MTS expertise plus a spectacular lodge-to-lodge trek make for a Peru experience like no other

Enjoy the challenge and rewards of a high-altitude mountain trek by day, and the luxurious comforts of a remote alpine lodge at night! No crowds or camping, just your small group on a lightly traveled trail, accompanied by your experienced MTS guide—steeped in local knowledge and history—and a support staff of cooks and porters. Wind your way from inn to inn through the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Vilcabamba, the mountain range cradling the sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Explore the richly diverse Incan hinterland, from sparkling glaciers and stunning azure lakes to lush cloud forests filled with orchids. End each day at well-appointed lodges, complete with hot tub, fireplace, and fine cuisine. The grand finale will find you standing above the mist-shrouded stone ruins of Machu Picchu—guaranteed to send shivers down your spine.

Unlike our competitors, MTS offers two nights at Machu Picchu, extra time to explore the ancient capital of Cusco, and the expertise that comes with over 40 years of bringing travelers to Peru. No wonder this trip was selected as one of National Geographic Traveler Magazine's “Tours of a Lifetime”!

Activities

6 days moderate to strenuous hiking at medium elevation (max. 15,340')

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Journey to iconic Machu Picchu through the diverse ecosystems of the Cordillera Vilcabamba, whose glacial peaks feed the Amazon
• Enjoy the challenge of a high-altitude trek—but with a full support staff and the welcome comforts of mountain lodges at the end of every day
• Get deep insights about the flora, fauna and history of the region, from the adventure company with over 40 years of experience in Peru
• Take in panoramic Andean views including spectacular Salkantay, with its dazzling snowfields and ice cliffs
• Enjoy extra time to explore the ancient Inca capital of Cusco—a UNESCO World Heritage site

Duration: 10 days Start Location: Lima End Location: Lima

BRIEF Itinerary

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  Day 1 : Cusco

  Meet in Lima, Peru, and fly to Cusco. Afternoon guided walk through the city, once the capital of the vast Inca Empire. Overnight at Hotel Libertador.

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  Day 2 : Salkantay Lodge

  Transfer to Salkantay Lodge (12,750') in the Soray Pampa valley, visiting the impressive Inca ruins of Tarawasi near the town of Limatambo on the way. Optional afternoon hike.

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  Day 3 : Salkantay Lodge

  The day is free to relax, with the option to hike to to a high glacial lake for a breathtaking panorama of Salkantay.

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  Day 4 : Soraypampa to Wayra Lodge

  Begin the trek with a hike up the Río Blanco valley, circling Humantay (19,413') and crossing a pass at 14,700 feet. At the pass we stop briefly at Lake Salcantaycocha for views of icy peaks in every direction. Descend to Wayra Lodge (12,000').

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  Day 5 : Huayraccmachay Lodge to Collpa Lodge, Collpapampa

  Hike down to the Collpapampa valley, where Collpa Lodge (10,300') is located in a lovely meadow. Optional visit to a nearby hot spring for a relaxing soak.

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  Day 6 : Collpapampa to Lucma Lodge, Lucmabamba

  Head down the Santa Teresa river valley through more populated rural areas with coffee plantations. After lunch along the river, it's a short climb to Lucma Lodge (6,000'), set in a tropical wooded enclave. You'll arrive in time to explore the village and meet members of the local community.

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  Day 7 : Lucma to Aguas Calientes

  Hike toward Palltayacta Pass (8,530'—great views of Machu Picchu from here!), then descend to the Urubamba River through lush bamboo forests and diverse mountain terrain. At the railway line, board the train and transfer to the village of Aguas Calientes, just below Machu Picchu. Overnight at the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. Relax in the spa.

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  Day 8 : Machu Picchu

  A full day to explore the exquisite stone remains of Machu Picchu including lunch at the Sanctuary Hotel within a stone's throw of the ruins (8,000').

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  Day 9 : Return to Cusco

  The morning is on your own to relax at the hotel or walk around town.   Afternoon train to Cusco.

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  Day 10 : Lima, departure

  Fly to Lima and depart.

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  Hotel Libertador Cusco

  Cusco

  Facing the Sun Temple "Koricancha," this romantic, personalized hotel is a traveler's favorite, reaching 11th place on Condé Nast Traveler's list of top South American hotels. Rooms furnished in a classic, traditional style ensure the hotel maintains its serene character despite its central location. 

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  Salkantay Lodge

  Nestled in the Andean valley of Soraypampa, at 12,500 feet, Salkantay Lodge is designed as a harmonious blend of nature and comfort. Enjoy excellent organic Peruvian cuisine, an outdoor Jacuzzi, and well-appointed rooms.

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  Wayra Lodge

  This charming lodge hovers on a secluded windy stretch of valley beneath Humantay mountain. The stone and thatch structure, in characteristic Andean style, houses comfortable, elegant quarters managed with care by the owners, a local family.

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  Collpa Lodge

  In an open promontory at the confluence of three rivers, Collpa Lodge sits in a cloud forest, with orchids and butterflies all around. The outdoor hot tub in this lodge has prominent views of lush green mountains and a small, far-away, local town.

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  Lucma Lodge

  Built at the head of the Inca trail, this elegant lodge sits amid avocado and coffee orchards within the archeological reserve. The walls of windows in the sitting area and dining room open the space to the grandeur of the rainforest's natural surroundings.

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  Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

  A luxury boutique hotel just steps from the train, but a secluded natural paradise. Located in the small town of Aguas Calientes on the banks of the Urubamba River, the Pueblo Hotel was rated by Travel + Leisure readers  as a top 500 hotel of the world in 2006. Rustic elegance distinguishes the private bungalows, each with its own fireplace, and the lush gardens are home to orchids, exotic birds and other flora and fauna.

Properties shown are representative of the accommodations we use on this trip, may not be inclusive of all accommodations we use, and are subject to change.

Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. Our trips feature gifted leaders for whom leading trips is a true vocation. Besides showing you wonders you’d never find on your own, they make sure everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch. They are knowledgeable about all aspects of your trip, and take great pleasure in sharing their insights with you. More than just guides, they positively elevate your experience by being teachers, companions, and the best of friends. You’ll be in good hands with them every step of the way.

• Manolo Lazo

  Manolo Lazo is one of Peru’s most experienced adventure travel guides, with more than 15 years of experience leading treks and whitewater rafting trips. A resident of Cusco, Manolo is well versed in the rich history of the Andes as well as the classic trekking routes that follow the ancient Inca trade paths. His knowledge of the country, its people, and traditions add immensely to your appreciation of the trip. Manolo is fluent in English as well as Spanish, and conversant in Quechua—the historic language of the Incas, and he has a gift for instilling confidence in every trekker.

• Ian Lewis

  A British/Peruvian and fluent in English and Spanish, is an outdoor enthusiast with many interests, including photography, archaeology, and trekking in the Andes. His spirit, enthusiasm, and knowledge extend well beyond the borders of Peru. He’s the ideal guide for your Peruvian adventure, and we’re confident he’ll enrich your experience in one of the world’s most interesting countries.

photo credits: ©MTS photo file