In Andean religion, mountains are worshipped as apus, and this trek makes it clear why, as we experience the majesty of the mighty Apu Salkantay; then descend through ever-changing microsystems to the high jungle of the Urubamba Valley and its ever-impressive citadel of Machu Picchu.

A favourite amongst Chimu trek guides, this is a wonderful alternative to the Inca Trail.

We depart early from Cusco to make the spectacular two-hour drive to Mollepata, with panoramic views of the majestic Salkantay Mountain and the Apurimac Valley.

We will begin our hike by walking to Sayllapata (3,200m). After lunch, we continue trekking to the Soraypampa villages (3,850m) where we will camp overnight.

Day 3:  Soraypampa - Chaullay: All meals

Today, our hike takes us along the flanks of Salkantay Mountain, with stunning views of the glacier and the peaks of the Vilcabamba range. We take a steep switchback trail up to Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,600m.

We trek downhill after lunch to our camp at Chaullay (2,920m).

Day 4:  Chaullay - Santa Teresa: All meals

Today's hike is mainly downhill, passing spectacular waterfalls, as the Andes gradually enter the Amazon jungle. As we descend, the ecosystems will change, offering plenty of opportunities to observe the myriad of flora and fauna - if we are very lucky, we will be able to spot the national bird of Peru, the beautiful Cock of the Rock.

Passing the community of Collpabamba, we head to Playa Sahuayaco, a 'beach' on the banks of the River Urubamba, and arrive at our campsite located in Santa Teresa (1,900m) where everybody can enjoy a welcome dip in the outdoor thermal baths.

Day 5: Santa Teresa - Aguas Calientes: All meals

Today, we trek to the ruins of Patallacta, passing coffee and banana plantations, in a beautiful landscape with diverse flora and fauna. Patallacta offers an amazing view of Machu Picchu, which we savour before descending to the Hydroelectric plant that harnesses some of the power of the Urubamba River. From here, we follow the train track to Aguas Calientes, located 400m below Machu Picchu, and where our hostel is located. 

As the name suggests, there are more thermal baths to be sampled in Aguas Calientes this evening!

Day 6: Machu Picchu - Cusco: Breakfast

This morning, we take the bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the ruins and monuments, such as the Main Square, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Solar Clock, the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Cemeteries. This is the highlight of any trip to Peru and a fantastic reward at the end of the trek.

We have the morning at Machu Picchu and then, in the afternoon, we return to Aguas Calientes where we catch the train back to Cusco.