We set our early this morning on the dramatic Salkantay Trek, a popular alternative to the Inca Trail that finishes at Santa Teresa, a few miles from the magnificent Inca citadel at Machu Picchu. This is a moderate to difficult trek and you should be sufficiently fit and prepared to walk for four days at high altitude.
You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the starting point of the trek at Soraypampa, where we meet up with our transport horses and their riders, who will support us on our trek and carry our camping equipment. Here you will have your first taste of your chef's delicious meals.
Setting off around 09.00, we start with a steep 2.5-hour climb to magnificent Humanatay Lake. After a short stop here, look out for the beautiful snow-capped peak of Salkantay as we hike up to our lunch stop directly in front of a glacier.at Salkantay Pampa.
We continuing climbing towards Soroycocha, where we camp overnight in dome tents with inflatable camping mattresses. From here there is a magnificent view of Salkantay Mountain - the 'Guardian Lord of Cusco'.
Distance: 6 miles (10 km)
Max Altitude: 15,300 ft (4,650 m)
Min Altitude: 12,795 ft (3,550 m)
Ascent: 2,362 ft (1,070 m)
Note: All meals on the trek and clean drinking water are provided (but not soft drinks or alcohol).
A 2-person tent with basic sleeping mats & private bathroom tent will be provided, as well as a duffle bag for your personal items, which will be carried on the mules. Ideally bring your own high-altitude sleeping bag & walking poles with rubber tips, although these can be rented locally. Also bring a pillow. Wear good hiking boots, long trousers and T-shirts (1 per day). You will also need a water bottle, rain gear, flashlight, hat or cap, sunglasses, binoculars, sunblock, insect repellent, 5 pairs of socks (as they will get wet daily), snacks, camera & batteries. Pack a warm jacket, woollen gloves & hat for the evenings & a small backpack for use during the day.