Salcantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The famous Salcantay Trek ( 6261 meters above sea level (20574 ft) named among the 24 best Treks in the World, by National Geographic , is a trek open to everybody, with no limitation on spaces or permits (at least for now). Connecting the city of Mollepata town, Cusco with Machu Picchu, the Salcantay Trek is an ancient and remote footpath located in the same region as the Inca Trail where massive snowcapped mountains collide with lush tropical rain forests.

Our classic Salcantay Trek is a custom-designed alternative to the traditional Inca Trail. Off the beaten path, this is a cutting edge experience for adventure travelers looking for a little more privacy and authenticity. With more spectacular views, the Salcantay to Machu Picchu offers the solitude and quiet contemplation such a sacred path deserves.

Day 01.- Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Salcantay Trek.

Leaving Cusco early in the morning, we take a scenic drive of approximately 6 hours to the small village of Marcocasa, located high above the Apurimac River. Here, we meet up with the mules, horses, and arrieros (wranglers) that will carry our gear during the trek. We begin our gentle hike into the green river valley of the Cordillera Vilcabamba, hiking steadily upwards to the high plateau. Along the way, we get our first incredible view of Humantay (5917 m.). As we approach our campsite at Soraypampa, the enormous Salcantay peak (6270m. and the highest in the Vilcabamba range) dominates our skyline. Morning snack. Salcantay to Machupicchu, Adventure Peru L,D.

Day 02.- Soraypampa – Challhuay – Salcantay Trek.

Following a series of switchbacks (Siete Culebras) our path leads up the side of a mountain and levels out beneath the shadows of the grandiose Mount Salcantay. With Salcantay looming above, we come to a summit marked by small piles of stones, or apachetas, left by locals and travelers to honor the mountain gods. From this high pass (4750m.) flanked by Salcantay and Huamantay, we make our way towards the valley below to camp for the night at Chaullay. B,L,D snacks.

 Day 03.- Challhuay – Santa Teresa – Salcantay Trek

Our trail leads us down the eastern slope of the Andes into a sub-tropical valley, where the temperature is warmer and we see a variety of orchids, flowers, and hummingbirds. After a morning of downhill walking, we arrive to the natural hot springs of Ccolpapampa. Continuing through the “Ceja de Selva,” or “Eyebrow of the Jungle,” we encounter bright flowers, butterflies, parrots, and lush groves of tropical fruit, cocoa, and coffee. At the small village of Playa, we set up camp for the night. B,L,D snacks

Day 04.- Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes

Today we continue through sub-tropical vegetation to the village of Lucmabamba, where an original Inca trail remains. A gradual uphill climb brings us to Llactapata (2700m.), from where we enjoy a brilliant backside view of Machu Picchu and vistas of the surrounding peaks. B,L,D.

Day 05.- Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Cusco

We take the early bus up to the stunning archeological complex of Machupicchu for a tour of these mysterious remains. Then we have time to explore on our own before returning to Cusco by train in the afternoon.

Included in price:

• Private transportation to head of trail
• Professional, English-speaking guide and camp staff
• Plentiful, nutritious meals and snacks (Vegetarian option available)
• Drinking water throughout trek / Hot water for washing in the morning
• Double-occupancy tents and camping equipment (includes dining tent, kitchen tent, and latrine tent)
• Pack animals to carry personal gear and equipment
• Overnight hostal stay in Aguas Calientes
• Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
• Officially-guided tour of Machu Picchu
• Bus to and from Machu Picchu
• Train ticket back to Cusco
• Transfer from train station to hotel in Cusco

Not included in price:

• Sleeping bag
• Breakfast on the first morning / lunch on the last day
• Tips for guide and camp staff