Day 1: Soraypampa Camp – Humantay Lake – Salkantay Pass – Wayracpunku

Morning Start & Humantay Lake

We begin the day early with breakfast at Soraypampa camp, surrounded by stunning mountain views. After a team introduction, we’ll hike about 1.5 hours uphill to reach the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake — a peaceful visit before other tourists arrive.

Ascent to Salkantay Pass

We descend back to camp briefly, then continue hiking uphill for about 3 hours, passing through Salkantay Pampa to reach Soyroccocha for lunch. After resting, we ascend for another hour to reach the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), the highest point of the trek.

Descent to Wayracpunku

From the pass, we descend for around 3 hours to reach our camp at Wayracpunku. Upon arrival, you’ll find your tent ready, enjoy a warm drink, dinner, and—if skies are clear—a beautiful night of stargazing and Inca constellation storytelling.

Distance: 18 km   |   Elevation Gain: 850 m   |   Elevation Loss: 850 m

Weather: Cold, windy, with possible rain during the wet season

Day 2: Wayracmachay – Chaullay – Loreta Eco-Lodge (The Hobbit House)

Highland Sunrise & Cloud Forest Trek

We start early with a warm drink and breathtaking sunrise views over the glacier peaks. After breakfast, we hike downhill for about 4 hours to reach the village of Collpapampa (2,700 m) for lunch. As we descend, the landscape transforms from high mountains to lush cloud forest, full of orchids, begonias, hummingbirds, and colorful birds.

Jungle Arrival & Eco-Lodge

In the afternoon, we hike for another 4 hours to reach our private camp at Loreta (2,400 m), a tropical paradise with rivers, waterfalls, and local crops like coffee, passion fruit, and avocados. Upon arrival, enjoy a hot shower, jacuzzi, swimming pool, and time to explore the garden and surroundings.

Dinner & Overnight

Dinner will be served at the lodge overlooking the Salkantay River, whose soothing sounds will lull you to sleep.

Distance: 18 km   |   Night Elevation: 2,400 m   |   Descent: 1,400 m

Weather: Warm and humid

Day 3: Loreta – Sahuayaku – Coffee Farm – Llactapata (Camp facing Machu Picchu)

Coffee, Culture & Inca Trails

After breakfast, we begin a short but unforgettable day. First, we'll visit a local organic coffee farm to learn about coffee cultivation and taste freshly brewed local varieties. You'll also see avocado and orange trees and discover how this region exports coffee globally.

Hike to Llactapata Viewpoint

We continue hiking for around 2.5 hours along an original Inca Trail toward Llactapata. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of the Santa Teresa Valley. Once at Llactapata (2,700 m), you’ll be rewarded with a distant but clear view of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and Machu Picchu Mountain — a perfect spot for photos and reflection.

Camp with a View

After exploring the Llactapata ruins, a short downhill walk leads us to our camp where we’ll have lunch. You’ll have time to relax and soak in the views of Machu Picchu at sunset. In the evening, enjoy a warm drink and a delicious dinner, followed by stargazing under the Milky Way — just like the ancient Inca astronomers once did.

Distance: 12 km   |   Camping Elevation: 2,700 m   |   Ascent: 400 m

Weather: Hot and humid during the day, cold at night

Day 4: Llactapata Viewpoint – Waterfalls – Mandor Farm – Aguas Calientes

Descent to Hydroelectric Station

Wake up with a hot drink and enjoy your final breakfast prepared by the trekking chef. The day starts with a 2-hour downhill hike with scenic views of Machu Picchu, leading to the Hydroelectric Station. A highlight here is the powerful 300-meter waterfall that supplies electricity to the Cusco region.

Inca Sun Clock & Mandor Farm

We'll visit the Intiwatana (Inca Sun Clock), believed to be aligned with the famous stone at Machu Picchu during the winter solstice. Continue hiking along the railway for about 3 hours, following the same path Hiram Bingham took when he rediscovered Machu Picchu. Along the way, explore Mandor Farm — rich with birds, orchids, and fruit trees.

Arrival in Aguas Calientes

After arriving in Aguas Calientes (2,000 m), enjoy a well-earned lunch and check into your hotel. In the afternoon, you can visit the town’s relaxing hot springs (10 soles, optional). In the evening, we’ll share a farewell dinner with your trekking team and rest up before Machu Picchu.

Distance: 14 km   |   Elevation: 2,000 m

Weather: Warm and humid

Day 5: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

Early Start & Sunrise Photo

Enjoy an early breakfast so you can catch one of the first buses (from 5:30 AM) up to Machu Picchu. Store your luggage at your hotel in Aguas Calientes and carry only essentials in your daypack.

Guided Exploration

Your guide will lead you to the best vantage point for sunrise photos, then take you on a 2½‑hour tour through the main sectors of the citadel, sharing Inca history and architecture.

Free Time & Optional Hike

After the tour, enjoy free time to explore or ascend Huayna Picchu (advance reservation required, USD 75) or Machu Picchu Mountain (harder, 3 hr round‑trip, USD 75).

Return Journey

Board the train back to Ollantaytambo (≈2 hrs), where our driver will meet you and transfer you to Cusco (≈2 hrs). You’ll arrive back at your hotel in the evening.

Tip: Plan to depart Machu Picchu at least 2 hrs before your train to ensure a smooth connection.