We begin our adventure early in the morning with a private 2.5-hour drive from Cusco, stopping for breakfast in the town of Mollepata. After the meal, we continue by vehicle for another two hours until we reach the starting point of the trek at Soraypampa. Here, following a short orientation, we’re welcomed by the awe-inspiring snow-capped Umantay Mountain, rising to 5,700 meters, surrounded by rugged Andean scenery.

Our hike starts gently through a scenic alpine valley leading to Salkantaypampa. From there, the trail climbs more steeply with a series of switchbacks, gradually bringing into full view the magnificent Salkantay Mountain—a constant and majestic presence. Around midday, we stop for lunch beside the tranquil Soirococha Lake at 4,400 meters. After roughly four hours of hiking, we reach the trek’s highest point: the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters.

From this high vantage point, the sacred Salkantay peak dominates the horizon. Reaching this elevation is a milestone for trekkers, who often leave a stone offering on the mountain as a sign of gratitude to the Apus, the spirits of the Andes.

The trail then descends into a vast glacial valley rich in wildlife. Keep an eye out for native species like chinchillas, Andean gulls, the cara cara falcon, and—if lucky—the mighty Andean condor, the largest flying bird in the world. We finish the day at our campsite in Wayracmachay, located at 3,700 meters and surrounded by panoramic mountain views.