SALKANTAY
LODGE TO LODGE INCA TRAIL
The Inca Trail is one of the most famous trekking routes in the world. Traditionally, hikers walk the 4-5 day route to the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu whilst camping along the way. Although an exhilarating experience, the weather and camping conditions can be challenging.
Now, it is possible to enjoy this ‘bucket list’ activity in relative luxury – staying at small lodges and hotels en route, perfect for the hiker who enjoys some home comforts after a day in the mountains.
The Salkantay Trek is the most popular alternative to the Inca Trail and thought by many to be more spectacular. The scenery is certainly incredible and with less people trekking the route than on the Classic Inca Trail, it has much to recommend it. This itinerary takes you along the route, either walking as much as possible or using vehicles for an easier journey.
For a full overview of the Inca Trail, please read our BLOG.
DAY 1: CUSCO – SORAYPAMPA
After an early breakfast you will be collected from your hotel in Cusco and driven through the mountains. En route you will stop to explore the Incan ruins of Tarawasi, and have a short break in the village of Mollepata before stopping at Marcoccasa. Here you will begin a hike of 6 hours along the ‘Camino Real’ (Royal Path), during which you will stop for lunch. This trail will lead you all the way to the Salkantay Lodge where you will spend the night.
DAY 2: SORAYPAMPA – LAKE HUMANTAY
Today you can take a half day (4 hour) round trip hike to Lake Humantay. Enjoy viewing the turquoise water of the lake before returning to the lodge for a hot lunch. The afternoon is as leisure to indulge in a massage, go horse riding, use the jacuzzi or simply relax.
DAY 3: SORAYPAMPA – WAYRACCMACHAY
Today is a long a strenuous hike of 6-8 hours, including a high mountain pass with an altitude of 4638m (15213ft). You will walk through the dramatic scenery of the Vilcabamba Range, consisting plateaus, giant boulders and rolling hills stopping for lunch halfway. Finally, decend to Wayra Lodge – your much welcomed bed for the night!
DAY 4: WAYRACCMACHAY – COLLPAPAMPA VALLEY
Today you will trek a further 3-4 hours downhill along the Salkantay River, into increasingly verdant scenery where you can spot butterflies and orchids. Arrival at Colpa Lodge has one surprise – guests can chose to arrive via an exhilerating zip line ride! The afternoon is at leisure.
DAY 5: COLLPAPAMPA – LUCMABAMBA
Today a long hike of 5-6 hours in the Santa Teresa river valley, past an organic coffee plantation and through warmer air, as you are now close to the edge of the Amazon rainforest. If you would rather not hike, you can choose optional activities including mountain biking or ziplining. Overnight at Lucma Lodge.
DAY 6: LUCMABAMBA – AGUAS CALIENTES
The hike today along the Llactapata Pass will take you through lush canopies of plants and past rivers and streams. This 4-6 hour walk also includes many sections of walking on original Inca steps. You will also get a sneak preview of Machu Picchu from the back – a sight few travellers get to admire. Finally, a 1 hour train journey takes you to Aguas Calientes where you will spend the night in a hotel.
DAY 7: MACHU PICCHU
The climatic day of what will have been an unforgettable week. Take a short bus ride up a steep hill before entering the ‘sanctuary’ of Machu Picchu. Take time to explore this mysterious and beautiful Incan ruin and enjoy the impressive views in every direction. Lunch will be provided in Aguas Calientes, before you journey back to Cusco.
SAMPLE LUXURY HOLIDAYS TO PERU
Below are 3 sample itineraries of what you could do on holiday in Peru.
Contact us to create your own luxury holiday.
LOOKING FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT?
Belmond Palacio Nazarenas
The Belmond Palacio Nazarenas Hotel is one of the most exclusive hotels in the city of Cusco. Featuring stunning contemporary design mixed with antique furnishings, this hotel is a world leader in cutting edge design.
Belmond Monasterio
A timeless classic that dates back to 1592, this hotel is simply stunning. Combining centuries-old charm with sheer luxury, this hotel will delight guests. Situated in the heart of the glittering Incan capital, this historic hotel blends in with the area perfectly.
Libertador Luxury Collection Palacio del Inka
Dating back almost 5 centuries, the Palacio del Inka stands in the historic centre of Cusco. Just a short 5 minute walk from the main square, and surrounded by shops, markets and restaurants, this hotel is in a fabulous position.
Cusco Marriott
Built atop ancient Incan ruins and situated around a 16th-century convent, this JW Marriott property is a veritable museum in the historic city of Cusco. Stylishly decorated, the 153 luxury guest rooms and suites feature amenities like sumptuous marble bathrooms, breath-taking courtyard views, and plush bedding.
El Retablo
El Retablo is a two storey, 17 room art B&B that celebrates Peruvian traditions and the rich cultural heritage of Cusco located just three blocks from the main square.
Belmond Andean Explorer Train
The first luxury sleeper train in Latin America, and offering guests an exceptional experience that the Belmond name is synonymous with, a journey on the Andean Explorer is one that won’t be forgotten.
Inkaterra La Casona Cusco
Inkaterra La Casona is a colonial manor house, centrally located on an Incan settlement near Cusco’s present-day main square, later occupied by the conquistadores of Peru and their descendants. Eleven suites surround a sumptuous courtyard, where the patina of time is tastefully preserved.
Lares Adventure Lodge to Lodge Inca Trail
Now, it is possible to enjoy this ‘bucket list’ activity in relative luxury – staying at small lodges and hotels en route, perfect for the hiker who enjoys some home comforts after a day in the mountains.
El Mercado
El Mercado is located in the heart of Cusco. Featuring original and eye-catching interiors and exceptional customer service, this is a charming hotel.
Aranwa Boutique
Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel is the essence of luxury and comfort in the heart of the Inca city. Built in a colonial mansion of the XVI century, it displays several paintings of the Cuzco school, colonial sculptures and carvings that transport us to the greatness of the time.
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge Machu Picchu
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge is the only hotel situated inside the UNESCO world heritage site of Machu Picchu, therefore offering an unrivalled location in this scenic, mountainous area. It offers its guests exceptionally easy access from early morning to late afternoon, when most of the day visitors and buses have left.
Sumaq Machu Picchu
Sumaq Machu Picchu is a luxury 5-star hotel located close to the fabulous Machu Picchu. Recently renovated, the hotel maintains close links with the Andean culture while offering all the comforts of modern luxury.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo
The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo is set amongst lush rainforest in 12 acres of natural beauty and offers cosy and luxurious accommodation.
Libertador Tambo del Inka
Only a short distance away from Machu Picchu, the Libertador Tambo del Inka Hotel is ideally located for a holiday to Peru. Trips out to see the surrounding landscapes, ruins, towns and wildlife can easily be arranged as can adventurous activities such as mountain biking and horse riding, by the hotel concierge.
Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba
Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba is a contemporary hotel with colonial inspiration, built in the heart of Urubamba Valley, among flowers, mountains and trees. It creates an enabling environment for mental, spiritual and physical rest. The hotel has a design inspired by the architecture of the Cusco region, with an interior design inspired by local materials.
Sol y Luna Lodge and Spa
Sol y Luna is an award-winning hotel, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. In this naturally stunning area, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful surrounding whilst staying in luxury. Situated just 1km from the town of Urubamba, you also have the opportunity to experience authentic town life.
Belmond Rio Sagrado
Belmond Rio Sagrado is a luxury 5-star hotel in the beautiful Sacred Valley. Located on the banks of the Urubamba river and surrounded by spectacular mountains and verdant fields this is a very special hotel.
Explora Sacred Valley
Just 2 hours from Cusco, a modern architectural masterpiece can be discovered, nestled among some of the most fascinating ancient architecture in the world.
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