Salkantay – Machu Picchu: 3 Days, 2 Nights

DAY 1

CUSCO – SORAYPAMPA – CHAULLAY

We left Cusco very early, passing through the towns of Izcuchaca and Limatambo, and after a 3-hour drive from Cusco, we arrived in Soraypampa.

After a hearty breakfast. We’ll begin today’s hike. This will be a day full of adventure as we visit Lake Salkantay and continue on to the highest point: the Salkantay Pass and the imposing snow-capped Humantay peak, located at 4,650 meters above sea level. From there, we’ll be able to appreciate the full majesty of the area—its mountain range, glaciers, and ravines— and feel the magic of the Andes. After a refreshing rest, we’ll begin the slow descent toward Huayracmachay, where we’ll have lunch and a well-deserved break. We’ll continue descending, entering the jungle fringe where we’ll enjoy indescribable views of the area, and then proceed to our first campsite in the Chaullay area, where we’ll have dinner and spend the night.

• Meals: Lunch and dinner.
• Distance: 16 km
• Hiking time: approx. 7 to 8 hours.
• Minimum elevation: 2,950 meters above sea level / 9,678 feet.
• Maximum elevation: 4,600 meters above sea level / 14,993 feet.

DAY 2

CHAULLAY – BEACH – SANTA TERESA – MACHU PICCHU PUEBLO

This day will be unforgettable. After breakfast, we’ll continue our hike along the jungle’s edge, taking in the flora and fauna typical of this area—especially the coffee and tea plantations and the trees. The climate here is mild and humid, which has created a microclimate ideal for the growth of orchids. Thanks to their colors and variety, experts have classified them as the most beautiful in the world. We’ll continue our hike until we reach the hydroelectric plant for lunch.

After a break, we’ll continue our hike to the town of Aguas Calientes, 2,000 meters above sea level. (Optional: You can visit the hot springs, located 1.2 kilometers from the town.) In the evening, we’ll have dinner and check into the hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Distance: 15 km
• Hiking time: approx. 7 to 8 hours.
• Minimum elevation: 1,850 meters above sea level / 6,069 feet.
• Maximum elevation: 2,950 meters above sea level / 9,678 feet.

DAY 3

AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO.

Very early in the morning, immediately after breakfast at the guesthouse, we’ll take a bus up the hill to the citadel of Machu Picchu—a half-hour ride—until we reach the Machu Picchu entrance and checkpoint, where we’ll take a guided tour of the urban and agricultural areas, as well as the watchtowers, ceremonial plazas, sacred fountain, the Intihuatana or sundial, and the terraces from which you’ll be able to gaze out over the Inca’s domain.

After a guided tour lasting approximately 2 hours, we’ll have some free time to take photos, and, in coordination with the guide, we’ll head down to the town of Aguas Calientes. We’ll board the train to the train station, where our transportation to Cusco will be waiting for us (we’ll drop you off at your hotel).