ABOUT THE ITINERARY
This lodge-to-lodge trek will take you on a remarkable journey along a historic section of the ancient Inca Trail, crossing the Salkantay Pass at 4,600m. At the end of each day you will retreat to the comfort of luxurious mountain lodges where you will have the pleasure of fine dining, outdoor Jacuzzis and unbeatable views.
As you make your way through the Andean Mountains you’ll not only take in stunning landscapes – snow-capped peaks and stunning glacial lakes – but you’ll also experience Peru’s vibrant living culture in traditional towns and villages along the way. The trip culminates with the magnificent mountain-top monument of Machu Picchu, a truly wondrous site worthy of its rank amongst the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Is this for me?
The Salkantay Trek is demanding and a good level of fitness is recommended, as well as acclimatisation in Cusco beforehand. One of the passes is over 4,400m above sea-level and there are some steep inclines and declines. The Salkantay itinerary passes through some magnificent mountain scenery en route to Machu Picchu, but for those looking for a shorter lodge-to-lodge trek or a more cultural program, Mountain Lodges of Peru also operate an alternative program called the ‘Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure‘ which focuses on the remote villages and communities in the area, along with some of the historical Inca sites en route (ending at Machu Picchu).
Mountain Lodges of Peru also offer the Salkantay trek on horseback.
Note: The Mountain Lodges of Peru Salkantay Trek has set departure dates and is in small groups (normally up to 16). It operates all year round, except for January and February.
DESIGNED BY SPECIALISTS
Bear in mind, these are just a starting point as all holidays are customised to the specific requirements of our guests. Whether you prefer a different style of accommodation, a greater focus on a particular interest or to go to a different destination all together, every itinerary is created individually around your preferences.
CUSCO
On day 1 you will arrive into the ancient Inca capital of Cusco, where you will be met and driven to your hotel in the historic centre.
Note: Most international flights to Peru will arrive into Lima and then it is a 1 1/2 hour connecting flight to Cusco. There are some airlines which fly directly into Cusco though.
Cusco is over 3,300m above altitude and it is important to acclimatise before starting the Mountain Lodges of Peru, Salkantay Trek. We have included three nights for you to adjust to the altitude and on your second full day in the city, you will be taken on a private tour of the Cusco’s main attractions.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cusco is nestled in a green valley high in the Andean mountains and is home to some truly remarkable colonial architecture and relics left over from the Inca Empire. A private tour will show you the spectacular Inca ruins in the surrounding countryside, including the temple of Kenko, the Red Fortress of Puca Pucara and the mighty Sacsayhuaman fortress.
In the evening of day 3 you’ll meet the trip leaders for a briefing before the trek.
Stay: Three nights at El Mercado – bed & breakfast
MOUNTAIN LODGES OF PERU – SALKANTAY TREK
Day 4 – On the way to Soraypampa
Today the Mountain Lodges of Peru Trek begins and you will be picked up by your guide from your hotel in Cusco.
In the morning: Visit the Quillarumiyoc archaeological site on the way to the town of Mollepata.
In the afternoon: Lunch at El Pedregal before your first trek to MLP’s flagship Salkantay Lodge. Approximately 3 hours – Easy to Moderate.
Optional: Guests may opt out of the trek and continue by transport to Salkantay Lodge.
Stay: Two nights at Salkantay Lodge (12,690’ / 3,869 m)
Day 5 – Hike to Lake Humantay
In the morning: Early morning round-trip hike to the turquoise waters of Lake Humantay. Approximately 4 hours – Moderate.
In the afternoon: Lunch at Salkantay Lodge and afternoon at leisure
Optional: Afternoon horseback riding at Soraypampa (subject to additional cost)
Day 6 – Crossing the Salkantay Pass
In the morning: Journey through the Salkantay River Valley as you begin your climb to the Salkantay Pass
In the afternoon: After marveling at the majesty of the Salkantay Peak and patting yourself on the back for a job well-done, enjoy lunch on the mountain before heading down to Wayraccmachay. Approximately 7 hours – Challenging (max elevation 4,640m)
Stay: One night at Wayra Lodge (12,812’ / 3,906 m)
Day 7 – Descending into the cloud forest
In the morning: Begin your descent into the cloud forest on the way to Colpa Lodge
In the afternoon: Upon arrival, the staff will be waiting for us with a traditional Pachamanca lunch; afternoon at leisure. Approximately 4 hours – Easy to Moderate.
Stay: One night at Colpa Lodge (9,414’/2,870m)
Day 8 – Following the Santa Teresa river valley
In the morning: Descend along the Santa Teresa River towards Lucmabamba
In the afternoon: Picnic lunch along the river, followed by a short hike & a van ride; afternoon visit to a local coffee plantation before arrival. Approximately 6 hours – Moderate to Challenging.
Stay: One night at Lucma Lodge (7,003’/2,135m)
Day 9 – First views of Machu Picchu
In the morning: Travel uphill through the cloud forest to the Llactapata Pass for a seldom-seen view of Machu Picchu.
In the afternoon: Lunch en route followed by a winding descent to the Aobamba River Valley, ending the day with a 30-minute train ride to Aguas Calientes.
Stay: One night at Machu Picchu Inkaterra Hotel (6,232’/1,900m)
MACHU PICCHU
The Citadel of Machu Picchu
Your journey to Machu Picchu begins with a rollicking morning uphill bus ride, followed by a guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel. After the tour you will have free time to explore on your own or hike up Huayna Picchu*, the iconic mountain that looms overhead. After the visit you will have lunch in Aguas Calientes before the return train ride to Ollantaytambo (approximately 1.5 hours) and vehicle transfer to your hotel in Cusco (approximately 1.5 hours).
*Note: Permits for Huayna Picchu are subject to availability; please consult with your Ultimate Travel Specialist when you confirm your reservation. In the event that Huayna Picchu permits are not available for your desired date, Machu Picchu Mountain (the second peak within the sanctuary) permits will be secured instead.
Stay: One night at El Mercado – bed & breakfast
FLY HOME
Arrangements end after breakfast on day 11 and you’re free to either return to Cusco airport for your onward flight connections, or continue your journey through Peru and South America.
PRICE INCLUDES
- All transfers
- Bed & breakfast at El Mercado Hotel
- All meals whilst with Mountain Lodges of Peru (from lunch on day 4 to lunch on day 10)
- Service of an English speaking guide
- Entrance fees and permits to points of interest and archeological sites (including Machu Picchu)
PRICE EXCLUDES
- International and domestic flights
- Additional activities which aren’t included (e.g 1 day Inca Trail or Huayna Picchu permits))
PLAN YOUR TRIP
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