4 Day itinerary in Peru, South America
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Bamba's trek to Machu Picchu via the Salkantay route, offering breathtaking mountain vistas and lush Amazonian landscapes. Experience diverse ecosystems, traverse misty cloud forests, and witness the majesty of Salkantay Pass. Highlights include the enchanti... Read More
By Inca Trail Bamba Experience
Physical Difficulty
Recommended Age
Operated in
GUIDANCE
starting point
trip type
trip attributes
Hiking
Adventure
Machu Picchu Adventures
Nature & Wildlife
Culture & Heritage
Start/End
Night
Hike to stunning Humantay Lake amidst towering Andes peaks.
Explore the iconic Machu Picchu at sunrise with a local guide.
Cross Salkantay Pass for breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains.
Conquer the challenging Salkantay Pass with panoramic mountain views.
Hike to stunning Humantay Lake amidst towering Andes peaks.
Explore the iconic Machu Picchu at sunrise with a local guide.
Cross Salkantay Pass for breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains.
Conquer the challenging Salkantay Pass with panoramic mountain views.
Accommodation Categories
Day 1: Cusco-Soraypampa Camp, Peru
Early Morning Departure
05:30 AM – Cusco Pick-Up
Rise with the sun as we collect you from your accommodation and set off by bus through the rolling Peruvian countryside toward Mollepata. Stretch your legs, grab a snack, and prepare for what's ahead!
Final Prep and Scenic Drive
Our journey continues by car as we climb higher, stopping at Challacancha for essential equipment checks and last-minute adjustments before trekking.
Into the Heart of the Andes
Trek: 3 Hours, Challacancha to Soraypampa (3,920m)
Lace up your boots for a moderate hike through breathtaking Andean landscapes. Reach Soraypampa, where a delicious lunch awaits amid panoramic views of spectacular snow-capped peaks.
Laguna de Humantay Adventure
Hike to Laguna de Humantay (1.5 hours each way)
After lunch, set out for a rewarding hike to the shimmering turquoise waters of Laguna de Humantay. Marvel at the dramatic mountain scenery before returning to camp.
High-Altitude Camping Experience
Soraypampa Camp (3,920m)
Settle into your tents at our highest and most atmospheric campsite. Savor a hearty dinner, soak up the tranquil mountain air, and get cozy for your first night sleeping under the vast Andean sky.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Soraypampa Camp-Challhuay, Peru
Early Morning Energizer
Wake up to a crisp mountain morning and fuel up with a hearty breakfast before lacing up your boots for a challenging and rewarding day ahead.
Summiting the Salkantay Pass
Set out on a breathtaking 4-hour ascent to the revered Salkantay Pass (4,650m), nestled dramatically between the towering giants of Salkantay and Humantay. If you’d like, you can rent a horse to help you conquer this lofty section (100-120 soles). As you reach the summit, stand in awe of the panoramic views and the possibility of a dusting of fresh snow.
Refueling at Huayracpampa
Descend for two hours along winding mountain trails, taking in the crisp air and ever-changing vistas, until arriving at Huayracpampa for a much-deserved lunch break. Savor warm food while wrapped in the stunning natural amphitheater of the Andes.
Trek into the High Jungle
Re-energized, set out for the final three-hour trek of the day, gradually descending into the lush beginnings of the high jungle, where the scenery grows greener and the air warmer. Reach your campsite at Challhuay or Colcapampa (2,900m), ready to unwind, dine, and sleep beneath a canopy of stars.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Challhuay-Aguas Calientes, Peru
Jungle Adventure Begins | 6:30am
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast before setting out through the breathtaking upper jungle. Cross the Santa Teresa River and wander among brooks, cascading waterfalls, and lush valleys bursting with tropical fruit and vibrant plants. Wild scenery makes every step an adventure.
Lunch Amid the Jungle
Pause for a delicious lunch at La Playa, situated at 2,200 meters. Re-energize as you soak in the sounds and sights of the upper Amazon basin.
Scenic Drive to Santa Teresa Town
Hop in a vehicle and wind down to Santa Teresa town (1,700m), where the climate turns warm and inviting. This bustling spot is your entryway to lower jungle life.
Journey to Hydroelectric Station
Continue your journey by car for 40 more minutes to the Hydroelectric Station, an engineering marvel nestled in nature’s embrace.
Trek the Rails to Aguas Calientes
Transition to a 3-hour hike along the rail tracks. Marvel at your views: the drifting mist, sheer cliffs, riverbanks, and ever-present call of distant waterfalls. For those wanting to rest their legs, a train option is available (extra fee).
Arrive and Unwind in Aguas Calientes
Reach Aguas Calientes just before dusk. Explore its vibrant cafes, game spots, and shops—or relax after your incredible journey. Tonight, rest in a comfortable 3-star hotel and dream of Machu Picchu’s nearby wonders.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Aguas Calientes-Cusco, Peru
Dawn Ascent to Machu Picchu (05:30 am)
Rise before sunrise and catch an early bus through the cloud forests to reach Machu Picchu as the first rays pierce the mist. The journey up is thrilling as anticipation builds for your first glimpse of this famed wonder.
Guided Exploration of Ancient Wonders (Approx. 2 hours)
Enjoy an immersive two-hour guided walking tour of Machu Picchu, South America's most spectacular archaeological site. Your expert guide will transport you back in time through fascinating stories, revealing the incredible engineering and mysterious lore of the Incas as you step through legendary plazas and temples.
Free Time and Optional Adventure
After your tour, enjoy free time to wander the breathtaking ruins, snap those iconic photos, or simply reflect on the magic around you. Adventurous spirits can opt to climb the steep, iconic Huayna Picchu for unrivaled views—just be sure to book in advance!
Return Journey to Cusco
When you’re ready, descend by bus (or tackle the energetic trek down) to Aguas Calientes. Relive the day’s excitement on the picturesque train ride to Ollantaytambo, then relax on the bus as you travel back to Cusco. You'll arrive in the evening, brimming with unforgettable memories.
Meals: Breakfast
Meals
Transport
Activities
Extras
Not Included
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