Cusco: 4-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, Panoramic Train
Day 1: Cusco – Humantay Lake – SalkaGlamp Basecamp Start early with a 4:30 AM pickup. After breakfast in Mollepata, hike 3 hours to Soraypampa, where a fresh lunch awaits. Then, enjoy a 2-hour climb to Humantay Lake’s turquoise beauty at 4,200 m, with stunning Andean views and possible wildlife sightings. Afterward, head to SalkaGlamp at 3,900 m for your glamping experience—complete with tea, dinner, and a peaceful night under the stars. Day 2: SalkaGlamp – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa Start your day with coffee or coca tea brought to your glamping tent. Step outside to stunning views of plains and snow-capped peaks. After a hearty breakfast, hike 2 hours to the trek’s highest point—Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m (15,190 ft). Take in the breathtaking landscapes and serene lake beneath Salkantay Mountain. From here, descend 3 hours to Wayracmachay (3,800 m) for a well-earned lunch. Then, trek another 3 hours down into the cloud forest, where vibrant flowers, hummingbirds, and orchids await. By evening, reach Collpapampa (2,770 m) to relax in cozy jungle huts, enjoy a hot shower, and rest in a comfortable bed. Day 3: Collpapampa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes This is the highlight of your Salkantay adventure! After breakfast, enjoy a 3-hour scenic hike to Lucmabamba (2,000 m), where you’ll help prepare a traditional Pachamanca barbecue—a unique Peruvian feast cooked with hot stones. After lunch, visit an organic coffee farm to learn about coffee-making and try your hand at brewing espresso from fresh beans. Then, take a short drive to Hidroelectrica and hike 3 hours to Aguas Calientes, surrounded by lush scenery as you approach Machu Picchu. Arrive around 5:00 p.m. for dinner and a cozy night in a local hotel, ready for tomorrow’s big adventure! Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco Get ready for the ultimate highlight of your adventure: Machu Picchu! Start bright and early with a 5:30 a.m. bus ride to the ancient citadel. As the first light touches the ruins, you’ll enjoy incredible views and, if the skies are clear, the unforgettable sight of sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas. Your guide will lead a fascinating 2-3 hour tour, sharing the history and mysteries of this magical place. Afterward, take time to wander on your own, or, if you've booked in advance, tackle Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking views. When you’re ready, head back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Then, relax on the scenic Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo, where our team will be waiting to take you back to your hotel, wrapping up this once-in-a-lifetime journey.