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SALKANTAY TO MACHU PICCHU (8 Days / 7 Nights)
 A true Andean odyssey, this 6-day trek through the dramatic Cordillera
Vilcabamba offers a wonderful alternative for those who want to take a
less-traveled and exceptionally beautiful route to Machu Picchu. Crossing a pass between the peaks of Salcantay (6270m.) and Humantay (6070m.)
with spectacular glacial vistas, we visit hot thermal springs and descend
through a stunning progression of ecological zones ranging from sparsely
vegetated alpine meadows to lush sub-tropical valleys. Arriving to the "Ceja
de Selva," or the "Eyebrow of the Jungle" we find numerous tropical fruit and coffee plantations as well
as an abundance of flower and bird species. From the valley, we take an original Inca trail up through a
cloud forest of Quehuna trees, orchids, and moss. At our last pass, we are
rewarded with a magnificent view of Machu Picchu.
Itinerary
Cusco/Mollepata
Leaving Cusco early in the morning, we take a scenic drive of approximately 4
hours to the small village of Mollepata, located high above the Apurimac River.
We camp our first night at a nearby farming area called Marco Casa to rest and
acclimatize before beginning our trek. Here, we also meet up with the mules,
horses, and arrieros (wranglers) that will carry our gear during the trip.
Mollepata/Soraypampa
Today we begin our gentle hike into the
 Cordillera Vilcabamba.
From above the green river valley, we hike steadily upwards to the high plateau.
Along the way, we get our first incredible view of Huamantay (5917 m.). As we
approach our campsite at Soraypampa, the enormous Salcantay peak (6270m. and the
highest in the Vilcabamba range) dominates our skyline.
Soraypampa/Huayrajmachay
Following a series of switchbacks (Siete Culebras) our path leads up the side of
a mountain and levels out beneath the shadows of the grandiose Mount Salcantay.
With Salcantay looming above, we come to a summit marked by small piles of
stones, or apachetas, left by locals and travelers to honor the mountain gods.
From this high pass (4750m.) flanked by Salcantay and Huamantay, we make our way
towards the valley below to camp for the night at Huayrajmachay.
Huayrajmachay/Colpapampa
Our trail leads us down the eastern slope of the Andes into a sub-tropical
valley, where the temperature is warmer and we see a variety of orchids,
flowers, and hummingbirds. After a short day of downhill walking, we arrive to
our campsite with ample time to soak in the nearby hot springs.
Colpapampa/Miscabamba
Continuing through the "Ceja de Selva," or "Eyebrow of the Jungle," we encounter
bright flowers, butterflies, parrots, and lush groves of tropical fruit, cocoa,
and coffee. We come to the small village of Miscabamba, where we camp along the
river for the night.
Miscabamba/Paltallacta
Today we start walking up again through a humid cloud forest where we join an
original Inca trail to our second and last pass, Paltallacta (3000m.) From here,
we are rewarded with a unique panoramic view of the ancient city of Machu
Picchu. Here will be our last night of camping.
Paltallacta/Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu
We make an early descent to the Urubamba river, which we follow upstream to the
town of Aguas Calientes situated at the bottom of the Machu Picchu mountain.
Here, we can rest and savor the memories of a spectacular journey in the comfort
of our hostal.
Machu Picchu/Cusco
We take one of the early buses up to the stunning archeological complex of Machu
Picchu. A professional guide will lead an official tour of approximately 2
hours. Then we have plenty of time to explore the mysterious remains on our own
before returning to Aguas Calientes to catch the afternoon train back to
Cusco.
INCLUDED
Private transportation to head of trail
Professional, English-speaking guide and camp staff
Special, nutritious meals where indicated during the trip (Vegetarian option
available)
Double-occupancy tents and camping equipment (includes dining tent, kitchen
tent, and latrine tent)
Pack animals to carry personal gear and equipment
Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
Bus to and from Machu Picchu
Lodging in Aguas Calientes
Train ticket back to Cusco
What you should bring
Backpack or duffle bag Sleeping bag
Warm clothing/thermals Insect repellent
Trekking shoes/wool socks Water bottle
Rain gear Day pack
Sunscreen and hat Personal medical kit
Flashlight Bathing suit and towel
* Open departures April through November for private groups.
* Fixed departures are also available (min. 4 persons)
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