7-day Horseback Riding Trip from Salkantay to Machu Picchu

Set off on a 7-day horseback riding tour from Salkantay to Machu Picchu, taking in the breathtaking scenery and ancient culture. Begin by visiting the Quillarumiyoc archaeological site before heading to Mollepata village for a farm-to-table lunch and insights into local agriculture. Meet your trusty horse at Coronilla Ranch, and set off towards Soraypampa, acclimatizing to the altitude during a scenic 3-4 hour ride to Salkantay Lodge. Explore Humantay Lake, surrounded by glaciers, and visit the mystical Chakana viewpoint. Witness a shamanic offering to Mother Earth before continuing to Machu Picchu, passing through the Rio Blanco Valley and Salkantay Pass with its snow-capped peaks. Descend through the cloud forest to Colpa Lodge, savoring a traditional Pachamanca feast and enjoying panoramic views.

Highlights

Explore Quillarumiyoc archaeological site and learn about local culture
Enjoy a scenic horseback ride to Soraypampa, acclimating to the altitude
Ride through the Rio Blanco valley, witnessing snow-capped peaks
Journey through the Santa Teresa river valley, passing coffee plantations

Activities

Places Visited

Peru
South America
Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)
Andes Mountains
Cusco
Machu Picchu
Colpa Lodge
Lucma Lodge
Salkantay Lodge
Salkantay Trek
Wayra Lodge

Activity Level: Relaxed

Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.

Full Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive at Cusco | Salkantay Lodge

Accommodation
1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Following an early morning meal, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. Your journey commences with a visit to the Quillarumiyoc archaeological site on the way to the mountain village of Mollepata. At El Pedregal, a lovely farmhouse tucked in the town, enjoy a delicious meal while learning about local agriculture and livestock.

Afterward, a picturesque drive takes you to Coronilla Ranch, where you will be introduced to and acquainted with your horse. Accompanied by the equestrian team, you will embark on a ride to Soraypampa, a remarkable opportunity for everyone to adapt to the altitude while savoring a splendid 3-4 hour journey to the Salkantay Lodge. Mt. Salkantay, the second most sacred peak in Inca mythology, inspired the lodge's name. It sits at a towering elevation of 6,270 meters (20,600 feet). Upon arrival, the friendly staff will extend a warm welcome and guide you to your room, allowing you to freshen up before tea time. Subsequently, a comprehensive briefing about the upcoming excursion will be conducted by your guide beside a cozy fireside. In the evening, indulge in aperitifs and a delectable dinner before retiring for the night, rejuvenating yourself for the adventures of the following day.

Day 2: Horseback Ride to Humantay Lake and Chakana

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Today's excursion begins with a ride to Humantay Lake, which is fed by glaciers high up on Mt. Humantay. The ride takes about 1 hour, and then have a short 20-minute walk to reach the lake. It's worth the effort because the view is incredible, and if you're brave enough, you can even go for a swim! After a quick snack break, hike back down to where you left the horses and ride for about 30 minutes to your next stop, the entrance to the "Chakana" (the mystical Inca Cross) located on a high viewpoint above Soraypampa. From there, take a one-hour walk to reach the actual "Chakana," where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Soraypampa Valley, Mt. Salkantay, and Mt. Humantay. This is a highlight of your journey that shouldn't be missed! To conclude this unique experience, a local Shaman performs a mystical offering to Mother Earth (or "Pachamama") in front of the majestic Mt. Salkantay.

Return to the lodge for lunch, and the rest of the afternoon is free for you to relax. You can choose to soak in the outdoor jacuzzi instead of swimming in the glacier-fed lake. If you're up for it, there's also the option to go horseback riding in the surrounding area for a couple of hours. In the evening, the guide will brief you on the necessary gear and the itinerary for the next day. All meals will be provided at the lodge.

Day 3: Cross Salkantay Pass

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Today, continue the journey towards Machu Picchu by riding through the Rio Blanco Valley and going around Humantay Peak, which is across from Salkantay Peak. The Salkantay Pass, at 4,638 meters (15,213 feet), is the highest point of the trip. When you reach the pass, pause to admire the breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks of the Vilcabamba Range in every direction, with the majestic south face of Salkantay towering above you.

Also keep a lookout for Andean condors, as they are often spotted in this area. After the pass, descend toward your evening destination, the Wayra Lodge. The name "Wayra" means wind, and it comes from the location's name, "Wayracmachay," which translates to "the cave where the wind lives." Along the way, enjoy a hot lunch, and dinner and overnight accommodation will be provided at the lodge.

Day 4: Descend toward the Cloud Forest

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Today, indulge in a leisurely morning meal at Wayra Lodge, followed by a descent towards the Salkantay River, meandering through the enchanting cloud forest. The scenery becomes increasingly lush and vibrant, accompanied by the gentle wafts of warm air rising from the jungle. Delightful butterflies flutter around and encounter breathtaking orchids along the way. As you reach Colpa Lodge, a delightful surprise awaits—a Pachamanca, a festive Peruvian feast prepared by layering meat and vegetables with hot stones. The mixture is then covered with plantain leaves, high Andean grass, and local herbs before being baked in an underground oven. Colpa Lodge, situated on a spacious plateau where three rivers converge, offers panoramic vistas of the verdant mountains. Unwind in the outdoor jacuzzi, taking in the lush green surroundings. The afternoon can be spent at leisure, either relaxing or embarking on a captivating exploration of the nearby orchid trail. Dinner and overnight accommodations are provided at the lodge.

Day 5: Ride Along the Santa Teresa River Valley

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

On this day, the ride leads alongside the picturesque Santa Teresa River valley and traverses through more densely inhabited rural regions. Along the way, pass by flourishing orchards of bananas, passion fruits, avocados, and sprawling coffee plantations. The coffee cultivated in this area is renowned as one of the finest organic coffees in the world. As you continue your ride, reach the starting point of the revered "Llactapata Inca Trail," bidding farewell to your trusty horses and equestrian companions. A brief and pleasant 30-minute stroll amidst an avocado orchard brings you to your destination—Lucma Lodge. Here, delight in a satisfying dinner and spend the night in the comfort of the lodge.

Day 6: Hike to Llactapata Pass

Accommodations
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Following a satisfying breakfast set off on the ultimate day of your trek. Here, bid farewell to your magnificent equine companions and prepare yourself for a three-hour hike toward the awe-inspiring Llactapata Pass (2,736 m/8,974 ft). From this vantage point, you are treated to a distant yet magnificent panorama of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, a view that few visitors get to see. Taking a brief break, take the time to explore the recently restored Llactapata Ruins. Then, enjoy a delightful lunch at a picturesque viewpoint, overlooking the grandeur of Machu Picchu. With renewed energy, commence your final descent towards the Aobamba River, traversing through lush bamboo forests, orchards, and fragrant coffee plantations. The journey continues as you board a scenic train ride, lasting approximately one hour, that transports you to Aguas Calientes, the town situated at the foot of Machu Picchu.

Day 7: Machu Picchu | Return to Cusco

1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch

Following a satisfying buffet breakfast at the hotel, proceed to the bus station for a pleasant journey up to Machu Picchu Sanctuary, which takes approximately 30 minutes. Your knowledgeable trip leader provides a comprehensive two-hour guided tour of the captivating ruins, giving you an insightful introduction to the site. Afterward, the freedom to explore the grounds at your leisure for approximately two hours.

Later, regroup with your guide and board the bus for a return trip to Aguas Calientes, where a delightful late lunch awaits. Following the meal, take an afternoon train ride back towards Cusco. The scenic journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo spans about 1½ hours. From there, a private vehicle takes over for the remainder of the drive back to Cusco, which adds an additional 1½ hours to the travel time. Upon your arrival in Cusco, estimated to be around 7 or 8 p.m., you will be dropped off at the hotel of your choosing.

Accommodations

Wayra Lodge

At 12,000 ft Wayra Lodge brings together traditional Inca building techniques and sensitivity to the surrounding environment with all the comforts of home. At the end of the day, you will enjoy hot showers, fine gourmet meals, select wines, goose-down bedding, massages, outdoor Jacuzzi and highly personalized service from local staff.

Colpa Lodge

Resting in the Peruvian cloud forest at 10,300 feet, Colpa Lodge has a spectacular location near hot springs, the confluence of 3 rivers and an amazing view of the Colpampa Valley.

Lucma Lodge

Savor spectacular views of the river and valley below from Lucma lodge, built right into the mountainside. Located to nearby Lucmabamba village and surrounded by fruit orchards.

Salkantay Lodge

At 12,500 ft Salkantay Lodge (also know as Soray Lodge) brings together traditional Inca building techniques and sensitivity to the surrounding environment with all the comforts of home. Located at the beginning of the Salkantay Trek this is the perfect spot to acclimatize.

Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) - Hotels

Inti Inn

Inti Inn is located at a privileged and very safe, clean zone and very near Machupicchu's Parade Ground. Within two blocks blocks of the craft market, it brings together all craftsmen of the region.

Casa del Sol Boutique Hotel

A cozy stay awaits you in Machu Picchu. Casa del Sol Boutique Hotel is situated next to the vibrant sound of the Vilcanota River and beneath the imposing mountains that surround the hotel like ancient guards.

Upgrade

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo

In a private mountainside refuge deep in the lush Andean cloud forest, in the heart of the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, lies the intimate Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. From the hotel you are only minutes away from this premier archeological adventure of the Inca Empire.

More Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) Hotels

At the foot of the mighty mountain that hosts the renowned Machu Picchu ruins is a small town called Machu Picchu Pueblo (also known as "Aguas Calientes").

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	Apr 2025					>
S	M	T	W	T	F	S
30	31	1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14	15	16	17	18	19
20	21	22	23	24	25	26
27	28	29	30	1	2	3

Available departures

Selected departure

Apr 17, 2025 Per person starting at

$4,200

Notes

$2,100 Single Supplement
Additional Cost for Private Room when traveling with others. Traveling Solo? Contact us for a custom quote.

Payment Details

Terms & Conditions

Included

6 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 6 Dinners
6 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Guided visit of Machu Picchu Sanctuary (entrance, transportation to and from the site)
Bilingual guide (English-Spanish) for the duration of the standard itinerary
Transportation of personal belongings during the trip by pack horses/mules and/or porters
Wireless Internet access (Wi-Fi) at all lodges and hotels
All transportation services for the duration of the standard itinerary
All meals and beverages including soft drinks and a house selection of beer, wine, and spirits including pisco

Excluded

Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Laundry Service
Massage services
Permits for Huayna Picchu Mountain and/or Machu Picchu Mountain
All gratuities for the guides and hotel staff outside MLP are not included
Bottled water and sports drinks. Guests are encouraged to use the refillable water bottle that is provided to each guest at the pre-trip briefing. The highest-quality filtered water is available at all MLP lodges

Map

When to Go

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.

Chance for unpredictable weather but with fewer visitors.

Inquire

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Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.

Nancy Sin

Salkantay Ride To Machu Picchu

Full Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Cusco | Salkantay Lodge

Day 2: Horseback Ride to Humantay Lake and Chakana

Day 3: Cross Salkantay Pass

Day 4: Descend toward the Cloud Forest

Day 5: Ride Along the Santa Teresa River Valley

Day 6: Hike to Llactapata Pass

Day 7: Machu Picchu | Return to Cusco

Accommodations

Wayra Lodge

Wayra Lodge

Colpa Lodge

Colpa Lodge

Lucma Lodge

Lucma Lodge

Salkantay Lodge

Salkantay Lodge

Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) - Hotels

Inti Inn

Casa del Sol Boutique Hotel

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo

More Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Notes

Map

When to Go

Inquire

We Love to Talk Travel

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