Salkantay Trek

We will leave the Imperial City on our way to Mollepata. On the way we will pass by the archaeological complex of Tarawasi, built during the rule of the Inca Pachacuteq. We travel to Challacancha, where we will start the hike helped by muleteers and horses, which will be our companions throughout the route. During the ascent we will cross typical Andean landscapes until we reach the community of Salkantaypampa where we will enjoy a refreshing lunch made with local products. After a rest, we will set up our first camp with everything we need to spend a quiet and safe night.  (10 km / 4-5 hours hike)

Early morning start to your 18 km hiking day, via the Apu Salcantay pass, where it may be possible to see condors flying overhead. We follow the trail to Huayracmachay for lunch, before starting to descend into the cloud forest, along the Salcantay river arriving at Qollpapampa for overnight. (18 km/ 7-8 hours)

After breakfast, we will start our descent along a narrow trail to the banks of the Cachora River. Granadilla and coffee plantations will be part of our journey, as well as the waterfalls of Coripacchi. Following the course of the Cachora River, we will pass through Sahuayaco, a picturesque and traditional village. After walking approximately 16 kilometers throughout the day, we will arrive at Lucmabamba, where we will set up our overnight camp.

Travel via the village of La Playa, crossing the river, starting uphill towards Q’elloqasa pass, where we will get first glimpses of Machu Picchu. Lunch at Llaqtapata viewpoint, overlooking the snow caped Salkantay mountain.  Continue to Machu Picchu hydroelectric plant, where will board the train into Aguas Calientes for overnight at your hotel. (11km/ 5 hours)

Morning tour of the wonderful ruins of Machu Picchu, before boarding your afternoon train back to Cuzco.