Lima Arequipa Salkantay Trekking Mountain Lodge to Machu Picchu Lima

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Lodge trekking over the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu

Peru is home to a wealth of extraordinary natural resources, interesting culture and surprising originality. We will visit sounding names such as Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca or even colonial cities like Cusco and Arequipa on this varied journey. The trekking leads on old Inca paths from lodge to lodge. In double rooms with hotel comfort and with wonderful food we enjoy warm hospitality. We end some trekking days with a warm bath in the bubbling Jacuzzi under the open sky. Passing deep-blue glacier lakes and colorful mountain meadows, the panorama over the glittering six-thousander is breathtaking. In the light of the mystical cloud forest, Machu Picchu suddenly appears in the distance, the city in the clouds. After visiting this legendary place, we take the train through the picturesque Urubamba Valley and continue by bus to the former Inca capital Cusco. Unforgettable, this legendary drive from the cloud forest to the colonial town of Cusco.

The versatility of this journey is incomparable.

The historic sanctuary Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu,”the old mountain”, is an impressive fortress city of the Incas in the middle of the mountains. The city is also referred to as the “lost city of the Incas,” as the whereabouts of the place until its discovery by Hiram Bingham in 1911 remained a mystery. The complex was probably built in the 15th century by the Inca Pachacútec. Today, the archaeological site comprises two sectors with about 20 hectares. In the agricultural area are various terraces built on the mountain slopes with a height of up to 4 meters. In the city proper, there are numerous monuments and squares, the so-called Sun Temple, the sundial “Intihuatana” and the solar observatory, the three-window temple, the main temple and the so-called condor sector are the main attractions. There is also an impressive boulder, 3 meters high and 7 meters wide, known as the sacred rock. For the construction of Machu Picchu rocks from the surrounding areas were used, which were processed depending on the intended use with different techniques and more or less well cut. One of the finest worked walls is the central wall in the main temple with perfectly matched stone blocks. The historical sanctuary of Machu Picchu is more than just the archaeological sites: this includes the biodiversity of the flora and fauna, declared by UNESCO in 1983 as a cultural asset and natural reserve of humanity.

A journey could not be more varied. A journey into the natural wonder of Peru.
Join an unforgettable trip with us “Peru Expeditions Tours”

Difficulty Condition

Travel Program

Flight from Europe or the country of origin (USA or Canada), etc. Arrival in Lima – Transfer Hotel the large city in South America; population approximately 11 million. Flight from Lima to Cusco in the afternoon arrival, depending the arrival time visit or explore the city on your own. Flight directly to Arequipa.

Overnight
Hotel
Flight
Arrval with plane to Peru
Meals
-/-/-

Arrival in the morning in Arequipa. The city lies at 2400 m in a fertile river oasis and is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Peru. Nestled, the city is like a huge arena, surrounded by snow-crowned volcanoes. The old colonial town is very well preserved, the buildings in white tufa give the city a special touch. City tour with a visit to the historic center, the colorful market and the famous monastery of Santa Catalina give us the first impressions of the colorful world of Peru. Overnight at hotel.

Overnight 
Hotel
Flight
Arrival with plane to Arequipa
Meals
B/L/-

Today we drive to the 165 km distant Colca Valley. The drive goes over the 4800 m high Patapampa Pass into the National Park of Aguada Blanca and down to the Colca Canyon at 4000 m. We drive past imposing volcanic cones, it is also the habitat of alpacas and the shy Vikunjas. Upon arrival we make an easy hike to the Colca Canyon. We move slowly, because we are unusually high altitude. The Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in South America. In the evening it is worth to go outside to admire the starry sky of the southern hemisphere. Hardly any light bothers the darkness, hardly a cloud obscures the view. Overnight in a hacienda.

Overnight 
Hotel
Driving
4 Hours approx
Tours/Hiking
 3 Hours approx tours
Meals
B/L/-

Today offers a magnificent panorama. The Colca River winds its way up to the sea in a gorge that is up to a thousand meters deep. In between, however, the valley expands several times, similar to an amphitheater, with countless green and yellow terraces. Like contour lines, their retaining walls extend over the slopes. Alone a hundred bird species live here, from the small hummingbird to the mighty condor. The Canyon de Colca is a paradise for trekkers. We are about 3 – 4 hours on the way and get used to the height slowly. Trekking 3 – 4 hours. Overnight in a hacienda. Overnight

Overnight 
Hotel
Driving
4 Hours approx
Tours/Hiking
 3 Hours approx tours
Meals
B/L/-

In the morning we do another little hike, then we take the bus through the Andean landscape to Puno to Lake Titicaca. It lies at 3800 m and is the highest navigable lake in the world. With a size of 8288 km ² (200 km long and up to 65 km wide), it is the second largest lake in South America. The western part of it is located in Peru, the eastern part in Bolivia. Overnight at hotel.

Overnight 
Hotel
Driving
7 Hours approx
Tours/Hiking
 5 Hours approx tours
Meals
B/L/-

Today we take a trip to the floating Uros Islands in Lake Titicaca. The Uros Indians are considered indigenous people, who live as a small community on these reed islands and among whom have received customs that have long disappeared on the mainland. Their floating, anchored in the seabed islands consist of large blocks of peat-like reed roots, which are connected like a raft. The top layers must be freshly poured every fourteen days, otherwise the islands would sink. Huts and chapels, beds and boats – everything here is made of rushes. So also the sunken fish tanks and the enclosure for the guinea pigs, who of course also eat reeds. We visit a village and get to know the impressive way of life of the Uros. Return to Puno. Overnight at hotel.

Overnight 
Hotel
Driving
4 Hours approx
Tours/Hiking
 5 Hours approx tours
Meals
B/L/-

The full-day drive from Puno to Cusco leads us past Indian villages and over the 4312 m high pass La Raya. Here we have a magnificent view of the glacier. Everywhere we see big herds of alpacas. Market women in their traditional, colorful clothing are selling their products. After the plateau was very barren, the vegetation in the direction of Cusco increases again. Past bubbling rivers, we arrive late in the afternoon in the Inca city. In the evening you will be informed about the upcoming trekking. Overnight at the hotel in Cusco.

Overnight 
Hotel
Driving
6 Hours approx
Tours/Hiking
 5 Hours approx tours
Meals
B/L/-

After an early breakfast we will be picked up at our hotel in Cusco. The ride goes towards Soraypampa. The first break we take after about 1.5 hours drive to visit the ruins of Tarawasi near the town of Limatambo. After another 2 hours drive, including an interesting visit to the still very original mountain village of Mollepata, we arrive in Marcoccasa, our starting point for today’s hike. Along an old route called “Royal Path”, we walk 4 – 6 hours towards Soraypampa. For guests who do not wish to trek that day, there is an option to travel directly to the lodge. At the Salkantay Lodge we are warmly received by the local staff, to then move into the rooms for the next 2 days. The Salkantay Lodge has the majestic Salkantay as its patron saint, with 6270 m this is the highest mountain in the region and limits imposingly the end of the valley. Trekking: 4 – 6 hours, including breaks. Overnight in lodge.

Overnight 
Hotel
Driving
4 Hours approx
Tours/Hiking
 3 Hours approx tours
Meals
B/L/D

This day is for acclimatization to the height. Very well suited for this is a morning excursion to the picturesque glacier lake Humantay. Surrounded by glacier giants, we overcome the altitude. After about 4 hours we are back in time for lunch at the lodge. The afternoon is at leisure; Relax with a view of the Salkantay, relax in the outdoor whirlpool or indulge in a massage. As an option, a horseback ride can also be undertaken. Trekking: about 4 hours. Overnight in lodge.

Overnight 
Hotel
Tours/Hiking
 6 Hours approx tours
Meals
B/L/D

Today is the big day: The day hike takes us over the highest point of this trekking tour between the two glaciers Salkantay and Humantay, the Salkantay Pass (4638 m, 4 hours). On the way to the pass, we may, with some luck, observe condors and at the pass we take a break to admire the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba group. We continue our way down to Wayra Lodge (Wayra means wind, the place where the wind lives), our destination for this evening. There will be a warm lunch along the way and dinner will be taken at the very homely Wayra Lodge. Trekking: 6 – 8 hours including breaks.Overnight in lodge.

Overnight 
Hotel
Tours/Hiking
 6 Hours approx tours
Meals
B/L/D

Today, it’s downriver through a rapidly changing landscape: from the spectacular Andes highlands down to the cloud forest, also known as the “ceja de selva” (jungle cloud strip) where, thanks to the warmer climate, there are a variety of orchids, colorful butterflies, hummingbirds and parrots can be found. After about 4 hours we reach the Colpa Lodge (2800 m); we will be having lunch with the traditional Peruvian food “Pachamanca”. In the afternoon, relax in the outdoor whirlpool with a wonderful view of the valley, the green hills and the nearby, small Andendorf or a walk in the orchid garden. Trekking: 3 – 4 hours. Overnight in lodge.
Overnight 
Hotel
Tours/Hiking
6 Hours approx tours
Meals
B/L/D

Along the Santa Teresa River today through the cloud forest, past coffee, banana and passion fruit plantations down to Lucma Lodge (2100 m, about 5 – 6 hours). We stop along the river for a hot lunch. After another hour of trekking we are picked up by a minibus, which brings us directly to the entrance to the “Llactapata Inca Trail” (30 minutes’ drive). It is a 30-minute climb from the beginning of this newly restored Inca Trail to Lucma Lodge, which is surrounded by avocado trees. We arrive in time to allow enough time for a trip to the small village of Lucmabamba. Trekking time: 5 – 6 hours. Overnight in lodge.

Overnight 
Hotel
Tours/Hiking
 5 Hours approx tours
Meals
B/L/D

After an early breakfast we start our last trekking day. For about 2 – 3 hours up to Llactapata Pass (2736 m), where we will soon be facing the spectacular view of Machu Picchu; a look that only very few tourists get to see. In addition, you can visit the Llactapata ruins, which have recently been restored. The descent to the Aobamba River leads through bamboo forests, past coffee plantations and with a bit of luck we also discover orchids (2 – 3 hours’ descent). Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu are now not far away. We cover the last kilometers with a 30-minute train ride. Dinner and overnight in a hotel. Trekking time: 4 – 6 hours.

Overnight 
Hotel
Driving
1 Hours approx
Tours/Hiking
 3 Hours approx tours
Meals
B/L/D

After a very early breakfast, head to the bus for the drive up to Machu Picchu. We explore the ruins of this small mountain bastion – there is so much to discover! Return to Aguas Calientens for lunch before taking the train through the picturesque Urubamba Valley to Ollantaytambo (1.5 hrs). There will be a minibus waiting for us and drive us to the hotel in the beautiful Urubamba Valley. Overnight at the hotel in the Urubamba Valley.

Overnight 
Hotel
Driving
6 Hours approx
Tours/Hiking
3 Hours approx tours
Meals
B/L/D

Today we visit the salt pans of Maras, the highest salt farm in the world. The labyrinth of salt basins, with a variety of shades of clear white to light brown, forms a fantastic contrast to the barren mountains around. During a 2 – 3-hour hike, we have enough time to marvel at the patchwork of salt terraces and learn more about the hard work of salt extraction. During the afternoon, we continue to the historic Cusco, where you can explore the city on your own. Overnight at the hotel in Cusco

Overnight 
Hotel
Driving
4 Hours approx.
Tours/Hiking
3 Hours approx tours
Meals
B/L/D

All roads lead to Cusco. For the Inca, it formed the center of their empire. The whole city was considered sacred to them. If two men met, the one who came from Cusco automatically deserved the higher rank. The splendor and wealth of the capital, located at an altitude of 3300 m, were legendary. We dive into this world today and visit the sights and the well-preserved old town and the impressive Inca Sacsahuayman. Huge carved stones testify to the impressive architecture of the Inca. At a cozy dinner we review the trip. Overnight at the hotel in Cusco.

Overnight 
Hotel
Tours/Hiking
3 Hours approx tours
Driving
2 Hours approx.
Meals
B/L/D

We spend the morning according to our own preferences. In the afternoon transfer to the airport and return flight to Switzerland from Cusco via Lima and Cusco city – flight back to Lima and go back USA, Canada, Europa, etc.

Overnight 
Hotel
Driving
1 Hours approx
Tours/Hiking
 1 Hours approx tours
Flight
1 Hour approx by plane
Meals
B/L/D

Go back home – end tour in Peru / South America.

Overnight 
On plane
Meals
-/-/-

Included meals: B=breakfast; L=lunch; D=dinner

What's Included

Services included in the prices:

  • Flight Lima – Arequipa
  • Flight Cusco – Lima
  • All transfers as shedule program
  • Full board on the whole trip except in Lima, Arequipa and Cusco only breakfast
  • Boat tours on Lake Titicaca
  • Train or private transport ride from Puno to Cusco
  • Hikes and excursions with local guides english speakers
  • Mountain Lodge: Full service Salkantay trek
  • Enter fees, train, tickets bus, etc / Visiting Machu Picchu
  • Hotels Arequipa, Puno, Cusco

Not included:

  • Restaurants Lunch and dinner in Lima, Arequipa and Cusco
  • Entrances to the thermal baths in Aguas Calientes
  • Hotel in Lima capital city
  • Sleeping bag that can be rented at our office
  • Tips for the guide and field staff recommended 200 USD
  • Travel and medical insurance & emergency evacuation insurance
  • International flight from USA, Europe, Canada, etc.
  • Alcohol, bottled drinks or soft drinks (although we are known to buy a few rounds of drinks to celebrate nearly anything)
  • Pick-ups from Lima airport to the Hotel and viceversa

What to Bring

What to Bring or take fo Day Hiking and Technical Equipment for Climbing Expedition

This equipment list is compiled to provide you with adequate help when choosing your equipment for a climb. Most items are required. Please consider each of them and make sure you understand the function and exclusive use for mountaineering, before substituting or removing items from this list. Please note that this list has been carefully annotated by the organizer. Remember that mountaineering, mountaineering or mountaineering is an extreme, risky sport, therefore everything related to it is of great attention.

These items should be on your hiking checklist:

Hiking backpack for hiking 30 to 40 liters

Light gloves for hiking or (Optional Mittens waterproof)

Medium weight socks

Sleeping bag (-10º to 15ºC)

Small daypack for one day hiking 20 liters

Weather-appropriate clothing (think moisture-wicking and layers)

Hiking boots or shoes

Medium weight parka with fibber fill or down

Rain poncho (or rain gear)

Long-sleeved shirts

Fleece or Wool sweater and/or trousers

Lightweight pants

Cotton short-sleeved shirts or t-shirts

Water bottle for hiking or trekking

Strong waterproof duffel bag

Flashlight with spare batteries and bulb

Towel for personal hygiene each participantFirst-aid kit

Regular and long underwear

Knife or multi-tool

Light cap and wool hat

Sunglasses with UV certification, Sun block, lips

The rest of the list Essentials as appropriate for your hike

Grooming and personal hygiene kit

One Hiking Buff per person

Technical Equipment for High Altitude Expedition Mountains

3 Locking carabiners, we recommended per person

We recommend 2 ice screws for each client

1 Daisy Chain (Life Line) per each person

2 Ice axes (per person) technical, we recommended GRIVEL company

1 ATC descender (Rappel), this is very necessary for technical mountains

2 Cords for prusik, very important (Size Cord 6 mm x 10 m. long)

Gloves(Good gloves) for expeditions over 6000meters

Harness, we recommended GRIVEL company

Sleeping pad / Mattress, we recommend with air or inflatable mattress

Crampons, we recommended GRIVEL company

Walking sticks (optional), a pair per person, we recommended GRIVEL company

Down Jacket for expedition

Very important to have personal clothing such as pants and jacket with GOROTEX certification

First aid kit, for high mountains, because we as guides cannot medicate clients

Backpack Capacity 60 liters, it is better to have a bigger backpack to go comfortably to the high camps, because here you have to carry all your personal things

Gaiters or Leggings, now modern boots already have built-in (Incorporated), but better to have an extra pair

Dressing appropriately for the mountains can make the difference between a pleasant trip and a really uncomfortable one. Clothing must provide the right degree of temperature, perspiration and be well ventilated. Preferably cotton clothing should be avoided, as in humid conditions they absorb body heat.

In general, the weather conditions in in the Andes of South America can vary from day to day and even throughout the day. Therefore, clothing must be versatile.

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have regarding the necessary equipment.

Prices & Dates

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FROM/TO

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— JUL 2023 / — AUG 2023

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FROM/TO

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— JUL 2023 / — AUG 2023

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» Additional dates available upon request
» Rates may vary from July 26th to 31th for the national holidays

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Deposit for reservations: — USD (– EUR) ✓ Full payment 40 days before. No refund if you cancel less than 30 days!

Places: 🟢 *Available
Trip-code: Number ►PER-
Duration: 18 days
Participants: Minimal: 4 Maximal: 12
Members: We don’t have an open group to join – We can open a new group – Contact us!
Country / Location: Peru
Mountain Guide: Juventino Albino Caldua
Other dates / additional info: Contact us!

3% early bird discount when booking 6 months prior to departure 2023

Legend Booking-information:
EZZ Single room supplement
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🟡 On this trip, only a few places left.
🔴 This trip is sold out / closed.

Juventino Albino Caldua

Expert guide certified by IVBV - UIAGM - IFMGA
Co-Founder, Peru Expeditions

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