My six-day trek along the Salkantay trail was a journey not just through the diverse landscapes of Peru but through time itself, beginning at the formidable base of Salkantay Mountain and culminating at the iconic Machu Picchu. This journey tested my limits and expanded my perception of the natural and spiritual world.
The trek tour commenced with a gentle start, only a three-hour walk on the first day, allowing us to set up camp in an oasis at the mountain’s base. That night, under a canvas of stars so clear the Milky Way spilled its colours across the sky, Salkantay stood sentinel in the moonlight—a truly magnificent sight that set the tone for our adventure travels adventures.
As we ventured further, the path led us along the right flank of Salkantay. Near us, the serene Salkantay Lake mirrored the sky with its vibrant blues and greens, enhancing the surreal beauty of our surroundings. Navigating through a fertile valley fed by glacial rivers, the land around Apu Salkantay was a vivid testament to the mountain’s life-giving force. However, the meaning of Salkantay: “Savage Mountain,” reminded us of its dual nature. The ascent to the Palkay Pass, a staggering 5,000 meters above sea level, was our next challenge. Each zigzag of the path pushed our endurance in this outdoor sports, with slow, deliberate steps and deep breaths marking our progress. Reaching the Ahobamba Valley by day’s end was a relief, where we were welcomed with a warm meal with fresh trout from the river, revitalizing our bodies for the next day’s trek.
The following day took us thought the fertile valley. To an ancient Inca water temples, shrouded in jungle vines, though which door opening you could the thundering waterfall to which we also hiked. That night, we savoured grilled viscacha, a rodent of the area that were freshly shot.
Amazed by the diversity of Peru, when our guide navigated overgrown paths in the jungle with a machete, while we could still see the snow-capped Salkantay where nothing ever grows. An ice plunge in the glacier river and the crossing of precarious jungle bridges added adventure to this trek tour. And the unexpected tour of the coffee plantation, that was our accommodation for that night, was really interesting!
Our journey culminated at Machu Picchu, where ancient stones tell tales of a mystic ingenious civilization. Huayna Picchu provided a panoramic view that was nothing short of spectacular, overseeing this world wonder and the surrounding jungle below.
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