Machu Picchu Lodge Trek – 7 day

Trip Details
Gear List
Photos

Highlights

Trip Dates:

2008

Aug 20–26
Aug 22–28
Aug 30 – Sep 5
Sep 5–11
Sep 7–13
Sep 8–14 Sumaq Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Sep 9–15 Sold out
Sep 14–20 Sold out
Sep 19–25 Sold out
Sep 26 – Oct 2 Sold out
Oct 4–10 Sold out
Oct 6–12
Oct 17–23 Sold out
Oct 19–25
Oct 23–29 New date!
Oct 25–31 New date!
Oct 27 – Nov 2 New date!
Oct 31 – Nov 6 Sold out
Nov 6–12 Sold out
Nov 14–20
Nov 28 – Dec 4
Dec 12–18
Dec 26 – Jan 1
Dec 27 – Jan 2 Sumaq Hotel in Aguas Calientes

2009

Mar 6–12
Mar 13–19
Mar 20–26
Mar 27 – Apr 2
Apr 3–9
Apr 10–16
Apr 17–23
Apr 24–30
May 1–7
May 8–14
May 14–20
May 22–28
May 29 – Jun 4
Jun 5–11
Jun 13–19
Jun 19–25
Jun 26 – Jul 2
Jul 4–10
Jul 10–16
Jul 18–24
Jul 24–30
Jul 31 – Aug 6
Aug 8–14
Aug 14–20
Aug 22–28
Aug 28 – Sep 3
Sep 4–10
Sep 12–18
Sep 18–24
Sep 25 – Oct 1
Oct 2–8
Oct 10–16
Oct 16–22
Oct 23–29
Oct 30 – Nov 5
Nov 6–12
Nov 13–19
Nov 20–26
Nov 27 – Dec 3
Dec 4–10
Dec 11–17
Dec 18–24
Dec 25–31

Price:

2008
$2500

Additional Fees:

Single supplement: $1250

2009 prices subject to change.

Total Days: 7

Group Size: 6-12

Activities:

Hiking

Accommodations:

Mountain lodges, 6 nights

Machu Picchu Lodge Trek – 7 day

Mountain Lodges of Peru and REI Adventures are pleased to announce the very first trans-Andean lodge-to-lodge trek to Machu Picchu. Challenge yourself as you trek through nine different biozones, changing altitude and varied terrain. Marvel at the exquisite beauty of Salkantay Peak, Salkantay Glacier and Humantay Glacier Lake. Share in the culture and customs of local Andean families who maintain age-old traditions. Witness environmental and social initiatives to maintain the natural integrity and improve quality of life in the region. Indulge in the comfort of these enchanting mountain lodges, the re-vitalizing salts and minerals of natural hot springs, the innovative local cuisine and the warmth of the Peruvian people. Be inspired by the majesty of your surroundings and the knowledge that you are following in the footsteps of the Incas.

REI Adventures shares non-exclusive departures with our travel partner, Mountain Lodges of Peru.

Important Notice: Day 1 is the day you should plan to arrive at the meeting point for the trip. This may require departing your hometown one or more days in advance and traveling on an overnight flight.

Machu Picchu Lodge Trek – 7 day Itinerary:

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Day 1 Cusco to Salkantay Lodge & Adventure Resort at Soraypampa (3,600 m/11,800 ft)
After breakfast, the guests will be picked up early in the morning at their hotel in Cusco by an MLP guide and vehicle and transferred to the Salkantay Lodge & Adventure Resort (SLAR) (about 3.5 hours’ drive). En route we will take a break to visit the impressive 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 guests will have lunch before ascending a winding mountain track to the spectacularly situated valley of Soraypampa and lodge for our next two nights.

Optional: Guests have the option of choosing to trek from Mollepata to Soraypampa, on an old route called the “Camino Real” (Royal Path). This is a good opportunity for guests to acclimate and enjoy a mild & beautiful 3-4 hour trek on their first day.

The SLAR takes its name from the majestic peak at the head of the valley – the “Salkantay”, the 2nd most sacred peak in Inca mythology and, at 20,500 ft (6,240 m), the highest in the region.

After a warm welcome by our friendly staff, the guests will be shown to their rooms and have time to wash up. The first afternoon is spent at leisure to adjust to the altitude. An evening briefing is followed by aperitifs and dinner.
Day 2 Soraypampa
This day is spent at leisure for rest or activities, depending upon guests’ level of acclimatization. Guest may hike trails close to the lodge or hike to a viewpoint to take in the panorama. In the evening the guide will brief the trekking party on gear and the itinerary for the next four days. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are taken at the lodge. A packed lunch is available for those choosing to venture out for the day.
Day 3 Soraypampa to Wayra Lodge at Huayraccmachay (3,650m/12,000 ft)
This is the big day: the start of the four-day trek to Machu Picchu. After an early start we will hike up the Rio Blanco valley, circling Humantay Peak across from the Salkantay. The highest point on the trek is a pass at 4,600 m (15,000 ft). At the pass we stop to take in views of snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba Range in every direction, the south face of Salkantay towering above us.

If we’re lucky, we may spot an Andean condor, known to be in this area. From the pass we continue our descent toward the Wayra Lodge (“Wayra”: wind; the place where the wind lives) our destination for the evening. A hot lunch is taken en route. Dinner and overnight at the Lodge (hiking time: 4-6 hours; total excursion time for day 5-7 hours).
Day 4 Huayraccmachay to Collpa Lodge At Collpapampa (3,150m/10,300 ft)
Following the long first day we enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Huayraccmachay. The early morning is free for exploration. (Optional: 2-3 hour hike to nearby glacier lake). We then begin our trek by hiking downhill above the Salkantay River, through increasingly verdant scenery. Cold snack en route. The Collpa Lodge is located in an open promontory at the confluence of three rivers. (Day’s hiking time, 3-4 hours). Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Day 5 Collpapampa to Lucma Lodge at Lucmabamba (2,000m/6,600 ft)
After an early breakfast we head down the Santa Teresa River Valley, through more populated rural areas with coffee plantations (said to be one of the best coffees in the world!) and orchards. We stop along the river for a picnic lunch. From the river it is a short climb to Lucma Lodge, set in an avocado orchard. We arrive in time to allow for exploration of the village and relaxation before dinner. (Hiking time: 4-6 hours/total excursion time for day 5-7 hours).
Day 6 Lucmabamba to Aguas Calientes (2,000 m/6,600 ft)
After an early start and a hearty breakfast, we tackle the last day of our trek. We head uphill for two hours towards Llactapata pass (2,600 m/8,500 ft), where we come upon a distant but quite special view of Machu Picchu from the southwest, a view few tourists ever glimpse; an added value are the Llactapata Ruins, which have recently been restored. Lunch is provided at the observatory, in view of Machu Picchu. We then begin our final descent to the Vilcanota River through lush bamboo forests and more orchards and coffee plantations (2-3 hours descent). Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu are a short, scenic train ride away. (Total hiking time: 4-6 hours). We then arrive in Aguas Calientes to check in to the hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Day 7 Machu Picchu to Cusco (716m/2,350 ft)
We wake up very early to have breakfast at the hotel and then make our way to the bus station for the ride up to Machu Picchu (30 min). A complete guided tour of Machu Picchu will be provided. Guests will have about 4 to 6 hours to tour the ruins (there is a lot to do and see). Afterward, we will return by bus to Aguas Calientes for a hot buffet-style lunch and to go to the train station for an afternoon departure. The train will arrive in Cusco and MLP will drop passengers at the hotel of their choice.

Machu Picchu Lodge Trek – 7 day Itinerary:

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Day 1 Cusco to Salkantay Lodge & Adventure Resort at Soraypampa (3,600 m/11,800 ft)
Day 2 Soraypampa
Day 3 Soraypampa to Wayra Lodge at Huayraccmachay (3,650m/12,000 ft)
Day 4 Huayraccmachay to Collpa Lodge At Collpapampa (3,150m/10,300 ft)
Day 5 Collpapampa to Lucma Lodge at Lucmabamba (2,000m/6,600 ft)
Day 6 Lucmabamba to Aguas Calientes (2,000 m/6,600 ft)
Day 7 Machu Picchu to Cusco (716m/2,350 ft)

Extend your visit to South America with an incredible excursion to the Peruvian Amazon or cruise to the Galapagos Islands!

Please call or e-mail us for additional details and prices.

Note on Itinerary:

Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control.

Single Travelers:

If you are traveling alone and specifically request single accommodations, you will be asked to pay the full single supplement noted on the trip itinerary. If you wish to share accommodations, we will assign you a roommate if one is available. If a roommate cannot be found, you will be asked to pay a reduced single fee which is 25% of the trip cost. Please be advised that there are a limited number of single rooms available on most departures.

Price Includes:

All services from pick up in Cusco on day 1 to drop off in Cusco on day 7. Price includes transportation from hotel in Cusco to Soraypampa on Day 1 and back to hotel on Day 7; lodging; all meals (excluding those not mentioned in the itinerary); non-alcoholic beverages; the services of a bilingual guide; trains and the transportation of personal belongings on the trek by packhorse/mules and/or porters. Activities at the Salkantay Lodge & Adventure Resort (except horse riding, river rafting and others on special request) are included.

Not Included:

Air transportation to/from Cusco; hotels in Cusco; meals not noted on itinerary; guide gratuities; excess baggage charges; alcoholic beverages; airport taxes and items of a personal nature such as laundry fees, immunizations or insurance of any kind.

Payment and Special Cancellation Policy:

A non-refundable deposit of $400 is required at time of booking to secure space. Full payment is required 60 days before fixed departure date. Cancellations made between 59 and 30 days prior to departure, 50% of any payments will be refunded. 29 – 0 days prior, 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable. REI Adventures standard deposit policy does not apply to this trip.

Qualifications:

This trip is rated as Vigorous [4]. Trip members need to be strong, experienced hikers in good physical condition. Most days are spent at moderately high altitude (9,000-15,000’) and the trek includes a number of steep ascents and descents. To maximize your enjoyment of the trip and to avoid sore muscles, we strongly encourage participants to begin a conditioning regimen at least three months prior to departure consisting of hiking, walking/running or cycling. If you live in an area conducive to hiking, try to get out on those hills if possible and work some elevation gain and loss into your regimen. The better shape you are in, the more you’ll enjoy all that this unforgettable adventure has to offer.

Lodges:

The Salkantay Lodge & Adventure Resort has 12 private double or twin rooms with private facilities. Each Trekker’s Lodge (Wayra, Collpa, Lucma) has 6 private double rooms. Rooms can hold up to 3 people maximum. Lodges are fully equipped and serviced. SLAR, Wayra and Collpa Lodges will have an outdoor jacuzzi in 2008. The water at all four lodges is of drinking quality and there is ample hot water. Portable heaters ensure the indoor temperatures to be comfortable while dining, relaxing and enjoying the surrounding views.

Weather:

Average daytime temperatures in and around Cusco generally range from 55° - 75° F with Andean evenings cooling down into the 40s and 50s. Much of the itinerary takes place in the mountains where weather can change very quickly. During the months of May-October, days are typically clear and pleasant, with afternoon clouds occasionally building and leading to small amounts of precipitation. While rainfall is more common during the months of December-April, all-day rain is unlikely and many individuals choose to travel to Machu Picchu during this time period knowing the region will be visited by fewer tourists.

General Information:

This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and pre-departure information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased within 21 days of your initial trip deposit, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).

We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.

Machu Picchu Lodge Trek – 7 day

The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. This gear list has been created to help you in choosing your equipment for the trip. Try to bring only what is necessary as this will help you and the field staff.

Weather

Gear Checklist

Official Papers

Valid passport

Airline tickets

Luggage

Duffel bag or soft-sided suitcase

Daypack – approx. 2000 cu. in. to carry your camera, water bottles, extra clothing

Luggage tags and luggage locks

Passport pouch or money belt

Clothing

Bring a few lightweight, easily washable items for travel and evening wear

Midweight fleece or wool sweater

Lightweight thermal underwear top and bottom, synthetic or wool

Hiking pants

Hiking shorts

Long-sleeve shirts

T-shirts

Underwear

Hiking socks

Liner socks

Casual socks

Clothing Accessories

Sun hat

Wool or fleece hat

Wool or fleece gloves

Bandana

Slippers for evenings at lodge

Bathing suit

Outerwear

Rain jacket, lightweight and breathable

Rain or wind pants

Insulated parka/ski jacket, down or synthetic

Footwear

Sturdy hiking boots, waterproof, lightweight, broken in, aggressive tread

Comfortable shoes for travel and evening wear

Travel Accessories

Two (2) 1-quart water bottles or hydration system

Watch with alarm or travel clock

Sunglasses and retainer strap

Sun block and lip balm

Toiletry kit

Baby wipes

Hand sanitizer gel

Small first-aid kit

Insect repellent

Trekking poles

Optional Accessories

Camera, film and spare batteries

Electrical converter and adapter plug

Spare contact lenses or glasses

Reading and writing materials

Ear plugs

Favorite energy snacks or drinks

Pocket knife or pocket tool

Sewing kit

Knee supports

Travel pillow

Poncho

Flip-flops for showers

Low gaiters

Things to Consider

Please remember to always pack essential items such as your passport, money, eyewear, a change of clothing, hiking boots and medications in your carry-on baggage, in case your luggage is delayed.
Cotton is wonderful in warm weather. However, once it becomes wet, it will drain your body heat. Bring wool or synthetics such as Capilene, MTS and Thermax.
Always test your layers before a trip. Your outer layer should fit easily over the inside ones without binding and bunching up.
Make sure boots are broken-in. Bring moleskin for foot treatment. Thin liner socks worn under regular hiking socks may minimize the risk of blisters. The liner sock should be synthetic, not cotton. Test your sock combination before you go on the trip.
Stuff sacks or packing organizers are great for sorting gear. Use different sizes/colors to differentiate contents.

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