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Peru · Trekking
The journey
Embark on an adventurous journey across the snow-capped Salkantay (6264 m/20551 ft), considered the most prominent mountain of the Vilcabamba mountain range. This trek takes you back to the time of the Incas on the way to Machu Picchu, while introducing you to the wonderful views of mythical mountains such as Tucarhuay and Humantay. Along the route, experience changing landscapes from high Andean valleys to tropical forest before reaching the iconic archaeological site.
Early in the morning, trek to the archaeological complex of Llactapata (2800 m/9186 ft), located amidst an eclectic array of vegetation, and take in a beautiful view of Machu Picchu.
From the itinerary
At a glance
Day by day
Leave Cusco at 5:30 AM and head towards Marcoccasa (3500 m/11482 ft), passing through the village of Mollepata.
Meet the horseman in Marcoccasa (3500 m/11482 ft) and begin hiking through a magnificent valley, surrounded by snow-capped mountains such as Humantay (5217 m/17116 ft) and Salkantay (6270 m/20570 ft).
Reach the campsite at Soraypampa (3900 m/12795 ft).
After breakfast, set off towards Salkantay Pass (4650 m/15255 ft), which offers an exceptional view of the snow-capped Salkantay (6264 m/20570 ft).
Descend and enjoy the increasingly lush vegetation of the ecosystem.
Arrive at the campsite of Chaullay (2900 m/9514 ft), located in a tropical forest.
Explore the region's flora, cloud forest, and the diversity of orchids, bromeliads, and many other plants.
Visit coffee, cacao, and fruit plantations, and meet local families at Wiñaypoco (2650 m) and La Playa (1900 m/6233 ft).
Reach the camping site in La Playa.
Early in the morning, trek to the archaeological complex of Llactapata (2800 m/9186 ft), located amidst an eclectic array of vegetation, and take in a beautiful view of Machu Picchu.
Continue down to the hydroelectric station (1950 m/6398 ft).
Take the train to Aguas Calientes (2000 m/6561 ft) to reach your next accommodation.
Leave the hotel after breakfast at 5:30 AM and head for Machu Picchu (2400 m/7874 ft) by tourist bus.
Arrive at the citadel around 6:00 AM. After a guided tour of the archaeological site, including information about the life and culture of the Incas, enjoy the sites of Machu Picchu on your own.
Leave Aguas Calientes by train. Before departure, have lunch at a restaurant and visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes to relax.
Where this trip takes you
Salkantay snow-capped peak, Humantay glacial slopes, Llactapata ridge, Machu Picchu citadel
The route
The fine print
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Cusco
Pre-briefing with the tour guide before travelling
Private transport from your hotel in Cusco to Mollepata
Transport from La Playa to the hydroelectric station (for the equipment and everyone's bags only)
Tourist train from the hydroelectric station to Aguas Calientes
Tourist bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (two ways)
Tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Cusco, or tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cusco
Hostel with private room and bathroom in Aguas Calientes town
Entrance to Salkantay National Park and Machu Picchu
Professional mountaineering guide
High-quality camping equipment (professional tent, Doite Cima 4, for 2 persons), mattresses, eating tent with table and chairs, and bathroom tent
Meals during the excursion (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and tea time)
Cook and assistant
Horseman and mules for up to 8 kg of a customer's personal equipment
Emergency horse
First-aid kit and oxygen bottle
Breakfast on the 1st day and lunch on the 5th day in Aguas Calientes
Hot springs in Aguas Calientes (optional: $4.00)
Sleeping bag (if you do not have a sleeping bag, there is the possibility of renting one with our company)
Backpack with rain shelter
Sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C)
Clothing for warm and cold climates, such as a waterproof jacket
Rain pants and lightweight pants
Trekking shoes
Slippers or sandals (for showers and hot springs)
Woolen or synthetic socks and a sweater
Long- and short-sleeved polos/T-shirts
Rain poncho and a hat
Bathing suit (for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
Sunscreen, insect repellent, disinfecting alcohol and gel, toiletries, and toilet paper
Camera (wrapped in a plastic bag), a flashlight, and batteries
Some snacks, such as chocolate bars and dry fruit
Original passport, original ISIC student card, extra money, and insoles
Visit to Huayna Picchu: for the visit to Huayna Picchu mountain, prepare advance booking and pay an additional $15.00 to confirm the entrance to Huayna Picchu (this new state law has been applicable since 18 July 2011).
From the first to the third day (from Marcocasa to La Playa), horsemen and mules accompany the group and carry all camping equipment and the customer's private luggage (up to 8 kg). On the fourth day, all luggage will be transferred to the hydroelectric station by car.
Tips for porters, cooks, and guides are always welcome. The porters are also very grateful for a small donation, for example clothes or school equipment for their children.
Since the weather can be very cold and moist, your clothes, once wet, will not dry at night. So take some clothes to change into.
From Cusco to Soraypampa:
Bus travel time: 2 ½ hours
Approximate walking time: 6 hours
Approximate walking distance: 10 km
Difference in height: 3500-3900 m (11482-12795 ft)
From Soraypampa to Chaullay:
Approximate walking time: 8-9 hours
Approximate walking distance: 21 km
Difference in height: 3900-4650 Pass-2900 m (12795-15255 pass-9514 ft)
From Chaullay to La Playa:
Approximate walking time: 6 hours
Approximate walking distance: 15 km
Difference in height: 1900-2800 Pass-2000 m (6233-9186 Pass-6561 ft)
Logistics
Your 5 days finish where they began, in Cusco.
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