Peru Trekking – Salkantay | Ausangate | Rainbow Mountains | Machu Picchu – Oct 2026
Peru Trekking – Salkantay | Ausangate | Rainbow Mountains | Machu Picchu – Oct 2026
Retreat Highlights
- Embark on your Peruvian adventure in Cusco, the “Archaeological Capital of the Americas.” Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you explore Inca ruins, colonial Spanish churches, and artisan markets. This initial tour is designed to help you acclimatize and gain an understanding of the region’s rich heritage.
- Discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a verdant land nestled between imposing Andean peaks. This majestic valley tells a story of the Inca civilization’s advanced agricultural and engineering skills, evident in its ancient agricultural terraces, traditional villages, and formidable Inca fortresses. Follow in the footsteps of the ancients as you explore sites like Ollantaytambo and Pisac, each whispering tales of ingenuity and spiritual depth.
- Embark on the Salkantay Trail, an iconic and rewarding trek through diverse ecosystems. This adventurous route, less crowded than the traditional Inca Trail, promises unparalleled vistas. Discover snow-capped peaks, verdant cloud forests, and vibrant Andean flora and fauna along the way.
- Visit the famous city of Machu Picchu, often called the “Lost City of the Incas,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site spectacularly situated against a backdrop of verdant mountains. This architectural wonder stands as a powerful symbol of the Inca’s deep spiritual bond with the universe. Witnessing its intricate terraces, temples, and plazas bathed in the morning sun is more than just sightseeing; it’s an experience that ignites a profound sense of awe and spiritual connection.
- Trek the iconic Ausangate trek circumnavigates the sacred Ausangate mountain. This challenging trek offers high-altitude passes, turquoise lagoons, traditional Andean communities, solitude, and an intimate connection with the Andes’ raw beauty and indigenous way of life.
- Prepare for an unforgettable, vibrant crescendo as you visit the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). This geological wonder is a kaleidoscope of vibrant mineral deposits, painting the mountain slopes in stunning reds, oranges, yellows, greens, and blues. The visually spectacular journey offers panoramic Andean views, culminating in the unparalleled natural artistry witnessed at Vinicunca’s summit.
Contact us directly if you are interested in attending for detailed information, deposits, rates, travel and logistics.
Description
Embark on a trekking odyssey through Peru, a land rich in ancient history and breathtaking natural beauty. Begin your journey in Cusco, the “Archaeological Capital,” allowing for acclimatization and historical immersion. Explore the Sacred Valley, home to significant Inca sites such as Ollantaytambo and Pisac. For a less crowded path to Machu Picchu, trek the Salkantay Trail, where you’ll discover diverse ecosystems and stunning vistas. Experience the remote Ausangate trek, circumnavigating a sacred mountain amidst pristine wilderness and traditional communities. Conclude your adventure by witnessing the vibrant geological wonder of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). This meticulously crafted trekking adventure seamlessly blends culture, excitement, and mysticism, promising an unparalleled experience in the Peruvian Andes.
ITINERARY
SEPT – 25 | International Arrival
Upon your arrival in Lima, Peru, after clearing customs, proceed to the Latam Airlines counter for your domestic 1 hour flight to Cusco (flight included). Once in Cusco, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the historic city center. Cusco, is South America’s oldest continuously inhabited city. To help you adjust to the altitude (3,400m/11,200m), we will take it easy this afternoon with a brief orientation walk. This evening, you are free to explore and enjoy the vibrant city.
Meals included: Welcome dinner
Overnight: Hotel Rojas Inn Cusco
SEPT – 26 | Cusco – Sacred Valley
Our Sacred Valley adventure begins at Pisac’s archaeological site, where we’ll also visit Potato Park. This unique bio-cultural territory not only conserves diverse potato varieties but also preserves the heritage of six indigenous communities, including hundreds of cultivated and wild potato species, their landscape, knowledge, traditions, innovations, and the worldview of over 6,000 inhabitants. We’ll explore its incredible architecture and vibrant indigenous market. After lunch in Urubamba, we’ll arrive in Ollantaytambo. Explore the town and visit the fortress (entrance included) before transferring to your hotel in Yucay.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight hotel: Sol Natura Ollantaytambo
SEPT – 27 | Cusco to Soyroccocha
Our journey begins with a four-hour scenic bus ride from Cusco to Challacancha, our trailhead. Along the way, we pass through Limatambo (2100m/6888ft), a significant entry point to Cusco during the Inca Empire. From there, we drive along the Apurimac River to Mollepata (2800m/9184ft), then Cruzpata (3100m/10168ft), and finally Challacancha, where we meet our wranglers and horses. After a brief introduction, we start our hike with a gentle ascent towards the base of Mt. Salkantay (6271m/20569ft). Following lunch in Salkantaypampa, we begin a sometimes steep two-hour ascent to our camp at Soyroccocha, located next to the impressive Salkantay glacier (4200m/13776ft). Be prepared for a cold night; very warm clothing is essential.
- Level : Moderate, mostly up hill
- Duration : 4 Hours of hike
- Location : Cusco to Challacamcha, to Soyrococha Andean landscapes •Description : Andean landscapes
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, dinner
- Lodging: Camping in tents
SEPT – 28 | Soyroccocha to Collpapampa
After an early breakfast, we begin a 1.5-hour ascent to the Salkantay Mountain Pass (4525m/14842ft). Here, we’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding glaciers, the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba Range, and the towering South face of Salkantay. We may also spot chinchillas and condors in their natural habitat. From the pass, we descend into the cloud forest, where the climate becomes more tropical. Along the way, we’ll see remnants of an ancient Inca path, approximately 6 meters wide. A long, easy descent along the Salkantay River brings us late in the afternoon to our second camp at Qollpapampa (2890m/9479ft), a beautiful location featuring natural hot springs for relaxation.
- Level: Moderate, mostly down hill
- Duration: 8 Hours of hike
- Location: Soyrococha to Colpapampa
- Description: Andean landscapes glaciers and Semitropical landscapes
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, dinner
- Lodging : Camping in tents
SEPT – 29 | Collpapampa to Machupicchu town
Today’s easy walk along the Santa Teresa River takes us through increasingly lush vegetation, past waterfalls, and plantations of passion fruit, coffee, banana, and avocado. We will observe exuberant local flora as we pass the waterfalls at Coripacchi, the settlement at Wiñaypoko, and the bustling town of La Playa, before reaching our third camp at Lucmabamba (2,100m/6888ft). As we descend, we enter spectacled-bear territory and will likely be accompanied by flocks of parrots. After lunch, we will visit a coffee farm where local experts will share insights on sustainable growing practices and coffee’s vital role in Santa Teresa’s social and economic evolution. We’ll conclude with a plant-to-cup tasting experience. In the late afternoon, we will transfer to Hidroelectrica train station to board the train to Machupicchu town.
- Level: Moderate, mostly down hill
- Duration: 5 Hours of hike
- Location: Collpapampa to Santa Teresa
- Description: Andean landscapes and Subtropical landscapes
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, dinner
- Lodging: Hotel Rojas Machupicchu town
SEPT – 30 | Aguas Calientes / Machupicchu to Cusco
We begin our day with an early bus ride to the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you’ll embark on a guided two-hour tour of the Inca citadel. Afterward, enjoy free time to explore at your leisure. Options include climbing Huayna Picchu for spectacular panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding valleys and mountains (please note: access is limited to 400 visitors per day), or visiting the Temple of the Moon or the impressive Inca Bridge. In the afternoon, we’ll reconvene in Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have the option to relax in the hot springs. From there, we’ll take a train back to Cusco, arriving after nightfall.
- Level: Moderate, mostly up hill
- Duration: 2 Hours of hike
- Location: Aguas Calientes to Machupicchu
- Description: Cultural contact, Andean landscapes and Inca remains
- Meals: Breakfast
- Lodging: Hotel Rojas Cusco
OCT- 1 | CUSCO FREE DAY
A day at your own leisure to rest and relax
- Meals: Breakfast
- Lodging: Hotel Rojas Inn Cusco
OCT 2 | Cusco – Tinqui – Upis.
At 5:00 AM, we will pick you up from your hotel in our private van. We’ll drive for approximately 2 hours to Tinki, where we’ll take a break to stretch our legs. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to observe local people in their traditional attire and visit the local market if it’s open. After Tinki, we’ll continue for about 1 hour on a bumpy and dusty road until we reach Upis Pampa. We’ll have breakfast there before beginning our hike to Upis Campsite. The trail is mostly flat with some undulating sections and takes roughly 3 hours to reach the campsite. During the hike, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views, including the magnificent Mount Ausangate, and encounter local farmers in their traditional costumes. Upon arrival at Upis Campsite, we’ll have lunch. Following our meal, you’ll have the option to hike to Upis Lake or relax with a bath at the hot spring near our private campsite.
- Elevation Gain: 330 m / 1082 ft.
- Elevation Loose: 56 m / 183 ft.
- Walking Distance: 8 km/ 4,9 miles.
- Hiking Hour: 3 hours roughly.
- Trailhead Elevation: 4,179 meters / 13,710 feet.
- Difficulty: moderate.
- Campsite Elevation: 4,432 meters / 14,540 feet.
- Highest Point: 4,432 meters / 14,540 feet.
- Lodging: Camping in tents
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OCT – 03| Upis – Puca Cocha – Ananta
At 5:00 AM, we’ll wake you with coca tea or coffee delivered to your tent, followed by a delicious breakfast to fuel your day. Our morning hike ascends to Arapa Pass (4989 m.a.s.l. / 16,567 feet), offering stunning views of colorful mountains. We’ll then hike to Puca Cocha for lunch, observing llamas, alpacas, and the snow-capped Ausangate to your left. After lunch, we’ll trek up to Pucacocha Pass, where you’ll be treated to incredible views of Ausangate Mountain and three lagoons below. Finally, we’ll descend to our Ananta campsite for the night. As always, your tents will be set up for you to change, nap, and enjoy dinner prepared by our professional chef.
- Elevation Gain: 884 m / 2900 ft.
- Elevation Loose: 567 m / 1,860 feet.
- Walking Distance: 14 km/ 8,68 miles.
- hiking hours: 8 – 9 hours roughly.
- Trailhead Elevation: 4,400 meters / 14,430 feet.
- Difficulty: Difficult.
- Campsite Elevation: 4,700 meters / 15,400 feet.
- Lodging: Camping in tents
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OCT – 04 | Ananta – Rainbow Mountain – Qesuno – Cusco
Today’s the day! You’ll be gently woken at 3:45 AM with coca tea delivered right to your tent. Our adventure begins with an uphill trek to Ananta Pass (15,090ft/4500m), offering a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the spectacular Rainbow Mountain. After soaking in the vibrant views, we’ll descend towards the colorful mountain. Following our time at Rainbow Mountain, a one-hour hike will take us to the bus station where we’ll bid farewell to our horseman. A three-hour drive will then bring you back to your hotel around 5:00 PM.
- Elevation Gain: 552 m / 1811 ft.
- Elevation Loose: 602 m / 1975 feet.
- Walking Distance: 9 km/ 5.592 miles.
- hiking hour: 6 hours roughly.
- Difficulty: Difficult.
- Lodging: Hotel Rojas inn Cusco
OCT 5 | Cusco – Lima
At the coordinated time, you will be transferred to Cusco airport for your return home.
INCLUDED:
- Domestic flights LIMA – CUSCO – LIMA
- All the hotel accommodations as stated in the schedule
- Entrance fees to the ruins, park etc.
- Meals as stated in the schedule at hotels and camping
- Private transfers start to the end of tour
- Machupicchu train tickets back to Cusco
- Machupicchu entrance fees
- Pre-departure briefing, the night before your trek
- Entrance fees for trekkers and our staff to the trekking natural parks
- Personal tents: 2 people in each 3-people-capacity tent
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
- Toilet tent with biodegradable toilet facilities
- Private chef for all camp meals
- Pack animals (to carry tents, food and cooking equipment).
- Pack animals to carry personal gear up to a maximum of 7kg per person (including sleeping pad and sleeping bag)
- 1 emergency horse every 6 persons
- Hot water every morning and evening for washing purposes / boiled water to fill in your water bottle every morning and night, and at lunch time
- First-aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
- 24 hour support by our local staff
NOT INCLUDED
- International airfare
- Travel insurance
- Gratuity for guide and cooking crew
- Sleeping bag, Air pads
Extra Optional Services
- Rent Sleeping bag suitable minus 10 ºC for the entire trek
- Walking stick with rubber feet (one pair) for the entire trek
- horse assistance to carry personal belongings (up to 7 kg/15 lbs per person)
(We provide duffel bags for your personal items and sleeping bag)
**Please note, we always do our best to follow the set itinerary, however please know it can change occasionally based on temporary access restrictions, guest ability/injury, and or natural events that can be out of our control.
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