Itinerary

The Salkantay Trek is a journey of incredible natural contrasts, with accommodations in campsites and a final night in a hotel:

• Day 1: Cusco - Mollepata - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake (approx. 12 km hike)
  • Early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and scenic drive to Mollepata village.
  • Start of the trek towards Soraypampa (3,900 m.a.s.l.), our first campsite.
  • After lunch, hike to the stunning turquoise waters of Humantay Lake (4,200 m.a.s.l.).
  • Return to Soraypampa for dinner and overnight.
• Day 2: Soraypampa - Salkantay Pass - Chaullay (approx. 19 km hike)
  • The most challenging day. Gradual ascent to the highest point, the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m.a.s.l.), with breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks.
  • Descent through the lush cloud forest, observing the changing vegetation.
  • Arrival at our campsite in Chaullay (2,900 m.a.s.l.) for dinner and rest.
• Day 3: Chaullay - La Playa - Lucmabamba - Aguas Calientes (approx. 16 km hike + train)
  • Hike through the Santa Teresa valley, surrounded by coffee, banana, and avocado plantations.
  • Optional visit to local hot springs in La Playa or Cocalmayo (extra cost).
  • Transfer by local transportation to the hydroelectric plant or take a train to Aguas Calientes.
  • Check into a hotel in Aguas Calientes (2,040 m.a.s.l.) and free time to explore the town.
• Day 4: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco (Machu Picchu tour)
  • Early breakfast and bus ride up to the citadel of Machu Picchu (2,430 m.a.s.l.).
  • Guided tour (approx. 2.5 hours) exploring the main sectors of the iconic Inca citadel.
  • Free time to explore on your own (optional climb to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, must be booked in advance).
  • Return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included).
  • Board the return train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus transfer to your hotel in Cusco.

Includes / Does not Include

Includes:

• Hotel pick-up from your hotel in Cusco on Day 1.
• Transportation: Bus Cusco - Mollepata (trek start).
• Train ticket from Hydroelectric or Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (expedition service).
• Bus ticket from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
• Bus ticket Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes (Round trip on Day 4).
• Entrance fee to Machu Picchu.
• Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English).
• Horsemen and mules to carry camping equipment and food (up to a certain weight per person).
• Camping equipment: quality double tents, sleeping mats.
• Meals during the trek: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners (vegetarian/vegan options available upon request).
• Cook and kitchen equipment.
• 1 night of accommodation in a basic hotel in Aguas Calientes (Day 3).
• First aid kit and oxygen bottle.

Does not Include:

• Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch on Day 4.
• Entrance fee to the hot springs (optional on Day 3).
• Sleeping bag (can be rented).
• Trekking poles (can be rented).
• Additional horse for personal luggage (optional, extra cost).
• Tips for guides, horsemen, and cooks.
• Travel insurance.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (extra cost, must be booked in advance).

Recommendations (What to bring?):

• Original passport.
• Backpack for day hiking (25-30 liters).
• Sleeping bag (comfort rating -5°C recommended).
• Sturdy and waterproof trekking boots.
• Warm clothing for the pass (thermal layers, fleece, down jacket, gloves, wool hat).
• Lightweight clothing for the lower valleys (t-shirts, trekking pants).
• Waterproof jacket and pants (poncho).
• Swimsuit (for optional hot springs).
• Quick-dry towel.
• Headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent.
• Water bottle or hydration bladder (water can be refilled at campsites).
• Personal hygiene kit.
• Cash (Peruvian soles) for snacks, tips, and extras.
• Personal medication.
• Camera and extra batteries.