The Peru EcoCamp Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: a glamping trek from the Mollepata valley, around Mount Salkantay to the legendary city of Machu Picchu. This sacred citadel has been fascinating and enchanting visitors for more than a century; it is a portal to the past, to the incredible history of the rise and fall of the Incas, the most advanced civilization of the Americas. Hike the celebrated Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, which was selected by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine as one of the world’s 25 best treks. Experience the rich geography of this part of the Peruvian Andes as you hike remote and ancient trails where enormous snowcapped mountains give way to lavish forests of tropical fruits and unique orchids as well as visiting a traditional Peruvian coffee plantation. Peru EcoCamps offers a unique opportunity to experience the treasures of the wild Andes whilst reveling in comfort and bliss equaling any high-end hotel. The comforts at the camp extend from luxurious geodesic domes which measure 28 square meters (301 square feet) in size to the exquisite food which ranges from the simplest to the most elaborate dishes. The typical, local dishes offered on trek showcase the fresh, natural ingredients and varied flavors of world-renowned Peruvian cuisine. Professional guides are trained in local history, geography, and culture, and possess unparalleled knowledge of the regional flora and fauna. They have the skills required to ensure your safety and well-being throughout the trip. The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Peru EcoCamp is an unforgettable experience!
Peru EcoCamp Trek to Machu Picchu – 9 Days Itinerary
Day 1 / CUSCO
Upon arrival into Cusco airport you are personally met and transferred to your hotel in Cusco. There is welcome drinks and briefing.
Overnight Aranwa Cusco Hotel (Bed & Breakfast)
Day 2 / PINCOPATA ECOCAMP
This first day will give participants time to adapt to the altitude and begin to prepare physically for the following day’s hiking. We will pick you up from your hotel at 8 am for the trip to the Condor Viewing Point at Chonta. Along the way, we stop and explore one of two archaeological sites: Kuillarumiyoc or Tarahuasi. These sites were important ritual sites during the height of the Inca Empire and still hold important significance in Quechua society today. While driving further, you will enjoy the landscape of the Limatambo valley, and spot the small farming communities nestled among the valley. On reaching Chonta, we will walk for approximately an hour along a narrow track with spectacular views of the Apurimac Canyon. We are almost certain to have the site completely to ourselves, as most tourists tend to visit in the area later in the afternoon. At the viewing point, there will be time to relax and observe the condors soaring over the canyon, while a specially prepared lunch box will be served. After lunch, we will return to our vehicle and continue to our final destination, Pincopata Ecocamp. Upon arrival at the Ecocamp, you will be welcomed with a refreshing drink prepared with locally sourced fruits, after which you’ll be escorted to your comfortable domes. You will have plenty of time to take a hot shower and rest until dinner time, or perhaps enjoy the optional Ecocamp massage service. If resting is not your thing, you can explore the camp’s surroundings. Peru Ecocamp offers optional activities, including horseback riding and mountain biking. The day will end with a delicious three course dinner of typical Peruvian cuisine made from the finest natural ingredients.
Overnight Pincopata EcoCamp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3 / SORAY ECOCAMP
After breakfast, we’ll drive 15 minutes to the start of our trail at Marcoccasa. From here, we will begin with a short uphill walk, before continuing our hike along an aqueduct overlooking the spectacular Rio Blanco Valley and surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Humantay and Salkantay Mountains, arriving at Soray Ecocamp in time for a nourishing light lunch. During the afternoon, we offer an optional hike to Lake Humantay, nestled at the base of the southern face of the mountain. This 1.5 hrs hike shows you the breath-taking Glacial Lake of the Humantay Mountain. However, if you prefer a more laid-back afternoon, you can schedule a soothing massage or simply take in the breath-taking views surrounding the camp.
Overnight Soray Camp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4 / HUMANTAY ECOCAMP
Today, we’ll experience one of the highlights of our trip; crossing the Salkantay Pass (4,664m / 15,300ft). After breakfast, we’ll start our hike along the valley floor, gradually starting the ascent whilst crossing several small pampas. The challenging final climb to the pass will be rewarded with dramatic views of Mount Salkantay’s rocky southern face. At the pass, we’ll have time to celebrate our accomplishment with a delicious picnic lunch before descending to the Salkantay Valley. We’ll finish the day at our high Ecocamp in Huayracmachay, with excellent views of Humantay and Salkantay.
Overnight Humantay EcoCamp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5 / MILPO ECOCAMP
We will start today by trekking down for about an hour, before heading gradually uphill to a new trail with impressive views of the Vilcabamba mountain range, including the peaks of Pumacillo and Choquetacarpo. The trail then continues up into the high grassy plains as far as the Abra Pass, from where we will be able to gaze upon the impressive northwest face of Mount Humantay. Here we’ll have lunch with views of the Salkantay and the Manchayhuayco valleys and yet more beautiful mountains, including Camas, Abuela, and Yanama. After lunch, we’ll start our hike down to the Humantay River Valley, as far as our next Ecocamp which is located on the banks of a river.
Overnight Milpo EcoCamp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6 / CAFÉ ECOCAMP
After a nutritious breakfast, we will hike down the valley as far as Totora. Part of the hike will be along a country road before we cross the Santa Teresa River and hike along the left side of the valley. This section of our route will take us through the cloud forest where will have plenty of opportunities to see unique birds and orchid species. When we arrive at Huiñaypocco, our transport will be waiting to drive us to Cafe Ecocamp where we’ll have a special lunch to celebrate our successful trek. In the afternoon we’ll visit the local coffee plantation where the local guide will show us how highland coffee beans are picked, processed and roasted. You will have the opportunity to savor some freshly roasted coffee and even buy some coffee directly from the local farmer.
Overnight Cafe EcoCamp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7 / AGUAS CALIENTES
Today we’ll wake up to a cup of a local coffee and a tropical breakfast. There are several options for the morning´s activities, depending on your interests (Options for hike, zip lining or hot springs). In the afternoon we will regroup to board the train for the scenic ride to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town), where you’ll have plenty of time to settle into your hotel and explore the small, charming town.
Overnight Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8 / MACHU PICCHU
After breakfast, your local guide will accompany you to the Machu Picchu archaeological site by bus. After checking in at the park entrance, we will be escorted by our guide on a full tour of these unique Inca ruins where we will uncover the mysteries of the sacred city of Machu Picchu during an in-depth walking tour. Other options during this visit include climbing Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain. These climbs are physically challenging, but the magnificent views from the peak of both mountains make the effort worthwhile. We will then have lunch at Sanctuary Lodge. You then take the bus down to reconnect with your luggage and take the train to Ollantaytambo and then transfer by road to Cusco. You enjoy a nice farewell dinner in town and toast to a fantastic adventure!
Overnight Aranwa Cusco Hotel (Breakfast, Lunch)
Day 9 / DEPART
You are transferred to Cusco airport for your departures.
(Breakfast)