We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. and drive for approximately 3 hours to the town of Mollepata. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a delicious breakfast, then continue in the same transport for 30 minutes until we reach Soraypampa (3,800 m / 12,467 ft).

From Soraypampa, we will begin a 2-hour hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lake, where we will be surrounded by majestic mountains, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks. Our guide will provide an informative explanation about the area, and we will have plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the stunning landscape.

After visiting the lake, we will return to Soraypampa, where a delicious dinner will be waiting for us before we rest for the night.

Physical Level

2, Moderate

After an early breakfast, we will begin our hike toward the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,650 meters (15,255 feet). The ascent takes approximately 4 hours and is quite challenging due to the altitude. However, the effort will be well worth it, as the panoramic views from the pass are absolutely breathtaking. Here, we will have time to enjoy the scenery and take incredible photos.

From the pass, we will begin our descent toward the small village of Huayracmachay, where we will stop for lunch. After lunch, we will continue descending toward Chaullay, a beautiful area located in the cloud forest at 2,850 meters (9,350 feet). The hike to Chaullay takes approximately 5 hours, and we will arrive in the late afternoon.

Upon arrival, we will enjoy a hearty dinner and spend the night at a campsite, surrounded by the lush greenery of the cloud forest.

Physical Level

2, Moderate

After breakfast, we will continue our hike through the cloud forest, passing by waterfalls, rivers, and small villages. The trail takes us through a lush, green landscape, where we will see a great variety of plants and flowers along the way.

We will stop for lunch in the village of La Playa, where we will also have some free time to explore. In the afternoon, we will take a local bus to Hidroelectrica, where we will begin a 3-hour hike along the train tracks until we reach Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we will check into a hostel, enjoy dinner, and rest in preparation for our visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

Physical Level

2, Moderate

• We start the day before dawn, waking up around 4:00 a.m. to enjoy an energizing breakfast at the hostel. At 4:30 a.m., we begin our hike towards the majestic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

  The journey from Aguas Calientes to the main entrance takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The first 30 minutes follow a relatively flat trail before we start ascending the historic stone steps—an uphill climb of about an hour that leads us directly to the entrance. Upon arrival, an unforgettable experience awaits us at one of the most impressive wonders of the world.

• alternative route:For those looking for a more comfortable option, there is the alternative of taking a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. This service can be booked the night before or on the same morning. The first buses depart at 5:30 a.m., costing $12 per trip and taking approximately 25 minutes to reach the entrance.

• Upon arriving at the main entrance checkpoint of Machu Picchu, it is mandatory to present your entry ticket along with your original passport. If you purchased your ticket with a student discount, you must also present your original, valid, and current student ID.

  To fully enjoy the experience, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing, suitable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and bring enough water. Additionally, it is important to remember that single-use plastics and large quantities of food are not allowed, helping to preserve the archaeological site.

• After passing through the checkpoints, we will head to the upper part of Machu Picchu, one of the best panoramic viewpoints, where you can take iconic photos with the majestic Inca citadel and the surrounding mountains as a backdrop. You will have plenty of time to capture unforgettable images, witness the sunrise if the weather allows, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this sacred site.

  Next, our expert guide will lead you on an approximately 2.5-hour tour of the Inca citadel, exploring its temples, agricultural terraces, plazas, and other iconic areas. During the visit, you will learn in detail about the fascinating history of Machu Picchu, its discovery, the advanced engineering of the Incas, and the mysteries surrounding it. You will also gain insight into the Andean worldview, the spiritual significance of the site, and the theories regarding its function during the Inca era.

  To fully enjoy the experience, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing, suitable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and bringing enough water. Additionally, please remember that single-use plastics and large amounts of food are not allowed, as part of the effort to preserve this invaluable World Heritage Site.

• If you choose to return by train, you will first need to go back to the town of Aguas Calientes. You have two options: walking along a scenic trail that takes approximately an hour and a half—ideal for those who want to continue exploring the Andean landscape—or taking a tourist bus that will comfortably transport you to town in just 25 minutes for a cost of $12 per person.

  Once in Aguas Calientes, you will have free time to explore the town, visit the handicraft market, relax in the hot springs, or enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants, as the final lunch is not included in the tour. It is recommended to arrive at the train station well in advance to avoid any inconvenience.

  The return train to Ollantaytambo operates on scheduled departures, generally at 2:30 PM or 3:30 PM, depending on your reservation. During the approximately 1.5-hour journey, you can relax and admire the breathtaking landscapes of the Urubamba River, lush valleys, and the majestic mountains surrounding the area.

  Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transportation service will be waiting to take you back to Cusco in a comfortable vehicle. This journey takes around two hours, allowing you to rest while enjoying the scenic views of the Sacred Valley.

  Choosing to return by train allows you to make the most of your time at Machu Picchu, with the possibility of taking optional hikes, such as climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Additionally, it is a faster and more comfortable option, ensuring a less tiring and more enjoyable return to Cusco.

• If you choose to return by car, you will need to hike for approximately 3 hours from Machu Picchu to the Hidroelectrica station. It is essential to arrive before 2:30 PM to board the vehicle that will take you back to Cusco. The car journey takes around 6 hours, with an estimated arrival in the city at approximately 10:00 PM, ending at Plaza San Francisco in the center of Cusco.

  This option does not allow enough time for additional hikes to Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, as they require at least 3 extra hours. To ensure you arrive at Hidroelectrica on time and board the transport without issues, it is recommended to leave Machu Picchu no later than 11:30 AM.

Physical Level

2, Moderate