Salcantay-Machu Picchu Trek 10 days

Day 1:

After arriving in Lima, a taxi will take you to the hotel El Ducado. This exclusive hotel is located near the beach and the beautiful shopping mall Larcomar which you can vist if time permits.

Day 2:

We will start our tour around the city of Cuzco in the late afternoon.

An  English speaking guide will take you on a tour around the Cathedral built on the ruins of the Wiraqocha Palace, and the Santo Domingo Church built upon the Koricancha Temple. Both of these buildings reflect the fusion of Spanish and Inca cultures, as you will notice the unique paintings, also the gold and silver sculptures. Next, we will proceed with our visit to the ruins of Sacayhuaman which is a military fortress and sanctuary. After returning to our hotel around 6:00 pm., you can enjoy one of the many restaurants and the nightlife in Cuzco. 

Day 3: SACRED VALLEY

This morning we will get up early and travel by bus to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here, we will visit places like the Pisaq Ruins which is consider an ancient agricultural area. And you will have the opportunity to shop at the Indian Market that offers fine handmade products such as sweaters, accesories, paintings, and many other items. 

Then, we will continue our adventure to the ruins of Ollantaytambo, a symbol of the last stand of the Incas against Spanish domination. Later, we will visit Chinchero and other villages. Our Guide will explain all of the myths and history behind this beautiful valley.

Day 4: SALCANTAY

Early in the morning we will go to  Mollepata that is a 3 hour trip by bus. After a deserved breakfast we will start our hike on a nice and easy road ascending 50 meters up to the Cruzpata Zone.

Day 5:

After breakfast, we will start our hike at 6:30 am. Ascending to a colder climate at the foot of Salcantay Peak at 4600m. (15,092 ft.). Then we will descend and after an hour we will reach the shore of the Salcantay Glacier River where we will have a nice lunch. We will continue our 4 hours descend into an area with more vegetation until we get to our second Camp of Chaullay at 3500m (11,483 ft.) And there we will enjoy dinner and relax having hot tea and cookies.

Day 6:

After Breakfast we will continue to descend into a beautiful Rain Forest full of exotic fruits. After a six hour hike we will arrive to village of La Playa, a tropical zone at 2000m (6561 ft) where we will enjoy lunch. From this point it will be a group decision to hike for 2 hours or take a van to the town of Santa Teresa .  You might be able to take a hot shower and use the phone in this small town.   

Day 7:

After breakfast, we will ride the cable car to go across the river to the town of Qolpani.  From this town, we hike a few hours to the small town of Hidroelectrica where we will have lunch and wait for the train to  go to Aguas Calientes, where Macchu Picchu is located

At the town of Aguas Calientes we will get to our Hotel rooms and join our guide for a farewell dinner.

Day 8:

We will have an early breakfast and head up to the ruins of Machu Picchu to come in contact with the sacred elements of nature. After a 30 minute bus ride, you will pass thru the gates, and your eyes won't believe the incredible site that lies before you. Your guide will explain different theories and myths about the wonderful Inca Town. We have the rest of the day for an optional hike to Huayna Picchu or explore the ruins on your own. There is also a restaurant and a snack shop where you can enjoy American food. After descending from Machu Picchu we take the late afternoon train to Ollantaytambo to take the bus to Cuzco and transferring to our hotel. 

Day 09:

Free day to relax and rest and walk around town. At night you can enjoy the night life of Cuzco.

Day 10:

Early in the morning you will get your flight back to Lima where you will be transfer to the hotel El Ducado. Depending on you flight back home you may have time to walk down to the beach or Larcomar.

Big Kids Adventures will transfer you back to the airport and make sure you get on your way safely.