Discover The Salkantay Route to Machu Picchu – 11 Days / 10 Nights

Start your journey in Peru’s capital by exploring its historic Plaza de Armas and ancient temples. Then, take a flight to Cusco, where you’ll visit an Andean camelid museum and venture into the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas, surrounded by breathtaking mountains. On day four, join one of the most iconic trekking experiences in South America – the 5-day Salkantay Trek.

This route takes you from icy mountain passes to the lush cloud forest, leading up to the grand finale: the legendary Machu Picchu. It’s a favorite among travelers looking for an adventurous and alternative way to reach the ancient Inca citadel.

Along the trail, you’ll witness natural wonders like the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, hike over Salkantay Pass – the highest point of the trek – and enjoy warmer, tropical climates as you descend into the jungle. Your final day is spent exploring the majestic Machu Picchu before heading back to Cusco via scenic train to Ollantaytambo and onward to Cusco.

DAY 1: WELCOME TO LIMA | Lima

Welcome to Peru! One of our local representatives will be waiting for you at the airport and will transfer you directly to your hotel.

DAY 2: LIMA CITY TOUR – FLIGHT TO CUSCO | Cusco

In the morning, you’ll enjoy a guided tour through downtown Lima, exploring the Plaza de Armas, the Church of San Francisco, and its haunting catacombs. This city tour lasts approximately 4 hours.

In the afternoon, catch a domestic flight to the historic city of Cusco.

DAY 3: HANDS OF THE COMMUNITY – PISAC – OLLANTAYTAMBO | Cusco

Start your day with a visit to the Andean Camelid Museum, followed by a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Stops include the traditional artisan market and archaeological site of Pisac.

In the afternoon, explore the town of Ollantaytambo and the picturesque village of Chinchero, both rich in history and culture.

DAY 4: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – CHALLACANCHA – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAKE | Glamping

We’ll pick you up early and drive through the villages of Anta and Mollepata before reaching Challacancha (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), where the trek officially begins. From here, hike to the base camp in Soraypampa.

In the afternoon, hike to the stunning Humantay Lake, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, then return to camp for a warm dinner and a cozy night in our glamping domes.

DAY 5: SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY PASS – HUAYRACMACHAY – CHAULLAY | Glamping

Rise early for a challenging but unforgettable day. Today, you’ll conquer Salkantay Pass (4,632 m / 15,197 ft), the highest point of the trek. Enjoy dramatic views of snowcapped peaks before descending through changing landscapes toward your next campsite in Chaullay.

DAY 6: CHAULLAY – SAHUAYACO – LUCMABAMBA | Glamping

This part of the trek takes you from cool mountain air into the warm, tropical climate of the cloud forest. Pass through lush plantations of coffee, bananas, and coca until you reach Lucmabamba.

In the afternoon, you have the option to visit the soothing hot springs of Cocalmayo, the perfect reward after three days of hiking.

DAY 7: LUCMABAMBA – LLACTAPATA – HYDROELECTRIC STATION – AGUAS CALIENTES | Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, start the climb along the ancient Inca trail of Qhapaq Ñan. After approximately 2 hours, you’ll arrive at Llactapata (2,840 m / 9,317 ft), an archaeological site offering panoramic views of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.

From there, descend to the hydroelectric station. You can either take the train to Aguas Calientes (ticket not included), or continue hiking along the tracks for around 3 more hours.

Once in Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft), settle into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

DAY 8: MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO | Cusco

After an early breakfast, board the bus up to Machu Picchu. Together with your guide, enjoy a private tour of the Inca citadel, learning about its fascinating architecture, history, and hidden secrets.

After the tour, return to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time to explore or enjoy lunch. Later, board the scenic Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo, and from there a vehicle will take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

DAY 9: FREE DAY IN CUSCO | Optional: Maras & Moray or City Tour

Enjoy a free day in Cusco to relax or explore at your own pace. Visit San Blas, the artisan neighborhood, shop for souvenirs, or discover traditional markets.

If you wish, you can join an optional 4-hour tour to the salt mines of Maras or the circular terraces of Moray (additional cost applies).

DAY 10: VINICUNCA RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TREK | Cusco

Wake up early for an epic day! At around 3:30 AM, you’ll head out to Cusipata, where you’ll enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast.

Then continue to the starting point of the trek. The trail to Rainbow Mountain (5,100 m / 16,732 ft) starts at Llacto and takes around 1.5 hours, becoming more challenging as you ascend.

At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of colorful mineral-rich formations and the stunning Red Valley in the distance.

Return by the same route, have a well-deserved lunch, and arrive back in Cusco around 5 PM.

DAY 11: CUSCO – LIMA – INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT

Your adventure comes to an end. We’ll transfer you to the airport in Cusco for your domestic flight to Lima and your international connection.

We hope you leave Peru with unforgettable memories!

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS TRIP

  • Discover Lima’s historical center on a fascinating 4-hour walking tour.
  • Explore the imperial city of Cusco, strolling through its charming streets and bustling local markets.
  • Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.
  • Embark on the unforgettable 4-day Salkantay trek, finishing with a visit to the world wonder Machu Picchu.
  • Spend your nights under the stars in luxurious glamping camps set in nature.
  • Enjoy breakfasts and lunches prepared with fresh local ingredients during your 4-day trek.
  • Conquer the highest point on the trail: the Salkantay Pass.
  • Hike along sacred mountains like Humantay and Salkantay, revered by the Incas as “Apus.”
  • Marvel at the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake—an absolute gem of the Andes.
  • Walk the famous Hydroelectric trail to Aguas Calientes, the most popular route for budget-conscious travelers heading to Machu Picchu.
  • Explore lush plantations of fruit, coca leaves, and coffee trees on your way through Santa Teresa.
  • Soothe your body in the thermal pools of Cocalmayo after three days of hiking.
  • Connect with history as you explore Machu Picchu’s streets, temples, and agricultural terraces.
  • Visit Machu Picchu with a private guide and uncover its mysteries at your own pace.
  • Travel in style with a panoramic train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, complete with an onboard show.

Day 1: WELCOME TO LIMA | Lima

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Depending on your arrival time at Lima International Airport, a representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Miraflores. You’ll receive a short 2-hour orientation with helpful tourist tips, currency exchange assistance, recommendations, and a briefing about your upcoming adventure.

Included:

  • Private transfer from the airport to your hotel in Miraflores
  • Welcome assistance (9:00 AM – 7:00 PM): sightseeing, money exchange, local tips, and tour briefing
  • One night of accommodation in Lima

Not included:

  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Delays or additional costs beyond our control

Day 2: LIMA CITY TOUR & FLIGHT TO CUSCO | Cusco

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Day 3: HANDS OF THE COMMUNITY – PISAC – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CHINCHERO | Cusco

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Day 4: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – CHALLACANCHA – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAKE | Glamping

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Day 5: SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY PASS – HUAYRACMACHAY – CHAULLAY | Glamping

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Day 6: CHAULLAY – SAHUAYACO – LUCMABAMBA | Glamping

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Day 7: LUCMABAMBA – LLACTAPATA – HYDROELECTRIC STATION – AGUAS CALIENTES | Hotel Stay

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Day 8: MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO | Cusco

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Day 9: FREE DAY IN CUSCO

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Day 10: RAINBOW MOUNTAIN VINICUNCA TREK | Cusco

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Day 11: CUSCO – LIMA – INTERNATIONAL CONNECTION

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Includes

No Includes

Frequently Asked Questions

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