This powerful six-day trek, created by women for women, covers 44.74 miles(13.63 meters above sea level) through the Andes from Mollepata to Machu Picchu. Along the way, we explore natural wonders like Humantay Lake, the 16,014 feet(4,881.07 meters above sea level) Incachiriasca Pass, and the cloud forests of Phuyupatamarca walking ancient Inca trails and reconnecting with nature, history, and inner strength.
Each day offers space for reflection and healing, guided by a women-led team that fosters empowerment. Offered by Mother Earth Treks, this journey honors Pachamama, promotes ethical travel, and uplifts local communities.
We will hike a powerful Andean route designed by women for women. This six-day trek will awaken our spirit. We will explore wild nature, ancient paths, and inner strength. Mountains, culture, and healing will guide every step.
We will begin in Mollepata and ascend to the turquoise waters of Laguna Humantay. At Campamento Salkantaypampa, we will feel the energy of the Andes. This first day will prepare us for what lies ahead. We will breathe the highland air and connect with Pachamama.
Hacia las Alturas, we will continue to Paso Incachiriasca at 16,014 feet / 4,881 meters. The silence of Salkantay will embrace us. From the heights, we will descend into Pampacahuana. Ancient trails and condor skies will inspire us.
On day three, Siguiendo las Huellas Incas, we will walk toward Llulluchapampa. Inca walls will whisper old secrets. Native flora will line our path. We will camp surrounded by sacred silence and mountain light.
Ascenso y Liberación will take us across cloud forests and high passes. At Phuyupatamarca, we will witness surreal landscapes. Ancient stairways will guide our journey. Each step will bring us closer to the Sacred City.
Hacia la Ciudadela Sagrada, we will walk the final stretch to Machu Picchu. The sun will rise over the citadel. We will honor our path and transformation. Our hearts will carry the strength of the Andes.
Throughout the journey, our women-led team will support and inspire us. We will hike 44.74 miles / 72 kilometers in total. Elevation gains will test and empower us. Nights under stars will offer deep reflection.
With Mother Earth Treks, we will uplift local communities. We will share joy, stories, and purpose. Ethical travel will shape every experience. Our presence will leave a positive footprint across these sacred lands.
Trek Summary:
We begin our journey early, departing from Cusco at 4:00 A.M. by private vehicle. After a scenic drive through Andean valleys and traditional villages, we arrive at Soraypampa (12,795 feet / 3,900 meters), where we enjoy a nourishing breakfast surrounded by the mountains.
We start the hike with a steady climb to the stunning Humantay Lake, a turquoise gem below the Humantay glacier. This sacred lake invites us to pause, reflect, and set our intentions for the journey ahead.
We’ll have lunch in the fresh mountain air after descending, then continue hiking to our first campsite at Salkantaypampa (13,780 feet / 4,200 meters). At the base of the powerful Salkantay peak, this peaceful spot provides stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and a chance to enjoy nature under the stars. This first day sets the tone for a journey of personal growth, sisterhood, and connection with Pachamama.
After a warm breakfast, we begin our ascent through a remote and untouched Andean valley. Today, we face the most physically challenging part of the trek: reaching the Incachiriasca Pass, the highest point of our journey at 16,929 feet (5,160 meters).
With every step, we embrace the strength of the women who walk beside us, and the quiet power of the sacred Salkantay mountain guiding our path. If we’re lucky, we may see wild vicuñas and soaring condors along the way.
At the summit, we pause to honor the journey, surrounded by panoramic views of glaciers and rugged peaks.
The descent takes us into softer, greener landscapes, where we eventually arrive at our peaceful campsite in Pampacahuana, a valley nourished by glacial streams. Tonight, we rest deeply, feeling renewed and proud of what we’ve accomplished together.
This morning, we join the legendary Inca Trail, walking along paths once traveled by messengers and sacred pilgrims. As we hike through the lush valley, we explore the archaeological site of Paucarcancha, a hidden gem surrounded by terraced hillsides.
Here, we reflect on the wisdom and engineering of ancient Andean cultures and the role of women in these communities. After passing Wayllabamba, the only inhabited village along the Inca Trail, we begin a gradual but steady ascent through enchanted cloud forest.
The rich flora and birdlife offer a sense of wonder and magic. We arrive at our campsite in Llulluchapampa, where the crisp mountain air and panoramic views of the Vilcabamba range set the stage for a peaceful night under the stars.
Today we face one of the most memorable and empowering parts of the Inca Trail — the ascent to Warmiwañusca, also known as “Dead Woman’s Pass.” This challenging climb is a test of endurance, but every step brings us closer to our personal power. At the summit, we celebrate with hugs and laughter, knowing we’ve conquered something meaningful together.
From there, we descend into the Pacaymayo valley for lunch, then continue through cloud forests and stone stairways to the mysterious ruins of Runkurakay and Sayacmarca. As the afternoon light fades, we arrive at Phuyupatamarca, the “City Above the Clouds”. Here, the views are otherworldly, and the quietness invites deep rest and reflection.
We rise early to greet the sun from the ceremonial platform at Phuyupatamarca. Today’s path winds through ancient stairways and lush vegetation, descending gradually toward Intipata and Wiñay Wayna. These sacred sites are marvels of Inca architecture and agriculture, and they remind us of the innovation and reverence the Incas had for the land.
As we reach Intipunku — the Sun Gate — in the late afternoon, we are rewarded with our first glimpse of Machu Picchu in the golden light. It’s a moment of awe and quiet celebration. We descend to Aguas Calientes by bus and enjoy a delicious dinner together, celebrating the strength, laughter, and sisterhood that carried us here.
On our final day, we rise before dawn to catch the first bus up to Machu Picchu, entering the sanctuary in the soft morning light. During our guided tour, we’ll explore temples, terraces, and sacred spaces that once formed the heart of the Inca Empire. We’ll also take time to reflect on our journey — both inward and outward.
For those who choose, there is time for an optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability). After descending, we return to Aguas Calientes for lunch, and then board the train and vehicle back to Cusco. We leave with full hearts, stronger spirits, and the shared memory of a life-changing adventure.
Tip: Keep your daypack light, secure, and well-organized to enjoy the hike more comfortably.
Your duffel will be transported by porters and should not exceed 7 kg total. This weight includes your sleeping bag and mattress (approx. 3 kg together). Pack only essentials such as:
“The 6-day Salkantay Trek was a perfect mix of challenge, nature, and culture. I loved the variety of landscapes – from the snowy peaks of Salkantay to the lush jungles leading up to Machu Picchu. The itinerary was well-paced, with plenty of time to enjoy the beauty of the Andes, but also some much-needed rest at places like the hot springs.
Our guide was amazing, always ensuring our safety and making the trek enjoyable with his expert knowledge. The sense of accomplishment when we reached Machu Picchu was indescribable. This trek was an experience of a lifetime!”
“This trek exceeded all expectations. The Salkantay Trek was challenging, but so worth it. The views were absolutely stunning, especially at the Salkantay Pass, where you feel like you’re standing in the middle of the Andes mountains.
The combination of the Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail was perfect for me. The variety of the terrain kept it interesting – high-altitude hiking, tropical jungles, and the chance to relax in hot springs. The guide was great, with a good sense of humor and helpful knowledge about the culture and history of the area. Reaching Machu Picchu was the cherry on top of this incredible adventure!”
