Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu

We are heading out from Cusco today to go explore the rural village of Pisac including the amazing open-air market. After a winding, ascending 45-minute drive passing through serene mountain countryside, we’ll get our first view of Pisac’s impressive ruins on the mountain across from us. Climbing to their high point, we’ll be greeted with amazing views of the Sacred Valley and its surrounding peaks, or Apus. Their names are Apu Linli, Apu Intihuatana, Apu Chiwuanco, Apu Ventanayoc, and Apu Ñusta. They stand as guardians and protectors of the Sacred Valley and its inhabitants. After our explorations, we’ll return to the village of Pisac, or, time permitting, we may take a leisurely hike (30 min) to the village on a well-maintained trail that winds its way through extensive Andean agricultural terracing and stunning mountainside vistas. Arriving at the picturesque Andean village of Pisac, we’ll visit its large open-air market, where vendors sell everything from colourful local handicrafts to semi-precious stones, hand-woven garments, sweaters, ponchos, etc. Tuesdays and Sundays are Market Days, when villagers from miles around arrive with colorful fruits and vegetables, fresh herbs, flowers, and many varieties of Andean potatoes for sale or barter with neighbouring communities. After exploring Pisac Market, we’ll head deeper into the Sacred Valley, travelling west towards Ollantaytambo, stopping for a typical Andean lunch. A walk through the labyrinthine streets of the town demonstrates the Inca drainage canals still in use today. Some of the ancient Inca homes, complete with trapezoidal doors and interior courtyards, are likewise still inhabited. Overnight: La Casona Yucay or similar

Today we are learning all about Peru’s ancient cultures along with a visit to a friendly local community. Transferring across to Urco we have a gentle 2.5 km walk through the agricultural terraces at the crest of the surrounding farmlands, all covered by the shadow of Pitusiray Mountain. Stopping to visit the Urco Archaeological Site, where special knowledge of the cosmos and weather patterns were employed in past centuries to assist in farming crops. The highlight of the site is an intriguing stone figure, resembling a snake with a carved water channel running between its eyes. After we head to the Inkariy Museum, a recent museum opened in 2015 which displays more than 5,000 years of Peruvian history. The museum walks you through the timeline of ancient civilizations, from the Caral to the Incas exploring in depth the contributions these cultures with dramatic displays depicting typical textiles, sculptures, ceramics, and clothing of each civilization. After exploring these intriguing exhibitions it’s time for lunch were we will enjoy an attractive outdoor seating area plus a full menu full of local offerings. From here we head out to visit Lamay where we will spend a delightful afternoon learning about life in this serene Sacred Valley community. We will visit the Lamay Cathedral, which dates from the 1600’s and is replete with religious works of art. Visit the belltower and learn also how the church bells’ various rings connote different occasions. We will visit the local bakery, where we can learn about the breadmaking process, and then observe how the traditional Andean activity of raising guinea pigs, or “cuy” has become something of a cottage industry for this region. We will explore the process of making Chicha de Jora, a fermented corn beer, and of course, have a chance to sample this typical beverage of the Andes along with a traditional local snack. Your visit to this community is part of a project of sustainable tourism that directly supports communities like Lamay to thrive in their traditional ways. Return to your accommodation. Overnight: La Casona Yucay or similar

Today, we embark on a scenic drive toward Limatambo, passing through the Tika Tika Pass, where we'll be greeted by our first glimpse of the majestic Mount Salkantay and Humantay silhouetted against the horizon. Crossing the Anta plateau, we'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the vibrant agricultural landscape, with rugged snow-capped peaks providing a dramatic backdrop. Arriving at the trailhead just beyond the village of Misquiyaco, we commence our trek through one of Peru's newest private conservation areas, established by law in 2021. Our journey begins with a profound experience of Pachamama, the Earth Mother, as we offer our respects through the traditional ritual of "Pago a la tierra," invoking blessings for our mountainous adventure. Ascending through an ancient Meso-Andean Relict Forest, a rare and precious ecosystem found in less than 0.02% of Peru's vast territory, we'll encounter flora such as the Tasta (Escallonia myrtilloides) and Chachacomo (Escallonia resinosa), protected by Peruvian law. As we ascend, the landscape evolves, transitioning from dense forest to high grasslands, marking our arrival at the campsite in Acopía after approximately 10 kilometers of trekking over 6-7 hours. Nestled at an elevation of 4154 meters above sea level (13,628 feet), Acopía provides a tranquil refuge for the night. Rest and rejuvenate at Acopia Camp, ready to continue our adventure amid the natural wonders of the Andean highlands. Meals: B,L,D Overnight: camp

Leaving behind the tranquil setting of Acopía, we press onward, ascending towards our first pass at Tambomachay, standing proudly at 4367 meters above sea level (14,323 feet). As the day unfolds and the sun casts its warming rays, we may be fortunate enough to spot Andean bird species, including the majestic Condors, gracefully gliding across the mountainous landscape. After a gentle ascent lasting 4-5 hours, we'll reach our lunch spot at Uspaccasa, situated at 4,559 meters above sea level (14,953 feet), offering a sheltered haven beyond the pass with awe-inspiring vistas of Mt. Salkantay and Mt. Humantay. Following our nourishing lunch, we'll continue along the lofty ridge, veering right towards Cruzjasa Pass, towering at 4,683 meters above sea level (15,360 feet). Here, we'll be treated to breathtaking views of the South face of Mt. Palcay, the majestic south face of Mt. Salkantay, and the expansive Pampacahuana Valley. Embracing the serene solitude of the rugged terrain, we'll revel in the knowledge that few others traverse these remote landscapes. Descending along a steep trail, we'll arrive at our campsite nestled amidst the mountains and under the vast expanse of stars at Mirador de Pampacahuana, covering a distance of 15 kilometers over 6-7 hours. The campsite, situated at 3902 meters above sea level (12,801 feet), provides a tranquil haven for a restful night's sleep amidst nature's grandeur. Settle in for the night at Pampacahuana Camp, surrounded by the majestic peaks and the serene beauty of the Andean landscape, ready to embrace the adventures that await in the days ahead. Overnight: camp

We bid farewell to the majestic presence of Mt. Salkantay and embark on a downhill hike, tracing the path alongside an ancient Inca canal that meanders through the heart of the Pampacahuana Valley. As we descend, the landscape gradually transitions, dotted with quaint farm settlements that add charm to the surroundings. Upon reaching the valley's end, we'll notice a diverse array of vegetation emerging as we descend below the tree line. Our journey leads us to Paucarcancha, a secluded Inca site nestled at the junction of the Pampacahuana and Q´esca valleys. Here, we'll explore the remnants of Inca stone walls and ancient dwellings, gaining insights into the rich history of the region. Following a brief visit and a well-deserved lunch, we resume our descent, joining the initial segment of the renowned Inca Trail as we make our way towards the Patallacta ruins. This archaeological site once served as a vital rest stop for the Inca en route to Machu Picchu. Continuing onward, we arrive at our campsite at Chamana, a private haven equipped with hot showers, providing a welcome opportunity to cleanse and rejuvenate after the exhilarating adventures of the preceding days. Covering a distance of 17 kilometers over 6 hours, we settle in for the night at Chamana Camp, nestled amidst the serene beauty of the Andean landscape. Rest well at Chamana Camp, replenishing your energy for the adventures that lie ahead as we continue our journey towards Machu Picchu Overnight: camp

As we reach this juncture, we find ourselves at the threshold of the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary. Our exploration continues with a visit to the awe-inspiring ruins of Huayna Q’ente, adorned with remarkable Inca terraces and masterful landscaping. Departing from the Sanctuary, we'll pass through the charming town of Q’oriwairachina en route to Piscacucho, home to the main entrance of the Inca Trail. The trail leads us alongside the Vilcanota River, guiding us through a series of ancient archaeological sites. Remarkably, this path mirrors the footsteps of Hiram Bingham, who was guided to Machu Picchu by local inhabitants in 1911. Covering a distance of just over 15 kilometers over 7 hours of trekking, our journey through history continues. From Piscacucho, we'll embark on a car journey to Ollantaytambo, arriving in time to catch the afternoon train to Machu Picchu Village, where we'll spend the night. Nestled amidst the verdant beauty of the surrounding landscape, we'll find respite at El Mapi Hotel by Inkaterra (or a similar accommodation), preparing for the enchanting exploration of Machu Picchu awaiting us in the days ahead. Overnight: El Mapi hotel or similar.

Following an early breakfast, we embark on a brief, half-hour bus journey winding up the road to the entrance gates of Machu Picchu. Here, we'll partake in a captivating three-hour guided tour of this ancient hilltop citadel, delving into its various sectors and even stepping into some of the well-preserved houses and temples. As we wander amidst these iconic ruins, it's as if we've stepped into a dream of ancient times. The seamless blend of manmade structures with the natural surroundings evokes a profound sense of wonder and reverence, leaving us with cherished memories to treasure for a lifetime. In the afternoon, we return to the village, where we collect our stored luggage and a train awaits to transport us back to Ollantaytambo. On board, we're treated to entertainment, snacks, and a selection of hot and cold refreshments. Upon arriving at the Ollantaytambo train station, we'll be greeted and driven back to the city of Cusco. NB - depending on train schedules, we may arrive into Cusco very late at night. *Important: To ensure the protection and conservation of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and enhance the visitor experience, several restrictions and regulations are in place. The site features three main circuits divided into ten predetermined routes. Visitors are limited to a maximum of four hours within the site to reduce congestion and preserve the ruins, and admission is not permitted after 4pm. Additionally, all visitors must be accompanied by a guide. Despite these restrictions, World Expeditions endeavours to ensure you have a memorable and fulfilling Machu Picchu experience. OPTIONAL HUAYNA PICCHU CLIMB OR MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN CLIMB - For the adventurous, you can purchase a permit for either the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climb (please enquire for costs). Choosing this option means forgoing the guided tour of Machu Picchu, which is non-refundable and non-transferable. Huayna Picchu, with its narrow trails, reaches an elevation of 2,963m, while Machu Picchu Mountain, with a wider path, peaks at 3,082m. Both climbs are steep, slippery, exposed, and involve vertiginous drops, requiring a minimum of 3 hours return. Note that these climbs are not guided. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable, and a waiver form must be signed before purchase. Both permits are limited and sell out quickly, so please contact us if interested.