Your Travel Experience with Be Peru DMC
Day 1
Cuzco Departure
Today we pick you up between 5:00 - 5:15 am and travel by tourist-class bus to Mollepata (2,900m) where you can stretch your legs and buy snacks.
Cuzco to Mollepata
Continue by car to Challacancha where we will make final preparations and double-check our equipment.
Mollepata to Soraypampa Camp
Embark on a 3-hour walk that will take us to Soraypampa (3,920m) where we will have lunch with panoramic views of beautiful snow-capped mountains. Hike up to Laguna de Humantay (approx. 1.5 hours each way) for more incredible views of the Andes mountains and then return to camp for the night. Our first campsite is located at 3,920m and is the highest and coldest campsite of the trip
Day 1 - 2
Overnight in Soraypampa Camp
Take some time to rest up, and enjoy your first night immersed in nature. Have dinner and go to sleep early.
Day 2
Trek to Challhuay or Colcapampa Camp via High Pass
We will have breakfast at around 6:00 am and begin our 4-hour walk to the highest pass on this trek (4,650m) located halfway between 2 huge mountains; Salkantay (6,267m) and Humantay (5,900m). (Optional horse rental available to reach high pass for approx. 100 - 120 soles). From the pass, the views of the 2 snow-capped mountains are incredible with a possibility of snow here. After a 2-hour downhill hike, a well-deserved lunch will be served at Huayracpampa, followed by another 3-hour trek to our campsite at Challhuay or Colcapampa as we near the beginning of the high jungle region at 2,900 meters.
Day 2 - 3
Overnight at Challhuay or Colcapampa Camp
Upon arriving at Challhuay or Colcapampa camp, you'll be welcomed by the serene beauty of the surrounding natural landscapes. After settling into the camp, you'll enjoy a delicious and hearty dinner prepared by our local chefs, giving you a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine. As night falls, you'll rest under the stars, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature, ready to recharge for the next day’s adventures.
Day 3
Trek to La Playa
After breakfast at 6:30 am, we start trekking for the day through the upper jungle crossing the Santa Teresa River and a variety of little brooks. Today we will pass through valleys and have wonderful views of waterfalls, tropical fruits and plants. We will have lunch at La Playa (2,200m).
Transfer to Santa Teresa
Continue by car to Santa Teresa town (1,700 meters), our camp for the night, with a warmer climate. After a rest, we have the option to visit the hot springs in Santa Teresa town (extra cost) and enjoy the well-deserved soothing water, a real treat after 3 hard days of trekking.
Day 3 - 4
Overnight at Santa Teresa
After an adventurous day, you will arrive at Santa Teresa camp. Here, you'll have the opportunity to unwind and enjoy a delicious dinner amidst the lush greenery and calming ambiance of the area. The night's stay at Santa Teresa camp will be a peaceful retreat under the stars, ensuring you are well-rested and rejuvenated for the continuation of your journey.
Day 4
Trek to Hydroelectric Station & Aguas Calientes
Trek to Hydroelectric Station & Aguas Calientes (B/L/D) After having breakfast at 8:00 am, our last day on the trail will take us from Santa Teresa (1,700m) along a relaxing path for 3 hours to reach the hydroelectric station (1,880m) where a box lunch will be served. From here Aguas Calientes (2,010m) is another 3 hour slight uphill walk where we will finally have time to relax, recharge our batteries and get ready for our visit to Machu Picchu. Dinner at a local traditional restaurant.
Note:
- Optional bus transfer from Santa Teresa to the Hydroelectric Station is available for an extra cost.
- Optional train transfer from Hydroelectric Station to Aguas Calientes is available for extra cost.
Day 4 - 5
Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Upon reaching Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, you'll be welcomed by the charming ambiance of this quaint town. After checking into your accommodation, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, sampling some of the region's exquisite dishes. The overnight stay in Aguas Calientes will provide you with comfort and relaxation, preparing you for the exciting visit to Machu Picchu the following day.
Day 5
Explore Machu Picchu
We will catch one of the first buses (05:30 am) to Machu Picchu (25-minute ride) in order to appreciate the magnificent city in the early morning light as the mist dissipates. A walking tour (approximately 2 hours) is given by your guide and after this you can explore the mysterious city on your own. If you still have energy you can also climb the optional Huayna Picchu Peak inside the archaeological site (to be booked in advance at an extra cost).
Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes.
Train to Ollantaytambo
Catch a train that takes you through the scenic Andean landscapes to Ollantaytambo.
The train ride offers a relaxing journey through the Andes, allowing you to reflect on your incredible adventure. Enjoy the views of the dramatic mountains and valleys as you travel.
Ollantaytambo to Cuzco
Upon arriving in Ollantaytambo, you'll transfer to a bus for the final leg of your return journey to Cuzco. The bus ride provides additional opportunities to take in the beautiful Peruvian countryside.
You'll arrive in Cuzco at approximately 20:00. The bus will drop you off at Plaza San Francisco, from where you can easily make your way back to your chosen accommodation, concluding your unforgettable Inca Trail adventure.