Premium: Trek to Machu Picchu and Sleep in a Mountain Dome

Welcome to Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire, perched at an impressive 11,000ft above sea level. On arrival, your local host will whisk you away to your spectacular lodging at Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel. This beautifully restored colonial mansion blends traditional charm with modern comforts, offering you an oasis in the city as you begin to acclimatize. In the afternoon, you'll meet your fellow adventurers for a welcome briefing, where your local guide will walk you through the exciting journey ahead, answer any questions, and ensure you're all set for the journey ahead. After settling in, you'll gather for a welcome dinner at Organika. Known for its commitment to organic, locally sourced ingredients, Organika promises a fresh and vibrant culinary experience, the perfect introduction to Peruvian flavors. Enjoy a relaxed evening as you settle into the rhythm of the Andes. If you’ve got time, consider arriving a day or two early to help with acclimatization.

Today, you’ll explore the Sacred Valley, once the agricultural, spiritual, and political heartland of the Inca Empire. You’ll see why as you visit two of its most remarkable sites: Ollantaytambo and Pisac. Wander through ancient ruins, trace the lines of terraced hillsides, and follow cobbled streets that haven’t changed much in centuries. From Pisac’s impressive archaeological complex to Ollantaytambo’s massive fortress and temple, both offer a fascinating glimpse into Inca engineering and culture. After a full day of discovery, you’ll head back to your hotel in Cusco. The evening’s yours, maybe grab dinner at a local spot and get some rest before your journey into the high Andes continues.

Grab an early breakfast as your Salkantay adventure truly begins today. You’ll be picked up from your hotel around 6:00 AM and driven through the mountains, with a short stop in Mollepata where you can grab an optional second breakfast. From there, you’ll continue to Challacancha, the official starting point of your trek. Once your gear is loaded onto the horses, you’ll set off towards Soraypampa (12,795ft) and a Standout Stay at your first epic dome camp. The trail undulates gently through a glacier-carved valley, following an ancient Inca water channel still used by local farmers. At Soraypampa, you’ll settle into your mountain dome and enjoy a well-earned lunch. Later, you’ll head out on a rewarding hike to Humantay Lake (13,780ft). It’s not far, but the steep, rocky path and high altitude call for a slow, steady pace. At the top, you’ll find brilliant turquoise waters backed by the towering Humantay glacier - a striking sight. After soaking it all in, you’ll return to camp for dinner, sunset views and a peaceful night under the stars.

Prepare for the most demanding and rewarding day of your trek. You’ll start early, climbing steadily towards the Salkantay Pass (15,190ft). This high point of the route takes you through stark alpine landscapes, with the towering peaks of Salkantay looming above. At the top, you’ll be treated to sweeping views across the Andes, a proper moment to pause and take it all in. From here, the trail descends sharply as you leave the icy heights behind and enter the warmer, greener cloud forest. The shift in climate and scenery is striking, the air thickens, the vegetation grows denser and the sounds of the forest return. By evening, you’ll reach the quiet village of Collpapampa, where your next mountain dome Standout Stay awaits. Expect a warm welcome, a satisfying dinner and a well-earned rest surrounded by the sounds of the forest.

Your trek continues into the heart of the Peruvian cloud forest. Following the Santa Teresa River, you’ll pass through lush greenery, avocado and banana plantations, and cascading waterfalls as the landscape shifts around you. The trail winds towards Lucmabamba, where your final dome stay is tucked into a tranquil spot in the forest. You’ll arrive in time for lunch, then head to a nearby coffee farm where a local grower will walk you through the process, from picking and drying to roasting and brewing. You’ll get a fresh cup of the region’s best, straight from the source. Later, you’ll visit the Santa Teresa hot springs for a soak in naturally heated pools before returning to camp for dinner beneath the trees.

You'll start the day walking a section of the legendary Inca Trail. It begins with a steady two-hour climb, offering sweeping views over the Santa Teresa Valley as you make your way to Llactapata (8,858ft). This lesser-visited Inca site sits directly across from Machu Picchu, and your guide will share its history and cultural significance. With a bit of luck, you'll catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu in the distance. From Llactapata, you'll descend for a quick lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Hidroeléctrica. Here, you'll board a scenic train to Aguas Calientes, the lively town at the foot of Machu Picchu. Once there, check into your boutique hotel and take some time to unwind. You might opt for a nap or a wander through town, depending on your energy levels.

Today marks the final day of your trek: a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it's best experienced early, when the light is soft and the crowds are few. You'll explore the citadel on a two-hour guided tour, visiting sacred temples, terraces, dwellings, and crop fields, while your guide shares the stories and engineering feats that continue to puzzle archaeologists today. Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the Vistadome Panoramic Train for the journey back to Cusco. With glass ceilings and wide windows, the train offers uninterrupted views of the Urubamba River and surrounding valleys, a fitting way to end your adventure. Back in Cusco, a private transfer will take you to the Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel. After checking in, you’ll gather for a final group dinner - the perfect moment to toast the journey you’ve just shared.

After your incredible adventure to Machu Picchu via the Salkantay pass, it’s time to head home. A private transfer will collect you from your hotel and take you to the airport in good time for your onward journey.