Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 8 Days 7 Nights

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 8 Days – 7 Nights

The amazing Salkantay trek to Machupicchu is one of the famous treks in Cusco and the best alternative route to get to Machu Picchu. It is takes you through different types of landscapes from the typical Andean landscape up to the snowcapped mountains and down to the tropical forests and finally gets you into the jungle, Salkantay trek named among the 25 best Treks in the World, by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine. If you are thinking to do a hiking trip to Machupicchu and you want to be off of the beaten path and be in touch with the nature; Salkantay trek is the best option.

Hiking 75 kilometers = 46 miles and reaching the famous Apacheta (mountain offerings) pass 4621masl = 15160ft which is the highest point of the Salkantay trek: enjoying the amazing view during the hike from Mollepata town to Soraypampa base camp at knee of the Umantay mountain. Then to go up to the highest point to enjoy the view of outstanding snow-capped Salkantay mount. This was one of the most important Apus in the Inca period! Then you are going dawn to Chaullay through the beautiful scenery and then go to Santa Teresa to jump into the natural and medicinal hot spring.

And finally we reach to Aguas Calientes town for overnight in the hotel and the last day of your adventure you will get up too early to be the firsts ones up in Machu Picchu and enjoy the sunrise.

• Day 1- Cusco City Tour.
• Days 2 – Cusco, Mollepata, Soraypampa.
• Days 3 – Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayramachay – Chaullay.
• Days 4 – Chaullay – Collpapampa – La Playa – Santa Teresa(Cola de Mono Campsite).
• Days 5 – Santa Teresa(Cola de Mono Campsite) – Hidroelectryc – Aguas Calientes.
• Days 6 – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.
• Days 7 – Sacred valley tour.
• Days 8 – End of our tour fly to lima.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 8 Days 7 Nights

Day 1- Cusco City Tour.

This ancient capital of the Inca Empire it is located at 3300 m above sea level made of stones an exceptional and perfect fit of each rocks each building has importance made by the Incas hand nothing has stopped them they went far in every activity that they have done. Worth to mention colonial churches, monasteries and convents, the city was made to be the center of the world made to last forever to the date we can admire and worship to the Incas civilization.

In the afternoon you will be collected from your hotel for your walking tour of Cusco’s historical centre. You will be accompanied by a qualified English speaking guide. In the afternoon we will pick you up from your hotel and we will start by visiting Cusco Cathedral which is one of the finest Colonial Cathedrals in the Latinamerica . Building started in 1560 and was completed in 1664. More than 90 years of sacrifice and effort Situated on the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral owes many treasures, history and mysteries in the Plaza de Armas every year there are celebrations can be cultural can be religious. Finally you visit Qoricancha (from the Quechua word Qori Qancha meaning (‘Temple of the Sun’).one of the most important temples of the Inca Empire, it was built to the Sun the father of the INCAS in the 17th century when Spanish arrived every temple was destroyed to the ground but QORICANCHA has survived and still stands to the eye of the world.

Day 2 – Cusco, Mollepata, Soraypampa.

We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco from 5: 00 am to 5:30 am to go by bus to Mollepata. Begin a spectacular scenic drive through the Anta plains with beautiful and panoramic views of the majestic Salkantay and other mountains covered with snow, and the Valley of Apurimac River. After two and a half hours drive we stop in Mollepata to have breakfast for last minute supplies, leg-stretching or to use the bathrooms, before continuing to Marcocasa. There we will meet with our support staff. They will load the equipment on horses and mules. Around 9:30 a.m. we will star our trek toward Soraypampa (3900 meters above sea level) if we keep a regular pace we will take 4 hours approximately to reach to Soraypampa the first camp site where will have lunch after lunch in the afternoon we have an option to go up to Umantay lake (4200masl) which takes 3 hours hike back and forth from the camp to see the glacier lake of Umantay. But if we keep slow pace; we will have lunch at halfway between Soraypampa and Marco Casa maybe after 3 hours of hiking. And after that we hike two a half hours more to Soraypampa. Anyway our camp is going be at Soraypampa.

Sleeping tents will be ready and we will have a warm delicious dinner in the evening.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Camping

Maximum Altitude: 3850 masl

Minimum Altitude: 2850 masl

Distance Travelled: 14km approx

Day 3 – Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Huayramachay – Chaullay.

Today early in the morning we will wake you up with the coca tea. Around 6:00 we will have a nutritious breakfast around 7:00 am we will start the hardest day of the whole Salkantay trek; we will be walking up to the highest point of the trek. After 6 kilometers uphill through the magnificent scenery of Rocky Mountains and enjoying the view of Salkantay mount. We reach the top of the trek.

We will appreciate spectacular views of the mountains and the imposing snowy peaks of the Salkantay (6264 meters above sea level) which is known as the second highest mountain of the Cusco region. After 2 hours downhill around 1:00 p.m. we will have our delicious Peruvian lunch, in the area called Huayracmachay. Then we continue our hike to Chaullay approximately 3 hours of downhill we will get to our camp in Chaullay = 2900 masl Where we will have the sleeping tents ready. Around 7: 00 pm we will have dinner to recover energy from the trek.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Camping

Maximum Altitude: 4650 masl

Minimum Altitude: 2920 masl

Distance Travelled: 20km to Chaullay

Day 4 – Chaullay – Collpapampa – La Playa – Santa Teresa(Cola de Mono Campsite).

Around 7:30 am; we will start our trek to La Playa through the Santa Teresa valley. We will hike 6 hours approximately during the hike will see: water fall, orchids, coffee, banana, avocado plantations and we will taste the famous passion fruit or granadilla and also we will see a village call Colpapampa also call the “forest cloudy brow” where waterfalls, thermal hot springs, fruit- bearing trees, varied flora, and birds can be observed. If we are lucky, we will be able to see the famous bird called “the Cock of the Rocks”.  After lunch at La playa, we will catch a local transportation to Santa Teresa. Where will have an overnight at “cola de mono” campsite. We are the only trekking company allow camping there. In the afternoon we may go to Santa Teresa ́s hot spring to enjoy it.

Then back at the campsite for happy hours and dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Camping

Maximum Altitude: 2920 masl

Minimum Altitude: 2350 masl

Distance Travelled: Approx 15km

Days 5 – Santa Teresa(Cola de Mono Campsite) – Hidroelectryc – Aguas Calientes.

After of our delicious breakfast we are going to walk approximately 7 hours. Around 8:30 a.m. we start our trek to Colpani village we will have the opportunity to see coca farms, mandarin, orange and yucca. And a lovely view of the Santa Teresa Valley. We follow along the riverside of Vilcanota River until arrive to the Oroya (cable bridge) then we keep going to Hidroelectrica where will have our lunch. After lunch we going to walk along the train track but on the base of Machupicchu and Waynapicchu Mountain from the way we will see Machupicchu.

After two a half hours hike we will be at Aguas Calientes town: base town of Machupicchu for overnight in the hotel and dinner at the local restaurant.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Dinner Overnight: in Aguas Calientes at the hotel which included in the package.

Maximum Altitude: 2350 masl

Minimum Altitude: 2000 masl

Distance Travelled: 10km aprox.

Days 6: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.

Today early in the morning after breakfast at the hotel you will be able to choose between. Walk up to Machupicchu. Or take bus up to Machupicchu. Any way we will be the first ones into Machupicchu to enjoy the sunrise and you will have two a half hours guided tour.

Then you will have the free time to explore Machupicchu by yourselves or if you desire, ascent toward the Huaynapicchu Mountain. Or climb to Machupicchu montaña. After Machupicchu you are going back to Aguas Calientes to take a train to Ollantaytambo and spend the night down in the valley.

Day 7: Sacred Valley Tour.

We will pick you from your hotel , to take a guided tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, over the Vilcanota river, for a panoramic view of the Inca citadel. Ollantaytambo
Today early in the morning after breakfast you will be visiting the Ollantaytambo fortress and citadel of Ollantaytambo, built to guard the entrance to this part of the valley and protect it from possible invasion from the tribes of the jungle. We will have the opportunity to walk the streets of the town and have a clear idea of what this military, religious and agricultural center during the Inca Empire was.

The archaeological complex of Pisac, is situated on hillside of the mountain from where offer us a great overview. This wonderful place is made up of groups of platforms and architectural structures scattered on the slopes and at the top of the mountain, Pisac is one of the most beautiful monumental centers it combines landscape with impeccable finish of their buildings. Pisac artisanal Market Located 30 km from the city of Cusco, the main square of Pisac market houses, colorful and cheerful place, where the most famous Cusco Andean handicrafts made by hands are exhibited, including crafts, projecting pieces textiles, ponchos bags, etc. handicrafts and ceramics, which are reproductions of Inca archaeologies parts like stocks ( ceremonial glasses ), necklaces, etc.

To this fair traders and artisans of many indigenous peoples , dressed in their costumes. From the valley you ascent to a higher altitude as our driver take you to Tambomachay. Situated at 3.700 m of sea level a Quechua word ( Tampu machay ) the place where people can rest a short period of time . it could also be the bath of the Ñusta ( the Inca princess) it is also believed the sanctuary to the cult of water Next stop will be Puka Pukara Quechua word ( red fortress).

This is an Inca archaeological site it was a military and administrative site it was built to control, provide security and defend the Cusco city , as well as the control of the route to Calca that led to the Antisuyo (Forest County of the Inca). The route then goes to the carved rocks of the Temple of the Moon and through the maze of rocks and tunnels of the Temple of the Monkey kusilluchayoq before arriving at Qenqo. is believed to be a multifunctional religious site was also a place of Andean worldview where nature converges and the space around us and astrological observatory, commissioned by people specifically looking for the seasons, the wise INKAS this archaeological site is unique, here the carving of many animals can be seen in high relief were considered secondary gods in the time of the Incas, and consists of rests formed by rocks with stairs in a zigzag, and a main building similar to a circular amphitheatre where 19 window sills are located as a way of seats.

You then move on to one of the most important Inca sites in South America, the enormous fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Scene of epic battles between Conquistadores and Incas, brave inka warriors protecting the citadel against the Spaniards, an ancient Inca story of Captain Cahuide he remained more than three days fighting the Spaniards killing one of the pizarro brothers, after having been alone and no one else around, Cahuide bravely threw himself in one of the towers to avoid being killed by the hands of the Spaniards. this cannot fail to impress.

While the high towers that once dominated the skyline were long since razed to the ground, the sheer scale of the zigzag stone walls is a sight to behold. Its construction took over seven decades and required the work of approximately 20,000 men.

The stone was dragged from 20 miles away and still today we are not quite sure how they moved the huge megaliths into place. Some of its external walls exceed 30 feet in height and the largest stone weighs over 350 tonnes. From Sacsayhuaman we will head down to Cusco leaving you some time to wander these ancient streets, explore some more of the sites or just relax in a café on the Plaza de Armas.

Day 8: End of our tour fly to lima.

What is included?

• pick snd transfer from airport to hotel
• all pick ups from all ports or hotels
• entrance tickets to machupicchu
• buses up and down
• Pre-departure briefing: You will meet your guide and group in our office for an orientation to the trek and we will provide you the duffle bags which will be carried by our porters or horses depending what destination you are hiking. The meeting will be at 6:00 PM the evening before your trip begins.
• Transport: pick up from your hotel in the morning and transportation in a private vehicle to the starting point of the trek.
•  English speaking tour guide ,
• Personal tents:  2 people stay in each 4-person tent to allow for higher comfort and luggage security.
• Camping equipment: Dining and kitchen tents, tables, chairs, and all cooking equipment (carried by porters or horses ).
• 01 Duffle bag: You can put your personal belongings (up to 5 kilos/11 lbs), includes your sleeping bag, in here to be carried by the porters or horses.
• Accommodation:  night in tents
• Porters: We include your personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel with your personal items (up to 5 kilos/11 lbs). There is no additional fee for this. We will give you your duffel bag at the briefing the night before, and this should be filled with the things you need for night and the next day. You will not have access to your duffel until you arrive at the evening campsite.
• Trekking Cook: A chef specialized in cooking on the trail, with an assistant, will prepare all of your delicious meals along the journey .
• Meals: 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 dinners and Snacks (Vegetarian, vegan or special menus are available at no extra cost)
• Wake up tea: Every morning at the campsite, you will woken up with a cup of coca tea! Our staff will bring the tea to your tent so that you will be warmed from inside out before you start your day.
• Tea time: Every afternoon before dinner, the cooks will provide popcorn, biscuits, coffee, hot chocolate, teas, hot water, etc. After a long day of hiking, you will not have to wait until dinner to relax, warm up, and enjoy a bite to eat!
• Daily snacks – Days 1, 2 and 3: Our snacks consist of local fruits, biscuits, chocolate, caramels, etc. We will give this snack to you at the beginning of each day in your cloth bag.
• Medical kit: Our crew will bring a first-aid kit, including emergency oxygen bottle.
• Train tickets: From Cuzco to Aguas Calientes and viceversa . (subject to availability)
• Transport: Private transport from hotel to  train station and viceversa
• 24-hour guest service: We have telephone service available 24 hours/day for ease of communication and preparation with the agency leading up to your trek.

Not included:

• Sleeping Bags: You can rent one from our company if you do not have your own. Our sleeping bags are effective and durable to protect from temperatures as low as -18ºC (0ºF). They are mummy form and include a sleeping liner. The bags are cleaned after every use
• Walking Sticks: You can rent a set from our company if you would like.
• Last Day: Lunch and Dinner in Aguas Calientes.
• Personal clothing and gear
• Travel insurance
• Tips for our staff
• Additional costs or delays out of control of the management (landscape, bad weather condition, itinerary modification due to a safety concern, illness, change of government policy, political instability/strike, etc.)
• all meals which is not specified
• all entrances to inka sites