After an early breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco. The first stop is a visit to the Quillarumiyoc archaeological site en route to the mountain village of Mollepata. Enjoy lunch at El Pedregal, a beautiful farmhouse in the village, where you will also have the opportunity to learn about local agriculture and livestock. After lunch comes a scenic ride on the winding mountain road to Challacancha. Here you will begin your hike to our flagship Salkantay Lodge at Soraypampa along a picturesque path called the “Camino Real” (Royal Path). 

• Trekking Time: Approximately 3 hours. • Hiking Level: Easy to Moderate. 

Note: Although we highly recommend participating in the hike as part of your continued altitude acclimatization, guests may opt out and continue by transport to Salkantay Lodge. 

Optional Activities: Massages (additional cost, subject to availability): Unwind with a one-hour massage session. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred time. Approximately 1 hour.
Meals: L (El Pedregal), D (Salkantay Lodge) Overnight: Salkantay Lodge (12,690’ / 3,869m)

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

• Mountain Lodge: Salkantay Lodge

After an early start, the ascent toward the Salkantay Pass begins. You’ll skirt the majestic Humantay Peak, making your way across sweeping highland plateaus strewn with massive boulders—ancient remnants of the Río Blanco Valley, once carved by rushing glacial waters. Savor the views of the Salkantay Peak and Vilcabamba mountain range as you marvel at how far you have traveled. 

• Hike: from Salkantay Lodge to Salkantay Pass (round-trip). 

• Trekking Time: Approximately 6 hours. 

• Hiking Level: Challenging. 

Optional Activities: Massages (additional cost, subject to availability): Unwind with a one-hour massage session. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred time. 

Approximately 1 hour. 

Meals: B (Salkantay Lodge), L (Salkantay Lodge) and D (Salkantay Lodge) Overnight: Salkantay Lodge (12,690’ / 3,869m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

• Mountain Lodge: Salkantay Lodge

Day 3 brings a unique opportunity for adventure and reflection. A vigorous morning ascent up the sloping hills adjacent to the Soraypampa plateau is rewarded with a stunning first view of the turquoise waters of Lake Humantay. Take some time to meditate in the tranquility of this magical spot and participate in a traditional Pachamama ceremony to honor Mother Earth.

In the afternoon, we embark on a scenic journey into the heart of the Sacred Valley. Nestled among majestic mountains and fertile landscapes, our hotel offers the perfect retreat for an overnight stay. Unwind in comfort, and prepare for the next adventure. Bus Ride to Sacred Valley: 1 hour 

Optional Activities: Take advantage of the partner hotel’s facilities and inquire about optional activities available (additional cost, subject to availability). Meals: D (Partner hotel in Sacred Valley) 

Overnight: Partner hotel in Sacred Valley (6,693’ / 2,040m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your day begins with a morning train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (approx. 1.5 hours), winding through the lush Urubamba Valley. From there, a short shuttle (approx. 20 minutes) carries you up the mountain to Machu Picchu. Once inside the citadel, you’ll uncover its history and marvel at the ingenuity of the Inca civilization during a two-hour guided tour. Afterward, enjoy lunch at one of our partner hotels in Aguas Calientes. 

In the afternoon, board the train back to Ollantaytambo, then continue with a scenic sunset drive to Cusco. By evening, you’ll be back in Cusco, ready to unwind after an unforgettable journey. 

Meals: B (Partner hotel in Sacred Valley Hotel) , L (Partner hotel in Aguas Calientes)

Meals: Breakfast