Mount Salcantay's imposing, glacier-clad summit reaches 20,575', dominating the peaks of the surrounding Vilcabamba Range. It is one of the last majestic Andean peaks before the landscape shifts dramatically to the Amazon Basin, and is still worshipped as a god by the Indians in the Cusco region. In the forests and valleys at its base, the rebel Incan leader, Manco, found refuge from the Spanish Conquerors whose horses could not negotiate the high passes that must be crossed in order to reach the splendid paradise of the lower elevations beyond the Vilcabamba mountains. Join us on this scenic trek, the same path that Manco followed, one of the most diverse and pristine trails in the Andes. We are frequently the only group on this route! With visits to Quechua villages, traditional markets, remote settlements and stunning Machu Picchu, this outstanding trip is one of the most complete, culturally-rich, active adventures in Peru!

Our journey begins in Cusco where we spend two days learning about the Incas as we adjust to the higher elevations. We visit the Indian market in Pisac, explore impressive Inca sites such as Sacsayhuaman and Ollantaytambo, meet with weavers in the Quechua community of Chinchero, and raft or hike in the Urubamba Valley. From Yukay, we drive to the farming town of Mollepata where our trek begins. Our trail heads up to the highlands at the base of Mount Salcantay before crossing the only high pass of our route, Portachuelo (15,580'), which brings us within touching distance of the mountain's glaciers and ice walls. We then descend toward the warm, subtropical valleys on the other side of the Andes. Losing elevation, we pass waterfalls, small hamlets and natural hot springs, stopping at night to camp near Quechua communities until we arrive at the Urubamba River gorge. From this point we make our final journey to the village of Aguas Calientes and spend two days exploring the world-famous “Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu. Afterwards, we return to Cusco by train and fly to Lima to catch our flight home.