The Salkantay Trek is one of the most captivating journeys in Peru, offering adventurers an extraordinary path through diverse landscapes, towering peaks, and lush valleys. This ancient route was once traveled by the Incas, winding through the Andes as a “backroad” to Machu Picchu.
When MLP Founder, Enrique Umbert Sr., first envisioned creating a lodge-to-lodge experience along this sacred route, his mission was to offer travelers an unparalleled way to immerse themselves in the Andean wilderness without sacrificing comfort. Guests at each lodge are treated to gourmet meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients, along with cozy bedding, hot showers, and inviting common areas to relax after a long day of trekking. In addition, the strategic locations of the lodges have been thoughtfully chosen to enhance the traveler experience, providing each outpost with exclusive access to some of the trek’s most iconic sites.
Soray Lodge: Where Adventure Begins
Perched at 12,690 feet (3,870 meters) above sea level, Soray Lodge marks the starting point of your Salkantay adventure. The lodge is nestled at the foot of Humantay and Salkantay peaks, revered apus, or sacred mountain spirits, of the Vilcabamba range. This breathtaking setting provides an inspiring backdrop as you prepare to embark on your trek.
Soray Lodge’s history is intertwined with the exploration of the Salkantay route. Its location was chosen for both its beauty and proximity to the trail’s starting point, allowing guests to acclimate to the altitude in comfort. With 12 guest rooms, the lodge ensures a relaxing stay. After a day of exploring the nearby Humantay Lake, guests can unwind in front of the fireplace or relax in the outdoor hot tub while gazing up at the star-filled Andean sky.
Wayra Lodge: The Heart of the Mountains
Wayra Lodge sits at 12,812 feet (3,906 meters), nestled deep in the heart of the Salkantay Pass, and offers trekkers an unforgettable experience surrounded by towering peaks. This lodge stands as a testament to the region’s remote beauty, located at the highest point of the trek, where the landscape transitions from rugged, snow-covered mountains to verdant valleys.
The lodge’s name, “Wayra,” means “wind” in Quechua, reflecting the powerful gusts that sweep through this high-altitude pass. Wayra Lodge was built with a vision of immersing guests in the harsh yet magnificent Andean environment. Each of the lodge’s 6 rooms provides a comfortable space to rest and recharge after a challenging day of trekking.
Colpa Lodge: A Hidden Gem in the Cloud Forest
As you descend into the cloud forest, you’ll arrive at Colpa Lodge, located at 9,414 feet (2,870 meters) above sea level. This lodge, with its 6 rooms, is tucked away in a natural amphitheater at the confluence of three rivers, offering a warm welcome after the chilly mountain air. The lodge’s location was selected for its unique position within the cloud forest, allowing guests to experience the transition from high-altitude landscapes to a more tropical climate.
Colpa Lodge is celebrated not only for its beautiful surroundings but also for its unique cultural experiences. Upon arrival, guests are treated to a traditional “Pachamanca” feast, a Peruvian meal where meats and vegetables are slow-cooked underground with hot stones—a tradition passed down through generations.
Lucma Lodge: Gateway to Machu Picchu
At 7,003 feet (2,135 meters), Lucma Lodge is the final stop before reaching Machu Picchu. Located in the high jungle, commonly referred to as the “eyebrow of the jungle” or ceja de selva in Spanish, this lodge is surrounded by lush vegetation and fruit orchards. Its location was chosen to allow guests to explore the nearby archaeological ruins of Llactapata, which offer a first glimpse of Machu Picchu in the distance. Lucma Lodge has 6 rooms and is a welcome contrast to the high-altitude landscapes of the earlier lodges, a restful stop before the final push to the ancient Inca citadel.
Conclusion: A Trek Like No Other
The lodges of the Salkantay Trek add a unique layer to the experience, providing trekkers with the opportunity to connect deeply with the land while enjoying the comforts of thoughtful hospitality. Each lodge offers a distinct perspective on the journey, making the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu an unforgettable adventure.