What does Salkantay mean? The Salkantay is a snowy mountain whose name translated from Quechua would mean ‘Wild Mountain’. This summit is known as ‘Apu’ (‘Lord’) for its majesty and elevation.
Where is it located? The pu Apu ’Salkantay is located in the Vilcanota Mountain Range in the Andes of southern Peru. This snow-capped mountain is the second largest in Cusco, after Ausangate (Mountain of the 7 Colors).
How high is the snowy Salkantay? The snowy Salkantay reaches 6,271 meters above sea level (m.s.n.m.). The trek route that leads to Machu Picchu has its highest point in the ‘Abra Salcantay’, at 4,650 m.a.s.l. From there you can see the peak of the snow-capped mountain.
How's the weather? The snowy in itself presents an extremely cold climate (several degrees Celsius below 0º).
The climate during the Salkantay trek, on the other hand, is varied. The intense sun and the nightly cold in the early days are changed by the tropical environment in the latter.
What is the flora and fauna like? The 5 days and 4 nights of the Salkantay trek cover landscapes with a great variety of flora and fauna. Among the species of flowers and plants, the orchid and the ichu (Andean grass) stand out. Among the species of birds and animals, it is worth mentioning the llama, alpaca, vizcacha, condor, spectacled bear and the cock of the rock (national bird of Peru)
DAY 1: CUSCO - MOLLEPATA - SORAYPAMPA - CHAULLAY
This day we leave Cusco early (about 4am) and drive for approximately 3 ½ hrs to Soraypampa where we will start the hardest day of the whole Salkantay trek 4 days 3 nights. We will be walking 7.5km to the highest point of the trek, enjoying magnificent panoramas of snow-capped mountains on the way. Once we reach the top we will have spectacular views of the sacred mountain, Salkantay. At 6245 metres it is the second highest mountain in the Cusco region. After 2 hours downhill we will have our delicious lunch around 1:00 p.m. in Huayracmachay. Then we continue approximately 3 hours downhill to our camp in Chaullay or Collpapampa (2900 metres) where your tent will be ready and waiting for you with a bowl of hot water for washing up. Then there is time to rest, nap or write. Around 7 p.m. we will have happy hour, dinner. Then we’re off to bed and a well-earned sleep. DAY 2: CHAULLAY - LUCMABAMBA
Around 6.30am, we start with our breakfast before beginning our trek through the high jungle. We cross the Lluskamayo valley and a variety of little brooks to reach La Playa (Sahuayaco) trekking about 6 hours. You will pass through wonderful landscapes and see waterfalls, rivers, beautiful plants and orchids. At La playa (Sahuayaco) we’ll have our lunch and the horses will go back to Mollepata. After lunch and another 30 minutes uphill you will reach our campsite at Lucmabamba. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy our coffee tour or, as an optional extra, take a local van to Santa Teresa to soak in the natural hot spring optional extra. At the end of the day we have our happy hour, dinner and then a briefing for the next day. DAY 3: LUCMABAMBA - AGUAS CALIENTES
We will have our delicious breakfast at 6 am and leave our campsite. After about 5 minutes you will step onto the original Inka Trail, and for the next 3 hours you will follow this historic trail to the summit for your first view of Machu Picchu across the valley. Then we will descend to our lunch spot by the Hydrolectric Station. After lunch we will walk 3 more hours or take a train for 45 minutes to Aguas Calientes where your beautiful hotel and dinner will be waiting for you. DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU!!!
Early morning, after the breakfast at the Hotel, you will go up by walking or you can take the bus to Machu Picchu where you meet with our Tour Guide for a private introductory tour of the Citadel. For the next 2 hours you will learn of the history, the structure and the stories of this important World Wonder. Then you will have free time to take pictures, relax and explore Machu Picchu by yourself. If you have reserved a climb up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, our Tour Guide show you where you start.
After exploring Machu Picchu, you will walk or take a bus down to Aguas Calientes. There you will collect your luggage at the Hotel and board the train to Ollantaytambo. When you arrive at Ollantaytambo, you will transfer to a van for a ride back to Cusco by van where you will be dropped off at your hotel or hostel.
DAY 1: CUSCO - MOLLEPATA - SORAYPAMPA
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco shortly after 4 a.m. to go by private van to Mollepata. This is a spectacular scenic drive through the Anta plains with beautiful and panoramic views across a vast plateau of the majestic Salkantay and other mountains covered with snow. Then marvel at the spectacular winding descent into the Valley of Apurimac River. After 2½ hours we stop in Mollepata to have breakfast and shop for last minute supplies. There will be time for leg-stretching or to use the bathrooms, before continuing to Marcocasa. There we will meet with our support staff. They will load the equipment on horses and mules. Around 8:30 a.m. we will start our trek toward Soraypampa (3900 meters above sea level) if we keep a regular pace we will take 4 hours approximately to reach Soraypampa for lunch at our first campsite. After lunch in the afternoon we have an option to go up to see Umantay Lake a glacial lake below the peak of Salkantay at (4200meters above sea level). This side tour takes 3 hours to hike back and forth from the camp. Alternatively, if we are moving at a slow pace; we will have lunch at halfway between Soraypampa and Marco Casa on our way to Soraypampa. Either way our camp will be at Soraypampa. Sleeping tents will be ready and we will have a warm delicious dinner in the evening. DAY 2: SORAYPAMPA - SALKANTAY PASS - HUAYRAMACHAY – CHAULLAY
In the morning we will wake you up with the coca tea at 5:30 a.m. and we will have a nutritious breakfast around 6 a.m. Today we will start the hardest day of the whole Salkantay trek. We will be walking up to the highest point of the trek. After 7 kilometers uphill through the magnificent landscape of rocky mountains, valleys and flood plain and changing views of Mount Salkantay above us. At the top of the trek we will have spectacular views of the mountains and the imposing snowy peaks of Salkantay (6245) meters above sea level, the second highest mountain of the Cusco region. Then we go 2 hours downhill around 1:00 p.m. to where we will have our delicious Peruvian lunch, in the area called Huayracmachay. Afterward we continue our hike approximately 3 hours downhill to our camp in Chaullay (2900 meters above sea level) or Colcapampa (3000 meters above sea level). The sleeping tents and warm wash water will be ready and waiting for you. Then after a well-earned hot meal we will retire to our tents for a well-deserved sleep. DAY 3: CHAULLAY - COLLPAPAMPA - LA PLAYA - LUCMABAMBA
Around 6.30am, we start trekking through the high jungle crossing the Lluskamayo valley with its rich variety of flora and fauna to reach La Playa (Sahuayaco) after about 6 hours. We will pass through valleys and have wonderful views of waterfalls, tropical fruits and plants. You will taste the famous passion fruit or granadilla. We will have lunch when we arrive at La Playa. After lunch our horses will go back to Mollepata while we go on to Lucmabamba Campsite where we will spend the night. Here you can choose to go on our coffee tour or opt for a bus drive to Santa Teresa to enjoy the natural hotspring it is famous for. (Bus fares and entrance fees to the natural hot spring is not included in this tour), (coffee tour Is included). DAY 4: SANTA TERESA - HIDROELECTRYC - AGUAS CALIENTES
We will have our delicious breakfast at 6 a.m. Then we will walk for about 3 hours up to Llactapata and along the original Inka Trail to Llactapata. From this beautiful archeological site we will be able to see part of Machu Picchu and into the amazing Urubamba valley. Afterwards we have another 3 hours down hill until we arrive to the hydrolectric where we are going to have lunch. Then we will walk for 3 more hours or take a 45 minute train ride to Aguas Calientes to your hotel. After you have settled in we will get together for dinner and a briefing on how to get the most out of your visit to Machu Picchu tomorrow. DAY 5: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU - OLLANTAYTAMBO - CUSCO
After an early breakfast at the hotel you will walk 1 hour 30 minutes or take bus up to Machu Picchu, so we can be the first ones into Machu Picchu to enjoy the sunrise. You will have a private 2 hour guided tour followed by free time in which you will be able to go on to explore Machu Picchu by yourself. If you have booked the Huayna Picchu in advance climb or the walk up Machu Picchu mountain this is the time for you to set off.
Afterward Machu Picchu you will go back down to Aguas Calientes town to catch the train to Ollantaytambo. There our private van will meet you and take you back to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel or hostel.
Description
Salkantay trek express 5 days, is one of the most popular alternative treks after the classic Inca trail to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, in this route you will see one of the most important apus of Cusco. SALKANTAY TREK ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO - MOLLEPATA - SORAYPAMPA
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco shortly after 4 a.m. to go by private van to Mollepata. This is a spectacular scenic drive through the Anta plains with beautiful and panoramic views across a vast plateau of the majestic Salkantay and other mountains covered with snow. Then marvel at the spectacular winding descent into the Valley of Apurimac River. After 2½ hours we stop in Mollepata to have breakfast and shop for last minute supplies. There will be time for leg-stretching or to use the bathrooms, before continuing to Marcocasa. There we will meet with our support staff. They will load the equipment on horses and mules. Around 8:30 a.m. we will start our trek toward Soraypampa (3900 meters above sea level) if we keep a regular pace we will take 4 hours approximately to reach Soraypampa for lunch at our first campsite. After lunch in the afternoon we have an option to go up to see Umantay Lake a glacial lake below the peak of Salkantay at (4200meters above sea level). This side tour takes 3 hours to hike back and forth from the camp. Alternatively, if we are moving at a slow pace; we will have lunch at halfway between Soraypampa and Marco Casa on our way to Soraypampa. Either way our camp will be at Soraypampa. Sleeping tents will be ready and we will have a warm delicious dinner in the evening. DAY 2: SORAYPAMPA - SALKANTAY PASS - HUAYRAMACHAY – CHAULLAY
In the morning we will wake you up with the coca tea at 5:30 a.m. and we will have a nutritious breakfast around 6 a.m. Today we will start the hardest day of the whole Salkantay trek. We will be walking up to the highest point of the trek. After 7 kilometers uphill through the magnificent landscape of rocky mountains, valleys and flood plain and changing views of Mount Salkantay above us. At the top of the trek we will have spectacular views of the mountains and the imposing snowy peaks of Salkantay (6245) meters above sea level, the second highest mountain of the Cusco region. Then we go 2 hours downhill around 1:00 p.m. to where we will have our delicious Peruvian lunch, in the area called Huayracmachay. Afterward we continue our hike approximately 3 hours downhill to our camp in Chaullay (2900 meters above sea level) or Colcapampa (3000 meters above sea level). The sleeping tents and warm wash water will be ready and waiting for you. Then after a well-earned hot meal we will retire to our tents for a well-deserved sleep. DAY 3: CHAULLAY - COLLPAPAMPA - LA PLAYA - LUCMABAMBA
Around 6.30am, we start trekking through the high jungle crossing the Lluskamayo valley with its rich variety of flora and fauna to reach La Playa (Sahuayaco) after about 6 hours. We will pass through valleys and have wonderful views of waterfalls, tropical fruits and plants. You will taste the famous passion fruit or granadilla. We will have lunch when we arrive at La Playa. After lunch our horses will go back to Mollepata while we go on to Lucmabamba Campsite where we will spend the night. Here you can choose to go on our coffee tour or opt for a bus drive to Santa Teresa to enjoy the natural hotspring it is famous for. (Bus fares and entrance fees to the natural hot spring is not included in this tour), (coffee tour Is included). DAY 4: SANTA TERESA - HIDROELECTRYC - AGUAS CALIENTES
We will have our delicious breakfast at 6 a.m. Then we will walk for about 3 hours up to Llactapata and along the original Inka Trail to Llactapata. From this beautiful archeological site we will be able to see part of Machu Picchu and into the amazing Urubamba valley. Afterwards we have another 3 hours down hill until we arrive to the hydrolectric where we are going to have lunch. Then we will walk for 3 more hours or take a 45 minute train ride to Aguas Calientes to your hotel. After you have settled in we will get together for dinner and a briefing on how to get the most out of your visit to Machu Picchu tomorrow. DAY 5: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU - OLLANTAYTAMBO - CUSCO
After an early breakfast at the hotel you will walk 1 hour 30 minutes or take bus up to Machu Picchu, so we can be the first ones into Machu Picchu to enjoy the sunrise. You will have a private 2 hour guided tour followed by free time in which you will be able to go on to explore Machu Picchu by yourself. If you have booked the Huayna Picchu in advance climb or the walk up Machu Picchu mountain this is the time for you to set off.
Afterward Machu Picchu you will go back down to Aguas Calientes town to catch the train to Ollantaytambo. There our private van will meet you and take you back to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel or hostel. MORE INFORMATION OF SALKANTAY TREK What you need to take
Original passport and Student card (ISIC) green card
Insurance card is essential
Hiking water proof boots (with ankle protectors )
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
Sleeping bag
Warm jack
Hat and gloves
T-shirts
Comfortable trousers
Rain pants
Sun hat, Bathing suit (for hot springs in santa teresa and Aguas Calientes)
Sun protection cream ( factor 35 recommended ) sun is strong
Insect Repellent 40 % deet ( for mosquitos )
Water bottle
Water purification tablets (Micropur recommended)
Toilet paper
Personal medication
Camera and films
Torch with spare batteries (flashlight)
Extra contribution suggested money for tipping porters, cook and guide. and for any emergency (300 soles)
Walking poles ( black diamont or leki brand)
Optional items to take
Short pants
Walking poles (with rubber tips) they can also be hired from us.$15 usd the all trip.
Sleeping bags $20 usd the all trip.
Plaster and bandage.
LARES TREK
Description
Lares Trek Classic is well for the beginner hikers because the distance of the hike is short and is less difficult but there are many activities to do. Visit communities of the Sacred Valley until you reach Machu Picchu.
LARES TREK ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO – LARES – KISHUARANI
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco shortly after 5 a.m. to go by private van to Lares. Our staff will organize all the equipment there. While they are preparing our horses, we will have time to enjoy the beautiful hot springs in Lares. After a great meal, we will begin our hike to Kishuarani, our destination for the day. There we will camp and have some time to visit the families who area living in this area. If you have extra energy maybe we can share time with them and see how they work in their farms. Then we will have a delicious warm dinner in the evening. Your tents will be ready to welcome you into a good night’s sleep.
DAY 2: KISHUARANI – PACHACUTEC PASS – CANCHA CANCHA
We will start our day with a gentle wake up with coca tea delivered to your tent, after which you’ll have time to organize your belongings. Then we will enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast, just what we need for the day ahead. On this day we will hike about 17 km or 7 hours. The first challenge of our trek will be the climb over Pachacutec pass at 4700 meters. We will celebrate the climb with a lunch near the top. Afterward we have another easy 2 hours approx. to reach our campsite in Cancha Cancha. There we will meet the local people again and learn more about their way of life. This day if we are blessed with clear skies we will see beautiful landscapes and snow-capped mountains the whole day long, and perhaps some condors flying over our heads. At the end of this beautiful day we will have a nice dinner and happy hour before a well-earned rest.
DAY 3: CANCHA CANCHA – HUARAN – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES
After some hot chocolate, coffee, bread and pancakes we will start our easy day. After going both up and down for a time, we begin a basically downhill trek until Huaran where we are going to spend some time with people living there. Your guide will explain how these people live and work and keep happiness in their families. If we are lucky we will pass by a typical local bar called a “chicheria”. If it is open we will have a chance to see how they make a local corn beer “chicha” from the local corn. Chicha was a sacred drink in the time of the Incas. Then we will meet our vehicle which will take us from Huaran to Ollantaytambo at the bottom of the valley. Then we will board our train and travel 1:45 hours from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Our guide will meet you and you take to your hotel and let you know where to have dinner. He will also give you all the information you will need for your next day in Machu Picchu.
DAY 4: MACHU PICCHU SANCTUARY – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO
Our tour guides and company recommend going to Machu Picchu early in order to be one of the first ones there. It is magical with fewer people and you can have the chance to enjoy the sunrise. Breakfast will be served in your hotel. Then you’ll be taken to catch one of the buses going to Machu Picchu. There your guide will share with you the knowledge and history about Machu Picchu sanctuary in a w tour for approximately 2 hours. You will have some time to explore on your own before you will have to return to Aguas Calientes to catch your train to Ollantaytambo. Our driver or transfer will be waiting for you there with private transportation to take you back to Cusco and your hotel.
INCA JUNGLE Description
The Inka Jungle tour is a trail that combines adventure sports such as mountain biking, canoeing, zip line and trekking for 4 days to Machu Picchu. The Inka Jungle Trail is the preferred tour by young people from all over the world who arrive in Cusco. in search of adventure and extreme sports.
INCA JUNGLE TRAIL ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO TO SANTA MARIA
We will go to pick you up from your respective hostel. After collecting all the group we will leave Cusco and drive an hour and a half across the spectacular Chinchero plateau and through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo. We will stop at a small local restaurant where you can refresh yourself, get a quick meal or snack, and buy anything you may have forgotten to buy in Cusco. After this we have go back in the bus and drive another hour and a half to Abra Malaga at 4,350 m.a.s.l. There we will provide you all equipment you will need (bike, gloves, elbow pads, knee pads, and helmet), followed by a briefing by our experienced tour guide. Then we mount up for a fun ride all way down hill to Santa Maria at 1,430 m.a.s.l. On the way you will see a lot different landscapes, panoramic views and different micro-climates.We will arrive approximate 4-3 hours, in time for our lunch! We have a free afternoon to rest or explore the village. As an optional highlight you can choose to join the river rafting tour (100 soles). This will take you on quillabamba river for approximately 2hrs or 25 km and includes class 2 and class 3 rapids. In the evening you have dinner and sleep in Santa Maria.
DAY 2: SANTA MARIA TO SANTA TERESA
We start with a delicious breakfast and then we prepare for the trekking in the high forest. For that we need some insect repellent and sun cream, and a lot good energies to discover the flora and fauna waiting for us in this expedition. We will pass local plantations on the way to reach the authentic original Inka Trail at the highest point. On the Trail as you view spectacular landscapes and views, you will be trekking into the Inca history. Be warned this is not for people who suffer from vertigo (ask to your guide for especial help or advice to rich 20 minutes of altitude walk) After leaving the Inka trail we have another one hour and a half to walk in the forest until arrived to Cocalmayo village where we will enjoy our delicious lunch with a local family. Then we have some nap time before trekking on again to arrive in 3 hours at the Cocalmayo Hot Springs. There you can decide with your guide how long you want splash and soak before dinner and sleep in Santa Teresa.
DAY 3: SANTA TERESA TO AGUAS CALIENTES
We will start at around 6 am. After a great breakfast we will get ready to continue walking to Hidroelectrica and then to Aguas Calientes. There is an option in Santa Teresa to do zip line, all participants will be divided into 2 groups - one who booked zip line and the other who did not. Those of you who reserved zip line will be transported to the place where will be organized this activity for about 3 hours approximately . this group will be taken by bus to the area known as the Hidroelectrica. The rest of the group will continue the trek for approx. 3 hrs. more through the valley until reaching the hydroelectric, where the entire group will get together again. Here all of you will have a lunch. After a short break we will continue walking along the train way and enjoying beautiful landscapes. This part will take approx. 3 hrs. We will arrive to the town of Aguas Calientes, around 4 pm. Here, in the hotel with hot water, wi-fi, you will spend the last third night. In the evening we will meet ll together in the restaurant, where will be waiting for you delicious dinner. You will have a briefing with the guide about the fourth day and Machu Picchu.
DAY 4 - MACHU PICCHU / HUAYNA PICCHU TO CUSCO
We will wake up, at 4:00 am, in order to start trekking up the mountain to Machu Picchu in time to catch the sunrise at the top. It will take approximately 1hour and 20 minutes or by the bus up 30 minutes ($.12 USD). Also you have the option to buy your bus ticket one night before if you don’t want this at the last minute. When we first arrive, our guide will take us on a 2 hour tour around the ruins, enlightening us about the ancient City that was once so vibrantly alive, and enriching us with the Inca history. There is much information that our guide can teach us, about all that we have learned about the site archeological site so far. After the guided portion of the tour, you will have some free time to explore the ruins by your self. If you want to climb Huayna Picchu, a very popular climb with spectacular views, we recommend you to book preferably three months beforehand. (There is daily limit of 400 persons per day allowed to climb, so pre-book if you don’t want to miss out. Cost: $25) The round trip walking to the peak of Huayna Picchu is about an hour and a half. It is definitely worth it for the stunning views from the top! As an alternative to the Huayna Picchu climb you can choose to visit Machu Picchu mountain which gives the ancient Inca townsite its name. This is a new option that lets you see Machu Picchu archeological site from the highest peak. It is less crowded so you don’t have to book early. Cost: $20) You will need to descend to Aguas Calientes in time to catch the train back to Cusco and Ollantaytambo. You also have the option of staying an extra night in Aguas Calientes, which would allow you more time to explore this remarkable little town with its many markets and restaurants, and you would be able to spend more time in Machu Picchu. Train from machupicchu to ollantaytambo is about 1 hour 45 minutes, then you need to go out of train station to get bus, after one hour and a half you will be drop in Cusco.
HUCHUY QOSQO TREK
Description
The route of Huchuy qosqo is very nice, since it is a short route where you can visit the Andean communities, archeological center and scenic beauty until you reach Machu Picchu.
HUCHUY QOSQO TREK ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO – PATABAMBA – HUCHUY QOSQO
We will begin the tour with an early morning pick up from your hotel, at 7:30 am, to drive right over to Patabamba (3800 m.). The day’s hike will start at this point, and will continue through Andean landscapes and over the Pukamarca Pass at 3,800m, we will hike along a path that leads to the Tauca town, where we encounter archaeological remains and wild crops, such as tarwi, and a large quantity of cactus. We continue on to the Pukamarca pass at 4200, where we may enjoy views of the Surrounding area, immense mountains, Veronica, Pitusiray, Chicon and San Juan snow peaks. Continuing the path, we will descend towards the beautiful, remote Andean pueblo, Pukamarca at 4010m, where we stop and have a short break. As get back on the move, we will walk downhill into a mystical ancient path which will lead us to the Leon Punku Ravine. We will be led into a very narrow corridor, between some immense rock walls, where we will discover some Incan remains and various Inca bridges and sets of stairs (some of the best Inca Stairs anywhere). This canyon is absolutely magical and boasts geological formations surrounded by majestic rocks and boulders that direct the river to Huchuy Qosqo at 3600m, where we will soon be arriving. Upon our arrival to the ruins in the evening, we will actually continue on past the ruins and to our accommodations for the night. We will have dinner and sleep in the typical home of a native of the area, just to the side of the Huchuy Qosqo ruins.
DAY 2: WACAWASI – AURACCASA PASS – YANAHUARA
DAY 2: HUCHUY QOSQO- LAMAY-OLLANTAYTAMBO- AGUAS CALIENTES Huchuy Qosqo is an Inca archaeological complex which is perched precariously on the side of a mountain with imposing architecture that includes a large open ceremonial center, from which we enjoy an amazing panoramic view of the Sacred Valley, the Vilcanota River, and the snow capped mountain range of the same name. While in the complex, we will receive a guided tour as we make our way around the ruins after which we continue our way down the mountain, to Lamay at 3000m/ 9840 ft. Lamay is a town dedicated to agriculture and cattle raising. Later in the afternoon, our private transport drives us to Ollantaytambo, where we will board an afternoon train to Aguas Calientes. The train ride to get there is an absolutely gorgeous route, renowned the world round for its’ beauty. Upon our arrival to Aguas Calientes all passengers will be shown their respective hotels.
DAY 3 - MACHU PICCHU
Your climb to Machu Picchu begins before the sun is up. Ascend step by step for approximately an hour up the Inca staircase to the formerly lost stronghold of Machu Picchu. A 2-hour guided tour reveals mysteries and poses questions of how the Incas lived and were able to achieve such marvelous feats of engineering. After the tour you have the option to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for an even more incredible view of the ruins and the surrounding sheer cliffs of the Andes. Take your time exploring the wondrous ruins and get that perfect picture before making your descent back to Aguas Calientes. Your return time to Cusco will depend on which transport option, or return train you select. Huayna Picchu is the mountain located at the northwest end of the ruins and Machu Picchu mountain is located at the southwest end. Huayna Picchu is steeper, but more popular and has some interesting archeological ruins at the top. Machu Picchu mountain is a longer trek, less steep and less crowded and offers great views over Machu Picchu. Check this amazing link out for views from the Huayna Picchu mountain and Machu Picchu mountain (it will open with the Huayna Picchu mountain, click on the right side of the picture and the other views will open). Huayanpicchu cost $10 dollars extra depending of spaces.(we have to book thisd in advanced)
CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK Description
Choquequirao trek To Machu Picchu 8 Days, is one of the little crowded routes of Cusco but no less attractive than Machu Picchu, since Choquequirao is considered the Sister Citadel of Machu Picchu.
CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK ITINERARY Day 1: Cusco - Cachora - Playa Rosalina (Campsite)
Our driver and Guide will pick you up from your hotel at 5:00 a.m. We will drive for 3 hours to Cachora town where we will have our breakfast while our staff will prepare the equipment on mules and horses. From Cachora there is a walk of 4 hours until our lunch spot where we will enjoy a delicious meal and the views of majestic Padrayoc snow covered peaks, at 5482 meters the highest of the area. The hike on this first day is 21km or 8 hours approx. On the way we will see the snow covered peaks of other high mountains in the area and appreciate the beautiful change of the landscape. The first part is quite flat and after lunch we might see condors and different birds from the vantage point of Capuliyoc. The second part is a descent towards the Apurímac Canyon, observing as the vegetation changes with altitude on our way to Playa Rosalina (Campsite at 1550 meters). Day 2: La Playa Rosalina - Maranpata - Choquequirao Archeological Site
Early morning after breakfast, we will start crossing the river Apurimac and then walk uphill through zig zag trail until we arrive at Maranpata (approx. 4 hours) where we will enjoy lunch, our first meal prepared by our chef. After lunch we will continue on to Choquequirao arriving around 2pm. First we will visit this magnificent archaeological site with our guide. Then for the rest of the day we will be able to explore the beautifully preserved Inka buildings and structures and enjoy the spectacular views of the canyon. If we are lucky we may see condors soaring over our heads and in the valley.
By the end of the day we will camp close to Choquequirao (altitude approx. 3050 meters). Day 3: Choquequirao - Pinchinuyoc Archaeological Site - Maizal.
After our day in amazing Choquequirao we continue to Maizal. In this part of the tour we will see another archeological site called Pinchinuyoc which is at 3300 meters. Then we will descend to Rio Blanco is at 1900 meters. In Rio Blanco we can take time to refresh ourselves with the cold water and prepare for a 3 hour climb trekking through a cloud forest to Maizal is at 3000 meters where our campsite awaits us in a most beautiful location. We finish our day with great food and a good night’s sleep. Day 4: Maizal - Minas Victoria- Yanama.
Due to the ecosystem’s constant changes, we will take our time to rest and take pictures. In this section in particular, our passenger will have more time to stop, enjoy and take lot of pictures. We start this morning with a great breakfast, making sure we stock up on our water supplies. After we have been hiking for a couple hours we will pass by the impressive Inka mines we call Minas Victoria. We’ll also appreciate original inka trails and beautiful landscapes. At times we will be able to see some villages where people are living close to our destination. Our camping place will be in the little village called Yanama is at 3530 meters. Day 5: Yanama - Highest Pass Of This Trip- Totora
Early in the morning, we will head toward the highest pass of this trip. We will be climbing to 4670 meters. The views are amazing and in this land of condors we may see some of them flying over our heads. After the pass we will descend, following a river to the hamlet of Totora where will find our campsite. Torora is in an amazing valley covered in lush vegetation and surrounded by majestic snowcapped mountains. Our campsite will be close to one of the few families leaving in Totora. Day 6: Totora – La Playa Sahuayaco (Hot Springs Optional)
Before leaving Totora we will be able to meet some people indigenous to the area who speak their native language of Quechua, the language spoken by the Inkas. Depending on the season we will be able to appreciate them working on their farms with ancestral Inka techniques.
After leaving Totora we will get into the highland jungle of Lluscamayo valley with many orchids, bromeliads and lots of different vegetation. On the way we may see small waterfalls and have a refreshing natural bath. At the end of the valley of Lluscamayo we will arrive at La Playa Sahuayaco. We will camp close to this village so we’ll be able to try coffee, papaya, passion fruit and avocado which are growing in this area. Here you can choose to go on our coffee tour or opt for a bus drive to Santa Teresa to enjoy the natural hotspring (Bus fares and entrance fees to the natural hot spring is not included in this tour), (coffee tour Is included). Day 7: Playa - Llacta Pata - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes.
This day, we will make our final uphill climb to Llacta Pata, where we will have an excellent view of the lost Inca city of Machu Picchu on a nearby ridge. After a good rest, we will go 3 more hours down to the Hydroelectric plant. There we will take the train to Aguas Calientes, where your accommodations are awaiting you with the comforts of showers and clean beds. Then you will enjoy the dinner, and by the end of the day our guide will let you know all the information and last details you’ll need for Machu Picchu tomorrow morning. Day 8: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo - Cusco.
From Aguas Calientes we take bus up to Machu Picchu. We start our visit with a 2 hour guided tour that will bring us to the most important locations at the archaeological site. The guide will tell us about the great importance Machu Picchu enjoyed as astronomical and religious center. The rest of the day is free for you. In this time you will be able to go on to explore Machu Picchu by yourself. If you have booked the Huayna Picchu in advance climb or the walk up Machu Picchu mountain this is the time for you to set off. Afterward Machu Picchu you will go back down to Aguas Calientes town to catch the train to Ollantaytambo. There our private van will meet you and take you back to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel or hostel.
The Salkantay or Salcantay (6,271 m.a.s.l.) is a snowy mountain belonging to the Vilcabamba mountain range. It is the second highest mountain in Cusco after Ausangate (6,384 m.a.s.l.) Its name means wild mountain. Due to its imposing and isolated appearance, it was highly appreciated by the Incas. They put the name ‘Apu’ which means ‘lord’ or ‘sacred’. This snowy mountain was considered one of the most powerful in the region. They worshiped it to the point that they built Machu Picchu in view of its summit. According to the Andean worldview, mountains provided life and decided planting, harvesting and even natural disasters. Because of this, respect and offerings should be given to him. Today, the inhabitants of the Andes continue to consider the mountains as spirits of importance. In Cusco, Salkantay is held in as much esteem as the Incas did. SALKANTAY TREK ROUTE TO MACHU PICCHU INFORMATION
General information
Name: Salkantay Trek.
Kilometers: 72 kilometers approximately.
Climate: minimum of less than 0 ° C in the ‘Abra Salcantay’.
Maximum height: 4,572 m.a.s.l. in the ‘Abra Salcantay’.
Minimum height: 1,800 m.a.s.l. in the town of Santa Teresa.
Difficulty: challenging.
How to do it ?: with a tour or on your own.
When to do it ?: in the dry season (April to October).
Places it covers: Mollepata, Soraypampa, ‘Abra Salkantay’, Chaullay, Santa Teresa, Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
Physical conditions: it is recommended to be in good physical condition.
Recommendations:
The Salkantay trek is the main hiking alternative to the Inca Trail. More and more tourists are encouraged to arrive at Machu Picchu through this 5-day and 4-night trek through amazing landscapes such as the snowy Salcantay. To fully enjoy this adventure, take into account the following recommendations:
It is possible to do this trek on your own or with a tour. Due to the difficulty of the adventure, it is recommended to do it with a tourism agency. Otherwise, you must have experience in mountaineering.
Perhaps the main drawback to this adventure is the "soroche" or altitude sickness. It is advisable to do a previous acclimatization in the city of Cusco.
Most tourism agencies include the main implements such as tents, food and guide. In case of doing it independently, it is recommended to take everything you need.
The cold at the foot of the snowy Salkantay is perhaps another of the main difficulties. It is recommended to wear thermal clothing.
The rainy season (from October to March) is characterized by the highest probability of river precipitation. It is not a good climate for trekking.
In case you do it on your own, do not forget to book the Machu Picchu Ticket in advance. It is the only way to know the Wonder of the World
The Salkantay Trek is one of the beautiful routes that cross the immense mountains of the Andes, and to be able to make this trek you will need all the necessary information to make your trip unforgettable.
On this page you will find useful information about different aspects of the trek in Salkantay such as the location, altitude, degree of difficulty of the trek and the main tourist attractions that we can visit throughout the trek.
This information is constantly and responsibly updated because for us your health and safety is the main concern and the main basis of our services, we hope that all this information is useful to you: Nevado Salkantay location: The Salkantay Snow Mountain, (6272 masl) or also called Apu Salkantay is located north of the city of Cusco, it is the highest mountain range on the eastern flank of the Vilcabamba mountain range. The Quechua name of this snowy mountain means "Wild Mountain" because it is a snowy mountain that is difficult to climb to the top. cusco tours information. How to get to Salkantay: To get to the beginning of our walk we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco with direction to Mollepata. The journey takes approximately 3 hours to 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Description
Salkantay trek express 4 days, is one of the most popular alternative treks after the classic Inca trail to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, in this route you will see one of the most important apus of Cusco.
DAY 1: CUSCO - MOLLEPATA - SORAYPAMPA - CHAULLAY
This day we leave Cusco early (about 4am) and drive for approximately 3 ½ hrs to Soraypampa where we will start the hardest day of the whole Salkantay trek 4 days 3 nights. We will be walking 7.5km to the highest point of the trek, enjoying magnificent panoramas of snow-capped mountains on the way. Once we reach the top we will have spectacular views of the sacred mountain, Salkantay. At 6245 metres it is the second highest mountain in the Cusco region. After 2 hours downhill we will have our delicious lunch around 1:00 p.m. in Huayracmachay. Then we continue approximately 3 hours downhill to our camp in Chaullay or Collpapampa (2900 metres) where your tent will be ready and waiting for you with a bowl of hot water for washing up. Then there is time to rest, nap or write. Around 7 p.m. we will have happy hour, dinner. Then we’re off to bed and a well-earned sleep. DAY 2: CHAULLAY - LUCMABAMBA
Around 6.30am, we start with our breakfast before beginning our trek through the high jungle. We cross the Lluskamayo valley and a variety of little brooks to reach La Playa (Sahuayaco) trekking about 6 hours. You will pass through wonderful landscapes and see waterfalls, rivers, beautiful plants and orchids. At La playa (Sahuayaco) we’ll have our lunch and the horses will go back to Mollepata. After lunch and another 30 minutes uphill you will reach our campsite at Lucmabamba. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy our coffee tour or, as an optional extra, take a local van to Santa Teresa to soak in the natural hot spring optional extra. At the end of the day we have our happy hour, dinner and then a briefing for the next day. DAY 3: LUCMABAMBA - AGUAS CALIENTES
We will have our delicious breakfast at 6 am and leave our campsite. After about 5 minutes you will step onto the original Inka Trail, and for the next 3 hours you will follow this historic trail to the summit for your first view of Machu Picchu across the valley. Then we will descend to our lunch spot by the Hydrolectric Station. After lunch we will walk 3 more hours or take a train for 45 minutes to Aguas Calientes where your beautiful hotel and dinner will be waiting for you. DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU!!!
Early morning, after the breakfast at the Hotel, you will go up by walking or you can take the bus to Machu Picchu where you meet with our Tour Guide for a private introductory tour of the Citadel. For the next 2 hours you will learn of the history, the structure and the stories of this important World Wonder. Then you will have free time to take pictures, relax and explore Machu Picchu by yourself. If you have reserved a climb up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, our Tour Guide show you where you start.
After exploring Machu Picchu, you will walk or take a bus down to Aguas Calientes. There you will collect your luggage at the Hotel and board the train to Ollantaytambo. When you arrive at Ollantaytambo, you will transfer to a van for a ride back to Cusco by van where you will be dropped off at your hotel or hostel.
SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU INFORMATION.
For the inhabitants of the Andes, reverence for the apus, sacred mountains, converted into local protectors, did not go unnoticed in time, thus, mountains such as Salkantay, among others that surround it, assume an important role in the Andean worldview. For example, the snow of Waqay Willke (5720 masl), within the traditional symbolism of Andean dual thought, is considered the complement of Salkantay which is one of the most powerful and active deities of the place, it is also appreciated by the inhabitants, the father of all the mountains in the region and even today it is the object of great veneration, so Machupicchu and Choquechurco maintain an intimate visual contact with Salkantay and other snowcapped mountains of the Vilcabamba chain, SALKANTAY TREK INFORMATION.
The sacred and administrative llaqta of Machupicchu is located between important snowfalls of the eastern slope of the Vilcabamba mountain range, «Salkantay, (Humantay Yanantay and Tokorhuay that surround it) and Waqay Willke» 1 whose mountains, object of worship, enable a social cohesion which revolves around its veneration, as these are water providers, a vital element, principle of existence in the Andean world, as well as generating fertility in animals, protection of its inhabitants and success in crops.
In the cult of the mountains in the area, religious, political and economic factors are involved; important within the process of social development of their communities, the same that have been present for centuries, and that are and were very familiar to the Andean inhabitants of all times.
The current vision of the inhabitants of the Sacred Mountain (Mollepata, Machupicchu, Santa Teresa, Wayraqmachay, Collpapampa, Totora, Yanama) in force since the time of the Inca society, is shared by Andean peoples, so that the area is known for reverence to the sacred mountains, hardly ignored and that no doubt play a vital function over time. These sacred mountains are located within the delimitation polygon of the Historic Sanctuary of Machipicchu (SHM), declared as such by supreme decree No. 001-81-AA of January 8, 1981, with an area of 32,592 ha. Likewise, in the buffer zone (ZA) of the SHM specified by the head resolution No. 322-2001-INRENA of September 16, 2004, which proposes the extension of the ZA from including continuous immediate hydrographic basins to the SHM area, increasing the air of the ZA of those in force in 71,589 ha to 193,334 ha. Finally, it is also considered within the National Archaeological Park of Vilcabamba-Choquequirao, declared by means of national directive resolution No. 949 / INC, dated October 9, 2002, which resolves: «To approve the Plan of Delimitation of the National Archaeological Park of Vilcabamba (Choquequirao ), Plan Nº V-01, dated July 2002, with an area of 522,878.30 hectares and a perimeter of 367.09 kilometers, at a scale of 1: 125,000, located in the provinces of La Convencion, Anta and Abancay, in the departments of Cusco and Apurímac ».
Evolution and distribution of glaciers in the Salkantay chain At the time when the glacial areas of the Aobamba basin reached their maximum development, the glaciers probably descended to the height of 2950 m and to the extent that the environmental climatic conditions were changing, a process of deglaciation begins, being observed on the one hand that according to the pre-existing morphology, the main glacier current developed along the channel of the Aobamba valley, which during its retreat was subdivided into the areas of the ravines tributaries, generating in turn in the latter, the secondary glacial basins, such as in the cases of the Mesada, Tokorhuay, Paccha Grande, Sisaypampa and Orcospampa streams, which are the most traveled in the upper area of the main basin. On the other hand, on the slopes of the flanks of the valley where the slopes are steep, the glacial retreat of the fronts occurred almost parallel to the longitudinal axis of the main glacier current. Currently, the glaciers that belong to Aobamba are concentrated around the Palkay (5422 m), Salkantay (6264 m) and Tokorhuay (5473 m) hills, obviously year after year they continue to lose size and volume. In the last thirty years the rate of glacial melting has increased rapidly, the causes of such melting being attributed to the greenhouse effects. more cusco tours
This day we leave Cusco early (about 4am) and drive for approximately 3 ½ hrs to Soraypampa where we will start the hardest day of the whole Salkantay trek 4 days 3 nights. We will be walking 7.5km to the highest point of the trek, enjoying magnificent panoramas of snow-capped mountains on the way. Once we reach the top we will have spectacular views of the sacred mountain, Salkantay. At 6245 metres it is the second highest mountain in the Cusco region. After 2 hours downhill we will have our delicious lunch around 1:00 p.m. in Huayracmachay. Then we continue approximately 3 hours downhill to our camp in Chaullay or Collpapampa (2900 metres) where your tent will be ready and waiting for you with a bowl of hot water for washing up. Then there is time to rest, nap or write. Around 7 p.m. we will have happy hour, dinner. Then we’re off to bed and a well-earned sleep.
DAY 2: CHAULLAY - LUCMABAMBA
Around 6.30am, we start with our breakfast before beginning our trek through the high jungle. We cross the Lluskamayo valley and a variety of little brooks to reach La Playa (Sahuayaco) trekking about 6 hours. You will pass through wonderful landscapes and see waterfalls, rivers, beautiful plants and orchids. At La playa (Sahuayaco) we’ll have our lunch and the horses will go back to Mollepata. After lunch and another 30 minutes uphill you will reach our campsite at Lucmabamba. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy our coffee tour or, as an optional extra, take a local van to Santa Teresa to soak in the natural hot spring optional extra. At the end of the day we have our happy hour, dinner and then a briefing for the next day. DAY 3: LUCMABAMBA - AGUAS CALIENTES
We will have our delicious breakfast at 6 am and leave our campsite. After about 5 minutes you will step onto the original Inka Trail, and for the next 3 hours you will follow this historic trail to the summit for your first view of Machu Picchu across the valley. Then we will descend to our lunch spot by the Hydrolectric Station. After lunch we will walk 3 more hours or take a train for 45 minutes to Aguas Calientes where your beautiful hotel and dinner will be waiting for you. DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU!!!
Early morning, after the breakfast at the Hotel, you will go up by walking or you can take the bus to Machu Picchu where you meet with our Tour Guide for a private introductory tour of the Citadel. For the next 2 hours you will learn of the history, the structure and the stories of this important World Wonder. Then you will have free time to take pictures, relax and explore Machu Picchu by yourself. If you have reserved a climb up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, our Tour Guide show you where you start.
After exploring Machu Picchu, you will walk or take a bus down to Aguas Calientes. There you will collect your luggage at the Hotel and board the train to Ollantaytambo. When you arrive at Ollantaytambo, you will transfer to a van for a ride back to Cusco by van where you will be dropped off at your hotel or hostel.
MORE INFORMATION OF SALKANTAY TREK
Also known as Salkantay, Peru's snowy peak located in the department of Cuzco, it is one of the main elevations of the Vilcabamba Range, an extension of the Eastern Cordillera, a mountainous branch of the Peruvian Andes. It reaches an altitude of 6,271 meters. It has two snowy peaks, known as China Salkantay and female Salkantay, separated by a port that opens to the Santa Ana Valley in the province of Urubamba. Both the mountain pass and the course of the river that is born there are called Salkantay. This river pours its waters into the Urubamba on its left bank. SALKANTAY TREK INFORMATION
The name of this mountain is a contraction that comes from Salga = sullen or wild and Antay produces eyebrows or avalanches. It is usually preceded by the name of Apu, which in Quechua language comes to mean sir, is defined as large mountains that mean something sacred above the valleys. For example, Apu Salkantay in the Vilcabamba mountain range.
1.-Before starting the Salkantay Trek you must book the tickets to Machu Picchu, especially if you want to climb some of the mountains
2.- The route is the same as with a tour, depending on the capacity of the hiker it could take more or less days.
3.- The ascent begins in Mollepata and it is recommended to bring both food and sleeping equipment for only five days, and thus avoid carrying excessive luggage. Among the necessary things you should bring: sleeping bags, shoes, backpack, jacket and trekking pants, hat or hat, water bottle, toiletries, snacks, waterproof jacket, sunscreen, water purifying tablets and cash . If you decide to trek Salkantay to Machu Picchu through a tourist agency (recommended for your safety), they include professional and experienced tour guides, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, breakfast, lunch and dinner, sleeping tents, necessary transports and horses for carry luggage Before starting the Salkantay trek it is advisable to acclimatize in the city of Cusco one or two days. Due to the height, the ideal is to avoid consuming alcoholic beverages or very fatty foods. Although you do not need to be in excellent physical condition, try to do some exercises before leaving for the Salkantay trek. Wear warm clothes, no matter what season of the year you travel, being the best time from April to October, which is the dry and safest time and although the days are sunnier, the nights are colder. The difference between doing the Salkantay trek with an agency and doing it independently, not only lies in the price if there is also the possibility of suffering an accident, get lost or discouraged in half way. In addition, you will have to carry your luggage in tow, while with the tour the horse service is included for the transfer of luggage. Whatever your decision, enjoy a wonderful Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu, do it in an organized and prudent way, and so you can enjoy an unforgettable trip and you can tell all your friends about your adventures.
Salcantay located in the Cordillera Vilcabamba, department of Cusco, rises to 6271 meters above sea level.
To get to it, you will cross beautiful Andean landscapes, open 5,000 meters. and the possibility of observing Condors and Alpacas in their natural habitat. You can take baths in natural hot springs from the depths of the earth, different fruit plants and a variety of orchids.
The Cordillera de Vilcabamba, where the Salcantay massif is located, is a beautiful and lonely area. Dominated by the same Apu Salcantay has numerous high-elevation snowfalls, such as Tucarhuay (5,910 m.a.s.l.), Veronica (5,682 m.a.s.l.) and Huacayhuilca (5,361 m.a.s.l.), among others.
All of them are visible from the Puyupatamarca area during the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Geography is difficult and capricious around the contour of this attractive mountain complex. The Salkantay is surrounded by deep valleys and gorges, which makes its tour interesting but at the same time exhausting.
Although the difficulty of this Trek is slightly higher than that of the Inca Trail, it is not a high level Trek. Indeed, it is longer (5 days instead of 4), taller, more wild but there is also your interest.
This Trek does not disappoint the most demanding or lovers of nature, hiking, emotions; those same emotions that make him feel invulnerable, only in the world, on the roof of the world, in a nutshell ... feel alive!
To make the excursion you must contact a specialized tourism agency.
Cusco without a doubt does not cease to surprise us since in it there are the most curious and unusual landscapes sometimes we can even say almost interplanetary landscapes such as the mountain of colors place you can know about them here that is the mountain of colors
The Humantay lagoon is formed as a thaw product of a large snow that is also part of a mountain range called Vilcabamba mountain range.
What makes the Humantay lagoon characteristic is the natural color that it possesses, since it does not have much marine flora in its waters, it has an indescribable color in words, but understandable to the eyes, forming a unique landscape when travelers seek to capture the ideal moment with Its cameras that are so eager to capture landscapes, experiences and moments, all this and more make it an ideal place to visit if you travel to Cusco Peru.
However, the geographical environment of this lagoon is also unique since it serves as the first camp on the Salkantay tour.
HOW TO GET TO HUMANTAY LAKE
Very early in the morning we will embark a 2 and a half hour trip from the city of Cusco to the town of Mollepata, this time is enough to enjoy the Andean landscape and the warm valleys that bring such harmony with them. In this town we can enjoy breakfast, since you will embark again on the bus to travel to the community of Soraypampa.
Soraypampa is the town from which we will depart in the direction of the Humantay lagoon. All you have to do is follow a one-way road, it is worth saying that there is no worry of getting lost since the end of this road is the Humantay lagoon.
The Humantay lagoon witnessed several events carried out by its own visitors made as hand requests, land payments, ceremonies with Andean masters, coin tossing to conceive a wish and romantic postcards that are easily virilized on social networks thanks to the Unique landscape of this place.
For the return to Cusco we will take the same one way route but not before enjoying a lunch with Andean Novo food as well as the organic products of the area.
The Salkantay Road to Machu Picchu combines a majestic natural beauty scene of great beauty with the attraction of the world's most famous prehispanic remains. The route begins by sailing through the incaic old road in the road that leads to the town of Machu Picchu and through a cordillera pasture between the snowy Salkantay and Humantay (5,917 msnm), to continue along the broken Aobamba River. from Machu Picchu.
This impressive tour passes through the magnificent mountain Salkantay (6.710 m / 22.014 ft), one of the highest and most impactful of the Peruvian Andes. The earliest of the days will be dominated by the impressive snowfalls of Salkantay and Humantay. The third day will descend to the warm cloudy forest to reach Aguas Calientes the fourth day. The impressive sacred city of the Incas Machu Picchu visits during the last day of the program. This excursion is an interesting alternative for those who have not found space on the Camino Inca route to Machu Picchu. The Salkantay tour was recently named by the National Geographic Adventure Travel magazine among the 25 best tours in the world. Story The Andes are considered a young mountain cadre according to geological studies. They were formed 60 million years ago by the different movements of tectonic plates, so that the location of Cusco in the Andes has one of the best places for hikers. Each mountain range and its noble inhabitants, maintain a special landscape. This variety of landscapes and people, combined with the unique history of their ancestors, the Incas, offers hikers and explorers a true adventure. Climate Semi-tropical, warm and humid days and cold nights with constant rain throughout the year Minimum: Between -5 ° C to 11 ° C Abra Salkantay (Junio) High: Between 20 ° C to 26 ° C Playa Sahuayaco (Junio) Lluvias: November to April Altitude Capital: 3,350 m.s.n.m. (Cusco) Minimum: 2,000 m.s.n.m. (Aguas Calientes) Maximum: 4,650 m.s.n.m. (Open Salkantay) Recommendations He would need acclimation in Cusco of the days before he began the trip. For a good acclimatization you need to rest as bad as possible, eat well, drink plenty of fluids; It is especially the coca mate that has been known to cure and digestive properties. A proper acclimatization avoids that it affects the “soroche” the evil of height, that could cause numerous illnesses to the health. Camino Inca access routes To start the first Camino Salkantay you must take a bus by bus to Poblado de Mollepata. An Andean town that preserves its former colonial houses and the farms of its former inhabitants. This is where Salkantay Machu Picchu trekking starts. Mollepata is located in the district of Mollepata and is 2 h 2 min (98.2 km) away by Carretera and one of the 9 districts of the province of Anta, located in the region of Cusco. Location and Geography The location of Camino Salkantay varies according to the route planted: The Camino Inca Salkantay route begins on the Mollepata pathway crossing CruzPata, Sayllapata, Soraypampa, and Abra Salkantay along the top of the receding road approximately 71 km. In five days you will reach Machu Picchu. Denominations The Camino Salkantay is an alternate route to the traditional Inca Camino that serves as a communication between the city of Cusco and the archaeological site of Machu Picchu and is therefore one of the most demanding trekking routes in Cusco. Each year the hikers from around the world resort to the wondrous 71 kilometers by a well-known road so that you have to show them that it goes from going up the Salkantay to 4600.msnm and wading through the jungle and reaching it city of Machu Picchu.
The snowy Salkantay: complete information What does Salkantay mean? The Salkantay is a snowy whose name translated from Quechua would mean ‘Wild Mountain’. This summit is known as ‘Apu’ (‘Lord’) for its majesty and elevation.
Where is it located? The pu Apu ’Salkantay is located in the Vilcanota Mountain Range in the Andes of southern Peru. This snow is the second largest in Cusco, after Ausangate (Mountain of the 7 Colors). SALKANTAY TREK
How high is the snowy Salkantay? The snowy Salkantay reaches 6,271 meters above sea level (m.s.n.m.). The trek route that leads to Machu Picchu has its highest point at ‘Abra Salcantay’, at 4,650 m.a.s.l. From there you can see the snowy peak.
How's the weather? The snow itself has an extremely cold climate (several degrees Celsius below 0º).
The weather during the Salkantay trek, however, is varied. The intense sun and the cold night in the first days change for the tropical atmosphere of the last.
How is the flora and fauna? The 5 days and 4 nights that the Salkantay trek lasts runs landscapes with a great variety of flora and fauna. Among the species of flowers and plants, the orchid and ichu (Andean grass) stand out. Among the species of birds and animals, it is worth mentioning the llama, alpaca, vizcacha, condor, spectacled bear and the cock of the rocks (national bird of Peru)
Salkantay trek: everything you need to know What is the Salkantay trek? The Salkantay trek is a hiking route that takes the visitor to the Inca City of Machu Picchu. The total walking distance is approximately 70 kilometers (5 days of route).
The Salkantay Route, also known as the "New Inca Trail", is located north of the city of Cusco, following the Cusco - Limatambo - Abancay - Lima highway, making a detour past Limatambo until arriving at Mollepata.
Climate of the snowy Salkantay:
It is very sunny during the day, but a cold at night. The temperature falls below 0 ° C at night during the months of June to September. In the season from December to March it is very rainy reason why it is not recommended to go on these dates.
The best time for the weather, to do this walk is during the months of March to September.
Height of the walk to the snowy Salkantay
This hike reaches a height of 4,600 meters above sea level at its highest point this on the slopes of the same snowy Salkantay. Enter Snow Walk Ausangate 5D to perform this walk. How to get to the snowy Salkantay The buses from Cusco to Mollepata depart very early 4 Am to 5 Am and pass through Limatambo, from Mollepata is where the trek to the Salkantay peak begins, after climbing a step up it is possible to have an impressive pyramidal view of Salkantay, one of the most beautiful snows of Cusco.
From the same Mollepata it takes two days to go down to Huayllabamba and merge with the second day of the Inca Trail.
To get to the snowy Salkantay it is advisable to take the services of our travel agency RAP TRAVEL since we have the necessary capacity to make your vacation come true. What are you going to see on the road On the way there are herds of cattle and sheep, orchids, bear with glasses, medicinal plants of the Inca eponca, small variety of birds, fruit trees such as Orange, Papaya, bananas, etc.
Note: The eye of eyeglasses to see it you have to have a bit of luck.
Recommendations: It is very important that the traveler. Carry your original passport for the respective controls.
MONTHS WHICH TRAVEL IS RECOMMENDED
March: (a little rain)April to October: (an excellent trip)October to November: (a little rain)December to February: (a lot of rain)
CUSCO – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAKE
We pick you up from your hotel or hostel between 4:00 to 4:20 in our private transport to go to Mollepata located north of Cusco, we will arrive in 2 hours approximately to this small town. We arrived at Mollepata and enjoyed the delicious breakfast to start our adventure towards Humantay lake. We will continue in our private transport for approximately 1 more hour until Soraypampa which is located at 3900 m.s.n.m. Our guide will give you some recommendations to start the trek to Humantay Lake located at 4200 m.s.n.m. Which is very close to the mountain Salkantay. We start the hike to Humantay Lake for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes; Enjoying the beautiful views of the snowy mountains Salkantay and Humantay. When we reach Laguna Humantay we will enjoy the beautiful turquoise lagoon. There you will take the best photos. Later you will enjoy a small snack watching the beautiful landscapes, continue the walk back to Soraypampa. In Soraypampa, (optional) people will receive the bike and bicycle equipment and the necessary indications by our guide, so that they begin with the adventure of return until Mollepata. Enjoy the adventure on bikes descending from 4000 m.s.n.m. At 2600 m.s.n.m. For about 2 hours until you reach the town of Mollepata. In the afternoon we will arriving to Mollepata and enjoy a delicious lunch. After lunch we return to Cusco in our private transport. We will arrived in Cusco around 7:00 p.m.; We drop you at your hotel.
DAY 1: CUSCO - MOLLEPATA - SORAYPAMPA
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco shortly after 4 a.m. to go by private van to Mollepata. This is a spectacular scenic drive through the Anta plains with beautiful and panoramic views across a vast plateau of the majestic Salkantay and other mountains covered with snow. Then marvel at the spectacular winding descent into the Valley of Apurimac River. After 2½ hours we stop in Mollepata to have breakfast and shop for last minute supplies. There will be time for leg-stretching or to use the bathrooms, before continuing to Marcocasa. There we will meet with our support staff. They will load the equipment on horses and mules. Around 8:30 a.m. we will start our trek toward Soraypampa (3900 meters above sea level) if we keep a regular pace we will take 4 hours approximately to reach Soraypampa for lunch at our first campsite. After lunch in the afternoon we have an option to go up to see Umantay Lake a glacial lake below the peak of Salkantay at (4200meters above sea level). This side tour takes 3 hours to hike back and forth from the camp. Alternatively, if we are moving at a slow pace; we will have lunch at halfway between Soraypampa and Marco Casa on our way to Soraypampa. Either way our camp will be at Soraypampa. Sleeping tents will be ready and we will have a warm delicious dinner in the evening. DAY 2: SORAYPAMPA - SALKANTAY PASS - HUAYRAMACHAY – CHAULLAY
In the morning we will wake you up with the coca tea at 5:30 a.m. and we will have a nutritious breakfast around 6 a.m. Today we will start the hardest day of the whole Salkantay trek. We will be walking up to the highest point of the trek. After 7 kilometers uphill through the magnificent landscape of rocky mountains, valleys and flood plain and changing views of Mount Salkantay above us. At the top of the trek we will have spectacular views of the mountains and the imposing snowy peaks of Salkantay (6245) meters above sea level, the second highest mountain of the Cusco region. Then we go 2 hours downhill around 1:00 p.m. to where we will have our delicious Peruvian lunch, in the area called Huayracmachay. Afterward we continue our hike approximately 3 hours downhill to our camp in Chaullay (2900 meters above sea level) or Colcapampa (3000 meters above sea level). The sleeping tents and warm wash water will be ready and waiting for you. Then after a well-earned hot meal we will retire to our tents for a well-deserved sleep. DAY 3: CHAULLAY - COLLPAPAMPA - LA PLAYA - LUCMABAMBA
Around 6.30am, we start trekking through the high jungle crossing the Lluskamayo valley with its rich variety of flora and fauna to reach La Playa (Sahuayaco) after about 6 hours. We will pass through valleys and have wonderful views of waterfalls, tropical fruits and plants. You will taste the famous passion fruit or granadilla. We will have lunch when we arrive at La Playa. After lunch our horses will go back to Mollepata while we go on to Lucmabamba Campsite where we will spend the night. Here you can choose to go on our coffee tour or opt for a bus drive to Santa Teresa to enjoy the natural hotspring it is famous for. (Bus fares and entrance fees to the natural hot spring is not included in this tour), (coffee tour Is included). DAY 4: SANTA TERESA - HIDROELECTRYC - AGUAS CALIENTES
We will have our delicious breakfast at 6 a.m. Then we will walk for about 3 hours up to Llactapata and along the original Inka Trail to Llactapata. From this beautiful archeological site we will be able to see part of Machu Picchu and into the amazing Urubamba valley. Afterwards we have another 3 hours down hill until we arrive to the hydrolectric where we are going to have lunch. Then we will walk for 3 more hours or take a 45 minute train ride to Aguas Calientes to your hotel. After you have settled in we will get together for dinner and a briefing on how to get the most out of your visit to Machu Picchu tomorrow. DAY 5: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU - OLLANTAYTAMBO - CUSCO
After an early breakfast at the hotel you will walk 1 hour 30 minutes or take bus up to Machu Picchu, so we can be the first ones into Machu Picchu to enjoy the sunrise. You will have a private 2 hour guided tour followed by free time in which you will be able to go on to explore Machu Picchu by yourself. If you have booked the Huayna Picchu in advance climb or the walk up Machu Picchu mountain this is the time for you to set off.
Afterward Machu Picchu you will go back down to Aguas Calientes town to catch the train to Ollantaytambo. There our private van will meet you and take you back to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel or hostel.
DAY 1: CUSCO - MOLLEPATA - SORAYPAMPA - CHAULLAY
This day we leave Cusco early (about 4am) and drive for approximately 3 ½ hrs to Soraypampa where we will start the hardest day of the whole Salkantay trek 4 days 3 nights. We will be walking 7.5km to the highest point of the trek, enjoying magnificent panoramas of snow-capped mountains on the way. Once we reach the top we will have spectacular views of the sacred mountain, Salkantay. At 6245 metres it is the second highest mountain in the Cusco region. After 2 hours downhill we will have our delicious lunch around 1:00 p.m. in Huayracmachay. Then we continue approximately 3 hours downhill to our camp in Chaullay or Collpapampa (2900 metres) where your tent will be ready and waiting for you with a bowl of hot water for washing up. Then there is time to rest, nap or write. Around 7 p.m. we will have happy hour, dinner. Then we’re off to bed and a well-earned sleep. DAY 2: CHAULLAY - LUCMABAMBA
Around 6.30am, we start with our breakfast before beginning our trek through the high jungle. We cross the Lluskamayo valley and a variety of little brooks to reach La Playa (Sahuayaco) trekking about 6 hours. You will pass through wonderful landscapes and see waterfalls, rivers, beautiful plants and orchids. At La playa (Sahuayaco) we’ll have our lunch and the horses will go back to Mollepata. After lunch and another 30 minutes uphill you will reach our campsite at Lucmabamba. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy our coffee tour or, as an optional extra, take a local van to Santa Teresa to soak in the natural hot spring optional extra. At the end of the day we have our happy hour, dinner and then a briefing for the next day. DAY 3: LUCMABAMBA - AGUAS CALIENTES
We will have our delicious breakfast at 6 am and leave our campsite. After about 5 minutes you will step onto the original Inka Trail, and for the next 3 hours you will follow this historic trail to the summit for your first view of Machu Picchu across the valley. Then we will descend to our lunch spot by the Hydrolectric Station. After lunch we will walk 3 more hours or take a train for 45 minutes to Aguas Calientes where your beautiful hotel and dinner will be waiting for you. DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU!!!
Early morning, after the breakfast at the Hotel, you will go up by walking or you can take the bus to Machu Picchu where you meet with our Tour Guide for a private introductory tour of the Citadel. For the next 2 hours you will learn of the history, the structure and the stories of this important World Wonder. Then you will have free time to take pictures, relax and explore Machu Picchu by yourself. If you have reserved a climb up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, our Tour Guide show you where you start.
After exploring Machu Picchu, you will walk or take a bus down to Aguas Calientes. There you will collect your luggage at the Hotel and board the train to Ollantaytambo. When you arrive at Ollantaytambo, you will transfer to a van for a ride back to Cusco by van where you will be dropped off at your hotel or hostel.
Machu Picchu,This stunning site situated on a mountain ridge above the Sacred Valley is the best-preserved relic of Inca civilisation and South America’s most popular attraction with an estimated 3,000 people visiting on a typical day.
