About the Experience
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an intimate opportunity to feel the heartbeat of ancient history in the land of the Incas. To walk above cloud forests up into the high mountains is an unforgettable experience. Colourful orchids and llamas bring easy smiles along the way. It’s a bittersweet beginning–we’ll learn how to make Peruvian chocolate utilizing beans foraged from the nearby jungle.
This itinerary is a balance of adventure and self-care (and chocolate!). Uplift your weary spirit with a challenging hike to Humantay Peak and then recharge with a soak in the jacuzzi under a billion neon stars. In Sacred Valley (or “Vilcamayo” as the Incas refer to it), we’ll take in the spectacle of the Pisac ruins. We’ll also visit a women’s weaving cooperative where vibrant vegetable-dyed materials reflect the unique culture, talent and energy of the Peruvian people.
Each day on our Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu journey seems to outdo the previous one–from the scenery-rush of the dramatic Rio Blanco valley to making an offering to Pachamama, to experiencing a comforting traditional meal cooked from the hot stones of the earth.
Peru’s diversity of bamboo forests, coffee plantations, fruit orchards and lush verdant hills that roll and unroll into the distance, create a magnetic pull along the hiking trail. What next?
When a train chugs you to the bottom of storied Machu Picchu and the sun filters over the iconic Sun Gate overlooking the ancient ruins, you will know the secret. Standing on the eastern slopes of the Andes at 2,430m (7,972ft) above sea-level, in the mighty midst of the mysterious religious, ceremonial, agricultural, astronomical powerhouse crisscrossed by stone terraces, you’ll feel the transformation.
Did you know we’re a global leader in women’s adventure travel? Check out our destinations around the world!
About the Experience
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an intimate opportunity to feel the heartbeat of ancient history in the land of the Incas. To walk above cloud forests up into the high mountains is an unforgettable experience. Colourful orchids and llamas bring easy smiles along the way. It’s a bittersweet beginning–we’ll learn how to make Peruvian chocolate utilizing beans foraged from the nearby jungle.
This itinerary is a balance of adventure and self-care (and chocolate!). Uplift your weary spirit with a challenging hike to Humantay Peak and then recharge with a soak in the jacuzzi under a billion neon stars. In Sacred Valley (or “Vilcamayo” as the Incas refer to it), we’ll take in the spectacle of the Pisac ruins. We’ll also visit a women’s weaving cooperative where vibrant vegetable-dyed materials reflect the unique culture, talent and energy of the Peruvian people.
Each day on our Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu journey seems to outdo the previous one–from the scenery-rush of the dramatic Rio Blanco valley to making an offering to Pachamama, to experiencing a comforting traditional meal cooked from the hot stones of the earth.
Peru’s diversity of bamboo forests, coffee plantations, fruit orchards and lush verdant hills that roll and unroll into the distance, create a magnetic pull along the hiking trail. What next?
When a train chugs you to the bottom of storied Machu Picchu and the sun filters over the iconic Sun Gate overlooking the ancient ruins, you will know the secret. Standing on the eastern slopes of the Andes at 2,430m (7,972ft) above sea-level, in the mighty midst of the mysterious religious, ceremonial, agricultural, astronomical powerhouse crisscrossed by stone terraces, you’ll feel the transformation.
Did you know we’re a global leader in women’s adventure travel? Check out our destinations around the world!
DAY ONE: ARRIVAL
Upon arrival in Cusco, your Wild Women Expeditions guide will meet you in the hotel lobby at 2:30 PM for a trip orientation. We’ll start things off right with a sweet fix! We’ll participate in a bean-to-bar chocolate workshop and learn to make Peruvian chocolate under expert direction. During the workshop, we will be introduced to the entire scratch chocolate-making process from cacao harvest to the familiar “OMG!” tasting. We’ll make our own designer bars too, with more than 15 add-in ingredients to choose from. Your toughest decision will be toffee bits and sea salt or gummies and sprinkles?
After the workshop, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Yes, you read that correctly. You get to have dessert before dinner!
Disclaimer: Dreams come true on this trip.
Meals Included: Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Palacio Del Inka
Other Notes: Airport transfer is included
DAY TWO: SACRED VALLEY
We’ll immediately immerse ourselves in the fold of contemporary culture and ancient life as we visit the Inca sites of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It will be an early departure to visit the Huayllarocha community to watch a weaving demonstration and have a lesson on textiles. Weaving is a skill that is an integral part of life for the women in this village–one that will make you wonder what happened after Grandma taught you how to knit one, purl two! We’ll meet the women who carry on the legacy of weaving on backstrap looms using locally-sourced vegetable dyes. The patterns run deeper than the ink and communicate the cultural tradition and identity of the community. The intricate geometric and floral patterns designed with alpaca and sheep wool are inspiring. Young girls are taught to spin and weave as soon as they are old enough to care for the animals in the fields.
Afterwards, we will explore the Pisac ruins and market. The ruins are some of the largest and most impressive in the entire valley. Great mystery surrounds the site–theories suggest that it was part city, part ceremonial centre and/or a military complex. Or, maybe it was the posh royal estate of the Inca emperor, Pachacútec?
Modern Pisac is a typical Andean village known for its lively market (the most famous in the Sacred Valley) and enormous Pisonary tree that shades the central square of Plaza de Armas. We’ll have lunch at a local restaurant and visit Ollantaytambo in the afternoon before landing at our hotel in Cusco for the evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley
Transportation: 50 minutes to Pisaq, 25 min Pisaq- Accha Alta, Accha Alta- Hotel 50 min
DAY THREE: SACRED VALLEY TO SORAYPAMPA
After an early nourishing breakfast, our guide and driver will pick us up at our hotel in Cusco and we’ll make our way to the archaeological site of Quillarumiyoc. Several years ago, much of this sacred area was buried by an avalanche. There are numerous terraces and mystical rocks with engraved symbols. An ancient temple dedicated to the moon (the female divinity), was one of the most important deities to the Incas.
Later, we’ll visit the mountain village of Mollepata where independent trekkers begin their journey. We’ll have a typical lunch at El Pedregal, a lovely farmhouse where we’ll learn about local agriculture and livestock while enjoying the local bounty. After lunch, we’ll follow the serpentine mountain road to a site called Challacancha.
Here we will begin our 3-hour hike to Soraypampa along the “Camino Real” (Royal Path). This hike is a good opportunity to acclimate to the higher altitude–be sure to stop and smell the flowers! Look for elderberry trees, hot pink and fuschia orchids like the Wiñay Wayna which means “Forever Young”. As we round the final turn to the Camino Real, the sanctuary Salkantay Lodge will come into view. Be prepared to be pampered!
Note: If you don’t wish to participate in the hike, you can travel by vehicle to the lodge.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Sorray Lodge
The skinny on today’s hike:
- Total hiking distance: 5.9 km (3.7 miles)
- Hours: approximately 3 hours (*dependent on the group’s pace and skill)
- Total ascent: 786m (1,786ft)
- Total descent: 492m (499ft)
- Maximum altitude: 3,780m (12,700ft)
- Physical rating: easy to moderate
DAY FOUR: HIKE TO HUMANTAY LAKE
Day four offers another opportunity to recalibrate and acclimate to the altitude with a half-day (4 hour) hike to the surreal jade-coloured Lake Humantay. After breakfast, we will begin an ascent up the steep slopes that border the plateau behind the Salkantay Lodge. An hour and a half later, after conquering the final hill, we will be rewarded with the stunning turquoise view of Humantay and the glacier that looms behind it. We’ll stop for a snack and stretch. Meditate in the pure tranquillity of this magical spot and be part of a symbolic traditional offering to “Pachamama” (Mother Earth).
After our descent back to the lodge, staff will be waiting with a hot lunch. This afternoon is all yours to embrace–you can opt to soak in the jacuzzi, indulge in the luxury of a massage or grab a catnap.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Sorray Lodge
The skinny on today’s hike:
- Total hiking distance: 4.9 km (3.1 miles)
- Hours: approximately 4 hours (*dependent on the group’s pace and skill)
- Total ascent: 435m (1,430ft)
- Total descent: 435m (1,430ft)
- Maximum altitude: 4,267m (14,000ft)
- Physical rating: moderate
- Optional activities:
*These will be at an additional cost. Payment can be made directly at Salkantay Lodge by cash or credit card.)
- Chakana Excursion:
This 5–6 hour horseback/trekking combo to a nearby high viewpoint to see a huge Inca cross (chakana). Please note: 1-2 hours will be spent riding on a steep hillside and previous experience is advised. This excursion would be in lieu of the hike to Humantay Lake. $95.00 USD per person
- Soraypampa Excursion:
This shorter 2 hour ride around Soraypampa can be done in the afternoon after hiking to Humantay Lake which means you get the best of both worlds!
$85.00 USD per person
Note: While the morning hike to Lake Humantay is optional, we strongly recommend your participation in preparation for the strenuous hike (crossing the Salkantay Pass) on Day five.
DAY FIVE: CROSSING THE SALKANTAY PASS
After an early start, we will hike (6–8 hours, including a lunch break) up the Rio Blanco valley, circling Humantay Peak. As we gradually make our way up these sometimes punishing (but always rewarding) mountain trails, we will encounter expansive plateaus dotted with erratic boulders. They are the remnants of a valley that was once bisected by a fast-flowing river. The final and most challenging part of our ascent is the zigzaggy mountain switchbacks that will take us to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point on the trek (4,636m/15,213ft). What follows is a dramatic descent through fields of giant boulders, often mystically shrouded in fog.
After a much-anticipated hot picnic lunch, we will continue down through bucolic rolling hills and marsh-like plateaus to the warm hug of Wayra Lodge at Wayraccmachay. Don’t worry, you won’t have to say “Wayraccmachay” out loud, or spell it!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Wayrac Lodge
The skinny on today’s hike:
- Distances:
Salkantay Lodge – Salkantay pass: 6.4km (4.0 miles)
Salkantay pass – Ichupata: 2.1km (1.3 miles)
Ichupata – Wayra Lodge: 3.1km (1.9 miles) - Total hiking distance: 11.6 km (7.2 miles)
- Hours: approximately 7 hours (*dependent on the group’s pace and skill)
- Total ascent: 801m (2,631ft)
- Total descent: 754m (2,477ft)
- Maximum altitude: 4,248m (15,250ft)
- Physical rating: challenging
DAY SIX: INTO THE CLOUD FOREST
After a leisurely breakfast and a lazy second cup of coffee or tea at the Wayra Lodge, we will continue our descent (3–4 hours) along the banks of the mighty Salkantay River through the velvet green surrounds. We’ll feel the warm air begin to rise from the edge of the humid jungle and see the colourful butterflies and striking orchids that inhabit it. Today we will walk past the rustic homes and makeshift fences of the locals as the trail unfolds.
At lunch, we’ll arrive at the luxe Colpa Lodge and its unmatched bird’s eye view. The promontory is located at the confluence of three rivers. We will be greeted by the staff with a Pachamanca lunch (a traditional Peruvian meal) cooked in the earth by hot stones that create a natural underground oven. In the afternoon we can unwind in the sun or outdoor jacuzzi while absorbing the panoramic views of the mountains that surround us.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Colpa Lodge
The skinny on today’s hike:
- Total hiking distance: 8.4 km (5.2 miles)
- Hours: approximately 4 hours (*dependent on the group’s pace and skill)
- Total ascent: 0.0m (0.0ft)
- Total descent: 1,063m (3,488ft)
- Maximum altitude: 3,886m (12,750ft)
- Physical rating: easy to moderate
DAY SEVEN: SANTA TERESA RIVER VALLEY
Today’s hike (5-6 hours including lunch) through the Santa Teresa River valley will be a mix of terrain. We’ll hop over small, silver streams fed by waterfalls descending from the glaciers and split through fruit orchards. We’ll stretch out with a hot picnic lunch by the river and then hike for another hour where we’ll meet our vehicle. It will be a short drive to the beginning of the “Llactapata Inca Trail” that leads us to the serene Lucma Lodge.
On the way, we’ll stop for coffee in the best possible spot! An organic coffee plantation! It’s one of many in that area that produces some of the most coveted organic coffee in the world. We will also begin to notice a palpable shift in the climate. Here in Lucmabamba, the increased humidity is a surreptitious sign that we are even closer to the edge of the Amazon rainforest.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Lucma Lodge
The skinny on today’s hike:
- Distances:
Colpa Lodge – Lluscamayu: 6.6km (4.1 miles)
Lluscamayu – Playa: 5.5km (3.4 miles)
Playa – Llactapata trail: 2.4km (1.5 miles)
Llactapata trail – Lucma Lodge: 1.6km (1.0 miles) - Total hiking distance: 16.0 km (10.0 miles)
- Hours: approximately 6 hours (*dependent on the group’s pace and skill)
- Total ascent: 285m (935ft)
- Total descent: 1,021m (3,350ft)
- Maximum altitude: 2,895m (9,500ft)
- Physical rating: moderate to challenging
DAY EIGHT: EXPLORING LLACTAPATA PASS
During our 2-3 hour climb up a path of original Inca steps, we will get a sense of what hiking through the raw jungle would be like. The green canopies overhead and constant rush of water suggests that the river is still nearby, running like a vein. Our first milestone today will be found at the top of the peak, the last one we will summit before the Aobamaba River valley that connects us to Machu Picchu. Today’s trekking time is 4-6 hours, depending on the group’s pace.
When we arrive at the ruins of Llactapata at the Llactapata Pass (2,736m/8,974ft), we will have a surprise southeast view–it’s the “back” of the Machu Picchu ruins! Only those who hike this pass are privy to the behind-the-curtain view. At this point, we’ll have five to explore Llactapata, and then have a refuelling lunch a bit farther down the trail in a meadow with panoramic views.
The final descent toward the roaring Aobamba River will take us through stands of bamboo forests, fruit orchards and coffee plantations. The hike will end at the Hidroelectrica train station. We’ll kick back and enjoy the trundles of the hour-long scenic train ride to the town of Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel
The skinny on today’s hike:
- Distances:
Lucma Lodge – Llactapata site: 5.3km (3.3 miles)
Llactapata site – Urubamba river: 4.7km (2.93 miles) - Total hiking distance: 10.02 km (6.23 miles)
- Hours: approximately 5 hours (*dependent on the group’s pace and skill)
- Total ascent: 719m (2,359ft)
- Total descent: 1,053m (3,455ft)
- Maximum altitude: 2,819m (9,250ft)
- Physical rating: moderate to challenging
DAY NINE: MACHU PICCHU THE SANCTUARY
In the transcendent light of dawn, we will begin our journey to Machu Picchu with a short and rollicking uphill bus ride. As we enter the “Sanctuary” (as locals refer to it), the buttery morning sun rises ceremoniously over the iconic Sun Gate and bathes the 15th century Incan Citadel and terraces with resplendent light.
Prepare to be silenced by the imposing architecture of the Watchtower, the Temple of the Sun and the royal Inca residences. Take an unhurried moment to reflect on this sacred spot and time in your life.
Contemplating the origins, mysticism and resilience of Machu Picchu under the rising sun is life affirming. There may be an option to hike to Huayna Picchu as well, depending on ticket availability.
This towering mountain sits directly behind Machu Picchu and the views of the Citadel, temple remnants and magnitude of the site are even more impressive from here.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel
DAY TEN: CUSCO
All aboard the morning train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and onward to Cusco (3-4 hours). A boxed lunch will be provided before we spend the afternoon exploring the city. Our final dinner together will be at the elegant Hotel El Mercado. We’ll have lots to talk about–
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: El Mercado
Train/Vehicle: 3 – 4 hours approx.
DAY ELEVEN: DEPARTURE DAY
You can book your flights home at any time today. Breakfast and the airport transfer is included.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Click here to see upcoming trip dates to book your spot!AMAZON RAINFOREST LODGE EXTENSION (4 DAYS)
Want to stay on for a few extra days of adventure to explore the Amazon? Stay in Peru for 4 more days based at an eco-lodge by Tambopata National Reserve! Cost is $1,195 USD per person (subject to availability), optional single upgrade $295 USD.
Our Amazon lodge is located four hours by motorized canoe from the Puerto Maldonado airport. The Refugio Amazonas lodge is located in a 200-hectare private reserve within the buffer zone of the Tambopata National Reserve. Please note that flights are not included in the Amazon extension price. You will have to purchase a morning flight from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado on the last day of your Inca Trail trip. On the fourth day of your Amazon extension, you will have to book an afternoon flight from Puerto Maldonado-Cusco. Your extension will be a “choose your own adventure” trip. There will be an À la Carte menu of different activities each day.
DAY ONE: JOURNEY TO TAMBOPATA
Upon arrival in Puerto Maldonado, you will be greeted by one or more of the guides from Rainforest Expeditions and then taken to a waiting vehicle.
After taking care of luggage, we take a 40-minute drive (with our boxed lunch) to the Infierno Community Port where we board long, sturdy canoes equipped with outboard motors and head upstream to Refugio Amazonas.
The three-hour boat ride is pleasant and often includes our first sightings of macaws, heron, caiman and capybara. Once the boat arrives at the lodge dock, you will have officially arrived into the wild rainforests of Tambopata!
Settle into your room and relax before dinner.
- Overnight: Twin Superior Room
DAY TWO-THREE: AMAZON RAINFOREST
Immerse yourself in the Amazon Rainforest! Choose daily from the options below:
- Clay Licks – Take a boat trip to the Chuncho Clay Lick inside the Tambopata National Reserve to see macaws descend to eat clay lick on clear mornings.
- Discover a New Species – Join the lodge resident and help him collect insects that will be genetically sequenced. Every month, a lucky guest discovers a new tiger-moth, scorpion-wasp, caddisfly or treehopper species that are new to science!
- Canopy Tower – The 30-meter scaffolding canopy tower gives you spectacular views of the vast expanses of standing forest. You will have good chances of spotting toucans, parrots, macaws or mixed species canopy flocks.
- Camera Trapping at a Mammal Clay Lick – Configure camera traps at a nearby mammal clay lick and download wildlife photos from the past few days to help scientists find out what is present at The Big Grid, our 288-kilometre trail system experiment.
- Life in the Rainforest – Visit a working jungle farm and a real Brazil nut concession to learn about the way of life in the rainforest. You will taste exotic tropical fruits and discover medicinal plants from the neighbouring local families that we are helping integrate into the ecotourism industry.
- Ox Bow Lake – We will paddle around the Lake Condenado on a catamaran, looking for wildlife such a hoatzin, caiman or horned screamers.
- Natural Construction Rooms – Bedrooms open out onto the surrounding rainforest, allowing you to enjoy this diverse ecosystem even during downtime, with wild animals, including monkeys, often visible from the lodge. The dining room is a huge open building with a loft on the second story for an eye-level view of the surrounding rainforest canopy.
- Mountain Biking- If you like action, this is a great way to explore and experience the beauty and excitement of the rainforest along ten kilometres of trails. We provide a GT mountain bike, helmet and cycling gear, water bottle, and your very own mountain bike guide.
- Wired Amazon Science Lab – You will be able to hang out with resident biologists as they peer through a stereoscope to properly identify insect specimens before mounting them and sending them off to the University of Guelph for genetic sequencing.
- Wellness Centre – Enjoy massages and aromatherapy at the wellness centre.
- Overnight: Twin Superior Room
DAY FOUR: DEPARTURE
Catch either the 7:00 am or 8:00 am departure from the Lodge to Puerto Maldonado. Load up the canoe and motor back to civilization. You will be driven to the airport where you will retrieve your luggage and catch your departing flight to Lima or Cusco.
- Overnight: Not included
Contact kyra@wildwomenexpeditions.com to book the Amazon extension. Spots are confirmed based on availability.
- All international flights into Peru route through Jorge Chavez Airport in Lima (LIM), where you must go through immigration and customs before continuing on to Cusco. There are two airline carriers that fly round-trip between Lima and Cusco: LATAM Airlines and Avianca Airlines. Note: If your flight to Cusco leaves early the next day from Lima, we recommend staying at a hotel near the airport to avoid unnecessary transfer time and cost. You can find our hotel recommendations below.
- When you reach immigration at Lima airport, the agent will scan your passport, and take a digital fingerprint and a photo of your face. After verifying your identity, the agent will generate a virtual TAM in the immigration online system. This virtual TAM will speed up your departure at the end of your trip.
Group Rendezvous Point
- Date: Day 1
- Time: 2:30 PM
- Location: Lobby of Palacio Del Inka – Santo Domingo 259, Cusco.
Notes about pick-up
- The CUZ airport is small and easy to navigate. Once you collect your luggage, head outside to the arrivals area and look for WILD WOMEN EXPEDITIONS on a sign. The Transfer Agent will bring you directly to your pre-trip hotel as listed in your travel detail, or the first night hotel of the WWE program (Palacio Del Inka).
- Airport hotel transfers are included (even if you arrive one or two days earlier). There will be a representative waiting for you outside of the terminal with a Wild Women Expeditions sign.
In Lima:
In Cusco:
- Palacio Del InkaSanto Domingo 259, Cusco.
Other recommendations:
We always encourage Wild Women to **arrive early (one-two days before tour begins) and spend a couple of pre-adventure days in Cusco to **provide time for altitude acclimatization **while they explore the remarkable beauty of the city.
What to do during your free time in Cusco:
- Spend a few pre-trip days in Cusco, where international travelers mingle casually with city locals and Quechua people dressed in traditional Andean costume. The picturesque town squares and bustling street markets are the perfect spots to glean your initial impressions of the region before your adventure. Get a sense of its rich history with visits to the Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas (the main city square), the Koricancha (Inca Temple of the Sun), the artists’ quarter of San Blas, and the colorful San Pedro.
- Market. You can visit the Incan ruins: Sacsayhuaman, Q’enqo, and Puca Pucara, impressive Inca archaeological sites just on the outskirts of the city. And last but certainly not least, savor the world-class Peruvian cuisine at both casual and upscale restaurants and cafés around the city.
You can book these excursions with the person with the front desk at your hotel.
Book your flights home for anytime today. Airport transfer included.
Drop-Off Point:
- Date: Day 11
- Time: In conjunction with departure flight
- Location: Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
If you plan on leaving at a later date, we recommend booking at the Hotel JW Marriot, where we are staying the last night of the tour.
Recommended hotels in Lima:
You are responsible for booking your own flights or other transport arrangements to the trip start location. These arrangements and any other independent arrangements that you may make are not a part of the trip booked with Wild Women Expeditions and are entirely at your own risk. Wild Women Expeditions accepts no responsibility, directly or indirectly, for any loss, damage or injury to property or person in connection with such arrangements.
Should you require assistance with your travel arrangements, please contact:
Megan and Zale | Now Boarding Travel Travel Specialist
Email: wildwomen@nowboarding.travel
Note: Now Boarding Travel only provides services of 3-star quality or greater. For budget alternatives, please refer to the Lonely Planet guide for your destination.
Important: For international and remote destinations, there is always the risk of flight delays, baggage delays and flight schedule changes which may cause late arrivals, which may, in return, result in you missing the group tour departure. For these reasons, we encourage you to consider arriving a day early, which will also help you overcome any jet lag from traveling!
- Passport
Most countries and airlines recommend passports be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected return to your home country. Before you leave, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Important: A copy of your passport must be emailed to the Wild Women Expeditions office by 130-days pre-trip.
- Visa
Most visitors can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. Check via: Peru Visa – Application, Requirements – Residents of Canada | VisaHQ .
Note: As fees and policies can change, we highly recommend that you contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent.
Gratuities are included in the trip cost for all lodge and logistical personnel except for guides and asst. guides. We generally suggest $10 – $20 USD/per day for lead guides and $5 – $15 USD/per day (per person) for assistant guides, but we leave this to your discretion.
- Rooming Arrangements
Our trip prices are based on a twin share (min two people per room), so we’ll team you up with another solo wild woman to share with if you’re on your own, or of course, you can share with your travel partner.
Private rooms are available dependent on availability. Please email support@wildwomenexpeditions.com to request a private room.
- Potable Water
It is not advised to drink directly from the tap. Potable water will be provided each day to fill up your water bladders and water bottles before and during hiking. All drinking water during the trip is included. The lodges provide filtered water and also have oxygenated water flowing from the taps.
If you would like to join Wild Women Expeditions in its commitment to reducing single-use plastic, you can travel prepared with your own water treatment system!
- The Lodges
The mountain lodges, each uniquely conceived through thoughtful architectural design that includes traditional Inca building techniques and a nod to their respective environments. They offer all the comforts of home along with top-notch amenities and exceptional service. Spots to relax and meditate abound at each one: welcoming patios, private guest room balconies, fire pits, and outdoor hot tubs, all with inspiring views of the region.
- Salkantay/Soray Lodge
The flagship Salkantay/Soray Lodge was built on the flatlands of the Rio Blanco river valley, with a stunning, unobstructed view of the majestic Salkantay mountain peak. It’s contemporary, eco-conscious design was the inspiration for all other MLP lodges. (12,690’ / 3,869 m)
- Wayrac Lodge
Wayra Lodge, a cozy mountain refuge with dramatic views of Mt. Humantay, is the most remote of the lodges – and a welcome sight after a long day of trekking over the Salkantay Pass. (12,812’ / 3,906 m)
- Colpa Lodge
Surrounded by lush green mountains in a cloud forest, the Colpa Lodge is situated on a promontory at the confluence of three rivers (9,333’ / 2,845 m). Sun-drenched in the afternoons, it is the perfect spot to relax or soak in the outdoor hot tub. (9,414’ / 2,870 m)
- Lucma Lodge
Situated in a lush avocado orchard at the edge of the Amazon jungle, the charming Lucma Lodge resembles a contemporary treehouse. The view through the multi-pane windows that stretch almost to the ceiling will give you the sensation of living amidst the beautiful foliage that surrounds you. (7,003’ / 2,135 m)
Noteworthy:
- Complimentary internet is available at each lodge.
- Each guestroom has a safety deposit box.
- Massage service is available at all lodges.
- Guestroom baths are equipped with toiletry amenities and hair dryers.
- Palacio Del Inka
- Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley
- Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel by Inkaterra
Palacio Del Inka is a colonial style 5-star hotel across the street from the temple of the sun / Santo Domingo Church in Cusco, it is very comfortable and has a delicious breakfast buffet.
Located in the Sacred Valley of Cusco. It’s a cozy environment in the middle of the Urubamba Valley. Ideal for relaxation and close to the main tourist attractions of the valley.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is an intimate Andean village with terraced hills, waterfalls, stone pathways and 83 whitewashed adobe casitas tucked away in the cloud forest. The property has 12 acres of exquisite natural beauty, where 214 bird species – such as the golden-headed quetzal and the iconic Andean cock-of-the-rock – and the world’s largest native orchid collection (372 species) have been registered.
Wi-Fi is readily available throughout Cusco at hotels and some restaurants and cafés. You will also have access to Wi-Fi at the lodges; however, we urge you to limit your use in order to truly disconnect and enjoy your journey. Cell phone coverage is available, but rates can be expensive. We suggest looking into international plans offered by your wireless carrier. Alternately, calling cards can be purchased in Cusco and used at the lodges.
Peru is located in an active seismic zone and is prone to earthquakes. If you are indoors when an earthquake strikes, make your way to a safe zone. These are usually marked in public buildings with an “S”, which indicates where the structural pillars are located. If you are outside, keep away from buildings and other areas where objects could fall.
Peru is on Eastern Standard Time as it is 5 hours behind GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). Peru does not observe daylight savings time.
There are two types of electrical outlets in Peru. One accepts two-pronged plugs with flat, parallel blades, while the other takes plugs with two round prongs. Many Peruvian electrical outlets are designed to accept both types. Electricity in Peru is 220 Volts and 60 Hertz (cycles per second).
Temperature: Daytime average highs are around 21 degrees C (70F) and nighttime average lows around 3C (37F). Expect cold weather in the evening.
Humidity: Average monthly relative humidity is 52%.
Rain: It rains on average 4 days of the month and total average precipitation is around 10 mm (0.5 inch).
Wind: Average daily wind speed is around 6km/h (3 mph), with absolute maximum being recorded at 80 km/h (51 mph).
Fog: Fog is possible.
There are Andean Spectacled Bears in the area and they live high up in the forests ranging from 800 to 4,300 meters above sea level.
Spectacled bears are generally nocturnal and are South America’s largest carnivore but they are very shy and you would be lucky to see one. Because of illegal poaching and destruction and fragmentation of habitat, it is estimated that there are currently fewer than 3,000 spectacled bears in the wild. The ational Geographic has listed them as vulnerable to extinction and sightings like Ferreyros will hopefully increase awareness surrounding these beautiful creatures.
Your chances of stumbling across a bear are very slight. Making noise as you walk and staying on the trail will reduce them still further. Predatory wildlife consists mainly of the local pigs and dogs at the beginning of the trail (who will eat anything that you leave outside, including boots, rucksacks and plastic garbage bags) and biting flies, which will eat you. The insects can be extremely fierce. A good bug hat, insect repellent, and sting relief is a necessity.
Wild Women Expeditions recommends that each participant should bring enough cash in local currency or available credit/debit funds to cover their meals during travel to and from their destination. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, meals not included in the trip package, shopping, etc., and we also suggest you have access to emergency funds.
Peru’s official currency is the Nuevo Sol (SOL), divided in 100 cents. There are 5,10,20 and 50 cents coins and S/. 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 banknotes. However, US dollars are also widely accepted. If you are carrying cash,make sure to bring crisp, undamaged bills since they will not be accepted with marks, folds, or rips.
We also recommend having small denominations (including coins) for purchases and bathroom facilities en route. Additional expenses at the lodges, like massages, alcoholic beverages, and laundry service can be charged to your credit card or paid in cash on site.
- Banks and Banking
They are open from Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM, and Saturdays until midday. There are street moneychangers in the corners of the Sun Avenue as well as many ATMs.
US dollars are welcome at most shops, restaurant and service stations at the current exchange rate. There are only a few bureau de change in Lima and Cusco that will exchange currencies other than US dollars. Outside Lima, it is virtually impossible. US Dollars can be exchanged everywhere and banks, hotels and many shops also readily accept US Dollars (although very old, torn or damaged notes are usually rejected).
- Currency Exchange Offices & Banks
In Cusco, you can change your US dollars in the money exchange offices or banks located in the first two blocks of Sun Avenue and generally, they offer a favourable exchange rate. They previously agreed about the rate among them so you do not need to negotiate. Avoid money changers on the street, as they Junecarry counterfeit currency or work with pickpockets. ATM machines are widely available and distribute both US dollars and Nuevos Soles.
Please check online for current exchange rates. Wild Women Expeditions likes XE Currency Converter
We highly suggest you read this article: Where to Exchange Currency Without Paying Huge Fees for more information about this for your trip.
- Credit Cards
These are widely accepted in Lima and Cusco, but less so outside major cities. In small towns, automated banking machines (ABMs) may not be readily available. ABMs accept international credit cards only. Credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are widely accepted in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Please note that very few establishments accept American Express. When using a credit card, make sure you are charged the right amount for your purchase. Visa is the most widely accepted card in Peru.
Note: There might be a difference between the official currency exchange rate in Peru and the exchange rate that the credit card companies charge.
- Goods and Services Tax
A general sales tax (IGV) is added automatically to most consumer bills (19%). Restaurants and hotels add a 10% service fee.
A medical emergency situation is extremely unlikely; however, should it arise we need to be prepared with the necessary information to help you.
Important Note: If you choose not to disclose a condition, infirmity, injury, or ailment herein and are subsequently deemed to be unfit for expedition travel due in whole or in part to such condition, infirmity, injury or ailment, Wild Women Expeditions guides, and partners shall have the right to remove you from the trip with no refund or compensation payable. Any evacuation expenses incurred are payable by the evacuee via their medical travel insurance or personal expense.
Getting Fit
You don’t have to be a professional athlete to enjoy your Wild Women expedition. Not by a long shot! You’ll be surprised at what you can achieve with our experienced guides at your side and a little camaraderie.
That said, you’ll definitely enjoy yourself far more if you do some preparation so your body is conditioned and ready to enjoy and make the most of the outdoors.
Here are a few ideas to help you get ready:
- Take every opportunity you can to be active.
You can improve your fitness a lot just by adopting some new habits; take the stairs at work, go for a walk at lunchtime, park your car away from work and walk. Aim for 30 minutes a day and keep a diary so you can look back on it and feel proud. These may sound trivial but they’re all building blocks!
- Rev up your ticker!.
Think ‘interval training’, which means doing short bursts of high intensity work with recovery time in between. Depending on how fit you are this can mean strolling with bursts of power walking, or jogging with sprints. Either way the aim is to get your heart rate up.
- Join a local walking or running group.
This is a great way to get fit and you’ll also see new places, meet great people… and make them all jealous when they find out what you’re about to go on your travels.
- Warm up, cool down and stretch.
If you’re doing a workout then make sure you start and finish gently and stretch any tight muscles – this will help you avoid any aches, pains and pulled muscles. If you’re a member of a gym try some yoga, tai chi or pilates classes to build up your flexibility, stability and balance.
- Hydration.
When you suddenly ask your body to walk or be active, it needs a bit more fuel than it needs when, say, sitting at a desk all day! The main thing your body needs is water, so stay hydrated and practice sipping water often. Getting a water bottle or hydration bladder is a great way to make sure you have it on hand at all times. Make a habit out of taking a bottle of water with you wherever you go.
- Nutrition.
Eating little and often will keep your body well fuelled for outdoor exercise, especially food like nuts, dried fruit and bread. The odd bit of chocolate and a few boiled lollies are good for keeping your blood sugar levels up while you’re hiking as well!
- Have fun!
The most important point of all! You are about to embark on the trip of a lifetime. You’re going to meet some amazing people, see some wonderful places and create memories that will stay with you for life. The more prepared you are to tackle the various challenges, the more fun you will have. Also, with all the endorphins you create from all this training, you’ll be smiling from ear to ear! It’s a great way to boost your happy vibes.
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BOOK NOW -
Starting At$5,495Deposit$995Duration11 DAYS
- 🇺🇸USD PRICEFOREIGN EXCHANGE FEES MAY APPLY
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What's Included
- All accommodations as noted on daily itinerary
- All meals as noted on daily itinerary
- Bilingual and AWESOME local guides (one trip leader and one assistant leader)
- Full baggage support/transfer during Salkantay trek
- Drinking water and soft drinks for all provided meals and activities
- Airport transfers
- All applicable taxes are included in the trip price