Category Archives: inca jungle travel

cachicata, cachicata quarry, cachicata to machu picchu, cachicata trek, cusco, cusco destination, inca jungle travel, inca quarry, inca quarry cachicata, inca quarry route, inca quarry trek, inca trail cusco, inca trail peru, peru, rainbow mountian cusco, salkantay travel, travel, travel cusco, travel peru, travel to choquequirao, travel to machu picchu, unca quarry

Hike to Inti Punku and Cachiccata Quarries – to Machu Picchu

Leave a comment

Since the Spanish arrived in the land of the Incas, the question of how the native peoples of the Andes managed to cut and transport the megalithic rocks that made up the Inca cities was a mystery and a source of incredible stories. The Cachicata Cusco walk takes you to the source of one of the ancient Inca quarries; a place where you will find the answers to those questions. Join us on this fabulous hike to Cantera Cachicata Ollantaytambo

Offering a fascinating look at the ingenuity of the Inca civilization, Inti Punku Cachicata is where the Incas formed rocks for some of their ambitious construction projects miles away, such as the Cantera Cachicata Ollantaytambo fortress. This exhilarating and scenic hike lasts 3-4 hours, crosses the Urubamba River on an ascending trail that offers panoramic views of the Ollantaytambo Valley, the Vilcanota mountain range, and Mount Veronica (18,745 ft) along the way. We will have lunch surrounded by magnificent views before returning to the Sacred Valley or Cusco.

INCA QUARRY TREK 3 DAYS

DAY 1: CUSCO – PACHAR – SOQMA – CHARCAHUAYLLA

We will come to pick you up at 5:00 a.m. from your hotel in Cusco City, and we will drive along a road to the Pachar Valley close to Ollantaytambo. You will arrive at the starting point of your trek, Soqma village, after about 2 hours, where we will stop to have breakfast and meet our horseman. We will start our hike up a lush valley of scattered farmhouses and crop terraces. After 40 minutes of walking, we will see a tall waterfall where we can pause to refresh ourselves amidst the cool spray of the waterfall. After a picnic lunch, we will continue hiking for another hour and visit the little-known Inca ruin of Qorimarca, perched at mid-altitude on a shelf high above the SoQma valley. Qorimarca was probably built by the Incas to control the agricultural production of the surrounding valley. From here we will hike uphill for 3 hours until we reach our first campsite, in Charcahuaylla.

DAY 2: CHARCAHUAYLLA – INTI PUNKU – CHOQUETACARPO – INCA QUARRY OF CACHICATA – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES

After breakfast, we will continue with our trek for 1.5 hours across the high plateau to reach the to Yana Orco, where we will have spectacular views of the valley. We will encounter a stunning view of Ollantaytambo and the Sacred Valley as we reach the imposing gateway of Intipunku, an Inca temple thought to be dedicated to worshiping the snowcapped Verónica Mountain. Then, we will arrive to Choquetacarpo (3600m/11880ft) and continue the descent to the Inca quarry of Cachicata (3420m/11286ft). Here, you can see the work of the Incas as this was used by the Incas for the construction of Ollantaytambo. You will see several large buildings, quarried stones left half finished and abandoned throughout the site.We will have lunch facing a breathtaking mountain and valley panorama. We will continue our hike for 3 and a half hours downhill to Ollantaytambo, where you will have some time to rest and explore the historic town. In Ollantaytambo, we will catch the train to the town of Aguas Calientes. Once there, you will have a dinner at a restaurant in the town and discuss with your guide what time you wish to wake up in the morning. Your hostel in Aguas Calientes can be upgraded to a hotel if you prefer.

DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we walk uphill to Machu Picchu at 5:00 am. or take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Optional bus $16 each way), upon arrival at the Citadel we can appreciate the enigmatic beauty and the incomparable example of architectural perfection and hydraulics of one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, we will have a guided tour of about 2 hours, where we can appreciate the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, Intihuatana, The Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Cemetery, you are then given free time to stroll around the citadel . You will have all morning in Machu Picchu to take pictures, maybe to climb the Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, enjoy this mystical place. Then we´ll descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then calmly return by train to Ollantaytambo where our tourist transport to the city of Cusco will be expecting us, and will later transfer you to your hotel.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
Climb up Huayna Picchu and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Climb Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Visit the new local museum or the hot springs in Aguas Calientes later in the day. Not Included

– Meals: Breakfast
– Tour: 2 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu 

INCA QUARRY TREK  CLASSIC 4 DAYS

DAY 1: CUSCO – SOQMA – RAYAN

We will come to pick you up at 5:00 a.m. from your hotel in Cusco City, and we will drive along a road to the Pachar Valley close to Ollantaytambo. You will arrive at the starting point of your trek, Soqma village, after about 2 hours, where we will stop to have breakfast and meet our horseman. where we will stop to have breakfast and meet our horseman. We will start our hike up a lush valley of scattered farmhouses and crop terraces. After 40 minutes of walking, we will see a tall waterfall where we can pause to refresh ourselves amidst the cool spray of the waterfall. After a refueling lunch, we will ascend 45 minutes until our camp at Rayan (3,700 meters/12,136 ft).

DAY 2: RAYAN – INTI PUNKU – CHOQUETACARPO

After breakfast, we ascend 3 hours to the first pass of the trek, known as Puccaqasa (4,370 m/ 14,333 ft). where we will have spectacular views of the valley. We will encounter a stunning view of Ollantaytambo and the Sacred Valley. We then head downhill for 25 minutes to our lunch location. After lunch, we hike 2 hours with alternating ascents and descents. The final 20 minutes of this segment will take us uphill to the highest pass of the trek, Kuychicassa (4,457 m/ 14,619 ft), From here we trek downhill for 2 hours to a site the Incas called Inti Punku, where there is a spectacular view of Mount Veronica (5,682 m/ 18,637 ft) and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our campsites is 30 minutes downhill from Inti Punku at Choquetacarpo (3,600m/ 11,808 ft).

DAY 3: CHOQUETACARPO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES

After early breakfast and then we will walk one hour downhill to the Inca quarry of Cachicata (3420m/11286ft). Here, you can see the work of the Incas as this was used by the Incas for the construction of Ollantaytambo. You will see several large buildings, quarried stones left half finished and abandoned throughout the site.We will have lunch facing a breathtaking mountain and valley panorama. After We will continue our hike for 3 and a half hours downhill to Ollantaytambo, where you will have some time to rest and explore the historic town. In Ollantaytambo, we will catch the train to the town of Aguas Calientes. Once there, you will have a dinner at a restaurant in the town and discuss with your guide what time you wish to wake up in the morning. Your hostel in Aguas Calientes can be upgraded to a hotel if you prefer.

DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we walk uphill to Machu Picchu at 5:00 am. or take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Optional bus $16 each way), upon arrival at the Citadel we can appreciate the enigmatic beauty and the incomparable example of architectural perfection and hydraulics of one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, we will have a guided tour of about 2 hours, where we can appreciate the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, Intihuatana, The Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Cemetery, you are then given free time to stroll around the citadel . You will have all morning in Machu Picchu to take pictures, maybe to climb the Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, enjoy this mystical place. Then we´ll descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then calmly return by train to Ollantaytambo where our tourist transport to the city of Cusco will be expecting us, and will later transfer you to your hotel.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
Climb up Huayna Picchu and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Climb Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Visit the new local museum or the hot springs in Aguas Calientes later in the day. Not Included

– Meals: Breakfast
– Tour: 2 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu

 

inca jungle, inca jungle adventure, inca jungle path, inca jungle route, inca jungle to machu picchu, inca jungle trail, inca jungle travel, inca jungle trip, peru

Cocalmayo Thermal Baths – INCA JUNGLE TO MACHU PICCHU

Leave a comment

Before the days of high-tech spa treatments, wellness seekers headed to the hot springs. On your trip to Machu Picchu in Peru, you can take time to take a hot bath, in an impressive environment of abundant vegetation next to a huge river; the place seems like something out of a fantasy, but you can buy beers and snacks. Hot springs are Mother Nature’s method of instilling relaxation in tired bodies. The Colcalmayo hot springs are a popular destination among travelers seeking a connection to the land and its balance. INFORMATION OF INCA JUNGLE

Cocalmayo Thermal Baths
There is nothing better than taking a warm bath in nature, while enjoying a drink of “aguaymanto”. Taking a bath at the Cocalmayo Thermal Baths is a great experience. It is located between a huge river and a small mountain. In Cocalmayo bathers can enjoy outdoor pools fed by natural hot springs, built between a small mountain full of vegetation and the Urubamba river. You will find 3 pools of different sizes and depths. The temperature of the water varies between 38 and 44 ºC and unlike the majority of thermal waters in Peru, it has clear waters. Very close to the pools there are cold showers, the water comes from the Uripata lagoons and is very refreshing; the mixture of waters will give you a very comforting sensation.

The benefits: Located at 1,600 m.a.s.l. its waters are rich in essential minerals such as sodium, magnesium, bicarbonate, calcium, sulfate and others, which have healing properties on the skin, bones, muscles and joints.

Where are the Cocalmayo thermal baths located?
The Cocalmayo thermal baths are in the valley of the Urubamba river (Vilcanota) in a cozy and relaxing place, their naturally heated pools reach 44ºC. They are located 20 minutes from the town of Santa Teresa in the province of the Convention, in Cusco – Peru; precisely at kilometer 135 of the railway line between Cusco and Quillabamba, at 1,600 meters above sea level.
How to get?
Regardless of which route you take; by train, bus or walking, before or after visiting Machu Picchu, the tour will be exciting. We recommend you to relax in the pools before returning to your daily routine.

By bus from Cusco to Santa Teresa
Take a bus from the city of Cusco to Quillabamba and get off at the Santa Maria Village, the trip takes approximately 5 hours and is 221 km on a paved track.
Santa Maria is at 1280 masl, the weather is warm. The next destination is Santa Teresa, which is 25 km from Santa Maria. From here you must take another vehicle to travel for 1 hour to reach Santa Teresa.
By Train from Ollantaytambo – Santa Teresa
If you already take your train from Ollantaytambo and you are on your way to Machu Picchu, you can take advantage of the train and get off at the “hydroelectric” bus stop, from this point you can take a vehicle, which will take you in 20 minutes to Santa Teresa, or if you want you can walking, it will take between 2 and 3 hours to reach Santa Teresa. If you don’t know how to get to Ollantaytambo, enter here.

From Aguas Calientes to Santa Teresa
After having visited Machu Picchu or if you have time before entering it, then it is very likely that you want to know these baths. Make plans to visit the Cocalmayo thermal baths, it is a relaxing, unique and memorable experience, and unlike the Aguas Calientes thermal baths, it has clearer and hotter waters. There are two ways to get to the Cocalmayo hot springs from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).

Walking
If time permits, you can walk from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). First you should go to “Hidroelectrica”, this will take between 2 and 3 hours, through tunnels, bridges and the beautiful jungle landscape of the valley, following the train tracks. Once in Hidroeléctrica, you will walk for an hour and a half more to the town of Santa Teresa. INCA JUNGLE TRAIL

By Train
The train tracks after leaving Aguas Calientes, reach “Hidroeléctrica”; the trip will take around 20 minutes and costs S /. 5.00 for nationals and USD $ 31 for foreigners, are 6 km of beautiful jungle landscapes. From here you can continue to Santa Teresa by car or on foot.

From Santa Teresa to the baths of Cocalmayo
By car: The toilets are 4 km from the city of Santa Teresa, the collective cars leave every 20 minutes from the Plaza de Armas de Santa Teresa and will take you in 10 minutes to Cocalmayo.

Walking: You can also walk from Santa Teresa to the Cocalmayo baths, it will take you around 30 minutes following the road. On the way you will see the people who arrive after traveling the Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu.

 

cusco, cusco destination, inca jungle, inca jungle adventure, inca jungle path, inca jungle route, inca jungle to machu picchu, inca jungle trail, inca jungle travel, inca jungle trip, peru, travel, travel cusco, travel peru, travel to machu picchu

Inca Jungle: The Adventure tour to Machu Picchu

Leave a comment

What is the Inca Jungle at Machu Picchu?
The Inca Jungle tour is a tour that departs from the City of Cusco and ends in Machu Picchu, after 4 days and 3 nights after performing a series of adventure sports such as: cycling, trekking, canoeing and zip line.
The Inca Jungle is one of the most popular tours in Peru.

What is the Inca Jungle route?
The Inca Jungle begins in the city of Cusco and ends in Machu Picchu.
During the journey you cross the Sacred Valley of the Incas, then enter the jungle eyebrow of Cusco to finally arrive at the Wonder of the World.
This is the route during the 4 days of the tour:

  • 1st. day: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa María Town.
  • 2nd. day: Santa María – Thermal baths – Santa Teresa town.
  • 3rd. day: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes town.
  • 4th. day: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco.

What is the height during the Inca Jungle?
The Inca Jungle runs through its highest point in the so-called ‘Abra Málaga’ (4,230 masl).
The lowest point is in the town of Aguas Calientes (2,000 m.a.s.l.), also known as Machu Picchu town.
Map of the Inca Jungle Machu Picchu
The Inca Jungle begins in the city of Cusco.
After doing various adventure sports, visit the Inca City of Machu Picchu.
The return to the city of Cusco is by train and bus.
What is the weather like during the Inca Jungle?
The climate during the Inca Jungle is varied.
The coldest point is in Abra Málaga (average temperature of 9ºC during the day). Then we descend to the tropical climate of the jungle eyebrow.
The warmest point is in the town of Santa Teresa (day temperature up to 26ºC).
What is the flora and fauna like during the Inca Jungle?
The Inca Jungle is characterized by the beautiful landscapes during the tour.
Along the way you can see vizcachas, llamas, spectacled bears, cock of the rocks and a wide variety of orchids.
In addition, plantations of bananas, mangoes, oranges and more are crossed.
Does 4 days seem too long for the Inca Jungle? There is another 3-day service, which accelerates the pace of the walks to reach Machu Picchu earlier. However, the most popular Inca Jungle tour is the one that lasts 4 days.

What sports does the Inca Jungle include?
The Inca Jungle includes the following adventure sports:
Cycling (included).
Hike (included).
Canoeing (not included).
Zipline (not included).
Who can do the Inca Jungle?
The Inca Jungle is available for tourists of all ages.
However, the tour is recommended for tourists in good physical shape.
Older adults should consult their doctor before the tour.
Minors must be accustomed to physical efforts and take the tour in the company of their parents.
Sports in the Inca Jungle
How is the tour of the Inca Jungle?
Tours to the Inca Jungle may vary according to the travel agency. However, in general, everyone follows this itinerary:
Day 1: Cusco – Santa María:

  • Pick up from the visitor’s hotel.
  • Travel by bus from Cusco to ‘Abra Málaga’ through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
  • Bike descent from ‘Abra Málaga’ to the town of Santa María.
  • Lunch.
  • Canoeing adventure on the Vilcanota river (Optional).
  • Accommodation in Santa María.

Day 2: Santa María – Santa Teresa:

  • Breakfast.
  • Walk from Santa María to Santa Teresa through ancient Inca trails.
  • Lunch in the town of Kellomayo.
  • Relax in the thermal baths of Cocalmayo.
  • Dinner and lodging in the town of Santa Teresa.

Day 3: Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes:

  • Breakfast.
  • Adventure in the Zip Line (optional).
  • Walk to the ‘Hydroelectric’ station.
  • Lunch.
  • ‘Hydroelectric’ walk to the town of Aguas Calientes.
  • Dinner and lodging in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Cusco:

  • Breakfast.
  • Trekking up from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (optional take bus).
  • Tour with a tour guide through Machu Picchu.
  • Free visit to Machu Picchu.
  • Descent walk from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (optional take bus).
  • Return by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
  • Return by bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

Cycling during the Inca Jungle

  • The first sport that is performed in the Inca Jungle is cycling. This tour begins at the highest point of the journey in the Abra Málaga (4,230 masl / 13,877 ft).
  • From there you descend in the company of an expert guide for 2 or 3 hours until you reach the town of Santa María.
  • Cycling is included in all tours to the Inca Jungle.

Canoeing during the Inca Jungle

  • Boating is an optional sport during the Inca Jungle.
  • It is carried out in the waters of the Vilcanota river in the company of an expert guide.
  • The difficulty of the adventure depends on the time of year.
  • Between April to October, the waters are suitable for exciting low-risk tours.
  • Between November to March, the river is only suitable for boating experts.

Trekking to Machu Picchu in the Inca Jungle

  • At various points of the Inca Jungle walks are made.
  • The trek from Santa María to Santa Teresa covers ancient Inca trails.
  • The section from Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes, crosses one of the most incredible landscapes before reaching Machu Picchu.
  • The difficulty of the walks is not demanding.

Thermal baths during the Inca Jungle

  • The Cocalmayo thermal baths are an optional stop during the Inca Jungle.
  • The pools are outdoors and have a temperature of up to 44ºC.
  • This section is an opportunity to relax after several hours of walking.

Zip Line during the Inca Jungle

  • This extreme sport is one more option during the Inca Jungle.
  • It takes place in the town of Santa Teresa, at the beginning of the third day.
  • The experience is doubly incredible due to the beauty of the landscape.
  • Then, the visitors meet the group to continue the trip to Machu Picchu.

Tours to the Inca Jungle: everything you need to know
Is the Inca Jungle dangerous?

  • The Inca Jungle is a safe adventure.
  • The tour is carried out in the company of a professional tour guide trained in solving emergency situations.

What does the Inca Jungle tour include?

In general, an Inca Jungle tour includes the following:

  • Transportation to the ‘Abra Málaga’.
  • Professional guide throughout the tour.
  • Bicycle and safety implement.
  • 3 nights of lodging (in Santa María, Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes).
  • Food during the tour (breakfast, lunch and dinner).
  • Entrance to Machu Picchu.
  • Transportation by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
  • Transportation by bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

Optional services in the Inca Jungle:

  • Entrance to the Cocalmayo Thermal Baths.
  • Boating service and its implements.
  • Zip line service and its implements.
  • Transportation by bus (from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and vice versa).

How to reserve the Inca Jungle?

  • Inca Jungle reservations are made at a tourism agency through the internet.
  • It is also possible to buy the tour directly from a tourism agency located in the Historic Center of Cusco.

Is the Inca Jungle difficult?

  • The Inca Jungle has a moderate difficulty. Adventure sports do not require significant physical effort.
  • In total, approximately 35 kilometers of trekking are traveled on easy routes of great scenic beauty.

How much does the Inca Jungle cost?

 

  • The Inca Jungle has an approximate cost of 300 U $ D. However, this price varies according to the tourism agency and the quality of the service they provide.

When is the best time to do the Inca Jungle?

  • The best time to do the Inca Jungle at Machu Picchu is in the dry season (from April to October).
  • During those months, the days are sunnier, the colder nights and the rains are unusual. Those days are ideal for outdoor excursions.

What to bring to the Inca Jungle?

It is recommended to take the following to the Inca Jungle tour:

  • Cap or hat.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Mosquito repellent.
  • Trekking shoes.
  • Canteen with water.
  • Cotton clothes for 4 days.
  • Rain poncho (in case of precipitation).
  • Bathing suit and towel (for the Cocalmayo thermal baths).
  • Trekking backpack.
  • Extra cash (in case you need it).
  • Photographic camera.

Tips during the Inca Jungle
The Inca Jungle at Machu Picchu is one of the most incredible experiences in Peru. To fully enjoy this adventure it is recommended to consider the following:

  • The Inca Jungle is recommended for young people of any nationality. However, there are cases of adults with advanced age who want to do this adventure.
  • The Inca Jungle does not travel places that can cause soroche (altitude sickness). However, it is recommended to acclimatize at least 1 day in the city of Cusco before starting the tour.
  • Not in good physical shape? The Inca Jungle is not difficult. It is recommended to prepare physically at least only 1 week before the tour.
  • Don’t feel ready for extreme sports? Many sports in the Inca Jungle are only optional.
  • Do you want to do the Inca Jungle with your group of friends or family? There are private tours. You only have to request it at the tourism agency of your choice.

 

cachicata, cachicata quarry, cachicata to machu picchu, cachicata trek, cusco, cusco destination, inca jungle travel, inca quarry cachicata, peru, salkantay, salkantay mountain, salkantay path, salkantay trail, salkantay travel, salkantay trek, travel, travel cusco, travel peru, travel to choquequirao, travel to machu picchu

TREK TO MACHU PICCHU: SALKANTAY – CACHICATA

Leave a comment

SALKANTAY TREK 

Classic Salkantay trek 5 days is considered by most to be the best alternative route, This walk allows you to enjoy the options that there is in the salkantay route, you will go up to humantay lake, you will pass for the highets point of the salkantay route to be to see salkantay mountain up close, you hike through the santa teresa valley that is full of vegetation is the begining of the peruvian amazon, you have the chance to see, plantations of coffe, coca, avocados, bananas and much more, this valley is full of fresh wáter with many waterfalls and also if your choisce this hike, you will have enouth time do the relaxing hot springs of colcalmayo in santa teresa. and also you can do Llactapata hike on 4th day of the our advedventure, if you are an adventures person you got the chance to do the biggest and longest zipline of southamerica. choose this one and get a perfect adventures vacation to Machu Picchu. SALKANTAY TREK INFORMATION

Useful Information

– Starting Altitude – 3350 meters / 10990 feet .
– Highest Altitude – 4600 meters / 15091 ft
– Walking Distance – 12km / 7.45 miles
– Campsite Elevation – 3920 meters / 12861 ft
– Meals – 4 breakfast, 4 lunch, 4 dinner, 3 tea times, 3 wake up tea
– Overall Difficulty – Moderate – Changing
– STARTING POINT: – Cusco at your hotel

 

DIA 1 : Cusco – Mollepata – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa

We will leave Cusco approximately at 5:00 a.m. A bus will take us to the town of Mollepata (2900 meters above sea level) where we will arrive approximately at 7:30 in the morning, where you will have the chance to enjoy a delicious andean breakfast. After an hour aprox in Mollepata. we continue in the same car to the Trail head in Challacancha. There we will meet with our support staff. There we will organize all the equipment, horses and mules. Around 9:30 a.m. we will start our trek to Soraypampa (3850 m.a.s.l) the first section of the path are paved rock trail there are the old water channel still supply to new habitants, the begin is 8 km in 3 hours to Soraypampa the lunch place as well base camp, after lunch and nap to continued hiking up to the Humantay lake (4200 masl) 3 km in 2 hours round trip, bottom the glacier the most spectacular views to the back ground valley and sunset, Soraypampa is located on the middle of the glaciers valleys at night clear appreciate the constellation on the sky.

DAY 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass- Huayracmachay – Chaullay

The second day of the salkantay trek is considerat the hardest day. This is because the hiking distance is 22km/ 14 ft and also on this day you will get up to the highest point of the salkantay trail 4630 m / 15225 ft. in this day in order to make it on time to the second campsite. we’re going wake up with coca tea at 5:00 to enjoy a dilisious breakfast after we get ready for the trek. Around 6:30 in the morning we start hiking to the highest point of the whole salkantay trail. After 4 hours hike you reach to the top to celebrate and enjoy a beautifull views of the salkantay mountain once at the top you have the chance to make a offering for the APUS (andean gods). From 4630 m / 15225 ml. We start hiking downhill to get 2900 m / 9510 ml in todo 15 km downhill hiking. we are going to do in two sections. The first section will be from the top to the lunch point which takes 2 hours approximately and then after lunch 3 hours more to the second camp call chawllay. on the way you are going apreciate diferent type of landscapes such glaciar mountains, lagoons, roccky mountains, grassy hill, by the time that you will be close to the camp you are going be in the jungle area. Once at the camp time to relaxing if you like you can enjoy cold beers while the cooks make the te time and the delicious dinner. ANOTHER SALKANTAY TREK ITINERARY

DAY 3: Chaullay – La Playa – Santa Teresa (2nd option camp in Lucmabamba)

You will hike through the jungle are of Santa Teresa. The valley is formed by the salkantay river that discures from the white mountain. In this valley you have the opportunity to see waterfalls, rivers, plantations like coca, coffee, avocado, passion fruit, bananas and much more is a tropical valley and the climate is quite warm. After of our breakfast we will start the trek to the town of sahuayco, after 5 hours of crossing through the dense vegetation we arrived at the lunch point and then we drove to Santa Teresa camp to visit the thermal hot springs of Santa Teresa. After a three days hiking is quite relaxing to spend some time at the pools couple of hours in the thermal baths then we return to the camp to take tea and the last camp dinner and spend the last nights in the tent.

Option: camp in Lucmabamba – Llactapata

After lunch at Sahuyaco (Playa), we will hike for approximately one hour to our base camp called Lucmabamba. We will explore the tropical forest for a little while and have a lovely visit at an organic coffee farm. Here you can taste the coffee prepared by the local people. We will also explore an orange and an avocado plantation.

DAY 4: Santa Teresa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes (Llactapata – Aguas Calientes)

According the itinerary you will hike 3 hours from Santa Teresa to Hidroelectrica but the hike is along the car road, some people do not like road hike. If you do not want to take this option you can choose the nexts ones.
By car to hidroelectrica: You may take a car fron santa teresa to hidroelectrica for 45 minutes
Zipline: you can do zipline with one of the companies that ofert this activity in one of the valeys of santa teresa. after zipline you go by car to hidroelectrica. Any option that you may take usually we start at 6:00 am with breakfast then around 8 am we start the activities.
After lunch at Hidroelectrica we will hike 3 hours more to aguas calientes town on the flat trail. Then we take you to the hotel for showering and relaxing, in the evening around 7:00 pm we organised a dinner in a restaurant in Aguas Calientes after dinner we go to sleep to climb Machu Picchu early on the next day.

Option: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes

After our breakfast, we will make our trek uphill to the Inca ruins of Lacctapata, after visiting this wonderful place, we will make the trek downhill to Hidroelectrica where we will have our lunch. From Hidroelectrica we will go to the town of Aguas Calientes.

DAY 5: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we walk uphill to Machu Picchu at 5:00 am. or take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Optional bus $16 each way), upon arrival at the Citadel we can appreciate the enigmatic beauty and the incomparable example of architectural perfection and hydraulics of one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, we will have a guided tour of about 2 hours, where we can appreciate the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, Intihuatana, The Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Cemetery, you are then given free time to stroll around the citadel . You will have all morning in Machu Picchu to take pictures, maybe to climb the Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, enjoy this mystical place. Then we´ll descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then calmly return by train to Ollantaytambo where our tourist transport to the city of Cusco will be expecting us, and will later transfer you to your hotel.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
Climb up Huayna Picchu and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Climb Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Visit the new local museum or the hot springs in Aguas Calientes later in the day. Not Included

– Meals: Breakfast
– Tour: 2 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu

 

WHAT TO BRING

  • A backpack
  • A beanie hat or ear warmer
  • Sun hat
  • Scarf
  • Gloves
  • A mid weight sweater
  • A longsleeve t-shirt
  • 1 – 2 t-shirts
  • A lightweight suater or vest
  • A pair of long pants
  • Hiking shoes
  • An extra pair of shoe
  • 2 – 3 pairs wool socks
  • A jacket
  • A small towel
  • Rain gear
  • 1 – 2 pair shorts
  • Sunglasses
  • A small headlamp
  • Waterbottle
  • A toothbrust and other personal toiletries
  • Toilet paiper
  • Sun cream
  • Insect repelent
  • Camera and film
  • Original passport (International Student Identity Card “ISIC” if applicable)
  • Extra money for drinks.
  • Emergency money at least 300-450 extra soles (USD$ 220)

MORE INFORMATION OF SALKANTAY TREK

INCA QUARRY TREK 

The quarry of Cachicata was the place of extraction of the stones that were used for the construction of Ollantaytambo and many surrounding areas. This place is 9 kilometers from the Inca town of Ollantaytambo and has three groups of quarries: Molle Pucro, Sirkusirkuyoc (it was the largest), shows evidence of having been in full operation when the Spaniards entered this area. And finally Kantirayoq or Cacchicata, where another type of extraction of minerals and precious stones was practiced. CACHICATA TREK INFORMATION

Useful Information

– Starting Altitude – 3350 meters / 10990 feet .
– Highest Altitude – 4500m / 14,764ft
– Walking Distance – 25 km / 15.5 miles
– Meals – 4 breakfast, 3 lunch, 3 dinner, 3 tea times, 3 wake up tea
– Overall Difficulty – Moderate
– STARTING POINT: – Cusco at your hotel

 

DAY 1: CUSCO – SOQMA – RAYAN

We will come to pick you up at 5:00 a.m. from your hotel in Cusco City, and we will drive along a road to the Pachar Valley close to Ollantaytambo. You will arrive at the starting point of your trek, Soqma village, after about 2 hours, where we will stop to have breakfast and meet our horseman. where we will stop to have breakfast and meet our horseman. We will start our hike up a lush valley of scattered farmhouses and crop terraces. After 40 minutes of walking, we will see a tall waterfall where we can pause to refresh ourselves amidst the cool spray of the waterfall. After a refueling lunch, we will ascend 45 minutes until our camp at Rayan (3,700 meters/12,136 ft).

DAY 2: RAYAN – INTI PUNKU – CHOQUETACARPO

After breakfast, we ascend 3 hours to the first pass of the trek, known as Puccaqasa (4,370 m/ 14,333 ft). where we will have spectacular views of the valley. We will encounter a stunning view of Ollantaytambo and the Sacred Valley. We then head downhill for 25 minutes to our lunch location. After lunch, we hike 2 hours with alternating ascents and descents. The final 20 minutes of this segment will take us uphill to the highest pass of the trek, Kuychicassa (4,457 m/ 14,619 ft), From here we trek downhill for 2 hours to a site the Incas called Inti Punku, where there is a spectacular view of Mount Veronica (5,682 m/ 18,637 ft) and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our campsites is 30 minutes downhill from Inti Punku at Choquetacarpo (3,600m/ 11,808 ft).

DAY 3: CHOQUETACARPO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES

After early breakfast and then we will walk one hour downhill to the Inca quarry of Cachicata (3420m/11286ft). Here, you can see the work of the Incas as this was used by the Incas for the construction of Ollantaytambo. You will see several large buildings, quarried stones left half finished and abandoned throughout the site.We will have lunch facing a breathtaking mountain and valley panorama. After We will continue our hike for 3 and a half hours downhill to Ollantaytambo, where you will have some time to rest and explore the historic town. In Ollantaytambo, we will catch the train to the town of Aguas Calientes. Once there, you will have a dinner at a restaurant in the town and discuss with your guide what time you wish to wake up in the morning. Your hostel in Aguas Calientes can be upgraded to a hotel if you prefer.

DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we walk uphill to Machu Picchu at 5:00 am. or take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Optional bus $16 each way), upon arrival at the Citadel we can appreciate the enigmatic beauty and the incomparable example of architectural perfection and hydraulics of one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, we will have a guided tour of about 2 hours, where we can appreciate the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, Intihuatana, The Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Cemetery, you are then given free time to stroll around the citadel . You will have all morning in Machu Picchu to take pictures, maybe to climb the Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, enjoy this mystical place. Then we´ll descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then calmly return by train to Ollantaytambo where our tourist transport to the city of Cusco will be expecting us, and will later transfer you to your hotel. MORE INFORMATION OF CACHICATA TREK
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
Climb up Huayna Picchu and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Climb Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Visit the new local museum or the hot springs in Aguas Calientes later in the day. Not Included

– Meals: Breakfast
– Tour: 2 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu