3 Days
Daily Tour
9 people
English, Espanol, Francais
This route is perfect for those with limited time but who still want an extraordinary adventure, featuring breathtaking landscapes and rich ecological diversity. We will explore key highlights such as the stunning Salkantay Mountain and the picturesque Humantay Lake, before reaching the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. There, you’ll have a guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel, immersing yourself in the grandeur and history of this incredible site.
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. and then embark on a private transportation journey of approximately 3.5 hours to Soraypampa, where we'll start our Salkantay trek. Here, we'll have breakfast before the hike begins. After breakfast, we'll start our trek towards the Salkantay Glacier. The first 3 hours will involve a steady ascent to Soyrococha, where we’ll enjoy lunch with panoramic views of the mountains (Humantay, 4,120 m / 13,500 ft and Salkantay, 6,271 m / 20,575 ft). Following lunch, we’ll continue our hike towards the highest point, Salkantay Pass, at 4,600 meters. After capturing stunning panoramic photos of the Salkantay Glacier and receiving a briefing from our guide, we’ll descend for about 3 hours to our campsite at Huayracmachay (3,800 m / 11,750 ft), which is the highest and coldest campsite of the trek.
Estimated hiking time: 6 to 7 hours.
Total distance: 16 km
Altitude of our campsite: 3,800 meters.
After breakfast, we'll tackle the most challenging part of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, starting with a hike through an area known as Pampa Salkantay. We’ll then veer to the left side of the Humantay Glacier, which is adjacent to the Salkantay Glacier. By midday, we’ll reach the highest point of our trek, the Salkantay Humantay Pass at 14,763 feet (4,600 meters). We’ll take some time to explore the Salkantay glaciers, and after a one-hour break, we’ll have lunch at the site known as Huayracmachay. Following lunch, we’ll continue our hike for approximately 4 hours through the Selva Alta (also known as the Cloud Forest) until we arrive at the village of Chaullay at around 4 PM, situated at 9,514 feet (2,900 meters). At this point, you can choose to continue walking or take a vehicle to our new Majestic Ecolodge located in the Loreta La Plata region, where we’ll arrive by approximately 5 PM. Dinner will be served at the lodge, and we’ll spend the night in a luxurious geodesic dome. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Distance Hiked: 22 km / 13.67 mi Starting Elevation: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft Accommodation Elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft Difficulty Level: Challenging Maximum Elevation: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
In the morning, we’ll embark on a 2-hour guided tour of the Inca city of Machu Picchu. We’ll visit key sites including the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Rooms, the Temple of the Three Windows, and several burial sites. After the tour, you'll have time to explore the ruins on your own or visit Huayna Picchu if you’ve pre-booked this option. Additionally, you can hike to the Sun Gate for free, which is a relatively easy trek taking about an hour and a half round trip. Alternatively, you may visit the Inca Bridge for free; this trail is easier and takes approximately one hour. Lunch will be at a local restaurant. In the afternoon or evening, we’ll return to Ollantaytambo by train. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer you by bus to the main square in Cusco. End of our services Meal: Breakfast Walking Distance: Around Machu Picchu Starting Elevation: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft Transportation: Train and private vehicle back to Cusco Difficulty Level: Easy
The Salkantay Trek begins with a departure from Cusco to Mollepata, where you'll start your hike to Soraypampa. On the first day, there's an option to hike to Humantay Lake. On the second day, you'll cross the challenging Salkantay Pass, reaching an elevation of 4,630 meters (15,190 feet), and then proceed to Chaullay. Day three involves exploring the Cloud Forest and reaching the Hydroelectric Station before hiking along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes. The final day includes a tour of Machu Picchu and returning to Cusco.
For the trek, it's important to bring comfortable hiking boots, warm clothing for high-altitude conditions, rain gear, a hat and gloves for colder temperatures, sunscreen, sunglasses, a water bottle, snacks, personal medications, and a camera. Additionally, consider bringing a small backpack for day hikes and essentials.
During the trek, you will start at Cusco, which is at an elevation of 3,400 meters (11,155 feet). The highest point of the trek is the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters (15,190 feet). The trek ends in Aguas Calientes, which is situated at 2,040 meters (6,692 feet).
The Salkantay Trek is considered challenging due to the high altitudes and steep climbs, especially when crossing the Salkantay Pass. It requires good physical fitness and acclimatization to handle the strenuous parts of the trek.
To prepare for high altitudes, acclimatize by spending a few days in Cusco before starting the trek. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and eat a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates and proteins. Consult with a healthcare provider about altitude sickness medication if needed.
Altitude sickness can occur above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and nausea. If you experience severe symptoms, it's crucial to descend to a lower altitude and seek medical assistance promptly.
Basic amenities are available in Mollepata and Soraypampa on the first day. There are no amenities at the high-altitude Salkantay Pass, but camping equipment is provided. On the third day, there are limited amenities at the Hydroelectric Station, and Aguas Calientes offers a range of facilities.
Accommodations include camping in tents with basic facilities for the first two nights. On the third night, you'll stay in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes. The final night does not involve camping as you’ll be in a hotel.
Meals are generally included during the trek, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided each day. Special dietary needs should be communicated in advance to ensure that appropriate arrangements are made.
Yes, porters can be hired to carry personal gear and equipment. It is recommended to arrange for porters in advance to ensure their availability and to help manage the weight of your load during the trek.
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