TRAVEL PROGRAM

DAY 1: Cusco – Soraypampa (Glass Cabanas) – Humantay Lake

Our adventure begins before sunrise with a private hotel pick-up in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m.. We drive through the scenic Andean landscapes, passing charming villages such as Anta and Limatambo, enjoying panoramic views of valleys and snowcapped peaks. After approximately 2 hours, we arrive in Mollepata, where we enjoy a fresh local breakfast at a traditional restaurant. From here, we continue for one more hour to Challacancha, the official starting point of our trek. We begin with a gradual uphill hike, perfect for altitude adaptation and warming up the body. After around 1.5 hours, we reach Soraypampa, where you will settle into our exclusive Glass Cabanas, surrounded by glaciers and open skies. A freshly prepared lunch by our private chef awaits you.

In the afternoon, we hike to the legendary Humantay Lake. The trail starts gently and becomes steeper as we approach the lake. After approximately 1.5 hours, we reach the stunning turquoise waters of Humantay, set beneath the dramatic Humantay Glacier (5,960 m / 19,554 ft) — a truly sacred place in the Andes. After time for photos and reflection, we return to Soraypampa, arriving around 4:00 p.m. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax, explore, or enjoy the views from your glass cabin.

In the evening, we host an authentic Peruvian cooking class, followed by a warm dinner and a magical night under the stars.

Highlights

• Turquoise waters of Humantay Lake

• Glacier and valley panoramas

• Sleeping under the Andean sky

Trekking distance: 13 km / 7.5 miles
Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Elevation gain: +500 m / 1,640 ft
Overnight: Glass Cabanas – Soraypampa

DAY 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Wayracmachay (Glass Domes)

Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the expedition.

After an early breakfast at 5:30 a.m., we begin our ascent on a well-defined mountain trail. After approximately 2 hours, we reach Salkantay Pampa (4,100 m / 13,450 ft), where we take a short break surrounded by towering glacial peaks. We continue climbing for about 1 hour along zigzagging paths until reaching Soyrococha, located directly beneath the mighty Salkantay Glacier. Here, our chef surprises us with a freshly prepared high-altitude lunch in an unforgettable alpine setting. After lunch, we ascend for another hour to reach the spectacular Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) — the highest point of the trek. We take a moment to honor Pachamama (Mother Earth) and absorb the vast panoramic views of the Andes. We then begin a long and scenic descent of approximately 2.5 hours into greener landscapes, arriving at our camp in Wayracmachay (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), where our unique Glass Domes await. Dinner is served under a star-filled sky with uninterrupted views of glaciers and the night constellations.

Highlights

• Crossing the legendary Salkantay Pass

• Dramatic glacier landscapes

• Sleeping in luxury mountain domes

Trekking distance: 14 km / 8.5 miles
Hiking time: 7–8 hours
Elevation change: –2,530 m / –8,300 ft
Overnight: Glass Domes – Wayracmachay

DAY 3: Wayracmachay – Rayanpata – Colpapampa – Loreta (Hobbit House)

Today, the scenery transforms dramatically as we descend from the high Andes into the lush beginnings of the cloud forest.

We wake up with hot tea delivered to your dome, followed by a nourishing breakfast. After packing snacks and refilling water, we start our hike along a mostly downhill path. After 2 hours, we reach Rayanpata, where warm air, colorful flowers, and dense vegetation announce our entrance into the jungle ecosystem. We continue for another 2 hours toward Colpapampa (2,950 m / 9,678 ft), where our chef welcomes us with a delicious jungle-style lunch and refreshing drinks. After lunch, we hike for about 4 more hours through narrow jungle paths, passing waterfalls, orchids, and coffee plantations until we reach the magical village of Loreta. Here, you will stay in our famous Hobbit Houses, hidden within the forest — cozy eco-lodges designed for comfort, privacy, and a mystical jungle experience. A warm dinner is served as the jungle sounds surround you.

Highlights

• Transition from Andes to cloud forest

• Waterfalls, orchids, and coffee fields

• Unique stay in Hobbit-style lodge

Trekking distance: 18 km / 11 miles
Hiking time: 7–8 hours
Elevation change: +600 m / +1,970 ft | –1,000 m / –3,280 ft
Overnight: Hobbit House – Loreta

DAY 4: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

This day blends adventure, history, and culture.

After breakfast in Loreta, we take a scenic 30-minute drive to Lucmabamba, where our hike begins along a beautifully preserved section of the original Inca Trail. We hike uphill for approximately 4 hours, surrounded by coffee, banana, and avocado plantations, until we reach the archaeological site of Llactapata (2,700 m / 8,861 ft). From here, we enjoy one of the most breathtaking and rare panoramic views of Machu Picchu from across the valley. Your guide will provide historical insight while you absorb the magnitude of this sacred landscape. We then descend for about 1.5 hours to Hidroelectrica, where we enjoy our final lunch with the trekking crew.

After lunch, we walk for approximately 3 hours along the railway through the Machu Picchu canyon, spotting orchids, butterflies, and possibly wildlife such as monkeys or the Andean cock-of-the-rock. Arrival in Aguas Calientes in the late afternoon. Hotel check-in, hot shower, and free time to rest or explore.

Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

DAY 5: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

Today is the grand finale of your High Expeditions journey.

We enjoy an early breakfast and take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu Citadel. Your guide will assist with entry, and you’ll begin a guided exploration of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. We highly recommend booking Circuit 2 in advance for the most complete and panoramic experience of the citadel. During the guided tour, you’ll visit the most important sectors while learning about Inca engineering, spiritual beliefs, and history.

Optional: If booked in advance, you may hike Huayna Picchu Mountain after the guided tour. After your visit, we return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time for lunch or shopping.

In the afternoon, we board the train to Ollantaytambo, where a private vehicle will transfer you back to Cusco, arriving around 7:30–8:00 p.m.

What is included?

Pre-Trek Briefing
The night before your Salkantay Trek, you will meet our team for a detailed briefing. You will receive your personal duffel bag, which will be carried by our porter during the trek.
✔ Maximum weight: 7 kg / 14 lbs
✔ Must include your sleeping bag and air mattress

Professional Mountain Guides
Our certified guides are trained in tourism and English and have deep knowledge of the Andes and local culture. Passionate, experienced, and safety-focused, they ensure an inspiring and secure adventure from start to finish.

Personal Porter Service
Every trekker receives a personal porter at no extra cost, responsible for transporting your duffel bag.
⚠ Access to your duffel bag is available only upon arrival at the camp each afternoon.

Hotel Accommodation
The alternative treks all end in or before Aguas Calientes. Your last night will be in a hotel in the village instead of camping. Your 3-star hotel is included in the trek cost and based on a shared room. If you would like to upgrade your hotel please send us a request in advance to our sales team and if you prefer a single room there’ll be an additional cost of USD60.

Private Transportation

You’ll have transportation included in this trek. You’ll be picked up at 4-4:30 a.m. from your hotel or our office. Then you’ll meet your Alpaca Expeditions trekking team. From here we’ll head in our private van for a 3.5-hour drive to the Glass Cabañas in Soraypampa located at 3,800 meters above sea level. Also included will be the Expedition Train or Voyager Train from Aguas Calientes. You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for $85 per person. Once you arrive at the train station, we’ll take you back to your hotel in Cusco. Additionally, your round trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu will be included.

High-Quality Camping Equipment
✔ Eureka Timberline 4 tents (shared by only two travelers)
✔ Spacious dining tent for comfort and protection in all weather conditions

Expert Culinary Service
✔ Freshly prepared meals by professional mountain chefs
✔ Daily breakfast, lunch & dinner
✔ Afternoon happy hour with hot drinks and snacks
✔ Daily trail snacks provided
✔ Special diets accommodated (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.)

Note: Lunch on the last day is not included.

Purified Drinking Water
✔ Unlimited purified water from first lunch to last breakfast
✔ Refill stations available at every meal
✔ Recommended to carry 3 liters of water capacity

Safety & First Aid
✔ All guides are Wilderness First Aid certified
✔ Guides carry full first-aid kits and emergency oxygen
✔ Immediate evacuation protocols and direct clinic access if required

Comfort & Extra Gear
✔ Sleeping pillow
✔ Foam mattress for insulation
✔ Rain poncho
✔ Backpack rain cover

We believe small details create extraordinary expeditions.

What is included?

Equipment Rentals

For your comfort during the trek, a sleeping bag is essential. Inflatable air mattresses and trekking poles (with rubber tips) are optional, but highly recommended to enhance your experience on the trail.

If you prefer to travel light, we offer high-quality rental equipment:

• Sleeping Bag: USD 35

• Inflatable Air Mattress: USD 30

• Trekking Poles (pair): USD 30

All our gear is clean, well maintained, and expedition-ready.

Huayna Picchu Mountain

Huayna Picchu is the iconic mountain that rises next to Machu Picchu. This exciting climb takes approximately 45 minutes to the summit and offers one of the most spectacular views in the Andes.

Please note:

• The descent is steep and narrow.

• This hike is not recommended for travelers with fear of heights.

• It takes place after your guided tour of Machu Picchu.

• There is an additional fee of USD 85.

• Reservations must be made at least one month in advance due to limited availability.

• Mountain weather conditions are outside our control.

Day Pack Requirements

High Expeditions does not provide day packs, so you must bring your own.

Important guidelines:

• Maximum allowed size at Machu Picchu: 25 liters

• Only carry essentials:

  • Water

  • Snacks

  • Camera

  • Sunhat

  • Warm layers

  • Waterproof jacket and pants

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Personal first-aid kit

  • Larger backpacks must be stored before entering Machu Picchu.

Headlamps & Lighting

We strongly recommend bringing a headlamp for night use at camp. Campsites have no artificial lighting, and moving around safely at night is difficult without proper illumination.

Flashlights are acceptable, but headlamps are preferred as they allow you to keep your hands free.

Flights to Cusco

Flights to Cusco can experience delays or cancellations due to weather and operational conditions.

To ensure a smooth experience, we recommend:

• Arriving in Cusco at least two days before your trek

• Booking flights with:

  • LATAM (formerly LAN Peru)

  • Avianca

  • Peruvian Airlines

Your trek will finish around 8:00 pm on the final day, so your return flight should be booked for the following day.

Gratuities

Tipping is completely voluntary and based on your level of satisfaction.
While it may not be customary in your country, tips hold meaningful value for our mountain staff, guides, porters, and cooks who work hard to make your expedition unforgettable.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not mandatory, but strongly recommended.

Cusco is located at high altitude and travelers arriving from sea level often require 1–2 days to acclimatize.

We recommend travel insurance to protect you in case of:

• Altitude sickness

• Delays

• Missed tours

Your safety and peace of mind are always our top priorities at High Expeditions.

What to take?

• Passport
• Extra money (soles recommended)
• Personal medications
• Water bottle or camelback – (purifying tablets optional)
• Sunscreen 70+ or more
• Insect repellent
• Personal care products
• Hiking boots/shoes (preferably waterproof)
• Light shoes or sandals
• Hiking pants
• Hiking socks
• Long sleeve shirts
• Thermal jacket
• Waterproof jacket
• Waterproof poncho
• Hat that protects face and neck
• Neck scarf or buff
• Lenses with UV protection
• Sleeping bag
• Walking sticks
• Medium hiking backpack (15 to 25 liters)
• Camera with charger
• Extreme battery
• Snacks: energy bars, electrolytes, nuts, energy gels, etc.
• Swimsuit
• Towel
• Flashlight