Salkantay Mountain Trek to Machu Picchu

Salkantay Mountain Boutique Lodges

I’ve been climbing/trekking for 27 years and I’ve never felt so spoiled. Miguel was a terrific guide – kind and very knowledgeable about the Inca culture, terrain, wildlife, and so much more. The lodges were wonderful – I’m not accustomed to three course meals every lunch and dinner and hot water bottles at night! The extra day at Machu Picchu was smart as it allowed for a bad weather day (which we did not encounter). It was a fantastic trip! -2024 Climber

Our six day trek leads us through remote river valleys and over a 15,000 ft pass to our final destination, Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas and one of the New 7 Wonders of the Ancient World. As we cross these different eco systems we meet the indigenous people and explore their unique way of life. Our route traverses the snow covered Cordillera Vilcabamba Range and we walk beneath its highest mountain, Mt Salkantay (20,600ft) the 2nd most sacred mountain in Inca mythology.

Besides the Peruvian people and the incredible views, our trek is exceptional because we dine and sleep in luxury lodges along the entire route. Three of the four lodges accommodate only 12 people, all lodges have incredible views and we have the hot tubs and chefs to ourselves.

Alpine Ascents also adds a 2nd day to visit the legendary ruins of Macchu Picchu. Not only does this allow us two full days but since most groups only have a day, it gives us the afternoon of the first day to explore the area in an uncrowded environment.

Our journey begins in Cusco at an altitude 11,200 ft, where we spend one day and two nights acclimatizing and touring this beautiful city. We then travel by car to the beginning of our trek, the enchanting valley of Soraypampa, – this trekking route is less traveled, and far more scenic than the famous “Inca Trail”. Trekkers spend two nights in the Salkantay Lodge and one night each at three other lodges located at strategic points along the route. At the end of the sixth day we reach a train that takes us up to Aguas Calientes where we stay in a beautiful hotel for the night. The next day we spend the entire morning and early afternoon exploring Macchu Picchu before returning to Cusco.

Key points of the Trek

• Trek through fifteen different bio-zones, changing altitudes and varied terrain.
• Your trip is led by a professional mountain guide along with local experts.
• Marvel at the exquisite beauty of the Salkantay Peak, Salkantay Glacier and Humantay Glacier Lake.
• We spend 2 days at the ruins, giving us the afternoon of day 1 to explore the area in an uncrowded environment
• Share in the culture and customs of local Andean families who maintain age-old traditions.
• Witness environmental and social initiatives to maintain the natural integrity and improve quality of life in the region.
• Indulge in the comfort of enchanting mountain lodges, the innovative local cuisine, the warmth of the people, and your daily retreat to a mind-and-body recovery Shangri-La.
• Enjoy your days on trail unfettered by heavy packs while your personal belongings are carried by pack horses/mules and/or porters
• Be inspired by the majesty of your surroundings and the knowledge that you are following in the footsteps of the Incas.