Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 6 days

• Early Start, Scenic Drive: Your Andean adventure begins with a 5 a.m. pickup from your Cusco hotel. Settle into our private van and soak in the stunning scenery as we wind our way through picturesque villages like Iscuchaca and Limatambo. Marvel at the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and other majestic mountains that paint the horizon.

• Soraypampa Trailhead: After a 3.5-hour journey, arrive at the Soraypampa trailhead, your gateway to the Salkantay Trek. Hand off your duffel bag (up to 7kg/15lbs) to our trusty horsemen and mules, who will transport your belongings to each night’s campsite. You’ll only need to carry a small daypack with essentials for the day’s hike.

• Breakfast with a View: Fuel your journey with a hearty breakfast of local flavors and fresh ingredients while taking in panoramic views of the towering Humantay and Salkantay mountains.

• Humantay Lake Hike: Embark on a rewarding 2.5-hour roundtrip hike to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake. Capture incredible photos of this glacial gem nestled amidst the Andes.

• Ascent to Salkantaypampa: Gently ascend to Salkantaypampa, your campsite for the night. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a spread of hot beverages and Andean-inspired appetizers, the perfect way to unwind and refuel after your hike. Your tent will be set up and your duffel bag waiting for you.

• Dinner Under the Stars: As the sun sets over the Andes, gather around for a delicious dinner showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Peru. Our expert chefs will craft a multi-course meal using fresh, local ingredients, sure to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.

Day 1 Highlights:

• Mountain View.: Enjoy awe-inspiring views of the Andes throughout the day.
• Humantay Lake: Experience the serene beauty of a glacial lake.
• Comfortable Camping: Relax in our well-equipped campsite.
• Delicious Meals: Savor nutritious meals prepared by our team of culinary experts, including Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, and Dinner.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Dinner

Accommodation: Camping facilities

Distance: 13 km (8.1 miles)

Difficulty: Moderate

• Rise and Shine: Greet the day with a steaming cup of coca tea or coffee, delivered right to your tent. Savor a hearty breakfast to fuel your upcoming trek.

• Off the Beaten Path: Leave the well-trodden trails behind as you embark on a 3-hour ascent through wild terrain. This challenging climb is rewarded with unparalleled views of the surrounding peaks.
• Mountaintop Lunch: Enjoy a well-deserved lunch break in a scenic spot with panoramic views. Recharge with a delicious meal crafted from fresh, local ingredients.
• Salkantay’s Shadow: Continue your journey for another 3 hours, winding your way closer to the imposing Salkantay mountain. As you hike, be captivated by the dramatic scenery of snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and verdant valleys.
• Pampajaponesa Camp: Arrive at Pampajaponesa, your campsite nestled in the heart of the Andes, with Salkantay towering above. Relax with refreshing drinks and appetizers while soaking in the majestic views. Later, enjoy a satisfying dinner under the starry sky.

Day 2 Highlights:

• Challenging Ascent: Test your limits with a rewarding uphill trek.
• Mountain Views: Marvel at the dramatic scenery of the Andes.
• Intimate Campsite: Experience the tranquility of Pampajaponesa.
• Delicious Meals: Savor nutritious meals prepared by our team of culinary experts, including Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, and Dinner.
• Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate

• Andean Awakening: Start your day with a warm cup of coca tea or coffee delivered to your tent. Enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel your ascent to new heights.
• Ascending to the Heavens: Embark on a steady 4-hour climb to the Incachiriaska Pass, reaching an elevation of 4,880 meters (16,010 feet). This pass, whose name translates to “the place where the Inca cools down,” offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
• Condor Country: Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic Andean condor, the world’s largest flying bird, which often soars above this high-altitude region. Capture stunning photos of this iconic bird in its natural habitat.
• Descent to Sisaypampa: Enjoy a well-deserved downhill trek as you make your way to the tranquil campsite of Sisaypampa. Relax and unwind amidst the serene surroundings after your challenging climb.
• Campfire Camaraderie: Gather around a cozy campfire to share stories and reflect on the day’s accomplishments. Savor a delicious dinner prepared by our expert chefs, featuring local flavors and fresh ingredients.

Day 3 Highlights:

• Incachiriaska Pass: Conquer one of the highest points on the Salkantay Trek.
• Andean Condor: Spot the majestic Andean condor in its natural habitat.
• Scenic Descent: Enjoy a relaxing downhill hike to Sisaypampa.
• Campfire Experience: Connect with fellow trekkers around a warm fire.
• Delicious Meals: Savor nutritious meals prepared by our team of culinary experts, including Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, and Dinner.
• Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate

• Valley of the Incas: After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic hike through the lush Pampacahua Valley. Discover the ancient Inca Canal, a marvel of engineering that still irrigates local farmlands today.
• Paucarcancha Exploration: Uncover the secrets of Paucarcancha, an archaeological site that offers glimpses into the Inca’s sophisticated way of life. Explore the ruins and learn about the historical significance of this ancient settlement.
• Lunch at Wayllabamba: Refuel with a delicious lunch in the charming village of Wayllabamba, a traditional starting point for many Inca Trail trekkers.
• Inca Trail Entrance (Km 82): Arrive at the iconic Km 82, the official entrance to the Inca Trail. Take a moment to appreciate this historic landmark before continuing your journey.
• Ollantaytambo Arrival: Relax in our private van as we drive you to the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo. Check into your comfortable hotel and freshen up before dinner.
• Dinner in Ollantaytambo: Savor a delightful dinner in Ollantaytambo, known for its cobblestone streets and well-preserved Inca architecture. This evening is yours to explore the town at your own pace.

Day 4 Highlights:

• Ancient Incan Sites: Explore Paucarcancha and the Inca Canal.
• Inca Trail Entrance: Experience the starting point of the legendary trail.
• Scenic Valley Hike: Enjoy the natural beauty of the Pampacahua Valley.
• Ollantaytambo Charm: Discover the rich history and culture of this Andean town.
• Delicious Meals: Savor nutritious meals prepared by our team of culinary experts, including Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, and Dinner.
• Accommodation: 2-Star Hotel (Veronica View or Tunupa Lodge)
• Distance: 9 km (6 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate

• Early Start, Scenic Train Ride: Your Machu Picchu adventure begins with a 5:30 a.m. departure from your Ollantaytambo hotel. We’ll provide a packed lunch for your journey. Hop aboard the train at 6:10 a.m. and enjoy breathtaking views as you wind through the Andean landscape (consider pre-ordering a picnic breakfast from your hotel for the ride!).

• Km 104 – The Inca Trail Awaits: Disembark at the famous Km 104 (2,000 meters/6,560 ft.), the official start of your Inca Trail trek. After a quick passport check, cross a picturesque footbridge over the Urubamba River and set off towards your first Inca encounter.
• Cloud Forest Ascent: Enjoy a gentle uphill climb through diverse microclimates, including enchanting cloud forests. Pause at scenic overlooks for expansive views of the Urubamba River below.
• Waterfall Wonder: After a slightly steeper ascent, arrive at a breathtaking waterfall, a perfect spot for photos and a refreshing break.
• Wiñay Wayna Unveiled: Discover the impressive ruins of Wiñay Wayna (2,600 meters/8,500 ft.). Learn about the fascinating history of this site, partially hidden by lush jungle, as your guide shares insights into the region’s unique flora and fauna.
• Gourmet Lunch with a View: Savor a delicious lunch at a scenic spot overlooking Wiñay Wayna’s agricultural terraces, surrounded by vibrant tropical flowers. (Be sure to inform us of any dietary restrictions in advance!)
• Sun Gate and Machu Picchu: Ascend the iconic “Gringo Killer” stairs to the Sun Gate, where the first awe-inspiring glimpse of Machu Picchu awaits. Take your time soaking in this magical moment and capturing unforgettable photos.
• Machu Picchu Exploration: Descend to Machu Picchu, stopping to learn about the historical significance of various sites along the way. Capture iconic photos from the Guard House viewing platform and explore the ancient city’s temples, terraces, and intricate stonework.
• Aguas Calientes Retreat: In the late afternoon, as the crowds thin, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes. Check into your comfortable hotel and enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant. Explore this charming town, relax in the hot springs, or simply rest after an incredible day.

Day 5 Highlights:

• Inca Trail: Trek a scenic section of the legendary trail.
• Wiñay Wayna: Explore this fascinating archaeological site.
• Sun Gate: Experience the breathtaking first view of Machu Picchu.
• Machu Picchu: Discover the wonders of this ancient Incan city.
• Aguas Calientes: Relax in this charming town at the foot of Machu Picchu.
• Meals: Packed Lunch, Dinner in a restaurant in Aguas Calientes
• Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel (Hotel Ferre´ Machu Picchu)
• Difficulty: Moderate

• Machu Picchu at Dawn: Rise early and savor breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes before catching one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu. Witness the unforgettable sight of the ancient city bathed in the golden hues of sunrise – a truly magical experience not to be missed!

• Guided Exploration: Embark on a 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu. Your expert guide will unveil the history, mysteries, and architectural wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, bringing the ruins to life with fascinating stories and insights.

• Free Time & Lunch: After the guided tour, enjoy free time to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace. Capture stunning photos, wander through the ancient streets, or simply relax and absorb the majestic atmosphere. Head back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and perhaps squeeze in some souvenir shopping, museum visits, or a soothing soak in the hot springs.

• Scenic Train Ride: Board the Expedition Train in the afternoon for a scenic journey back to Ollantaytambo, following the winding Urubamba River through dramatic canyons and past the impressive Wiñay Wayna ruins.

• Return to Cusco: Our private vehicle will be waiting at the Ollantaytambo train station to whisk you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 7:00 p.m.

Day 6 Highlights:

• Machu Picchu Sunrise: Witness the ancient city bathed in the golden morning light.
• Guided Tour: Gain in-depth knowledge about Machu Picchu’s history and significance.
• Aguas Calientes: Explore this charming town, enjoy lunch, and perhaps visit the hot springs or a museum.
• Scenic Train Ride: Relish breathtaking views of the Urubamba River and surrounding landscape.
• Meals: Breakfast