As a firefighter, physical and mental strength is at the core of what I do. But even with all the training, nothing quite prepared me for the profound impact that the Salkantay Trek would have on me.
I joined a small group tour led by a local travel expert through a travel agency platform, looking to test my endurance in the rugged beauty of the Andes. What I found was a journey that not only challenged my limits but also stirred my soul and awakened a deeper connection to nature. Here’s a look into each day of the experience.
Day 1: Soraypampa Camp, Peru
Our journey began with a 5:00 am pickup. We traveled to Mollepata, where we stretched our legs before continuing on to Challacancha. This is where it all felt real—our last preparation before setting off on foot.
The three-hour hike to Soraypampa was intense, but the reward was worth it: panoramic views of snow-capped mountains that seemed to scrape the sky. After lunch, we hiked up to Laguna de Humantay, where I felt the crisp mountain air fill my lungs, and I realized how alive I felt out here. The evening at camp was our coldest night, but being surrounded by raw nature was invigorating.
Day 2: Colcapampa Camp
We started early with a hearty breakfast to fuel us for the climb to the trek’s highest point at 4,650 meters. The air was thin, and the climb was demanding, but standing between the towering peaks of Salkantay and Humantay was a humbling experience. It reminded me of the strength we all carry within, especially when faced with nature’s grandeur.
After a downhill hike, we enjoyed a much-needed lunch at Huayracpampa. The day ended with a trek to our campsite near the high jungle region, where the air was warmer and filled with the scent of green foliage.
Day 3: Santa Teresa Town
Day three took us through the jungle, crossing rivers and passing vibrant valleys. Waterfalls cascaded down mountainsides, and tropical fruits lined the trails. The landscape shifted, and I found myself surrounded by a world that was equal parts lush and wild. After lunch, we traveled by car to Santa Teresa town, where we camped for the night.
I treated myself to the local hot springs, and the warm water was a balm for sore muscles. Surrounded by nature, I felt an inner peace that I hadn’t realized I needed.
Day 4: Aguas Calientes, Peru
The fourth day brought us along a winding path from Santa Teresa to the hydroelectric station and then to Aguas Calientes. This quieter day gave me a chance to reflect on the past few days—the mountains, the trails, and the strength I’d found in myself. I felt my perspective shift, as though I was seeing the world through a different lens. We arrived in Aguas Calientes in the late afternoon, where we had dinner and rested, preparing for the grand finale.
Day 5: Machu Picchu, Peru
We rose early to catch one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, eager to witness the ancient city as dawn broke. Standing there in the mist, watching the sun rise over those sacred ruins, I felt deeply connected to the earth. The weight of history, the beauty of the landscape, and the strength of the people who once lived here resonated with me.
Exploring the site felt like a dream. As I took the bus back to Aguas Calientes and later returned to Cusco, I knew this journey had inspired me beyond words.
Final Word
The Salkantay Trek was a journey of strength, not just physically but spiritually. It made me feel resilient and connected to something far greater than myself. Every step was a reminder of the power we hold and the beauty of our planet. I cannot wait to go back and explore more of what Peru has to offer.
If you’re considering an adventure, I highly recommend booking through a travel agency platform with a local travel expert. This small group tour reminded me why I love the outdoors and gave me a renewed sense of purpose—it’s an experience that will inspire your soul and, in my case, sparked a fresh wanderlust that I’ll carry with me always.
Check out Bamba Travel’s free itinerary to the Salkantay Trek:
Guest post written by Charles Gross
Whether he’s hiking rugged trails, navigating new cities, or tasting local cuisine, Charles believes that travel deepens his understanding of the world and makes him a stronger, more compassionate firefighter.
