Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in 5 Days

Highlights: Humantay Lake Trek.

"Smooth trekking day" Acclimatization day. Overnight in Soraypampa Lodge del Cielo "Sky Lodge" at 3,869 masl/12,690 ft.

Regarding our main Lodge del Cielo in Soraypampa: Situated just a 10-minute stroll from Soraypampa town, our camp offers a distinct advantage with its 360-degree panoramic view of the Humantay Lake glacier. It serves as an ideal retreat, providing a serene environment away from the bustling crowds. Here, one can relish the breathtaking scenery of the Andean Valley while enjoying the delightful presence of our charming Alpacas.

Tarawasi: En route, our journey includes a visit to the Tarawasi archaeological center, approximately 1.5 hours from Cusco. Nestled in the Limatambo district of Anta province in the Cusco region, Tarawasi sits beside the Limatambo River at an elevation of 2675 meters above sea level. The name is derived from the Quechua words "Lengua Inca," with "Tara" meaning bush and "Wasi" signifying home. This complex, believed to be commissioned by Inka Pachacuteq during his reign, served as a ceremonial center at the inception of the Chinchaysuyo. Notably, it features a temple constructed atop the Ushnu, a pyramidal ceremonial altar utilized for significant events. Given its strategic location, it also likely served as a rest stop on the route to the Chinchaysuyo.

After exploring Tarawasi, our journey continues through the mountain village of Mollepata, where a brief stop allows for relaxation before ascending to Soraypampa.

In Soraypampa, our initial camping site is set at "Lodge del Cielo." Following lunch, our journey leads us to Humantay Lake, sourced from glaciers high on the slopes of the majestic Mt. Humantay. The 4-hour trek is essential to reach the lake, but the captivating view makes the effort worthwhile, and for the adventurous, there's an opportunity for a refreshing swim! Guided by our local tour guide, this experience unfolds against the backdrop of the awe-inspiring Mt. Salkantay. Afterward, we return to the Lodge. 

• Meals: Lunch and dinner.
• Difficulty: Moderate to Defiant.
• Overnight: Lodge Del Cielo in Soraypampa.
• Accommodation: Double (2 people of the same gender).
• Starting elevation: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft.
• Maximum elevation: 4,200 m /13,780 ft.
• Altitude of our campsite: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft.
• Walking distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles.
• Walking Time: 5 to 6 hours approx.
• Climate: It can be quite cold and wintry or rainy at Laguna Humantay.

Walk and Terrain: Walk, on mostly steep trails, and some open slopes. Overnight at Collpapampa camp site Sky Lodge at 2,870 masl/9,414 ft.

Early in the morning, precisely at 4:00 am, our day begins with a steaming cup of wake-up tea. By 4:30 am, following a pleasant breakfast, our trek kicks off around 5:00 am, allowing us to navigate the Salkantay Pass during the cool, early hours before the Andean sun casts its characteristic warmth.

Advancing on our path to Machu Picchu, we traverse the White River valley and encircle Humantay Peak, navigating around Salkantay Peak. The pinnacle of our journey is the Salkantay Pass, reaching an altitude of 4,638 meters (15,213 feet). Pausing at the pass, we marvel at the snow-covered peaks of the Vilcabamba Range in every direction, with the imposing glaciated south face of Salkantay towering above us. Keep a lookout for Andean condors, frequently visible in this region. Descending from the pass, we head towards "Wayracmachay" (‘the cave where the wind lives’), where a delightful lunch awaits. Subsequently, a three-hour descent leads us to our campsite on the route, concluding the day with dinner and an overnight stay at the Sky Lodge.

Trekking Duration: Approximately 10 hours, inclusive of a picnic lunch along the way. Our approach involves a leisurely pace, allowing for the enjoyment of the scenery and engaging conversations with our tour guide. While a local individual can complete this trail in just 3 hours, our plan is to take a more relaxed 10-hour journey, which includes time for lunch.

A Bit of Historical Insight: The term Salkantay or Salcantay originates from the Inca word "Salqa," a Quechua term signifying wild, uncivilized, savage, or invincible, with documented usage dating back to 1583. The translation often rendered is "Savage Mountain."

Situated directly to the north of Salkantay is Machu Picchu, positioned at the terminus of a ridge extending from the mountain. When observed from the main sundial at Machu Picchu, the Southern Cross aligns with Salcantay's summit at its highest point in the sky during the rainy season. The Incas linked this alignment with notions of rain and fertility, regarding Salkantay as one of the principal deities overseeing weather and fertility in the region west of Cusco.

Regarding our camping site, "Lodge del Cielo," situated in Collpapampa: Positioned just a 10-minute walk from the village of Chaullay, our camp offers a significant advantage, providing a sweeping 360-degree view of the Salkantay Valley. Not only is it an ideal location, away from bustling crowds, but it also allows us the opportunity to interact with and learn about the local families in the area.

• Meals: lunch and dinner.
• Difficulty: Defiant .
• Overnight: Lodge Del Cielo in Colpapampa.
• Accommodation: Double (2 people of the same gender).
• Starting elevation: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft.
• Maximum elevation: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft.
• Altitude of our campsite: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft.
• Walking distance: 22 km / 13.67 miles.
• Walking Time: 9-10 hours approx.
• Climate: It can be quite cold and wintry or rainy at Abra Salkantay.

A brief stroll lasting 30 minutes through an avocado orchard leads us to our accommodation, the "Sky Lodge," situated in Lucmabamba. Dinner and overnight stay will be hosted at our Sky Lodge.

Hiking time: Approximately 5 hours Hike and Terrain: Hike on narrow trails.

Overnight at Lucmabamba Sky Lodge "Lodge del Cielo" at 2,062 masl/6,765 ft.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will begin our trek along the Inca Trail network. This day will be a memorable one, as we continue exploring the jungle brow, admiring the rich flora and fauna characteristic of the region. In particular, we will marvel at the coffee, tea and passion fruit plantations, as well as the diversity of trees. The climate in this area is temperate and humid, generating a microclimate conducive to the production of orchids, which, due to their colors and varieties, have been recognized by experts as the most beautiful in the world.

We will depart from Loreta to Lucmabamba, being advisable to use a vehicle to avoid dust on the road. From Lucmabamba, we will continue to Cocalmayo, approximately an hour and a half drive. We will continue our hike until we reach the hydroelectric station, where we will enjoy lunch. After a brief rest, we will continue walking along the railway until we reach the town of Aguas Calientes. Finally, we will conclude the day with dinner and accommodation in our lodging place.

Optional

Coffee tour

Regarding our headquarters, Lodge del Cielo, in Lucmabamba: Our camping area is located in Lucmabamba, an ideal place, away from crowds, where we can interact with the local communities. Currently, the main economic activity in the region is centered on coffee cultivation, and we are committed to providing support, while also having the opportunity to learn about coffee. Additional option: For those who opt for a private service, there is the possibility of participating in a local experience focused on coffee.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• Difficulty: Moderate.
• Overnight: Lodge Del Cielo in Lucmabamba
• Accommodation: Double (2 people of the same gender).
• Starting elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft.
• Maximum elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft.
• Lodging Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft.
• Walking distance: 18 km / 11.18 miles.
• Walking Time: 5 to 6 hours approx.
• Climate: Can be hot and rainy.

Overnight in Aguas Calientes at 1,900 masl/6,232 ft. Hiking Time: 5–6 hours Hiking Level: Moderate to challenging.

Following a nutritious breakfast, we embark on the concluding day of our trek. Our route ascends for 2-3 hours towards Llactapata Pass (2,736 m.a.s.l/8,974ft), unveiling a distant yet spectacular view of Machu Picchu Sanctuary from the southeast – a perspective few travelers have the opportunity to appreciate. We pause briefly to explore the recently restored Llactapata archaeological site.

Lunch is served at a picturesque vantage point overlooking Machu Picchu. Subsequently, we initiate our final descent to the Aobamba River, traversing lush bamboo forests, orchards, and coffee plantations.

Our journey leads us to the Hydroelectric Village, also known as the "Train Station Village." Continuing alongside the railway, we proceed towards Aguas Calientes, or Machu Picchu Village, in approximately 3 hours. Upon reaching our destination, we check into the hotel for a celebratory dinner with our guide, concluding with a final briefing for the upcoming day's experience!

Important note:

Individuals who opt not to trek from Hydroelectric Village to Aguas Calientes have the alternative of taking a 40-minute train journey (additional cost applies, not included in the tour package). They will rendezvous with the rest of the group at the train station in Aguas Calientes simultaneously. The guide will confirm your preferences the night before.

Concerning our accommodation in Machu Picchu Village: The hotel in Aguas Calientes will be selected based on your specific requests and expectations.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• Difficulty: Defiant.
• Overnight: Accomodation in Aguas Calientes
• Accommodation: Double (2 people of the same gender).
• Starting elevation: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft.
• Maximum elevation: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft.
• Altitude of Machu Picchu citadel: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft.
• Walking distance: 25 km / 15.53 miles
• Walking Time: 8 to 9 hours approx.
• Climate: It can be hot and rainy.

Following an early buffet breakfast at your hotel, we proceed to the bus station for a 30-minute journey to Machu Picchu Sanctuary. Our trip leader will provide an introductory guided tour of the Inca city.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu: The gates to Machu Picchu Inca City open at 6 am. We plan to be in the Inka City between 6 am and 7 am. After presenting our entrance tickets, we will ascend to the optimal vantage point, known as "The Guardian House," to capture some photographs. Following a 30-minute period for you to explore at your own pace, your guide will impart information about the Inka City for approximately 1 hour.

Following the guided explanation at the Guardian House, you will have two options:

1.- After the explanation from your Tour Guide at the Guardian's House, you can opt to ascend to the Sun Gate. This trek takes about one hour and offers an excellent opportunity to capture panoramic photos of the Andes and the captivating Machu Picchu. Those who have taken the Inca Trail will arrive through the Sun Gate later on. Subsequently, you can return to the Inca city and explore it independently.

2.- After the interpretation provided by your Tour Guide at the Guardian's House, we continue our exploration within the Inca city for an additional hour. This route takes us past the main plaza, the Temple of the Three Windows, and other significant sites. Upon reaching the Sacred Rock, which is very close to the entrance gate for Huayna Picchu Sacred Mountain, your guide will allow you some free time to explore the Inca city on your own. You also have the option to climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Sacred Mountain (additional cost, limited spaces, please inform us in advance).

Very Important Note 1: According to Machu Picchu regulations, once you enter the sacred city, it is not allowed to retrace your steps; it is a one-way tour. There are clear signs indicating the designated routes, and stopping in certain areas is prohibited. Therefore, we recommend savoring every moment in each Inca site.

Very Important Note 2: According to Machu Picchu regulations, entrance fees are valid for a single entry only. Once you exit the Inca City, reentry is not permitted unless you purchase a new ticket.

Returning to Cusco: You'll take a bus descent to Aguas Calientes (included) and subsequently catch the Expedition train around 4:22 pm (subject to train availability) to the Ollantaytambo Train Station. There, our private van will meet you for a transfer to Cusco, with an estimated arrival time around 8:30 pm.

• Meals: Breakfast.
• Difficulty: Easy.
• Starting elevation: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft.
• Elevation at Machu Picchu: 2400 m / 7872 ft.
• Elevation at Huayna Picchu: 2720m / 8924 ft.
• Elevation at Machu Picchu Mountain: 3000 m / 9843 ft.
• Walking Time: 2 to 3 hours exploring Machu Picchu.
• Climate: It can be hot and rainy.