Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Salkantay Pass – Chaullay

This is the longest day. After breakfast you start walking around 6:30 a.m., with about 4 hours of climbing to the Salkantay pass (4,650 m), between Salkantay on the right and Tucarhuay on the left; there may be snow here. After a rest you descend through cloud forest to Huayracpunku, where you have lunch.

In the afternoon you continue toward the start of the jungle to the Chaullay camp (about 2,750 m). Tonight you sleep in a small dome 3 m in diameter, for sleeping only, where you will need a sleeping bag. It is about 19 km and 8 to 9 hours of walking.

Overnight: Chaullay

Chaullay – La Playa

After breakfast, at 6:30 a.m., you walk through high jungle, crossing the Lluscamayo River and several streams, among valleys, waterfalls, tropical fruit and plants, until La Playa (about 1,600 m). On arrival you have lunch and rest in the glamping dome at the Loreta coffee camp.

In the afternoon, if you like, you can go to the Cocalmayo hot springs, for an extra fee paid on site. It is about 16 km and 6 to 7 hours of walking.

Overnight: La Playa

Llactapata – Aguas Calientes

Breakfast is at 8:00 a.m., and you climb along an original Inca trail to Llactapata, where you can see Machu Picchu in the distance. Then you descend among coca and banana plantations to the hydroelectric station.

After lunch you walk about 2.5 hours along the railway to Aguas Calientes, where you spend the night in a hotel. If you still have energy, you can visit the town's hot springs (10 soles entrance, not included). It is about 12 km and 5 to 6 hours of walking.

Overnight: Aguas Calientes

Machu Picchu – Cusco

Early, after breakfast at the hotel, you go to the main entrance of Machu Picchu, where your original passport is checked along with your ticket. Your guide gives an introduction to the Inca empire and leads you through the ceremonial sector, the agricultural sector, the remains of the royal quarters and more; afterward you have time to enjoy the views. If you booked an additional hike, such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, the guide will show you where it starts.

When you leave the citadel you walk to Aguas Calientes, with free time for lunch and a stroll. In the afternoon you take the train to Ollantaytambo, where our representative waits to take you to your accommodation in Cusco, arriving around 10:30 p.m.