Sacred Salkantay Trek to Machupicchu in 4 days

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The ancient trail  laid by the Incas from the Sacred Salkantay Mountain to Machu Picchu winds its way up and down and around the mountains, snaking over two high Andean passes en route, which have collectively led to the route being dubbed ‘the Salkantay Inca Trail.’ The views of snowy mountain peaks, distant rivers and ranges, and cloud forests flush with orchids are stupendous – and walking from one cliff-hugging pre-Columbian ruin to the next is a mystical and unforgettable experience.

You Book, You Go…Don’t Worry… We Won’t Cancel: While other tour companies generally cancel their trips due to low participation of travelers or pass their travelers to other big groups tour operators, we guarantee that we will never cancel a trip because of low signing-up or participation for the departure date neither get our travelers to other tour operators! This makes to our travelers the assurance and peace of mind to know their travel plans are insured and guaranteed.

Request a Quote: We can customize this private trek just for you. Any detail can be tailored – activities, length, hotels and other destinations.

ITINERARY

DAY 1 | Cusco to Soraypampa Lodges Highlights: Humantay Lake trek and The Moon Temple “Quillarumiyoc”

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Walking Time: Approximately 6 hours (including picnic lunch en route)
Walk and Terrain: Walk, canter, on open roads, some steep ascending trails
Non- activities: Direct transfer or hiking to the lodge.
 

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Overnight at Soraypampa “Lodges del cielo” at 3,869 m/12,690 ft.

Note: On the evening before this day there will be a briefing with your guide in Cusco. After an early breakfast, we are picked up starting at 5:00 am at your Cusco hotel by a ITEP guide and vehicle. En route we take a short trail to Killarumiyoc, This place was a religious construction in representation of the “Mama Killa”, killarumiyoc means “The Stone of the Moon” where there is also an Andean system, Hornacinas, is an ancient temple of the divinity of femininity. We continue our Excursion and later a short break to visit the Inca ruins of Tarawasi near the town of Limatambo (approx. 1.5 hrs. from Cusco). After leaving Limatambo, we pass through the mountain village of Mollepata where we stop for a short break before ascending to Soraypampa.

After Lunch time, our excursion takes us to Humantay Lake, fed by glaciers far above on the slopes of the impressive Mt. Humantay. Our 1-hour walk there is followed by another short 20-minute, which is necessary in order to reach the lake, but the view is well worth it and those brave enough can go for a swim!, performed by our local Tour Guide, in full view of the awe-inspiring Mt. Salkantay, tops off this unique experience. Return to the Lodge

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DAY 2 | Crossing the Salkantay Pass

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Trekking Time: Approximately 10 hours (including picnic lunch en route)
Walk and Terrain: Walk, on mostly steep trails, and some open slopes.

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Overnight at Collpapampa Lodges at 2,870 m/9,414 ft.

Today we continue our journey towards Machu Picchu, walking up the Rio Blanco valley and circling Humantay Peak across from Salkantay Peak. The highest point of the ride is the Salkantay Pass at 4,638 meters (15,213 ft.). At the pass we stop to take in views of snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba Range in every direction, with the glaciated south face of Salkantay towering above us.  We will keep our eyes out for Andean condors, often visible in this area. From the pass we descend towards the Wayra, (“Wayra”: wind; from the name of the location “Wayracmachay”: ‘the cave where the wind lives’) where we going to enjoy a delicious lunch, later we continue a 03 hours trek downhill until we reach our Campsite  en route; dinner and overnight at the Lodge.

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DAY 3 | Descending into the Cloud Forest

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Trekking Time: Approximately 5 hours
Car and Train: Approximately 2 hours
Walk and Terrain: Walk on narrow trails

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Overnight in Aguas Calientes at 1,900 m/6,232 ft 

This day we walk along the Santa Teresa river valley, through more populated rural areas. We pass through banana, passion fruit, avocado orchards and coffee plantations. The coffee grown here is said to be one of the best organic coffees in the world. Our ride takes us to the beginning of the “Llactapata Inca Trail”, which is where we say goodbye to our horses and equestrian staff. 

We then board a car and a train for a scenic ride (approx. 2 hours) to Aguas Calientes, the town of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we check into a hotel for a celebration dinner with our guide and one last briefing!

Note: Those who prefer not to hike can go to the train station by van after a leisurely morning including breakfast at the lodge. They will meet the rest of the group at the train station for the ride to Aguas Calientes together. (The guide confirms your preferences the night before.)

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DAY 4 | Visit Machu Picchu Sanctuary

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Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 6kms/3.7mls
Difficulty: Easy

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Return to Cusco at 3,360 m/11,021 ft

After a very early buffet breakfast at the hotel, we make our way to the bus station for the ride up to Machu Picchu Sanctuary (30 min). Our trip leader will give an introductory 2 hour guided tour of the ruins, after which we have the option of climbing  the steep staircase of Huayna Picchu, a steep and vertically quite challenging hike that takes about 2 hours which affords great views of Machu Picchu. You will also have time to indulge in a few of the following activities on your own if you choose (not included in the price)
Climb up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there. Other optional activities in Aguas Calientes include a visit to the new local museum or bathe in the hot springs.

Back to Cusco: You will descend to Aguas Calientes by bus (included) and later board the Expedition train by 4:22pm to the Ollantaytambo Train Station where you will meet our private van and be transferred to your hotel in Cusco arriving around 8:30pm.

*** Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountains hike depends on availability; please let us know if you want to add one of these extra hikes at the time of your booking.
*** We only take ITEP EcoTravel clients in our vans / cars – We do not use public transport.

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End of our Services

INCLUDES

• Personalized assistance: A private, hand-crafted and fully personalized assistance and itinerary from start to finish.For an authentic experience, our assistance is personalized, 24 hours a day
• Eco - Responsable Travel Experience "Respeting local culture" Conservation of biological and cultural diversity,Sustainable use of ecological resources (should have a minimal impact), Support for local economies through increased local revenue, jobs for local populations, and use of local supplies and services thus helping communities to rise their standards of life. Community empowerment by sharing participation in management local ecotourism activities.Increased environmental and cultural awareness which further encourages the local population to preserve its environment. Minimal environmental tourist industry impact on local resources.
• Transfer from the airport to your hotel (Cusco only) please send us your flight information.
• Briefing of your Tour At our office or your Hotel; It will be done the same day of your arrival or day according your request
• Group Size "Private Service" A Private Custom Hiking Tour is your opportunity to hike in perfect company! You pick the place, you tell us what you want, and we put a trip together just for your group. Whether it's a group of friends, associates, or your family, the trip is only open to your group. Choose from our great hiking destinations and get started today!
• Pick up at your hotel: To begin your Experience from Cusco to Markokasa (starting the trek)
• Private transport: All our Transports has Tourism Authorization, and we offer only private transfers
• Sky Lodge "Soraypampa": Located in Soraypampa, Sky Lodge features an outdoor view which opens up to breathtaking views of the Andean skyline and snow cape mountains.
• Sky Lodge "Collpampa": Located in CollpaPampa, Sky Lodge features an outdoor view which opens up to breathtaking views of the entrance to the High Jungle in Machupicchu.
• Humantay / Salkantay Lake: Humantay Lake is a vibrant turquoise lake surrounded by massive snowcapped mountains.
• The Moon Temple "The Inka Astronomical Temple" Quilla Rumiyoc: Quillarumiyoc (Killarumiyoc) was a IncaSite of adoration to the Moon,The Moon was one of the most important deities for the Incas, was called "mother quilla", mother of the firmament and representation of the feminine side of the universe, influenced on the tides, in The growth of plants, fertilization, among others.
• The Inka´s Coffee Experience: Peruvian coffee wins best coffee in the world prize in U.S. competiton 2'018, let's know more about Inka's coffee and at the same let´s help local coffee producers, in our eco responsible tourism program.
• Machupicchu sunrise "1st on the Santuary": "Sunrise over Machu Picchu" is such an evocative phrase that it's no surprise that so many travelers are seduced by its promise.
• Train Experience Back to Cusco: The train cars are steeped in the designs of Incan culture, making them the perfect way to start your trip in the unbelievable Andean scenery and take incredible panoramic pictures of a journey unlike any other.
• Processing of tourism attraction authorizations: As soon as we receive your details and a deposit, we will purchase your permits (pending availability, check our Inca Trail Availability link). These permits are for a specific date and in your name. They cann't be changed, once confirmed. Only your passport number is allowed to be updated. The permit includes an entrance to Machu Picchu.
• All entrance fees: Admission Tickets to the Classic Inca trail & Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex
• Modern trekking and camping equipment.
• Thick Comfortable Foam Mattresses
• Duffle bags: You will receive your duffel bag that will stay with your porters, while you hike. This bag should not exceed 7kg/14 lbs and does need to include your sleeping bag and air mattress.
• Warm water: water for washing purposes
• Regular Table Ware: stainless steel, dinnerware
• Premium Table Ware: Premium porcelain dinnerware sets, crystal glassware, flatware & stylish Porcelain crockery.
• Horses and horseman to carry tents, food and cooking equipment
• Extra Horses to carry personal stuff (5 kl): We include extra horses, they will carry your duffel bag. There is no additional fee for this. .It means you will need only a day backpack to carry what you will need during day!
• Regular Classic tent: 4 season Aconcagua Doite Tents, (Large & Comfortable) please see
• Chef and cooking equipment Our chefs cook delicious meals that many previous trekkers have raved about. We honor all food restrictions. Be sure to remind your tour guide of any food restrictions at the beginning of your trek. Food is typically served family-style.
• Dining and Cooking Tents: Dining and cooking tents with tables and chairs only for our group
• All meals cooked on the spot with fresh ingredients by our trained chef: Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional vegetarian diets or other dietary needs upon prior request)
• Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners "1st breakfast is not included, last lunch is not included" You will enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner each day of the trek, along with a happy hour of tea and snacks. You will also be provided a snack each morning, for you to enjoy along the hike. Your last meal with your chef will be after breakfast on day four. Lunch the last day is not included.
• Drinkable Water: Beginning from your first lunch until your last breakfast, We will supply all the water needed. This water will be boiled, filtered and then cooled, before distributing. You must supply your own water bottles or camel back. We recommend carrying about 3L worth. We will refill our waters at each meal.
• Professional English speaking guides experienced in the mountains & knowledgeable of Inca History: Professional Guides All of our guides studied English and tourism at Cusco National University. They all grew up in this region and have a true passion to teach others about their heritage. They are fun yet professional and will ensure you are safe and happy.
• Machupicchu Tour Guide 2 Hour Guided tour in Machu Picchu
• First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank: Our Inca Trail guides has received training in first aid from a physician. We conduct mandatory training sessions every February, which every single tour guide must attend. Your tour guide will always have a first-aid kit for basic medical problems (traveler's diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) and oxygen. We will get you off the trail as quickly and comfortably as possible, if needed, and ensure you get directly to a clinic for treatment.
• Satellite Phones: Our top priority will always be the safety of our clients and our team. While we are prepared and all our guides are trained for most of the issues clients have on the mountain, being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital or friend helps everyone feel assured that they are safe. Radios, which all our guides have, are limited in how far they can reach, so our Operation department has added Satellite Phones to every trek. Every guide will have a fully charged phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to connect us with our Office.
• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu ruins to Aguas Calientes (two ways): After a 4 days Trek and an amazing Machupicchu experience; we just want to relax and enjoy our friends; So We don't trek more.
• Transfer Back to your Hotel: Overland private transfer from Train station to your Hotel "for clients only"
• Give back to Andean communities. "You give an automatic donation of USD 10 for the Inka Foundation": Seize the opportunity to travel and give back to communities or environments in need. With Us, you'll become part of our ongoing efforts to support long-term solutions to specific challenges. At the same time, you can explore and experience the culture in your free time. We're looking for volunteers (Spanish speakers) who can help teachers in a child school for children mentally disabled and other disabilities "Only from Monday to Friday" from 9am until 12:30pm "only by days. www.inka-foundation.org, if you want more information please send us an e-mail.
• Cell phone and cameras charger in our 2 Campsites (Soraypampa and Collpapampa)
• Hot shower: only in our campsite of Collpapampa
• Private Toilet: in our campsites of Soraypampa, Collpapampa and Lucmabamba. Only for our groups

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED

• Train Experience Hidroelectrica Machupicchu: The train is the perfect way to finish our Andean trek experience.
• Biodegradable Toiled bags: Disposable Waste Bags for Portable Toilets
• Towels: Clean Towels changed every day
• Air bed and Camping cot
• Heaters at the bedroom tents
• Standard walking sticks
• Glambing Tent "Luxury": Offering a full 360° view of your surroundings the distinctively styled and eye catching Cortes Octagon 8 Orange tent can definitely be called a glamping tent.
• Wine and Champagne: Best South American Wine for celebrate our Trekking Adventure "Customized request of wine on request".
• Santuary Lodge Restaurant: Last Buffet lunch at Sanctuary Lodge "Exclusive and unique restaurant in Machupicchu" Last day of the trek
• Inka Massage Session during the camping nights.
• 1 Yoga Session day before the Inca trail. Be prepared for the trail, Our Yoga session is perfect for get instructions about how to walk, how to breathe,etc
• Huayna Picchu Mountain: The mountain Huayna Picchu is the one that appears behind Machu Picchu in its classic postal photo; Their Inca trails built on one side of the mountain can be terrifying for people afraid of heights
• Extras: We believe it's the attention to small details that separates us from other tour companies. Every trekker receives a small pillow to sleep with, a foam mattress for insulation, a day pack cover to protect their things while hiking and a rain poncho. We will work hard to create your best vacation.
• Peruvian taxes: The money you pay in taxes goes to many places. In addition to paying the salaries of government workers, your tax dollars also help to support common resources, such as police and firefighters. Tax money helps to ensure the roads you travel on are safe and well-maintained. Taxes fund public libraries and parks. Peruvian VAT tax stands at 18%.

WHAT TO TAKE

• Original Passport
• Day Pack
• Full rain gear or poncho
• Gloves (thin riding and warm gloves)
• Trekking pants
• Breathable dry fit top-wear
• Comfortable shoes/flip-flops
• Cold-weather jacket
• Long-sleeve fleece/sweater
• Wool hat
• Hiking boots
• Baseball cap, sombrero and bandana
• Headlamp
• Sunglasses
• Hiking socks
• Sunscreen
• Bathing suit
• Casual Mountain wear for evenings
• Photo/video cameras and chargers
• Binoculars
• Refillable water bottle (hydration bags are recommended)

RESERVATIONS

For availability of spaces for this service, please contact us info@salkantaytrek.org and we`ll send you detailed information, prices, terms and conditions.

Please keep in mind that significant price reductions are available for groups. All our tours are fully guaranteed, departure every day. Contact us for more information for the tour that you are choosing, or to begin customizing your own itinerary. recommendations:

"ITEP Eco Travel is a tour operator travel agency in Peru and the city of Cusco, We really know what we do and offer, We are well managed, with several offices in Peru and a long list of travel destinations, offering all travel alternatives in Perú, from family trips, honeymoon trips and luxury travel, including adventure tours and exploring trips to the jungle, for almost any budget”

NOTE: ITEP Eco Travel, specializes in organizing the ideal travel plan to Peru, with hotels and destinations that you choose, because we have all confidential and promotional rates. For guidance on how to organize your custom package. Please write us.