaeological wonders in the world.

   You will begin a guided tour, which lasts approximately 2.5 hours. During the tour, you will explore the most significant areas of Machu Picchu, including its temples, agricultural terraces, ceremonial sites, and residential areas. Your guide will share insights into Inca history, architecture, and the theories surrounding the site’s purpose and abandonment.

   Once the tour concludes, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have some free time to stroll through the town, explore the markets, or enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, around 3:00 PM, you will board the train to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Cusco. Enjoy a comfortable ride through the Sacred Valley, arriving at your hotel around 7:30 PM.