Commence your adventure with an early 6 am pick-up from your Cusco hotel. The tour kicks off with a visit to the Inca ruins of Tarawasi, an archaeological complex with historical significance. Passing through the mountain village of Mollepata, take a break before ascending to Soraypampa. Our base, Lodge del Cielo, situated a 10-minute walk from Soraypampa village, offers a serene setting with a 360-degree panoramic view of the Humantay glacier. Lunch at the Lodge precedes an excursion to the awe-inspiring Humantay Lake, surrounded by glaciers and framed against the majestic Mt. Salkantay. Return to the Lodge for a tranquil evening.

Start the day at 4 am with a hot wake-up tea, followed by breakfast at 5 am. Begin the trek to climb the Salkantay Pass, reaching an elevation of 4,638 meters (15,213 ft). Marvel at the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba Range and the glaciated south face of Salkantay. Descend towards Soraypampa, enjoy a delicious lunch, and then return to Cusco via a 3-hour drive.

Historical Insight:

Salkantay, meaning “Savage Mountain,” holds ancient significance. The Incas associated its alignment with the Southern Cross as a symbol of rain and fertility, considering Salkantay a principal deity controlling weather and fertility in the region west of Cuzco.