Our journey starts early between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m., when your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. Together, we’ll board a private tourist van and drive for about two hours along a winding mountain road. Along the way, you’ll see snow-covered peaks and beautiful valleys until we reach the town of Mollepata,

We’ll make a short stop in the charming village of Mollepata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft) for about 10 minutes to complete the check-in process and fill out the required form. During this break, you’ll also have the chance to use the restroom. Just a short walk away, the town’s main square invites you to explore local restaurants where you can enjoy an optional buffet breakfast or pick up any last-minute essentials before the real adventure begins.

After a short break in the charming village of Mollepata, we continue along a rustic mountain road, a 45-minute scenic drive through winding Andean landscapes, until we reach Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft) — the true gateway to adventure. Just steps away from the bus drop-off lies our cozy mountain lodge, your warm retreat in the heart of the Andes. Here, we’ll check in early so you can settle comfortably before lacing up your boots for the first hike of the journey: a breathtaking trek to the turquoise Humantay Lake. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and crisp alpine air, this experience sets the perfect tone for the unforgettable days ahead on the Salkantay Trail.

Our task is to get the dazzling Turquoise Lake, a hidden gem at 4,200m (13,780 ft). From our cozy mountain lodge, we’ll hike 2.5 km (about 1.5–2 hours) along a scenic narrow trail framed by rugged Andean landscapes, sparse high-altitude vegetation, and towering snow-capped peaks. Reaching the turquoise waters feels like stepping into another world—serene, majestic, and unforgettable. Here, you’ll savor a fresh, healthy box lunch while your expert local guide shares the legends and history of this sacred place. Take your time to capture stunning photos before retracing your steps back to the lodge (1–1.5 hours). As evening falls, enjoy a warm, homemade dinner lovingly prepared by a local family at 6:30 pm, followed by a restful night in a comfortable bed.