The Salkantay trek combines the cultural aspect and the natural beauty of the Andes; we will enjoy walking through different ecosystems and have a spectacular of the snow-capped Salkantay (6264m/20551f). Salkantay is the most characteristic mountain of Vilcabamba. This trek is a journey back to Incas time; we will be in contact with the spirit of the mountains such as Tucarhuay or the Humantay.
Salkantay and Machu Picchu Itinerary:
- Altitude: 3000 – 4600m. / 15092f
- High Season: April – November
- Duration: 5 days/4 nights
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate / Challenge
- Route: Closed in February
- *A minimum of 2 persons is needed for this trek
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata (Marcoccasa) – Salkantay Pampa
We will depart from Cusco at 5AM and drive to Marcoccasa passing the town of Mollepata (3000m/9843f). In Marcoccasa we will meet the crew and the rest of the group to start the trek. From Marcoccasa we will hike and pass through a wonderful valley enclosed by impressive snow-capped mountains such as the Humantay (5217m/17116f) and the Salkantay snow-covered (6264m/20551f). The first night we will camp at Salkantay pampa (3900m/12795f).
- Transporting time: 3hrs 30
- Climate: moderate and cold during the night
- Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours
Day 2: Soraymampa – Chaullay
After breakfast we will head to Salkantay pass (4600m/15092f). It offers a breathtaking sight of the snow-capped Salkantay (6264m). Afterwards, we will descend and see how the vegetation appears and increases as we keep walking. Our campsite will be in Challway.
- Hiking time: 8 to 9 hours
- Climate: moderate and cold during the night
Optional: The hot springs nearby Collpapampa community is optional and it can be arranged with an extra cost.
Day 3: Challway – Wiñaypoco – La Playa – Lucmabamba
We will start our hike after having breakfast and will descend from the 2,950 The third day is the perfect day to be in contact with the nature, the local flora and its plantations. The plantations are located in a beautiful forest; there are orchids, bromelias and other plants. We will visit plantations of coffee, cacao and fruit and meet local families in Wiñaypoco (2650m/8694f) and La Playa (2100m/6890f).
In Lucmabamba we will learn how local people harvest their crops such as coffee and cacao.
The coffee takes approximately 3 to 4 years to begin to bear a fruit, depending on the variety. The fruit calls coffee cherry, turns bright deep red when it is ready to be harverest. Due to the botanical characteristics of the coffee tree, the cherry is usually picked by hand what makes it an intense and difficult process. You will have the chance to observe the complete process from the tree to the cup. If you have any question about this process, you can ask local people.
- Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours
- Climate: warm
Day 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes Town
After an early breakfast we will visit the archeological site of Llactapata (2650m/8694f) which is placed in the middle of a beautiful forest. From this point we will have the first sight of Machu Picchu site, it is really special. Therefore we will head towards hydroelectrical station (1950m/6398f) from where we will take the train to Aguas Calientes.
In the town we will enjoy lunch and well-deserved rest.
- Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours
- Climate: Warm
Day 5: Aguas Calientes Town – Machu Picchu – Cusco
We will have a very early breakfast and then head towards Machu Picchu archeological site by bus. We plan to arrive to the complex around 6AM, once there you will have guided tour and learn more about the history and culture of Incas. Then you will have plenty of time to explore on your own. When you are ready to get down to Aguas Calientes, you will take the bus down. In the town you can enjoy a relaxing time at the hot springs, the entrance ticket is 10 soles per person. The train will depart from Aguas Calientes in the late afternoon.
- Climate: Warm
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