Highlights
- Walk from the high mountains of Cusco to the jungle eyebrow on a route with visible changes in altitude, temperature and vegetation.
- Observe the turquoise color of the lagoon, fueled by the melting of the mountains surrounding the valley.
- Walk in front of the snowy Salkantay and observe snowfalls at a distance when mountain conditions allow.
- Cross stone terrain, high mountain areas, open valleys, humid forests and river paths.
- Walk along a stretch of Inca trail to Llactapata.
- See Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu from the archaeological sector of Llactapata when the sky is clear.
Trip Details
- Duration: 5 days and 4 nights.
- Route: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Laguna Humantay – Abra Salkantay – Wayraqmachay – Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.
- General difficulty: Moderate to high.
- Maximum altitude: Abra Salkantay, approximately 4,630 m / 15,190 feet.
- Total reference distance: Approximately 70 to 75 km, depending on the location of camps and the transfers used.
- Accommodation: Three nights in camp, dome or rural accommodation and one night in hotel of Aguas Calientes.
- Guide: Bilingual professional, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Food: Meals during the walk, depending on the detail of inclusions.
- Return available: By train or ground transportation from Hydroelectric.
- Departures: Subject to availability and operational confirmation.
Itinerary
Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Laguna Humantay
Highlight of the day: First hike through the Soraypampa Valley and ascent to the Humantay Lagoon.
Pick up from the hotel will take place between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. Then we will travel by tourist transport to Mollepata.
During the journey we will leave the city of Cusco behind and cross rural areas, valleys and mountain roads. In Mollepata we will make a stop for breakfast. This breakfast is not included in the base price.
Then we will continue by vehicle to Challacancha, where we will meet the support staff, the arrieros and the mules.
The first walk will advance towards Soraypampa. The trail features a progressive slope, sections of compact earth and views towards the valley mountains. The air can feel cold, especially when the wind goes down from the snowfall.
When we arrive in Soraypampa we will have lunch and leave the luggage in the camp.
In the afternoon we will begin the ascent to the Humantay Lagoon. Although the route is not too long, the altitude and slope make it feel intense. It is recommended to move slowly and avoid competing with other passengers.
The Humantay Lagoon is approximately 4,200 meters above sea level. The ascent from Soraypampa usually requires between an hour and an hour and a half, depending on the physical condition.
After staying in the authorized sector we will return to Soraypampa by the same path. The descent requires care because there are loose stones and irregular steps.
In the evening we will have dinner at the camp. The temperature may drop below zero during certain times of the year.
Technical Details
- Transportation: Tourist vehicle from Cusco to Mollepata and Challacancha.
- Transfer duration: Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
- Mollepata Altitude: Approximately 2,900 to 3,000 m.
- Difficulty: Moderate at altitude.
- Land: Earth, stone and steep slope towards the lagoon.
- Accommodation: Camp or dome.
- Meals included: Lunch and dinner.
Soraypampa – Abra Salkantay – Wayraqmachay – Collpapampa
Highlight of the day: Ascent to the Abra Salkantay and descent from the pan to the mountain forest.
The day will start around 5:00 a.m. with a hot drink and breakfast.
We will begin the most important ascent of the entire route. The trail advances between stone slopes, open areas and sectors where the wind can increase the feeling of cold.
As we gain height, the breath will be slower. The group will take short breaks and the guide will observe the physical condition of each passenger.
The last stretch towards the Abra Salkantay usually feels heavy. The slope, loose stone and the least amount of oxygen force to maintain a constant step.
We will reach the passage located approximately 4,630 meters above sea level. From here you can see the snowy Salkantay and part of the Vilcabamba mountain range. The route does not involve climbing the snow or approaching the glacier.
The weather can change in minutes. Sun, fog, wind, rain or hail can occur in the same day.
After the explanation of the guide we will start the descent towards Wayraqmachay, where we will have lunch.
The second part of the day will be a prolonged descent. The terrain will gradually pass from stone and grasslands of height to trails with greater vegetation.
Finally we will arrive in Collpapampa, where we will install the camp and have dinner.
Technical Details
- Close-up start: 5:00 a.m.
- Transportation: Motorized transport is not used.
- Distance: Approximately 22 km / 13.7 miles.
- Initial altitude: Soraypampa, approximately 3,900 m.
- Difficulty: High, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Land: Stone, gravel, land, slopes and possible sectors with water.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Collpapampa – Wiñaypoco – La Playa – Lucmabamba
Highlight of the day: Change to the wet forest and activity related to coffee cultivation.
We will start the day around 5:00 a.m. with a hot drink. After breakfast we will start the descent towards the mountain forest area.
This day is less demanding than the previous day, although the road may be moist and slippery.
We will walk along with denser vegetation, small watercourses and sectors where orchids, bromeliads, ferns and fruit trees appear.
We will pass by areas close to Wiñaypoco and La Playa. In this part of the route the temperature will be warmer and there will be greater presence of insects.
We will continue to Lucmabamba, an area where several families work with coffee crops, cocoa, banana, granadilla and other products.
We will participate in a demonstration of the coffee process. Depending on the season, we can observe the plant, the fruits, the removal of the pulp, the drying, the roasting and the preparation.
This activity should not be understood as an artificial display. It is carried out within a rural context, so we ask for respect for housing, crops, tools and times of families.
Then we will go to the accommodation or dome located in Lucmabamba.
In the afternoon you can coordinate the exit to the hot springs of Cocalmayo. The entrance and transportation have additional cost.
Technical Details
- Close-up start: 5:00 a.m.
- Transportation: Walk during the route; optional transport to Cocalmayo.
- Distance: Approximately 16 km / 9.9 miles.
- Initial altitude: Collpapampa, approximately 2,800 to 2,900 m.
- Difficulty: Moderate, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Land: Wet soil, stone, bridges and possible areas with mud.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
Highlight of the day: distant view of Machu Picchu from Llactapata and final hike to Aguas Calientes.
After breakfast we will start the ascent along a stretch of ancient road to Llactapata.
The climb traverses moist vegetation, dirt trails, roots and stone steps. In the rainy season there may be mud, so the canes are useful.
Upon arrival at the archaeological sector of Llactapata, the guide will explain the importance of this point within the connection to Machu Picchu.
When the sky is clear it is possible to observe remotely the mountain Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu and part of the area where the Inca city is located.
Then we will start a prolonged descent towards the Aobamba valley and the Hydroelectric zone.
The floor can be steep and put pressure on the knees. We recommend adjusting boots well and using canes with rubber protectors.
When we arrive at Hydroelectric we will have lunch.
From this point there are two options:
Walk approximately three hours to Aguas Calientes.
Take the local or tourist train from Hydroelectric, subject to availability and additional cost.
The hike follows the course of the river and the train tracks. Although the unevenness is low, attention should be paid to stones, bridges, sleepers and trains in circulation.
When we arrive in Aguas Calientes we will settle in the hotel. Large luggage must remain at the reception while the next day’s visit is arranged.
Technical Details
- Transportation: Optional walk and train from Hydroelectric.
- Distance: Approximately 22 to 24 km / 13.7 to 14.9 miles.
- Initial altitude: Lucmabamba, about 2,000 m.
- Difficulty: High, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Land: Earth, stone, roots, steep descent and railway road.
- Accommodation: Hotel with private room and bathroom.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Highlight of the day: Guided tour of Machu Picchu and return to Cusco.
We will leave the hotel early carrying a small backpack with passport, entrance, water, sunscreen and light coat.
The remaining baggage may be left at the hotel reception and must be picked up before boarding the train or starting a land return.
The ascent to Machu Picchu can be done by walking or bus, depending on the contracted modality.
Those who walk should go to the control of Puente Ruinas and present:
- Original passport, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Entrance to Machu Picchu.
- Original university card, where applicable.
The climb up the stairs may require between an hour and a half and two hours, depending on the physical condition. After four days of walking, this climb can feel more demanding than expected.
Upon arrival at the entrance we will meet with the guide to start the tour corresponding to the printed circuit on the ticket.
Machu Picchu has three general circuits and different official routes. Each entry allows you to travel only the assigned route; it is not possible to freely change the circuit once the ticket is issued.
The guided tour will last approximately two hours, although the exact time will depend on the route, schedule and layouts of the sanctuary.
After the tour, each passenger must leave for the corresponding access. Re-entry is not allowed with a single-use entry.
Those who have booked Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain will follow the specific route printed on their ticket. These options require early purchase and should not be considered free extensions of the regular circuit.
Then we will return to Aguas Calientes to collect the luggage.
The return will depend on the contracted modality:
Return by train: Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and tourist transport to Cusco.
Return in ground transportation: Hike to Hydroelectric and vehicle departure to Cusco.
Technical Details
- Departure: Early morning, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Transportation: Optional bus, train and tourist transport or land return.
- Hot Water Altitude: Approximately 2.040 m.
- Difficulty: Moderate, with greater effort if you go up and down walking.
- Land: Stairs, stone paths and archaeological areas.
- Climate: Tempered, humid and variable.
- Meals: Breakfast type box lunch or early breakfast, depending on the hotel.
Notes on the Peceros Agency Travel service
Pick-up and Return
The collection is between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. When the vehicle cannot enter, a nearby meeting point will be communicated.
Pick-up and Return
The return can end in a central point of Cusco or in hotels with vehicular access, depending on the modality and distribution of passengers.
Luggage
We recommend leaving the big bags in the hotel in Cusco. The passport, money, medicine, camera, water and warm clothing must remain in the personal backpack.
Pick-up and Return
After the visit to Machu Picchu, the passenger will return to Aguas Calientes and pick up their luggage. You must appear at the station with the anticipation indicated on the ticket.
Pick-up and Return
After Machu Picchu it will be necessary to return to Aguas Calientes and walk approximately three hours to Hydroelectric. Tourist transport will depart from Hydroelectric at the confirmed time. The passenger who does not arrive on time at the departure point could lose the transport and must assume an alternative transfer.
Availability
Availability is subject to the confirmation of all limited services involved in the tour. The following booking guidelines help travelers choose a realistic reservation timeframe and understand the factors that may affect final confirmation.
Confirmation depends on:
- Entrance to Machu Picchu.
- Circuit, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Entrance time, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Return train, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Guides, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Camps, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Kitchen staff, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Riers and mules, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Ground transportation, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- State of the trail.
We recommend booking up to six months in advance, especially for June, July, August and holiday dates.
Last minute reservations may be possible, but do not guarantee the circuit, schedule, train or accommodation initially requested.
When there is no availability in the selected modality, Peceros Agency Travel may propose:
- Another circuit, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Another schedule, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Earth return, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- An additional night, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- A different date, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Private service with another configuration.
The passenger must choose a single route from Machu Picchu among the available options. To request a specific circuit you must consult it before making the payment.
Machu Picchu Circuits
Machu Picchu has three general circuits and ten routes:
Circuit 1 – Panoramic
- Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Route 1-B: Upper Terrace.
- Route 1-C: Intipunku cover, available in high season.
- 1-D route: Inca Bridge, available in high season.
Circuit 2 – Machu Picchu Classic
Route 2-A: Route Designed.
Route 2-B: Lower Terrace.
Circuit 3 – Machu Picchu Royalty
- Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Mountain.
- Route 3-B: Royalty Designed.
- Route 3-C: Great Cave, available in high season.
3-D route: Huchuy Picchu Mountain, available in high season.
The official relationship of circuits and routes is published by the administration of Machu Picchu.
Each ticket allows you to enter only the printed circuit and route.
Not all routes include:
- Classic photography, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Intihuatana, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Temple of the Condor.
- House of the Inca.
- Lower urban sector, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Superior terraces, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Huayna Picchu, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Intipunku, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Inca Bridge, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
Information about the accommodation
Soraypampa
The first camp is located in a cold and elevated area.
It may include shop, dome or fixed structure, depending on the confirmed output.
Nights are usually cold and a sleeping bag suitable for sub-zero temperatures is recommended.
Collpapampa
The second housing is located in a more temperate environment.
The facilities are basic and there can be moisture, insects and noise from the river or animals.
Lucmabamba
The accommodation is close to crops and jungle eyebrow vegetation.
A dome, camp or rural accommodation may be used depending on the operation.
Hot Waters
Last night is in a hotel with:
- Double or double room.
- The confirmed room includes a private bathroom, subject to the selected accommodation category.
- Hot water is generally available according to the standards and operating conditions of the confirmed accommodation.
- Bed linen, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
Early breakfast or box lunch, depending on the entry time.
Single rooms have additional cost.
Transport information
The tour combines:
- Vehicle from Cusco to Mollepata.
- Mollepata vehicle to Challacancha.
- Mules for the first few days.
- Transport of luggage or equipment in enabled sectors.
- Optional Hydroelectric train to Aguas Calientes.
- Optional bus to Machu Picchu.
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
Land transport from Hydroelectric to Cusco in the economic mode.
Times may change due to traffic, rain, maintenance, landslides or railway arrangements.
Travel restrictions
Strikes and demonstrations
Strikes and demonstrations can close roads or affect railroad tracks.
When there is advance information, Peceros Agency Travel may advance the departure, modify the transport or change part of the itinerary.
In situations where it is not possible to guarantee safety, the tour may be suspended.
Decisions will be communicated by the operations team.
Lost objects
The passenger is responsible for his belongings.
Before leaving a vehicle, camp, restaurant, hotel or train, you must check that it carries:
- Carry the original passport used for the reservation, as it may be required for identity and ticket verification.
- Keep a charged phone available for operational messages, tickets and emergency contact.
- Carry a reasonable amount of cash in Peruvian soles for small purchases and services that do not accept cards.
- Bring a camera or phone protected from rain, dust and accidental impacts.
- Carry any prescribed personal medication in an accessible part of your daypack.
- Use a small, comfortable backpack for documents, water, clothing layers and personal essentials.
- Bring the necessary chargers for your phone, camera and other electronic devices.
- Clothing, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
The company cannot guarantee the recovery of forgotten items.
Physical condition
The route has moderate to high difficulty.
The second day includes a walk of up to ten hours and a step above 4,600 meters.
It is not recommended for people without physical preparation, with recent injuries or severe mobility limitations.
Older adults should have authorization from their doctor.
Bad height
Symptoms may include:
- Headache, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- nausea, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Dizziness, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Lack of appetite, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- tiredness, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Difficulty sleeping, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
The passenger must inform the guide from the onset of the first symptoms.
Medical problems
People with heart, respiratory, circulatory, neurological, or joint diseases should consult with their doctor before booking.
The agency should know any relevant conditions, medication or allergy.
Pregnancy
We do not recommend this program during pregnancy due to altitude, duration, terrain and distance from medical centers.
Rains and collapses
During the rainy season, they can occur:
- Mud, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Fall of stones, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Growing up of rivers.
- Road closure, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Collapse, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Land delays, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Train suspension, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
The guide may modify the route when a section presents risk.
Emergency horses
The emergency horse is used only in the permitted sectors.
It cannot operate on all sections or replace a medical evacuation.
Rules in Machu Picchu
It is prohibited:
- Get off the route.
- Go up on walls.
- Touching structures, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Using drones without permission.
- Enter with prohibited equipment.
- Use canes without rubber protectors.
- Ignore the staff’s instructions.
- Re-enter after leaving, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
Important information
The Salkantay Trek does not require climbing techniques, but resistance.
The challenge is concentrated in altitude, walking hours, prolonged descents and temperature changes.
The first day may feel cold. The second requires strength and patience. The third changes completely towards a humid environment. The fourth accumulates distance and the fifth can still include a strong ascent if you decide to walk to Machu Picchu.
Getting ready allows you to live the route with greater safety and maintain enough energy for the final stretch.
Inclusions
- Previous information talk. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Pick-up from the stated hotel area or a nearby coordinated point when vehicle access is restricted.
- Tourist transportation in a vehicle selected according to the group size and route conditions.
- Professional guide for route coordination, assistance and interpretation of the main sites.
- Entry to Machu Picchu according to the confirmed circuit. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Entrance ticket for the attraction specified in the booking confirmation.
- Camping accommodation and equipment according to the confirmed trek program.
- Accommodation in the category and location confirmed for the tour.
- Double or double private room with bathroom. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Professional shop for two passengers. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Basic mat. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Tables and chairs. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Kitchen equipment. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Cook and assistant according to the size of the group. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Riers and mules. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Emergency horse on the sections where it is possible to use it. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Breakfast at a selected local establishment, according to the itinerary.
- Lunch at a selected local restaurant; dietary requests must be reported in advance.
- Dinner according to the program and the service available at the overnight location.
- Refrigerations according to the operation. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Vegetarian options with advance notice. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- A basic first-aid kit carried by the guide for initial assistance during the route.
- Emergency oxygen for initial assistance at altitude; it does not replace professional medical care.
- Train service according to the schedule and category confirmed in the reservation.
- Operational assistance before and during the tour for the services included in the booking.
- Meals not specifically indicated in the itinerary, including personal orders and upgrades.
- Entrance fees not expressly listed as included; these must be paid separately when required.
- Bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Sleeping bag rental unless it appears as included in the reservation.
- Canes.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Inflatable mattress.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Individual shop.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Train from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Upgrade to Vistadome.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Transportation to Cocalmayo.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Horse service, which is hired and paid directly to the local provider when available.
- Luggage exceeding 5 kg.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Bottled water, snacks and additional drinks purchased during the route.
- Personal travel insurance, including medical care, evacuation and trip interruption coverage.
- Safe for external activities.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Tips for guides, drivers, cooks or support staff; gratuities are voluntary.
- Expenses caused by strikes, weather, delays or closures outside the company.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
Upgrades
- Service: Sleeping bag; Reference Price: US$ 15
- Service: Pair of canes; Reference Price: US$ 10
- Service: Inflatable mattress; Reference Price: US$ 15
- Service: Individual Shop; Reference Price: US$ 15
- Service: Hydroelectric Train–Aguas Calientes; Reference Price: From US$ 38
- Service: Machu Picchu Mountain; Reference Price: US$ 60
- Service: Huayna Picchu Mountain; Reference Price: US$ 60
- Service: Improvement to train Vistadome; Reference Price: From US$ 30
- Service: Bus Aguas Calientes–Machu Picchu; Reference Price: From US$ 12 per tranche, subject to current rate
- Service: Entry to Laguna Humantay; Reference Price: S/ 20, subject to current local rate
- Service: Entry to Cocalmay; Reference Price: Direct payment
- Service: Transportation to Cocalmayo; Reference Price: Additional payment
- Service: Additional Horse; Reference Price: Consult
- Service: Extra baggage in mule; Reference Price: Consult
- Service: Single room in Aguas Calientes; Reference Price: Consult
- Service: Private Food Service; Reference Price: Consult
- Service: Additional Guide to Mountain; Reference Price: Consult
Prices for tickets, trains, buses and external services may vary.
Discounts
- Students from 18 to 25 years old: discount of US$ 30. The college card must include photography, full name, university name and printed expiration date. A copy must be sent when booking to request the corresponding rate.
- Children under 18: discount of US$ 30. It is necessary to send a copy of the passport before the issuance of the tickets.
- Under 11 years old: discount of US$ 40. A legible copy of the passport must be presented.
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PeruRail Trains Comparison
| Feature | Expedition | Vistadome | Observatory | Hiram Bingham |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | Standard Panoramic | Full Panoramic (Roof & Walls) | Full Panoramic (Roof & Walls) | Large Classic Windows |
| Seating Layout | Seats facing each other with table | Leather seats, facing each other | Leather seats, spacious | Plush armchairs, elegant dining tables |
| Food & Drinks | Available for purchase | Light snack & non-alcoholic drinks | Light snack & non-alcoholic drinks | Gourmet Lunch/Dinner & Open Bar |
| Entertainment | Ambient Andean Music | Cultural Dance & Fashion Show (Return) | Live Music & Cultural Show | Live Band in Bar Car |
| Special Features | - | - | Access to open-air balcony car | Includes bus, citadel ticket & guide |
| Estimated Price (One-way) | Desde $65 USD | Desde $85 USD | Desde $110 USD | Desde $490 USD |
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