CUSCO to SALKANTAY LODGE, Overnight at Salkantay Lodge at
3,869 m/12,690 ft
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After an early
breakfast, we are picked up starting at 7:00 am at our hotel in Cusco by an MLP
guide and vehicle for the drive to the Salkantay Lodge in Soraypampa. En route
we take a short break to visit the Inca ruins of Tarawasi near the town of
Limatambo (approx. 1.5 hrs from Cusco). After leaving Limatambo, we pass through
the mountain village of Mollepata where we stop for a short coffee break before
ascending a winding mountain road to a place called Marcoccasa (30 minutes from
Mollepata by vehicle). Here, we begin our trek to Soraypampa, on an old route
called the “Camino Real” (Royal Path). This is a good opportunity for everyone
to acclimate, while enjoying a beautiful six hour trek. Salkantay Lodge takes
its name from the majestic peak at the head of the valley—Mt. Salkantay, the
second most sacred peak in Inca mythology and, at 6,270 m (20,600 ft), the
highest in the region.
Trekking Time: Approximately 6 hours (including picnic lunch en route)
Hiking Level: Moderate