Give your body time to adjust to the altitude while exploring the living history of Cusco. In the morning we visit Sacsayhuamán, the monumental Inca ruins overlooking the city, and walk among its massive stone walls and panoramic viewpoints. After lunch we continue to Qorikancha (the Sun Temple), the Plaza de Armas, and the Cathedral to learn how Inca and colonial histories intersect. We end the day with dinner at Cervecería Del Valle Sagrado, an impact‑driven restaurant that supports girls from remote communities in the Andes to receive their high school degree and begin pursuing their dreams—perfect for conversations about conscious travel and women empowerment.

Cusco Altitude: 3,400 meters (11,200 ft)

Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco (Ensuite Room with private bathroom, two persons per room)

This day we focus on local life and artisans while continuing to acclimate. In the morning we wander through the vibrant San Pedro Market, tasting local fruits, observing daily commerce, and discussing food systems in the Andes. Then we pause for coffee at Florencia y Fortunata, a women‑led specialty café that uplifts women producers in the Peruvian coffee chain. In the afternoon we visit local ceramic artists Jordy Lizárraga (Tunki Casa Cultural) and Katy (Vulnus Studio) for a hands‑on pottery making workshop —working with clay as a metaphor for shaping our own paths. We dine early and rest, preparing our bodies and minds for the start of the Salkantay trek.

Cusco Altitude: 3,400 meters (11,200 ft)

Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco (Ensuite Room with private bathroom, two persons per room)

Our trekking adventure with Tina—one of Peru’s first female trekking guides—begins with a pre‑dawn pick‑up from Cusco (3,450 m above sea level). As the sun begins to rise, we’ll set off on a scenic 3-hour drive to the charming town of Mollepata. During this drive, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and Veronica, with vibrant landscapes unfolding before your eyes—valleys below and towering mountains above.

After about 3.5 hours, we’ll reach Soraypampa (4,000 meters), the starting point of your hike. Here, you’ll find restroom facilities and a delicious breakfast prepared by our team, fueling you for the adventure ahead. This is also the moment when you’ll meet your support team, who will help organize the gear, horses, and mules.

At approximately 9:30 AM, we’ll begin our trek to the stunning Humantay Lake (4,200 meters). The first leg of the trail is a relatively flat walk, gradually ascending toward the sparkling turquoise lake nestled in the mountains. Once we arrive, you’ll have about 30 minutes to explore this awe-inspiring site and take in its serene beauty.

Afterward, we’ll retrace our steps back to Soraypampa for a well-deserved lunch. In the afternoon, our hike continues, bringing us to Salkantaypampa (4,150 meters), a breathtaking spot between two glacier valleys. As night falls, you’ll be surrounded by a sky filled with stars, perfect for stargazing and marveling at the constellations above.

Minimum Altitude: 3,450 meters (11,319 ft)

Campsite Altitude: 4,150 meters (13,615 ft)

Hiking Distance: 10 km (6.21 miles)

Accommodation: Shared Dome/ Tent at Campsite

Rise and shine at 5:00 AM with a warm cup of coca tea brought straight to your tent, setting the tone for another exhilarating day on the trail. After a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off on our hike to the highest point of the Salkantay trek, reaching an elevation of 4,620 meters. Over the next 3 hours, we’ll hike 5 km through a rocky valley, where the towering Salkantay peak (6,217 meters) will dominate the landscape. Keep an eye out for chinchillas as you make your way through this stunning terrain.

At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks—this is undoubtedly the most challenging part of the trek, but the breathtaking vistas make every step worthwhile.

After taking in the incredible scenery, we’ll descend for 3 hours along a winding gravel trail to Huayracmachay, where we’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch.

In the afternoon, the landscape transforms as we enter the lush cloud forest. We’ll hike 9 km over the course of 3 hours, making our way to Chaullay (2,900 meters), our campsite for the night. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant vegetation, including orchids and other native flora, creating an enchanting atmosphere.

Maximum Altitude: 4,650 meters (15,256 ft)

Minimum Altitude: 2,900 meters (9,515 ft)

Hiking Distance: 21 km (13.04 miles)

Accommodation: Shared Dome/ Tent at Campsite

Start your day with a refreshing cup of coca tea brought to your tent at 5:00 AM, setting you up for another exciting day on the trail. After breakfast, we’ll begin our hike towards La Playa, following the winding path alongside the Salkantay River through the lush jungle. As we trek, we’ll pass through several charming family hamlets, where you can enjoy an array of local fruits such as passion fruit, banana, avocado, mango, orange, and papaya—an unforgettable taste of the region.

Keep your eyes peeled for exotic wildlife, including the stunning Cock-of-the-Rock, colorful hummingbirds, and playful parrots flitting through the trees. Over the next 7 hours, we’ll hike 16 km through this vibrant landscape, eventually reaching Lucmabamba (2,100 meters), a small village nestled among coffee plantations.

Lucmabamba offers a tranquil setting with basic amenities and stunning views, making it the perfect spot to rest for the night. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture with a hands-on experience in the coffee-making process. You’ll have the chance to harvest, peel, roast, grind, and brew your very own espresso—an authentic taste of the region’s rich coffee heritage.

For those seeking extra relaxation, an optional visit to the Cocalmayo hot springs in nearby Santa Teresa (just 30 minutes by bus) offers a rejuvenating dip in natural thermal waters.

Maximum Altitude: 2,900 meters (9,515 ft)

Minimum Altitude: 2,100 meters (6,890 ft)

Hiking Distance: 16 km (9.95 miles)

Accommodation: Shared Dome/ Tent at Campsite

Rise early to experience a new landscape and avoid the midday heat, setting the tone for an exciting day ahead. Our hike begins as we pass through coffee plantations and a local mill, making our way toward Llactapata (2,700 meters). As we follow an original Inca Trail that once connected the highlands to the jungle lowlands, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant butterflies and fragrant citronella plants. From the pass, enjoy stunning views of Machu Picchu, offering a unique perspective of this ancient wonder.

After reaching Llactapata, we’ll explore its fascinating archaeological site, still partially veiled by jungle vegetation, giving you a sense of the mysteries that nature has kept hidden over the centuries.

Next, we’ll descend to the Aobamba River before continuing to Hidroeléctrica, where we’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes (2,040 meters), a charming town nestled at the base of Machu Picchu.

Tonight, after four days of hiking, we’ll rest in a comfortable hotel instead of camping. You’ll have free time to explore Aguas Calientes, stroll through its lively market, or indulge in local cuisine at one of its inviting restaurants.

Maximum Altitude: 2,700 meters (8,858 ft)

Minimum Altitude: 2,040 meters (6,693 ft)

Hiking Distance: 24 km (15 miles)

Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Ensuite Room with private bathroom, two persons per room)

Today, the grand finale of your adventure awaits: the legendary Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Built by the ninth Inca emperor, Pachacutec, this awe-inspiring archaeological site remained hidden for centuries, protected by the dense surrounding vegetation.

You’ll begin your day with an expert-guided tour, delving into the history and mystery of this incredible Inca citadel. As you wander through its ancient stone structures, terraces, and temples, you’ll gain insight into the architectural brilliance and spiritual significance of the site.

Please note: Current regulations require all visitors to follow a pre-determined, one-way route through Machu Picchu. Once your guided tour begins, exiting and re-entering the site is not allowed, and personal exploration is not permitted after the tour ends.

After our trekking expedition we will return to Cusco, and share a closing lunch to integrate the journey, celebrate what each woman has accomplished, and name the next steps we want to carry home. Transfers back to Cusco city or directly to the airport are included, depending on your onward plans. 

Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 meters (7,972 ft)

Cusco Altitude: 3,400 meters (11,200 ft)