Machu Picchu Lodge to Lodge Trek

*Please note that the following information is meant to provide a general overview of your tour. The specifics of your trip will be contained in a pre-trip letter you will receive prior to your confirmed departure.

Important Trip Details:

MEETING PLACE:  Cusco, Peru 
                                 We recoment booking your room for 1-2 nights before your trip begins and suggest one of these partner hotles in the heart of the city: Andenes or XO Art House
ARRIVAL TIME: After breakfast on day one of your trip itinerary. 
RETURN TIME: Aternoon on the last day of the itinerary
TRIP LENGTH: 7 days
AGE LIMIT: Minimum age is 12 years
NEAREST AIRPORTS: Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), also known as Cusco Airport

Day 1: Cusco to Salkantay Lodge and Adventure Resort at Soraypampa (3,800m / 12,500 ft)

Please note: We request that you arrive in Cusco the day before your trek to allow for any potential flight delays or lost luggage. While the hotel stay for that night is not included, we can arrange an airport transfer to your hotel. Lunch on the first day of the trek will be provided as a boxed meal.

After an early breakfast, guests will be picked up from their hotel by a bilingual guide and vehicle starting at 7:00 AM for the journey to Soraypampa, home to Salkantay Lodge and Adventure Resort (SLAR). Along the way, there will be a stop to visit the Inca ruins of Tarawasi near the town of Limatambo, approximately 1.5 hours from Cusco. After leaving Limatambo, we’ll pass through the mountain village of Mollepata for a short coffee break before continuing on a winding mountain road to Marcoccasa.

From Marcoccasa, guests may opt for a scenic 4-hour trek along the "Royal Path" (Camino Real) to Soraypampa. This hike is moderate and optional. Those who prefer not to trek will be transported directly to the lodge by vehicle.

Upon arrival at the lodge, guests will be welcomed by the staff and shown to their rooms. The afternoon is at leisure to acclimate to the altitude before dinner and an evening briefing by the fireplace.

Accommodation: Salkantay Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Soraypampa

This day is set aside for relaxation or optional activities. A popular choice is a half-day hike (3-4 hours) to a stunning glacial lake. Adventurous guests may opt for a brief swim in the icy waters. Alternatively, guests can unwind in the lodge’s outdoor jacuzzi.

In the evening, the guide will provide a detailed briefing for the next four days. Meals will be served at the lodge.

Accommodation: Salkantay Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Soraypampa to Wayra Lodge at Huayraccmachay (3,850m / 12,600 ft)

The trek to Machu Picchu begins. We’ll hike up the Rio Blanco Valley, passing Humantay Peak and reaching a high mountain pass at 4,600m (15,000 ft). Here, we’ll take in breathtaking views of the snowcapped Vilcabamba Range and watch for Andean condors.

From the pass, we’ll descend toward Wayra Lodge, our destination for the evening. A hot lunch will be served along the route.

Hiking time: 4–6 hours
Total excursion time: 5–7 hours
Difficulty: Challenging (due to altitude)

Accommodation: Wayra Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Huayraccmachay to Colpa Lodge at Collpapampa (2,800m / 9,200 ft)

After breakfast at Wayra Lodge, we continue descending alongside the Salkantay River through stunning landscapes. Upon arrival at Colpa Lodge, guests will be welcomed with a traditional "Pachamanca"-style lunch, prepared using an underground stone oven.

Colpa Lodge is perched at the convergence of three rivers, offering striking views of lush, green mountains. Guests can relax in the outdoor hot tub before dinner.

Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Accommodation: Colpa Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Collpapampa to Lucma Lodge at Lucmabamba (2,100m / 6,900 ft)

We begin with an early breakfast before hiking through the Santa Teresa River Valley, passing coffee plantations, banana orchards, and granadilla fields. We stop for a picnic lunch by the river before driving to the trailhead of the Llactapata Inca Trail. A 30-minute hike brings us to Lucma Lodge, set in an avocado orchard.

In the afternoon, we’ll explore the small village of Lucmabamba and meet members of the local community.

Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Total excursion time: 6–8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (due to distance)

Accommodation: Lucma Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Lucmabamba to Aguas Calientes (1,900m / 6,200 ft)

After breakfast, we climb uphill for 2–3 hours to Llactapata Pass (2,700m / 8,900 ft), where we get a distant but unique view of Machu Picchu from the southwest. We also explore the recently restored Llactapata Ruins before descending to the Aobamba River.

A scenic train ride takes us to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Hiking time: 4–9 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Machu Picchu (2,450m / 8,000 ft)

After breakfast at the hotel, we take a 30-minute bus ride to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the iconic site. Guests will have an additional four hours to explore independently.

Afterward, we return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before taking a train to Ollantaytambo. A private vehicle will transfer us back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.

Please note: The last night’s hotel stay in Cusco is not included in the trip price.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Peru Travel Arrangements

Getting to Cusco, Peru:
Book your international flight to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco, Peru. This is the closest airport to your trip’s starting point and the main gateway for travelers heading to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Recommended Arrival Timing:
We recommend arriving at least one to two days before the official start of your tour to allow time for any unexpected delays and to acclimate to the altitude before your adventure begins. We suggest staying at one of our partner hotels in the heart of Cusco, such as Andenes or XO Art House.

Flights & Connections:
Cusco Airport receives domestic flights from Lima (LIM) and other major Peruvian cities. International travelers will typically fly into Lima first before connecting to Cusco. Be sure to check visa or transit requirements if you have layovers in other countries.

Meeting Location & Time:
Your trip officially begins after breakfast on Day 1 at our designated meeting location in Cusco. The exact meeting point and any additional details will be provided in your travel documents.

Airport Transfer Upon Arrival:
Transfers from Cusco Airport (CUZ) to your hotel can be arranged upon request. If you have booked a transfer, a representative will meet you upon arrival, holding a sign with your name or our company logo. They will assist with your luggage and transport you to your hotel.

Emergency Contact:
If you have trouble locating your transfer or need assistance, please call the emergency contact number provided in your travel documents.

Return Travel:
Your trip concludes in the afternoon on the last day of the itinerary. After returning to Cusco, you may choose to book a flight home that evening or extend your stay to further explore the region.

Peru Weather

Lima experiences a mild desert climate with minimal rainfall throughout the year, characterized by two primary seasons:

Summer (December to April): During these months, Lima is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Days are often sunny, making it an ideal time for beach visits and outdoor activities.

Winter (May to November): This period brings cooler and overcast conditions, with temperatures between 60°F and 70°F (16°C to 21°C). Mornings and evenings can feel damp due to the coastal fog known locally as "La Garúa." While significant rainfall is rare, light drizzle is common.

Due to Lima's coastal location and the influence of the cold Humboldt Current, temperatures remain moderate throughout the year. However, humidity levels can be high, often exceeding 80%, which can make temperatures feel cooler in winter and warmer in summer. It's advisable to wear layered clothing to stay comfortable amid changing conditions.

The garúa fog significantly impacts Lima's climate, leading to overcast skies and reduced sunshine, particularly during the winter months. This phenomenon contributes to Lima receiving only about 1,284 hours of sunshine annually, which is relatively low compared to other cities at similar latitudes.

Additionally, Lima’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean results in high humidity levels, which can enhance the perception of temperature variations throughout the year. Overall, Lima's unique climate is influenced by its coastal desert location and the moderating effects of the Humboldt Current, resulting in mild temperatures and distinct seasonal variations.

Preparing for Your Trip to Peru

Physical Requirements

The Sacred Valley Lodge to Lodge itinerary involves various physical activities, primarily hiking through high-altitude regions. Participants should be prepared for moderate to strenuous activity on certain days.

Participants should be able to:

• Hike on Uneven Terrain: Navigate unassisted over diverse surfaces, including cobblestone streets, dirt paths, and archaeological sites.

• Climb Stairs: Ascend and descend steps at sites such as Machu Picchu and Ollantaytambo.

• Handle Altitude Variations: Manage activities at elevations ranging from approximately 9,000 feet (2,750 meters) to over 12,500 feet (3,800 meters).

• Adapt to Temperature Fluctuations: Adjust to varying temperatures, from warm conditions in lower valleys to cooler climates at higher elevations.

This trip is suitable for active travelers. If you have concerns about altitude, endurance, or mobility, we recommend consulting your doctor before travel.

Physical Preparedness

Training in advance will enhance your comfort and enjoyment. We recommend:

• Regular Hiking: Engage in walks or hikes on uneven surfaces to build stamina and familiarity.

• Cardiovascular Exercise: Incorporate activities such as cycling, swimming, or jogging to improve endurance.

• Strength Training: Perform light strength exercises focusing on core and leg stability.

• Acclimatization: Consider arriving in Cusco a few days before the trek to adjust to the altitude.

If you have any medical conditions, physical limitations, or dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance so we can assist with accommodations where possible.

Pack for Peru

Packing appropriately ensures comfort across the varied climates and activities encountered during your trip. Layering is essential, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly between different elevations.

Clothing

• Moisture-Wicking Shirts: Short and long-sleeved options for versatility.

• Hiking Pants: Comfortable and durable for trekking.

• Insulating Layers: Fleece or down jackets for cooler evenings and higher altitudes.

• Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket or poncho to stay dry during unexpected showers.

• Casual Attire: Comfortable clothes for evenings and city exploration.

• Swimwear: For hotel pools or optional activities.

• Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with good traction and comfortable shoes for relaxation.

• Cold Weather Accessories: Gloves, scarf, and warm hat, especially for higher elevations.

Gear & Essentials

• Daypack: Small backpack for daily excursions.

• Water Bottle: Reusable, with filtration or purification options recommended.

• Towel: Lightweight and quick-drying.

• Lighting: Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.

• Optional Items: Travel umbrella and binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Toiletries & Personal Items

• Personal Hygiene Products: Travel-size toiletries.

• Skin Care: Lip balm and lotion to combat dryness from high altitudes.

• Insect Repellent: Particularly useful in areas like Machu Picchu.

• Sanitizers: Hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes.

• Medications: Prescription drugs and a personal first-aid kit.

Documents & Money

• Passport: Ensure it's valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

• Travel Documents: Printed copies of flight details, hotel reservations, and emergency contacts.

• Currency: A small amount of Peruvian soles for incidentals; ATMs are available in major cities.

• Bank Cards: Credit/debit cards (notify your bank of international travel).

Electronics

• Camera or Smartphone: For capturing memories.

• Chargers: Necessary cables and a portable power bank.

• Adapter: Universal travel adapter (Peru uses 220V outlets with Type A and C plugs).

Adventure Unbound - Recommended Peru Reading List

Turn Right at Machu Picchu by Mark Adams
A travelogue about the author's journey retracing Hiram Bingham’s 1911 expedition to Machu Picchu, blending history with modern exploration.

The Last Days of the Incas by Kim MacQuarrie
A history of the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire, focusing on Francisco Pizarro’s invasion and the resistance led by Manco Inca.

1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus by Charles C. Mann
An overview of pre-Columbian civilizations, including Andean societies, challenging common assumptions about the Americas before European contact.

Death in the Andes by Mario Vargas Llosa
A novel set in a remote Andean village, combining political unrest, indigenous culture, and mystery.

Eight Feet in the Andes by Dervla Murphy
A memoir of a mother and her daughter traveling 1,300 miles through the Peruvian Andes with a mule.

The Conquest of the Incas by John Hemming
A historical account of the fall of the Inca Empire, using primary sources and firsthand accounts.

Peru: The Cookbook by Gastón Acurio
A collection of traditional and modern Peruvian recipes from one of the country’s well-known chefs.

Additional Peru Information

Machu Picchu Weather - Real-Time Forecast
Check live weather updates and forecasts for Machu Picchu to help plan for conditions during your visit.

Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) - Flight Information and Services
Details on arrivals, departures, and airport services for travelers flying into Lima.

Weather Forecast for Peru (Lima, Cusco, and Puno)
Check the latest weather conditions for key locations on your itinerary.

Currency Exchange Rates - Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Monitor current exchange rates to help plan for expenses in Peru.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Peru Travel Health
Information on vaccinations, health precautions, and altitude sickness prevention.

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