Lodge to Lodge - Salkantay Route to Machu Picchu
Lodge to Lodge - Salkantay Route to Machu Picchu
Push your limits and take the path less traveled to Machu Picchu. The Salkantay Trek offers more than stunning lodges and an incredible hike—it’s a unique chance to immerse yourself in Andean culture, explore the Inca civilization, and connect with the remarkable legacy they left behind.
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Trip overview

Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive in Cusco and settle into your hotel near one of the city’s main squares. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your guide and fellow adventurers, featuring traditional Peruvian cuisine and live music.
Day 2 – Begin your journey with visits to Quillarumiyoc and the village of Mollepata. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at El Pedregal, then hike the scenic “Camino Real” to reach Salkantay Lodge, nestled in the high Andes. (Hiking time: ~3 hrs)
Day 3 – Hike to the turquoise Lake Humantay for a peaceful moment and traditional offering to Pachamama. Return to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation. (~4 hrs round trip)
Day 4 – Trek through the Rio Blanco valley and ascend to the Salkantay Pass (4,636 m), the highest point of the journey. Descend to Wayra Lodge for a restful night. (~6–8 hrs)
Day 5 – Descend through lush landscapes to Colpa Lodge, where a traditional Pachamanca lunch awaits. Spend the afternoon soaking in the views or enjoying the outdoor jacuzzi. (~4 hrs)
Day 6 – Hike through the Santa Teresa River Valley, crossing fruit orchards and glacier-fed streams. Visit a local coffee plantation after lunch at Lucma Lodge. (~6 hrs)
Day 7 – Climb original Inca steps to the Llactapata ruins for a rare view of Machu Picchu’s “back.” Descend to Hidroelectrica and take the train to Aguas Calientes. (~7 hrs)
Day 8 – Visit Machu Picchu at sunrise, exploring its iconic temples, terraces, and mysteries. Option to hike Huayna Picchu*. After lunch in Aguas Calientes, return to Cusco by train. (~4 hrs tour)
Day 9 – Enjoy free time in Cusco before your departure.
Whats included
- Transportation
- Accomodation (except day 1 and 8)
- Guided visit of Machu Picchu Sanctuary
- All meals and beverages including soft drinks and a house selection of beer, wine, and spirits including pisco*.
- Bilingual guide
- Transportation of personal belongings on the trek
- All gratuities for the staff lodges and in the field.
Not included
- Massage service.
- Laundry service.
- Permits for Huayna Picchu Mountain and/or Machu Picchu Mountain
- Optional Activities: Chakana Inca Cross Excursion, -
- Horseback Riding (subject to change).
- Bottled water and sports drinks.
FAQs
Before the Trip
How do I get to Cusco?
International flights land in Lima. From there, domestic airlines connect to Cusco. If you arrive late at night, staying in Lima overnight is recommended before continuing your journey.
Can you help with hotels and extra travel plans?
Yes. We can help arrange accommodations in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, and organize add-on trips
to destinations like Lima, Arequipa, Lake Titicaca, the Amazon, or other regions in Peru, just contact our adventure specialists.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory and should cover adventure activities, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation.
How should I prepare physically?
For treks like Salkantay or similar routes, good physical condition is important. We recommend cardio training and doing practice hikes beforehand. Spending a few days acclimatizing in Cusco also helps a lot.
What’s the weather like?
The dry season (April to October) brings sunny days and cold nights, sometimes below 0°C. The rainy season (November to March) can bring muddy trails and cloudy conditions. Pack layers and waterproof gear.
How can I avoid altitude sickness?
Spending at least two nights in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before your adventure helps. Stay hydrated
and rest well. For more serious symptoms, oxygen and medical support are available.
How much luggage can I bring?
For multi-day hikes, you'll carry a small daypack while your main bag is transported. For experiences involving train travel to Machu Picchu, the luggage limit is 8 kg
(17 lbs), so pack light.
Is the electricity compatible with my devices?
Most outlets in Peru use 220V. If your devices are made for 110V only, bring a converter to avoid damage.
During the Trip
What kind of terrain should I expect?
You’ll hike through diverse terrain—mountains, cloud forests, valleys, and Inca trails. Some paths may be steep, rocky, or muddy. Good hiking shoes are essential.
Is ground transportation included?
Yes. Private transportation is included throughout the experience, including pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco.
What should I know about money?
The local currency is the Peruvian Sol (S/). US dollars are widely accepted in some places. Bring clean bills and expect ATMs in Cusco to accept Visa or MasterCard.
Are tips included?
Tips for lodging and logistics staff are usually included. However, tipping your guides is customary. A suggested amount is $5–10 per day, depending on the experience.
Will I have cell service or Wi-Fi?
In remote areas, cell service is limited. Some accommodations have Wi-Fi, but it may be slow or
inconsistent. Disconnecting is part of the experience.
What happens in case of an emergency?
We follow strict safety protocols. Our guides are certified in wilderness first aid and carry medical kits, oxygen, and communication equipment like radios or satellite phones when necessary.
After the Trip
Can I share my experience?
Absolutely! Tag us or use our hashtag to inspire others to live their own adventure.