Lodge-Based Trek to the Lost City of the Incas

Machu Picchu Lodge to Lodge

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The Cordillera Vilcabamba, the steep green mountain range that cradles Machu Picchu, is a spectacular Andean realm crowned by the sacred peak of Salcantay (20,574’). Our lodge-based trek crosses this legendary mountain range by connecting four trekkers’ lodges a day’s hike apart for a fantastic trekking experience without the need for camping. The highest point of our trek is a 15,000-foot pass between the glacial moraines of Salcantay and Huamantay. We get impressive views of the fabulous icefalls of these two peaks before we descend through exquisite Andean cloud forests full of waterfalls, bromeliads, and orchids. After our final trekking day, we head to the fabled cliff-perched “lost city” for an overnight at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, right at the ruins.

Below is an Itinerary-in-Brief. To view a complete Detailed Itinerary, Download Full Itinerary or Email our Area Specialist

Itinerary-in-Brief

Days 1-3
Cusco / Sacred Valley

After exploring Cusco, we head to the Incas’ sacred Urubamba Valley, where we explore wondrous Inca fortresses, including Pisac and Ollantaytambo. We also visit the markets in the traditional towns below the Inca sites.

Days 4-5
Salcantay Lodge

Driving up to the mountain village of Mollepata and then higher into the spectacular Soraypampa Valley, we reach our comfortable lodge in the heart of the Cordillera Vilcabamba. We enjoy acclimatization hikes in this superb setting, surrounded by mountains and dazzling views of sacred Salcantay. Salcantay Lodge (11,800') offers private rooms, a sauna, and a cozy fireplace.

Day 6
Wayra Lodge

With an early start for the most challenging day of our trek, the trail leads us up the Rio Blanco valley, circling Huamantay (19,239'), just across from Salcantay, as we approach our 15,000-foot pass. We follow switchbacks to the top, stopping often to enjoy the panoramas. From the top of the pass, we descend through a green valley to our next accommodation, Wayra Lodge (12,000'), with a hot lunch by the trail en route.

Days 7-8
Colpa Lodge / Lucma Lodge

After a morning to explore the mountain setting, we hike above the Salcantay River through increasingly lush scenery. We arrive in the late afternoon at Colpa Lodge (10,300'), with time for an optional excursion to a nearby hot spring. The next day we descend into the Santa Teresa valley past small villages and coffee plantations, with lunch along the river, then make a short climb up to Lucma Lodge, set in an avocado orchard at 6,600 feet.

Days 9-11
Machu Picchu / Cusco

Our final hike brings us over Llactapata Pass (8,500'), with a descent to the river through lush bamboo forests. Machu Picchu is a short train ride away, and we enjoy the thrill of an overnight stay at Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, right next to the ruins. Return to Cusco and depart on Day 11.

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Tour Costs $4795 (10-15 members) $5195 (6-9 members) Single supplement: $1750 Internal airfare: $290 (subject to change) *High season surcharge: $125 *Prices are for 2008 dates only **Airfare is not included in Tour Cost unless indicated

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