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A true Andean odyssey, this 6-day trek through the dramatic Cordillera
Vilcabamba offers a wonderful alternative for those who want to take
a less-traveled and exceptionally beautiful route to Machu Picchu. Crossing
a pass between the peaks of Salcantay (6270m.) and Humantay (6070m.)
with spectacular glacial vistas, we visit hot thermal springs and descend
through a stunning progression of ecological zones ranging from sparsely
vegetated alpine meadows to lush sub-tropical valleys. Arriving to the "Ceja
de Selva," or the "Eyebrow of the Jungle" we find numerous
tropical fruit and coffee plantations as well as an abundance of flower
and bird species. From the valley, we take an original Inca trail up
through a cloud forest of Quehuna trees, orchids, and moss. At our last
pass, we are rewarded with a magnificent view of Machu Picchu.
| Jour |
Activité |
Repas |
Logement |
Notes |
| 1. |
Cusco - Mollepata |
L,D |
Camping |
4 hour transfer |
| 2. |
Mollepata - Soraypampa |
B,L,D |
Camping |
Views of Salkantay |
| 3. |
Hiking Soaraypampa to Huayrajmachay |
B,L,D |
Camping |
High pass 4750m |
| 4. |
Trekking Huayrajmachay to Colpapampa |
B,L,D |
Camping |
Sub tropical valley |
| 5. |
Colpapampa to Miscabamba |
B,L,D |
Camping |
High jungle |
| 6. |
Walking Miscabamba to Paltallacta |
B,L,D |
Camping |
View of Machu Picchu |
| 7. |
Paltallacta to Aguas Calientes |
B,L |
Aguas Calientes |
|
| 8. |
Guided tour of Machu Picchu |
B |
No |
Return to Cusco by train |
Day 1. Cusco - Mollepata
Leaving Cusco early in the morning, we take a scenic drive of approximately
4 hours to the small village of Mollepata, located high above the Apurimac
River. We camp our first night at a nearby farming area called Marco Casa
to rest and acclimatize before beginning our trek. Here, we also meet up
with the mules, horses, and arrieros (wranglers) that will carry our gear
during the trip.
Day 2. Mollepata - Soraypampa
Today we begin our gentle hike into the Cordillera Vilcabamba. From above
the green river valley, we hike steadily upwards to the high plateau.
Along the way, we get our first incredible view of Huamantay (5917
m.). As we approach our campsite at Soraypampa, the enormous Salcantay
peak (6270m. and the highest in the Vilcabamba range) dominates our
skyline.
Day 3. Soraypampa - Huayrajmachay
Following a series of switchbacks (Siete Culebras) our path leads up
the side of a mountain and levels out beneath the shadows of the grandiose
Mount Salcantay. With Salcantay looming above, we come to a summit
marked by small piles of stones, or apachetas, left by locals and travelers
to honor the mountain gods. From this high pass (4750m.) flanked by
Salcantay and Huamantay, we make our way towards the valley below to
camp for the night at Huayrajmachay.
Day 4. Huayrajmachay - Colpapampa
Our trail leads us down the eastern slope of the Andes into a sub-tropical
valley, where the temperature is warmer and we see a variety of orchids,
flowers, and hummingbirds. After a short day of downhill walking, we
arrive to our campsite with ample time to soak in the nearby hot springs.
Day 5. Colpapampa - Miscabamba
Continuing through the "Ceja de Selva," or "Eyebrow of
the Jungle," we encounter bright flowers, butterflies, parrots,
and lush groves of tropical fruit, cocoa, and coffee. We come to the
small village of Miscabamba, where we camp along the river for the night.
Day 6. Miscabamba – Paltallacta
Today we start walking up again through a humid cloud forest where we
join an original Inca trail to our second and last pass, Paltallacta
(3000m.) From here, we are rewarded with a unique panoramic view of
the ancient city of Machu Picchu. Here will be our last night of camping.
Day 7. Paltallacta – Aguas Calientes
We make an early descent to the Urubamba river, which we follow upstream
to the town of Aguas Calientes situated at the bottom of the Machu
Picchu mountain. Here, we can rest and savour the memories of a spectacular
journey in the comfort of our hostel.
Day 8. Machu Picchu to Cusco
We take one of the early buses up to the stunning archaeological complex
of Machu Picchu. A professional guide will lead an official tour of
approximately 2 hours. Then we have plenty of time to explore the mysterious
remains on our own before returning to Aguas Calientes to catch the
afternoon train back to Cusco.
Inclus:
- Hotel collection and private vehicle to trailhead
- Professional
English-speaking guide and camp staff
- Plentiful, nutritious meals (Vegetarian option available)
- High quality, double-occupancy tents and equipment (includes
dining tent, kitchen tent, and latrine tent)
- Pack animals (horses and llamas) to carry baggage and equipment
- Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
- Return bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Transport from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
- First aid kit
- Zip lock bags
- Biodegradable soap and shampoo
- Ashtray Tins
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