Type: Trekking
Code: SST04
Visited Destinations: Cusco
Resume
A true Andean odyssey, this 5-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 encounter 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. On the last day, we follow the Urubamba River to the town of Aguas Calientes , from where we take the bus to Machu Picchu for a tour of this magnificent Inca citadel.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1 : Cusco / Soraypampa:
Leaving Cusco early in the morning, we take a scenic drive of approximately 6 hours to the small village of Marcocasa , located high above the Apurimac River . Here, we meet up with the mules, horses, and arrieros (wranglers) that will carry our gear during the trek. We begin our gentle hike into the green river valley of the Cordillera Vilcabamba, hiking 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. Morning snack,
Day 2 : Soraypampa to 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 3 : Huayrajmachay / Miscabamba
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 . 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 4 : 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 . We have the afternoon to explore the nearby ruins before our last night of camping.
Day 5 : Paltallacta/Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu
We make an early descent to the Urubamba river, which we follow upstream to the town of Aguas Calientes .. We take the bus up to the stunning archeological complex of Machu Picchu , where an official guide will lead our tour of approximately 2 hours. Then we have time to explore the mysterious remains on our own before returning to Aguas Calientes for lunch and the late afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cusco.
Include
INCLUDED:
- Private transportation to head of trail.
- Professional, English-speaking guide and camp staff.
- Plentiful, nutritious meals and snacks (Vegetarian option available).
- Drinking water throughout trek / Hot water for washing in the morning.
- Double-occupancy tents and camping equipment (includes dining tent, kitchen tent, and latrine tent).
- Pack animals to carry personal gear and equipment.
- Entrance fee to Machu Picchu.
- Officially-guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Bus to and from Machu Picchu• Train ticket back to Cusco (Ferrostal Service).
- Transfer from Ollantaytambo train station to hotel in Cusco.
Not Include
WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING/CARRY:
- Backpack or duffle bag.
- Sleeping bag.
- Warm clothing/thermals.
- Insect repellent.
- Trekking shoes/wool socks.
- Water bottle.
- Rain gear.
- Day pack.
- Sunscreen and hat.
- Personal medical kit.
- Flashlight.
- Bathing suit and towel.
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