The Ahobamba Trek gives serious trekkers an alternative route to Machu Picchu.

The Ahobamba Trek takes you through the beautiful and isolated Ahobamba valley. It is still a relatively unknown route to one of the seven wonders of the world.

The journey to Machu Picchu starts in Cuzco. Afterward, you are driven 3.5 hours to the remote Soray Pampa. Then, you can relax in a rustic lodge which overlooks the Salkantay, Humanty, and many other large mountainous peaks.

The first day of the trek is the biggest and longest day of your expedition. Firstly, you’ll traverse the first pass, Inkachillaska (4,950m), which runs parallel to Mount Salkantay. Then, you will have lunch at the Sisaypampa pasture.

The next pass, Palqay (4,700m), is reached by a 500m climb of switchbacks to a rocky mountain ridge between Mount Salkantay and Mount Palqay. After an hour-long descend, you’ll arrive at the accommodation for the night.

Doña Lucilla and her daughter own a portion of the valley and you will spend the night at her house.

As you hike deeper into the Ahobamba valley, you’ll encounter Cuzco’s largest waterfall. It is over 160m tall. In addition, you’ll visit the ruins of a sleepy ancient Inca town across the river from our Ahombamba house.

The following day you’ll descend into a mystical cloudy forest. After an afternoon of trekking through the rugged forest, you’ll arrive at the Cloud Forest House of Mr. Fortunato. He and his family live on a unique sustainable farm.

Afterward, you’ll find yourself back in civilization! An hour away from the farm is a hydroelectric train station. An easy 2.5 hours hike alongside the tracks will bring you to the tourist town of Aguas Calientes. Here you’ll freshen up before an unforgettable trip to Machu Picchu.

Of course, Ahombamba is just one of the expeditions we offer to Machu Picchu. Check out our expedition page for other routes. See you on the mountains!