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- German
- English
- Italian
- French
- Spanish
This is one of the most stunning alternative treks to the Inca Trail, blending cultural and natural beauty in a truly unique way. The trail takes you through a vibrant landscape, rich in biodiversity, with a variety of ecosystems, fascinating flora, and diverse wildlife. Along the way, you'll encounter ancient Inca ruins perched high on mountains, offering breathtaking views of the majestic Machu Picchu from a more remote and tranquil perspective.
The journey culminates in the charming town of Aguas Calientes, nestled at the base of the modern wonder of Machu Picchu.
Your adventure concludes with an early morning visit to the Machu Picchu archaeological site, where you'll experience the awe-inspiring sunrise over the ruins before embarking on a guided tour of this extraordinary site. Afterward, you'll return to Cusco, carrying with you unforgettable memories of a trek that seamlessly combines history, nature, and adventure.
What's Included
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
Meeting and pickup
we are going to meet at the fountain of Plaza regocijo.
Itinerary
-
1
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel, followed by a scenic drive to Mollepata (2,700m) for breakfast. After a short bus ride, we arrive at Soraypampa (3,800m), the trailhead. The trek starts with a gentle ascent, leading into a steeper climb through winding zigzags. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Salkantay (6,271m), the sacred guardian of the jungle. At the highest point of the pass (4,630m), you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Sacred Mountains, Humantay and Salkantay. Here, you’ll add a pebble to the pile of stones, an offering to the Apus (mountain spirits) for a safe journey. You’ll also spot remnants of an ancient Inca trail, still visible as it stretches across the mountainside. After soaking in the views, we begin a gentle descent to our first campsite at Andenes (3,400m / 11,150ft), arriving in the late afternoon to rest and reflect on the day’s adventure.
Admission ticket free -
2
Following an early breakfast, we will leave the beautiful pyramid shaped peak of Salkantay behind us. From now, the fauna and flora change as we enter the tropical cloud forest and discover its lush vegetation of wild orchids, bromeliads and beautiful birds. Continuing our descent through the groves of bamboos; going across some amazing untouched path where strawberries grow at your feet and passion fruit are above your head in a decor of begonias and purple orchids! After 5 hours hike we arrive at the hamlet of Wayracpunku for lunch, then we set out to La Playa (campsite) passing the Hamlet of Saint Ignatious where we see banana and avocado trees, as well as coffee plantations.
Admission ticket free -
3Aguas Calientes
Another early start gives us some amazing views over the valley. After 3 hours journey, we will arrive to an Incan remain named Llactapata which overlooks Machu Picchu. It is a magical view given to us that a majority of tourists will never see! A 2 hour downhill trail easily leads the hikers into a forest of increasingly thick vegetation to the hydroelectric power station lunch spot. Finally, we follow the railway heading up the Urubamba valley to our last destination at Aguas Calientes and stay overnight in a hotel. Total distance:12 km (7, 50 miles)
Admission ticket free -
4
Early start to Machu Picchu, means entering for the best photo opportunities. Following the guided tour, take the time to explore and wander around Machu Picchu by yourself. Make your way back down to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved rest and lunch. Finally, get the train to Ollantaytambo and bus back to Cusco.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
CUSCO – SORAYPAMPA – WAYRACMACHAY – LOS ANDENES
LOS ANDENES – WAYRACPUNKU – LA PLAYA
LA PLAYA – HYDROELECTRIC – MACHUPICCHU TOWN
MACHUPICCHU
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
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Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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