Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel, followed by a scenic drive to Mollepata (2,700m) for breakfast. After a short bus ride, we arrive at Soraypampa (3,800m), the trailhead. The trek starts with a gentle ascent, leading into a steeper climb through winding zigzags. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Salkantay (6,271m), the sacred guardian of the jungle. At the highest point of the pass (4,630m), you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Sacred Mountains, Humantay and Salkantay. Here, you’ll add a pebble to the pile of stones, an offering to the Apus (mountain spirits) for a safe journey. You’ll also spot remnants of an ancient Inca trail, still visible as it stretches across the mountainside. After soaking in the views, we begin a gentle descent to our first campsite at Andenes (3,400m / 11,150ft), arriving in the late afternoon to rest and reflect on the day’s adventure.

Following an early breakfast, we will leave the beautiful pyramid shaped peak of Salkantay behind us. From now, the fauna and flora change as we enter the tropical cloud forest and discover its lush vegetation of wild orchids, bromeliads and beautiful birds. Continuing our descent through the groves of bamboos; going across some amazing untouched path where strawberries grow at your feet and passion fruit are above your head in a decor of begonias and purple orchids! After 5 hours hike we arrive at the hamlet of Wayracpunku for lunch, then we set out to La Playa (campsite) passing the Hamlet of Saint Ignatious where we see banana and avocado trees, as well as coffee plantations.

Aguas Calientes

Another early start gives us some amazing views over the valley. After 3 hours journey, we will arrive to an Incan remain named Llactapata which overlooks Machu Picchu. It is a magical view given to us that a majority of tourists will never see! A 2 hour downhill trail easily leads the hikers into a forest of increasingly thick vegetation to the hydroelectric power station lunch spot. Finally, we follow the railway heading up the Urubamba valley to our last destination at Aguas Calientes and stay overnight in a hotel. Total distance:12 km (7, 50 miles)

Early start to Machu Picchu, means entering for the best photo opportunities. Following the guided tour, take the time to explore and wander around Machu Picchu by yourself. Make your way back down to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved rest and lunch. Finally, get the train to Ollantaytambo and bus back to Cusco.