Vilcabamba Trek 6 Days – Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure

🏔️ Scenic Drive & Andean Views

🏕️ Camping at Huancacalle

Start the adventure with an early morning departure from Cusco. Drive through the picturesque Sacred Valley, stopping in Ollantaytambo before crossing Malaga Pass (4,316m), where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped Veronica Mountain.

Unlike direct routes suggested in some itineraries, the journey continues through Quillabamba before turning south toward Huancacalle (2,900m). This scenic drive takes approximately 8–9 hours in total. Arrive in the late afternoon, settle into camp, and prepare for the exciting trek ahead.

🏛️ Visit to Inca Sites: Vitcos & Nusta Hispana

🏔️ Hiking Across Azutina Pass (3,900m)

Begin the day exploring the archaeological sites of Vitcos and Nusta Hispana (3,050m), believed to be one of the last refuges of the Inca resistance. Trek toward Azutina Pass (3,900m), enjoying panoramic valley views. Descend to the small settlement of Racachaca (3,700m), where you will camp for the night.

🏔️ Highest Pass: Yanacocha (4,600m)

🌄 Stunning Views of the Vilcabamba Range

🏕️ Camping in Mutuypata (3,000m)

Follow the well-preserved Inca stone path to Hatun Pampa (4,000m), passing several small Andean communities. Climb to the highest point, Yanacocha Pass (4,600m), offering breathtaking panoramas of Salkantay (6,264m) and Machu Picchu Mountain (2,430m). Descend through lush valleys to camp at Mutuypata.

🌿 Trek Through the Lush Yanatile Valley

💦 Optional Hot Springs in Santa Teresa

🏕️ Camping in Santa Teresa

Hike along the Sacsarayoc River into the tropical Mutuypata Valley, a region rich in biodiversity, filled with orchids, bromeliads, and coffee plantations. After reaching the small town of Yanatile, take a short drive to Santa Teresa (1,550m). Here, you can relax in the Cocalmayo hot springs, famous for their natural thermal waters. Spend the night camping near the village.

🚶 Hike Along the Urubamba River

🚆 Train Ride to Aguas Calientes

🏨 Overnight in a Hotel

Today, follow the Urubamba River to the Hidroelectrica Station, the final point accessible by road. From here, enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). Settle into a comfortable hotel and rest before your big day exploring the Lost City of the Incas!

🏛️ Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

🚆 Return Train & Private Transport to Cusco

Wake up early to beat the crowds and catch the sunrise over Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Enjoy a guided tour of the most iconic temples, terraces, and plazas, learning about the citadel’s fascinating history.

In the afternoon, take the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport to Cusco, marking the end of your epic Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu!