Trailblazing the Andes: The Ultimate Salkantay Trek Experience with Ashley

-Touch down at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) and step straight into the heart of the Andes, then make your own way to tonight’s stay.

-Today is all about getting your bearings and prepping for the adventure ahead. At the pre-trek briefing, connect with your fellow hikers and get the lowdown on the route, gear, and what to expect from the wild Peruvian backcountry.

-Cap off the day with a welcome dinner at Nuna Raymi, a local favorite known for its fresh, regionally-inspired dishes.

-The night is yours to explore Cusco’s cobblestone streets or rest up for the journey to come.

-After checking out, the group heads out early, winding through the Andes to Mollepata for a quick breakfast stop.

-The drive continues to Challacancha, the official starting point of the Salkantay trek.

-The trek to Soraypampa is your first taste of high-altitude hiking, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and sweeping valleys.

-Arrive at Sky Camp, a unique glamping spot with jaw-dropping mountain vistas.

-After lunch, lace up again for a hike to Humantay Lake, a turquoise glacial lagoon cradled beneath dramatic cliffs. This is a true bucket-list spot for any outdoor lover.

-Return to camp for dinner and a free night under the stars.

Distance: 10 km / 6.21 mi
Time: 5 - 6 hrs
Highest elevation: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft

-Fuel up with breakfast before tackling the trek’s most challenging section – the ascent to Salkantay Pass, soaring to 4,630 meters (15,213 feet). This is the highest point of the journey, where you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the rugged Vilcabamba Range and the sacred Salkantay Mountain.

-From here, descend into the lush cloud forest, where the landscape shifts from alpine to jungle.

-After a lunch break on the trail, continue to Collpapampa and settle in at the Mountain Sky View campsite.

-Dinner awaits, and the night is free for swapping stories or stargazing in the crisp mountain air.

Distance: 23.5 km / 14.6 mi
Time: 10 - 11 hrs
Highest elevation: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft

-Wake up to the sounds of the forest and continue trekking through the Santa Teresa Valley, a region known for its waterfalls, orchids, and rich biodiversity.

-Arrive at the Super Jungle Domes, our eco-friendly accommodations for the night tucked into the greenery.

-After lunch, take time to explore the surroundings before visiting an organic coffee farm. Here, learn about the bean-to-cup process and sample some of the freshest coffee you’ll ever taste, straight from the source.

-Dinner is served at camp, with another free night to relax and recharge.

Distance: 17 km / 10.56 mi
Time: 5 - 6 hrs
Highest elevation: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft

-Set out for Llactapata, a lesser-known Inca site perched on a ridge with unique views of Machu Picchu from afar. Explore the ruins and soak in the solitude-this spot is truly off the beaten path.

-After lunch, continue to Hidroelectrica, where you have the option to catch a train (not included) or hike the final stretch to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.

-The trek concludes once you make it to town – you made it!

-Check in at the hotel and enjoy dinner.

-The evening is free to explore, reflect with your fellow hikers, and rest up for tomorrow’s grand finale.

Distance: 25 km / 15.53 mi
Time: 8 - 9 hrs
Highest elevation: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft

-After breakfast and check-out, take a shuttle up to Machu Picchu, the legendary Inca citadel and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World!

-Join a guided tour to uncover the stories, mysteries, and engineering marvels of this ancient site.

-After soaking in the views and snapping those iconic photos, enjoy lunch before boarding the PeruRail Expedition train to Ollantaytambo.

-From there, transfer back to Cusco, where your journey officially ends, leaving you with epic memories and a serious case of wanderlust for Peru’s wild trails. You just conquered something huge – congratulations!

Distance: 3 km / 1.86 mi
Time: 2 - 3 hrs
Highest elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft