Trekking the Sacred Mountain Route to Machu PicchuCusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Sky CampDay 01
The adventure begins with a very early 4:00 a.m. pickup from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic drive to the village of Mollepata. The journey continues to Challacancha, the starting point of the trek, where you'll meet your dedicated support team and mules before beginning the walk to Soraypampa. Here, you'll enjoy a revitalizing lunch at the exclusive Sky Camp, setting the stage for the physical and visual intensity of the days ahead.
In the afternoon, the highlight is a challenging but rewarding three-hour round-trip hike up to the spectacular Humantay Lake. This mesmerizing turquoise-colored glacial lake, nestled at the base of the massive Apu Humantay, offers a truly iconic and spiritual Andean experience. The ascent is a crucial step for acclimatization, providing a profound connection with the high mountains and preparing you for the higher altitudes of the following day.
After descending from the lake, you will settle into your comfortable and private accommodation at the Sky Camp in Soraypampa. As the Andean night falls, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by your professional chef, followed by a well-deserved rest under a canopy of stars, recharging for the trek's most demanding day.

Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Collpapampa (Mountain Sky View)Day 02
Today is the most strenuous but visually stunning segment of the Salkantay Trek, beginning with an early ascent toward the highest point of the entire journey. The trail climbs steadily for several hours, rewarding your efforts with the breathtaking moment of reaching the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m.a.s.l.). At this magnificent altitude, you are surrounded by the immense presence of the sacred Nevado Salkantay.
After a moment to absorb the phenomenal views of the glacial peaks, the path begins a long and dramatic descent through the changing ecosystems. The rocky, high-altitude landscape quickly transitions into the warm, lush environment of the cloud forest, an area rich in biodiversity. You'll pass through Huayracmachay and Chaullay, noting the profound difference in flora and temperature as you leave the 'high puna' behind.
The day's challenging hike concludes at the beautiful and exclusive Mountain Sky View camp in Collpapampa. Here, you will be welcomed with a warm tea service before enjoying dinner. This camp offers a comfortable retreat and a chance to relax your muscles in the milder climate, reflecting on the triumphant experience of conquering the Salkantay Pass.

Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba – Jungle DomesDay 03
The third day is a delightful change of pace, as the trail leads you deeper into the lush, tropical Santa Teresa Valley. The path follows the course of the Santa Teresa River, offering a gentle downhill trek through vibrant jungle scenery filled with natural waterfalls, orchids, and the aroma of exotic plants. This segment is a true immersion into the high jungle, a contrast to the cold mountains.
You'll pass through various local plantations, including coffee, bananas, and avocados, gaining insight into the agricultural life of the region. After a satisfying lunch in La Playa, the trek continues to Lucmabamba. The afternoon's highlight is an immersive, guided tour of an organic coffee farm. You’ll learn about the entire process, from harvesting the bean to roasting and grinding, concluding with a tasting of some of the world's finest coffee.
The night is spent in the comfortable and unique Jungle Domes in Lucmabamba, offering a cozy shelter within the sounds and warmth of the rainforest. After a delicious dinner, you can enjoy the evening at the camp, preparing for the final push toward the Lost City of the Incas the next day.

Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas CalientesDay 04
An early start is necessary for the challenging uphill climb to the Inca ruins of Llactapata. This section is pivotal as it offers the trek’s first, unforgettable panoramic view of the Machu Picchu Citadel in the distance, a truly rewarding sight after days of trekking. Your guide will provide a brief history of this strategic site before the descent begins.
The trail descends towards the Aobamba River valley and continues to the Hidroeléctrica sector, where a final meal with your support crew is shared. The last leg of the day is a pleasant, flat walk along the active train tracks to the bustling town of Aguas Calientes, nestled in the valley below Machu Picchu. This walk is symbolic, as it brings you directly to the gateway of your ultimate destination.
Upon arrival, you will check into a comfortable hotel for a proper rest, followed by dinner. The guide will provide a final detailed briefing about the visit to Machu Picchu the following morning, ensuring you are fully prepared for the long-awaited climax of your Andean adventure.

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Citadel – Ollantaytambo – CuscoDay 05
The grand finale begins with a very early start to ascend to Machu Picchu (either by bus or an early morning hike) to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the magnificent Inca Citadel. Your expert local guide will lead you on a comprehensive two-to-three-hour tour, exploring the principal temples, plazas, and terraces, sharing the rich history and spiritual significance of this World Wonder.
Following the guided exploration, you will have free time to wander the citadel on your own, soak in the majesty of the surroundings, and take those final, memorable photos. At the designated time, you will descend back to Aguas Calientes. The afternoon involves boarding the train to Ollantaytambo.
Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo station, your private transport will be waiting to take you on a final, comfortable drive back to your hotel in Cusco. You will arrive back in the evening, filled with the sense of accomplishment from completing one of the world's greatest treks and having triumphed at the Lost City of the Incas.
