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7 - Day experience

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Challenge yourself and follow the road less traveled to Machu Picchu on our signature Salkantay Trek.

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu goes beyond deluxe lodges and a great trek. It is also a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Andean culture as you learn about the Inca civilization and the extraordinary legacy that they left for generations to come.

We offer guaranteed departures from Cusco several times per week from March 1st through December 31st along with lodging and other services for before and after your MLP journey.

ITINERARY

DAY 0 Evening briefing in Cusco

  • Meet your MLP guide and fellow travelers for a general trip briefing and Q&A.

    DAY 1 On the way to Soraypampa

    • Visit the Quillarumiyoc archaeological site.
    • Scenic ride on the winding mountain road to Challacancha.
    • Hike or continue by transport to our flagship Salkantay Lodge at Soraypampa.

    Overnight: Salkantay Lodge (12,690’ / 3,869m)

      DAY 2 Hike to Lake Humantay

      • Early morning round-trip hike to Lake Humantay.
      • Afternoon at leisure.

      Optional activities: Chakana excursion, Horseback riding (subject to additional cost)

      Overnight: Salkantay Lodge (12,690’ / 3,869m)

        DAY 3 Crossing the Salkantay Pass

        • The ascent toward the Salkantay Pass begins.
        • Circle Humantay Peak and reach to the highest point on the trek (15,213’ / 4,636m).
        • Hike through the area’s bucolic countryside to our Wayra Lodge at Wayraccmachay.

        Overnight: Wayra Lodge (12,812’ / 3,906m)

          DAY 4 Descending into the cloud forest

          • Descent into the cloud forest on the way to Colpa Lodge.
          • Traditional Pachamanca lunch in Colpa Lodge.
          • Afternoon at leisure.

          Overnight: Colpa Lodge (9,414’ / 2,870m)

            DAY 5 Following the Santa Teresa River Valley

            • Descend along the Santa Teresa River towards Lucmabamba.
            • Afternoon visit to a local coffee plantation before arrival.

            Overnight: Lucma Lodge (7,003’ / 2,135m)

              DAY 6 Lucmabamba

              • Travel uphill through the cloud forest to the Llactapata Pass for a seldom-seen view of Machu Picchu.
              • Descent to the Aobamba River Valley.
              • 30-minute train ride to Aguas Calientes.

              Overnight: Partner hotel in Aguas Calientes (6,693’/2,040m)

                DAY 7 The citadel of Machu Picchu

                • Guided tour of Machu Picchu.
                • Free time for further exploration or a hike up Huayna Picchu (subject to additional cost).
                • Scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo.
                • Vehicle transfer to your hotel in Cusco.

                  MAP

                  Gallop through undulating open vistas, climb rugged high mountain trails, and meander beside rolling rivers on your way to Machu Picchu. We house the finest American Quarter Horses from top farms in Uruguay that have been extensively trained with the sole purpose of becoming perfect Salkantay trail companions for riders of varied levels. (Please note: Previous riding experience required.)

                  MLP’s horses have been trained Western-style and are fitted with American endurance saddles. (English saddles are available upon request.) The team is cared for impeccably and is well-rested before each journey.

                  Although each of our horses has been trained to adapt to varied experience levels, there may be certain characteristics that you prefer. Take a look to find your ideal travel companion!

                  Each of our four beautifully-appointed mountain lodges is one of a kind. The eco-minded architecture effortlessly mixes traditional Andean building techniques with contemporary design to blend seamlessly into their environs.

                  All of our guest rooms offer top-notch amenities. Hot showers, gourmet meals, fine linens, outdoor hot tubs, and highly personalized service from our local staff are just a few.

                  Our flagship Salkantay Lodge was built on the flatlands of the Rio Blanco river valley, with a stunning, unobstructed view of the majestic Salkantay mountain peak. Its contemporary, eco-conscious design was the inspiration for all other MLP lodges. (12,690’/3,869 m)

                  Wayra Lodge, a cozy mountain refuge with dramatic views of Mt. Humantay, is the most remote of our MLP lodges – and a welcome sight after a long day of trekking over the Salkantay Pass. (12,812’/3,906m)

                  Surrounded by lush green mountains in a cloud forest, our Colpa Lodge is situated on a promontory at the confluence of three rivers (9,333’/2,845m). Sun-drenched in the afternoons, it is the perfect spot to relax or soak in the outdoor hot tub. (9,414’/2,870m)

                  Situated in a lush avocado orchard at the edge of the Amazon jungle, our charming Lucma Lodge resembles a contemporary treehouse. The view through the multi-pane windows that stretch almost to the ceiling will give you the sensation of living amidst the beautiful foliage that surrounds you. (7,003’/2,135m)