Today we will start this amazing journey traveling to a small village, located close to the Apurimac River, six hours away.

On the way we will observe breath-taking views of the chains of snowcapped peaks of Vilcabamba, the quaint village of Mollepata, and the stunning Apurimac River Valley. At this point we will encounter the horses, mules, and wranglers who will carry your gear during the trek. We will start off with a gentle climb up the mountain through the Amazing River Valley of the Cordillera Vilcabamba, hiking steadily upwards to the high plateau, following a series of switchbacks called the Siete Culebras. This incredible path leads up to the grandiose Mount Salkantay, which is the highest point of our trek.

Along the way, you will get an amazing first view of the Humantay glacier. As we approach our campsite at Suiroccocha, the enormous Salkantay peak dominates the skyline. This first camp is located at 11,500 feet.

Altitude: 13,448 feet.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Camping

After breakfast, we will start our trek with a moderate climb up the Salkantay Mountain, where we will find small piles of stones, also known Apachetas. These served as offerings to the Gods. At this point we will find ourselves at the feet of two impressive mountains: Salkantay peak and Humantay.

Salkantay is the most imposing mountain in the Cusco region, a large, steep peak, with a steep vertical grade. From this point we will descend to our camp in Colcapampa Village, where we will spend the night.

Altitude: 13,500 feet
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Camping

Very early in the morning we will start our descent to the eastern slope of the Andes, into the lush tropical valley where we will be able to observe the interesting flora and fauna characteristic of this region. This includes orchids, hummingbirds, butterflies, parrots, lush groves, cocoa and coffee plants, to name a few.

After crossing the river we will be trekking along the left hand side of the Alto Salkantay River. This part of the trek is easy as you descend altitude and we will observe how the landscape changes from the Andes mountain terrain to the low jungle. Finally, we will reach Playa, a small village where we set up camp for the night.

Altitude: 6,724 feet
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we continue this amazing trek through a sub-tropical region until we reach the village of Lucmabamba, where we will join an original Inca Trail. From this point we will be able to observe the quaint Santa Teresa Valley. After a gradual uphill climb through a lush forest we will reach Llactapata from where we will enjoy beautiful views of Machu Picchu Citadel and of the surrounding peaks.

In the afternoon, we will descend to the Hydroelectric Plant, where we will have our final meal with the crew. Afterwards you will board the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo where you will spend the night.

Altitude: 6,560 feet
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: (C) Casa Andina, (P) El Mapi by Inkaterra

Today after breakfast, you will take the early bus up to the stunning archaeological complex of Machu Picchu.

You will explore this enigmatic citadel where your expert guide will lead you through the ruins, providing archaeological and historical information on key areas of interest, including The Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana (the Sun Dial) and the Sacred Plaza. You will appreciate the most amazing views from the top of the citadel! This is an opportunity to revel in the energy and atmosphere of one of the most significant and spectacular archaeological sites of the world, surrounded by the cloud forest. You will also have the opportunity to see Llamas wandering around the citadel in their natural environment.

After descending to Machu Picchu Pueblo, you will have some free time for lunch, and wander around through this picturesque town. In the afternoon you will board the return train to Ollantaytambo Station, where one of our representatives will be waiting for you to take you back to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast