10 Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Discover the vibrant history and culture of Peru’s capital on an exciting Lima city tour. Start your journey in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will admire colonial-era architecture and visit iconic landmarks such as the Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, and the majestic Lima Cathedral. Wander through the charming streets to discover the Monastery of San Francisco, famous for its beautiful cloisters and intriguing catacombs.

Continue to the modern districts of Miraflores and San Isidro, where you’ll experience the contemporary side of Lima. Visit Parque Kennedy, stroll along the scenic Malecón overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline. As you explore these neighborhoods, you’ll witness the vibrant atmosphere that makes Lima unique, from bustling markets to tranquil parks.

Your knowledgeable guide will share stories about Lima’s rich heritage, blending ancient traditions with modern influences. Experience the city’s culinary wonders by stopping at a local café or market to sample traditional Peruvian delicacies. Whether it’s the exquisite ceviche or freshly made picarones, your taste buds are in for a treat!

This tour provides the perfect introduction to Lima, showcasing the diverse beauty, history, and culture of the “City of Kings.”

Your flight to Cusco will arrive at 11,152 feet (3,399 meters) early in the morning. To help your body acclimate to the altitude, taking it easy on your first day is advisable. Be sure to drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals, and rest as needed to ensure a comfortable adjustment to the high altitude.

The city tour will provide a glimpse of the rich history and culture of the former Inca capital. Highlights include the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), where Inca stonework meets colonial architecture, and the magnificent Cusco Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas, showcasing colonial art and history. You’ll also explore the impressive Inca fortress of Sacsayhuamán, with its massive stone walls and panoramic views, as well as the ceremonial sites of Q’enqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay, each steeped in Inca tradition and ingenuity. This tour is perfect for those eager to uncover the essence of Cusco’s heritage in a short yet enriching experience.

Embarking on the Salkantay Trek, we’ll depart Cusco at 5:30 a.m., journeying through the quaint village of Mollepata (9,515 feet / 2,900 meters) en route to Marcoccasa (11,154 feet / 3,400 meters). Here, we’ll rendezvous with our horsemen and fellow trekkers to commence our hike. Our path winds through a magnificent valley, flanked by the towering snow-capped peaks of Humantay (17,116 feet / 5,217 meters) and Salkantay (20,551 feet / 6,264 meters). After covering approximately 4.97 miles (8 kilometers) over 4 to 5 hours of moderate trekking, we’ll reach our campsite at Soraypampa (12,139 feet / 3,700 meters).

CUSCO – MOLLEPATA (MARCOCCASA) – SORAYPAMPA

Distance: 4.97 miles / 8 kilometers
Minimum Altitude: 12,300 feet / 3,750 meters
Maximum Altitude: 13,710 feet / 4,180 meters
Approximate Time: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

After a hearty breakfast, we will embark on a challenging ascent toward the Salkantay Pass, reaching an impressive 15,092 feet (4,600 meters) above sea level. From this vantage point, we will take in breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain, towering at 20,551 feet (6,264 meters). As we begin our descent, the scenery gradually shifts, revealing lush vegetation and a diverse ecosystem. The journey continues through an ever-changing landscape, leading us to our campsite at Challway (9,842 feet / 3,000 meters), nestled in the tropical forest.

SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY PASS – CHALLWAY

• Distance: 9.94 miles (16 km)
• Minimum Altitude: 9,676 feet (2,950 meters)
• Maximum Altitude: 14,989 feet (4,570 meters)
• Approximate Time: 7-9 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging

This day is one of the most demanding but rewarding, offering some of the most stunning views on the Salkantay Trek.

On the third day of our journey, we’ll immerse ourselves in the region’s rich biodiversity and agricultural heritage. Descending into a shaded forest, we’ll encounter a vibrant array of orchids, bromeliads, and numerous other plant species. As we continue, the trail will lead us through flourishing coffee, cacao, and various fruit plantations. Along the way, we’ll have the opportunity to engage with local families in the communities of Wiñaypoco ( 8,694 feet / 2650 meters) and La Playa ( 6,890 feet / 2,100 meters ), gaining insights into their daily lives and traditions. Our day concludes with an overnight stay at the La Playa campsite.

CHALLWAY – WIÑAYPOCO – LA PLAYA

Minimum Altitude: 6,068 feet / 1,850 meters
Maximum Altitude: 9,676 feet / 2,950 meters
Approximate Time: 6-7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

Early in the morning, we will set out on our trail toward the Llactapata archaeological complex, situated at 8,694 feet (2,650 meters) above sea level. This remarkable site is surrounded by diverse vegetation and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu from a unique perspective. After taking in the stunning scenery, we will descend toward the hydroelectric station at 6,398 feet (1,950 meters). From here, we will board the train for a scenic ride to Aguas Calientes (6,726 feet / 2,050 meters), where we will spend the night in a comfortable hotel, preparing for our visit to Machu Picchu the following day.

LA PLAYA – LLACTAPATA – AGUAS CALIENTES

Distance: 7.46 miles (12 km)
Minimum Altitude: 6,068 feet (1,850 meters)
Maximum Altitude: 8,900 feet (2,700 meters)
Approximate Time: 4-6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

This day combines history, nature, and adventure, making it one of the most rewarding sections of the Salkantay Trek.

After an early breakfast, we’ll depart from our hotel at 5:30 a.m., boarding a tourist bus to Machu Picchu, situated at an elevation of 7,972 feet (2,430 meters) above sea level.

The bus journey is approximately 5.6 miles (9 kilometers) and takes about 30 minutes. We arrive at the citadel around 6:00 a.m.

Upon arrival, we’ll embark on a guided tour of the archaeological site, delving into the life and culture of the Incas. Following the tour, you’ll have ample time to explore Machu Picchu and, if desired, hike Huayna Picchu, which stands 8,835 feet (2,693 meters) above sea level.

In the afternoon, we’ll depart Aguas Calientes by train at either 3:45 p.m. or 6:45 p.m., providing flexibility for your return to Cusco. Before departure, you can enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants or visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes for relaxation.

AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO:

• Morning: Early bus ride to Machu Picchu, guided tour, and personal exploration time.
• Afternoon: Return to Aguas Calientes, have lunch, make an optional hot springs visit, and depart by train to Cusco.

As your journey comes to an end, please pack your bags, enjoy breakfast, and prepare for your transfer to the airport for your return home. Alternatively, you may extend your adventure with one of our captivating Cusco tours or Sacred Valley excursions. We also invite you to explore our full range of fully customizable Peru tours, offering opportunities to further enrich your Latin American experience.