Your story begins with a dream of visiting Machu Picchu. The dream comes alive during a once-in-a-lifetime experience: the ultimate lodge-to-lodge horseback ride along the Salkantay Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Guided by one of our experienced horseman, you’ll see the beautiful countryside from one of the best vantage points – atop a horse!
ITINERARY
Meet your MLP guide and fellow travelers for a general trip briefing and Q&A.
In the morning: Visit to the Quillarumiyoc archaeological site en route to the mountain village of Mollepata
In the afternoon: Take a scenic ride to Coronilla Ranch to meet and get to know your horse and start a 4-hour ride to the Salkantay Lodge in the high plains of Soraypampa.
Overnight: Salkantay Lodge (12,690’ / 3,869m)
Walk, trot, canter, gallop on open roads, some steep ascending trails
Approximately 4 hours (including picnic lunch en route).
In the morning: A 1-hour ride to Humantay Lake
In the afternoon: 30-minute ride followed by a 1-hour excursion by foot to the “Chakana” (the mystical Cross of the Incas) located on a viewpoint high above Soraypampa.
Overnight: Salkantay Lodge (12,690’ / 3,869m)
Walk, trot, canter on open roads, some steep ascending trails and open fields.
Approximately 4 hours
In the morning: We continue our journey towards Machu Picchu, riding up the Rio Blanco valley and circling Humantay Peak across from Salkantay Peak.
In the afternoon: The highest point on the trail is a pass at 4,638 m / 15,213 ft. From there we continue our descent towards Wayra Lodge
Overnight: Wayra Lodge (12,812’ / 3,906m)
Walk, trot on mostly steep trails and some open slopes.
Approximately 5 hours
In the morning: We continue downhill above the Salkantay River, descending into the cloud forest, through increasingly verdant scenery.
In the afternoon: Upon arrival at Colpa Lodge, we are greeted with a Pachamanca, a traditional festive Peruvian meal cooked by layering meat and vegetables with hot stones.
Overnight: Colpa Lodge (9,414’ / 2,870m)
Walk or trot, on narrow trails.
Approximately 4 hours
In the morning: We ride along the Santa Teresa river valley, through more populated rural areas. We pass through banana, passion fruit, avocado orchards and coffee plantations.
In the afternoon: Our ride takes us to the beginning of the “Llactapata Inca Trail”, which is where we say goodbye to our horses and equestrian staff. A short 30-minute walk through an avocado orchard brings us to Lucma Lodge.
Overnight: Lucma Lodge (7,003’ / 2,135m)
Walk, trot, canter on steep trails and some open roads.
Approximately 5 hours
In the morning: Travel uphill through the cloud forest to the Llactapata Pass for a seldom-seen view of Machu Picchu.
In the afternoon: Lunch en route followed by a winding descent to the Aobamba River Valley, ending the day with a 30-minute train ride to Aguas Calientes.
Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (6,232’ / 1,900m)
From Lucmabamba to Hidroelectrica train station
Approximately 5 hours
Moderate to Challenging
In the morning: Early morning guided tour of Machu Picchu followed by free time for further exploration or a hike up Huayna Picchu*.
In the afternoon: Lunch in Aguas Calientes; afternoon train ride and van transport back to Cusco (11,021’ / 3,360m)
*Note: Tickets for Huayna Picchu Mt. (8,924’ / 2,720m) may be available subject to additional cost. In the event that Huayna Picchu permits are not available for your desired date, you may opt for a hike up Machu Picchu Mt. (10,112 / 3,082m), located next to the Machu Picchu Citadel on the southern side. Please consult with your MLP Travel Specialist for detailed information.
The citadel of Machu Picchu has many steps and uphill climbs
Approximately 4 hours
Machu Picchu: Easy to moderate
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