Trip Itinerary
TRIP ITINERARY
Cusco to Santa Teresa: Zipline in Lucmabamba + Hot Springs and Star Domes Overnight
Starting Point of the Llactapata Trek 3 Days
The Llactapata Trek 3 Days begins at the Machu Picchu Team office in Cusco at 6:30 AM, where you’ll meet your guide and group. From there, a transportation will take you on a scenic 5-hour drive to Santa Teresa, passing through a variety of stunning Andean ecosystems.
Upon arrival in Santa Teresa around 1:00 PM, your guide will take you to a local restaurant to enjoy lunch. Afterward, you’ll board a local transport for a short 30-minute ride to Lucmabamba, where you’ll experience an exhilarating zipline adventure. This activity features five cables spanning mountain to mountain, along with a thrilling 300-meter-long Tibetan bridge suspended nearly 500 meters above the ground. The zipline experience lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and is an unforgettable highlight of the trek.
Following the zipline activity, you’ll take another 30-minute drive to the famous Cocalmayo Hot Springs in Santa Teresa. Here, you can relax in the soothing thermal pools for a couple of hours, surrounded by serene mountain views.
The day concludes with a 45-minute drive to the Star Domes, where you’ll spend the night in panoramic glass domes under a canopy of stars, offering a magical and unique experience.
Lucmabamba Star Domes – Coffee Tour – Llactapata Trek – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
Llactapata Trek – Hiking the Inca Trail to Aguas Calientes
The second day of the Llactapata Trek begins early, with a wake-up call at 5:30 AM and breakfast served at 6:00 AM. After breakfast, you will visit a local family to learn about the coffee production process. Lucmabamba is renowned for producing the finest coffee in the Cusco region, and during the coffee tour (30-45 minutes), you will learn about cultivation, harvesting, and roasting, as well as enjoy a fresh coffee tasting.
Following the coffee experience, you will start the Llactapata Inca Trail hike, a 12-kilometer original Inca path that takes approximately 3 hours of uphill walking. Upon reaching the Llactapata Inca ruins, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Machu Picchu from a unique perspective. Your guide will share the history and significance of this site while you explore the ruins.
After visiting Llactapata, the hike continues downhill to Hidroeléctrica, a descent that takes about 2 hours. Once there, you will enjoy a delicious lunch to recharge.
The journey continues with a mostly flat 3-hour hike along the train tracks from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes, surrounded by lush vegetation and breathtaking Andean scenery. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, your guide will escort you to your hotel to rest.
Finally, around 7:00 PM, a group dinner will be organized at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy regional cuisine. After dinner, you will have time to rest and prepare for the exciting visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
Final Day – Explore Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco
🏔️ Final Day – Visit to Machu Picchu
The last day of your tour is dedicated to discovering the breathtaking Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Your entry time is based on the schedule shown on your entrance ticket, so it’s important to arrive at the main gate exactly at that time. To get from Aguas Calientes (the town where you stayed overnight) to the main entrance of Machu Picchu, you have two options:
- 🚶♂️ Hiking (1.5 hours approx.):
Start with a 30-minute flat walk from your hotel to Puente Ruinas (the first checkpoint), where you’ll show your passport and Machu Picchu ticket. From there, hike uphill for about 1 hour, climbing around 1,700 steps.
➤ If your ticket is for 6:00 am, plan to begin the walk at 4:30 am, after breakfast at your hotel. 🚌 Shuttle Bus (30 minutes):
If you prefer not to walk, you can take a comfortable bus to the entrance. Tickets cost $12 USD one way and can be bought the night before or in the morning.
Buses begin running at 5:30 am, and depart every 5–10 minutes on a first-come, first-served basis.
No matter which option you choose, the key is to be at the main gate at the time shown on your ticket.
🗺️ Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
- Once you arrive, you’ll meet your group and your professional guide, who will take you on a 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu. The tour follows the specific circuit assigned to your ticket. Your guide will explain the site’s rich history, stunning architecture, and sacred significance, while also giving you time to take photos and enjoy the views.
⛰️ Optional Hikes (for those with extra tickets)
- If you booked an additional ticket for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you can begin the hike after the guided tour. These hikes take around 3 hours round-trip and must be reserved in advance due to limited availability.
🚆 Returning to Cusco – Two Options: After finishing your activities at Machu Picchu, it’s time to return to Cusco. There are two return options:
🚆 Option 1: If You Chose to Return by Train
- Return to Aguas Calientes either by walking (1.5 hours) or by shuttle bus (30 minutes / $12 USD).
- Board the train to Ollantaytambo (1.5-hour journey).
- Upon arrival, continue by tourist vehicle to Cusco (2-hour drive).
- Trains usually depart between 2:30 pm and 3:30 pm, depending on availability.
- You will arrive in Cusco between 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm
🚗 Option 2: If You Chose to Return by Car via Hidroelectrica
- Hike from Machu Picchu to Hidroelectrica, which takes approximately 3 hours.
- You must arrive at Hidroelectrica by 2:30 pm to catch the only available car departure at 3:00 pm.
- The drive to Cusco takes between 5 and 6 hours, with estimated arrival between 10:00 pm and 10:30 pm.
- Important: This return option only works if your Machu Picchu entry time is between 6:00 am and 9:00 am. If your ticket is for a later time, you won’t arrive on time to catch the car and will need to spend an extra night in Aguas Calientes to return the next day.
- Any additional costs for lodging, food, or other services will be the responsibility of the traveler.
Tour Inclusions
Inclusions
Included
PRE-TREK BRIEFING AT 6 PM AT THE MACHU PICCHU RESERVATIONS OFFICE IN CUSCO:
- The day before starting the Llactapata trek 3 days, a briefing will be held at 6:00 pm at the Machu Picchu Reservation office in Cusco. During this meeting, you will meet your guide and the other members of the group who will be trekking with you. The guide will provide important information, such as:
- Technical details of the trek.
- Exact pick-up times to begin the tour.
- Printed train tickets and Machu Picchu entry tickets.
- Distribution of the duffle bag, in which you can pack up to 7 kg of personal belongings to be carried by the horses.
- The guide will also explain how to store any extra luggage if you wish to leave it with Machu Picchu Team: For this briefing, you don’t need to bring any personal belongings, just your passport for the check-in process of your reserved tour. After the meeting, you can:
- Pay any outstanding balance if you haven’t paid 100% of the tour cost.
- Rent trekking poles if you didn’t rent them when you booked the trek.
TRANSPORTATION FROM CUSCO TO SANTA TERESA
- The tour includes transportation from Cusco to Santa Teresa. You will travel with your group and guide in a comfortable and safe vehicle, departing from the Machu Picchu Team office in Cusco. This transfer is an essential part of the tour, ensuring a hassle-free journey to Santa Teresa to begin your adventure.
MACHU PICCHU TICKET INCLUDED
- The Llactapata Trek 3 Days price includes the entry ticket to Machu Picchu. There are several circuits to explore the citadel, and we will secure the best available option when you make your reservation.
- Our first preference is Circuit 2: Llaqta Machu Picchu / Classic Route 2-A, which offers access to the iconic panoramic viewpoint and allows you to explore around 70% of the citadel.
- If Circuit 2-A is unavailable, we will book Circuit 2-B: Lower Terrace, which also provides access to the classic viewpoint and approximately 60% of Machu Picchu.
- To increase your chances of securing one of these circuits, we strongly recommend booking your tour at least 3 to 4 months in advance. If neither of these options is available, we will select an alternative circuit that allows access to specific areas of Machu Picchu.
DUFFLE BAG SERVICE FOR 7 KILOS
- During the informational briefing, you will be provided with a duffle bag that allows you to pack up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings. Our team will transport these duffle bags on cars throughout the entire trip, ensuring you have access to them at the campsites. This service enables you to hike comfortably with just your daypack. After completing your trek and returning to Cusco, you can easily leave the duffle bags at the Machu Picchu Team office for your convenience.
PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDE FOR THE SALKANTAY TREK AND MACHU PICCHU TOUR INCLUDED
- The Llactapata Trek is led by certified professional guides who are experts in mountain excursions, including the Llactapata itself. Our guides will accompany you throughout the entire trek and also provide a guided tour of Machu Picchu, following the circuit and schedule indicated on your ticket. Always equipped with a first aid kit and an oxygen tank, they are prepared to assist in case of any emergency. Additionally, our guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring an informative and safe experience.
MACHU PICCHU GUIDED TOUR
- Your package includes a scheduled 2-hour visit to Machu Picchu, featuring an immersive 2.5-hour guided tour led by one of our expert guides. This tour is designed to enhance your understanding of this historic site and is tailored to fit your ticket’s entry time and designated circuit.
- Following this engaging exploration, you’ll have 30 minutes of personal time to fully appreciate the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu before continuing your journey.
WHAT TYPE OF ACCOMMODATION IS INCLUDED IN THE 3-DAY LLACTAPATA TREK?
- The Llactapata Trek includes one night in the Star Domes, panoramic glass domes that offer a unique and immersive experience under the Andean skies. The second night is spent in a comfortable accommodation in Aguas Calientes, the base town for Machu Picchu.
- The Star Domes campsite is equipped with mattresses, pillows, and sleeping bags. Each dome is designed for two people but is spacious enough to accommodate three to four individuals comfortably. If you are traveling as a group of three or four and prefer to stay together, this arrangement can be made upon request. However, the standard setup is typically two people per dome for added comfort and privacy.
MEALS INCLUDED IN THE 3-DAY LLACTAPATA TREK
- The 3-Day Llactapata Trek includes 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners, all prepared by our expert chefs who accompany the group throughout the journey. We cater to a variety of dietary needs, offering vegan, vegetarian, and other special dietary options to accommodate restrictions.
- Our meals are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and are carefully designed to be nutritious and energy-boosting, ensuring you have the strength and stamina to enjoy the trek to the fullest.
ROUND-TRIP TRANSPORTATION FOR THE ZIPLINE AND HOT SPRINGS
- The Llactapata 3-Day Trek includes round-trip transportation to the zipline activity and the visit to the Santa Teresa Hot Springs. These transfers are fully arranged, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience as you enjoy these exciting and relaxing activities during your trek.
ZIPLINE IN LUCMABAMBA INCLUDED
- The zipline activity in Lucmabamba is fully included in the Llactapata 3-Day Trek. This exhilarating experience takes place after arriving in Santa Teresa, where you’ll enjoy 5 zipline cables stretching across breathtaking landscapes, as well as a thrilling Tibetan bridge crossing. This unforgettable adventure adds an exciting touch to your trek!
RETURN TRIP OPTIONS FROM MACHU PICCHU
- After your visit to Machu Picchu, you have two options for your return trip: by car or by train.
- Train Option: Typically, your train ticket will be scheduled for 2:30 p.m., 2:55 p.m., or 3:20 p.m., depending on availability. To reach the train station, you can either walk for about an hour or take a bus for $12. You’ll have some time to explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch, and relax. Please make sure to arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before your departure. The train ride to Ollantaytambo takes approximately 1.5 hours. Once you arrive, a transfer from Machu Picchu Team will be waiting for you with your name. You will then travel by car back to Cusco, which takes another 2 hours, with a drop-off at Plaza Regocijo. You can expect to return to Cusco around 6:30 p.m.
- Car Option: If you choose the car option, you will start with a 3-hour hike from Machu Picchu to the hydroelectric station. This trek should begin no later than 11:00 a.m. The hike consists of an initial 30-40 minute descent, followed by approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of flat walking along the train tracks. You should arrive at the hydroelectric station by 2:30 p.m. to catch the 3:00 p.m. car. The car journey back to Cusco will take around 6 to 7 hours, and you will arrive at approximately 10:00 p.m., with the final stop at Plaza Regocijo in the center of Cusco.
FREE STORAGE SERVICE
- If you have extra luggage and need a place to store it during your Salkantay Trek, Machu Picchu Team offers a complimentary storage service for all clients who book the tour with us.
- Our storage facility is conveniently located at our main office in the heart of Cusco, just a short walk from Plaza de Armas. The storage is available daily from 4:30 am to 10:00 pm, including Sundays. For security reasons, access outside these hours is not available.
VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN DINING
- We provide a selection of vegetarian and vegan meals, along with options to accommodate various dietary restrictions, including gluten-free choices. There is no additional cost for these modifications; simply inform us of your preferences when making your reservation.
EMERGENCY PROVISIONS
- To prepare for any urgent situations during tours, our guides carry essential emergency supplies. Each guide is equipped with an oxygen bottle and a fully stocked first aid kit to provide immediate assistance when needed.
Not Included
TREKKING POLES
What to Pack
What to Pack
LLACTAPATA TREK PACKING LIST
- Backpack: Bring a backpack to carry essentials like water, snacks, camera, sunscreen, valuables, a jacket, and other personal items.
- Sleeping bag: Ensure your sleeping bag is rated for at least -5°C.
- Trekking poles: If you have knee or ankle problems or are accustomed to using hiking poles, bring them along. If you don’t have any, rentals are available.
- Wool hat or cap: Protect your head from the cold with a warm hat or cap.
- Sun hat: A hat with a wide brim will protect your face and neck from the sun.
- Long-sleeved t-shirts (1-2): These provide better sun protection and warmth.
- Long pants: Leggings are also acceptable. Avoid cotton as it absorbs moisture.
- Hiking shoes: Wear comfortable and supportive footwear suitable for the trail.
- Wool socks (1-2 pairs): These help to keep your feet warm and dry.
- Rain gear: Bring a rain jacket, pants, and a poncho, especially during the rainy season. You can purchase a poncho if you don’t have one.
- Small towel: Useful for wiping sweat, washing your face, or drying off after a swim.
- Shorts: Bring lightweight, quick-drying shorts for warmer weather or when swimming.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun and glare.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the trek by carrying a reusable water bottle.
- Personal toiletries: Pack items like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and any other essentials.
- Toilet paper: It’s always handy to have your own roll of toilet paper for the trek.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from sunburn by using sunscreen with a high SPF.
- Insect repellent: Keep insects at bay with a suitable repellent.
- Sandals and flip-flops: These can be useful during downtime at the campsite or when visiting hot springs.
- Bathing suit: Bring one for swimming or visiting hot springs.
- Snacks: Pack snacks like chocolate, cereal bars, candies, dried fruits, or energy bars to keep your energy levels up during the trek.
- Extra money in Peruvian Soles: Bring some cash for emergencies, tips, or additional expenses.
- Original passport: Required for identification purposes during the trek and at Machu Picchu.
- Student ID: If you have booked the tour as a student, bring your student ID to prove your status at the Machu Picchu checkpoint.
Please remember that you will be provided with a duffel bag during the pre-trek briefing, where you can pack up to 7 kilograms of personal belongings. This bag will be carried by horses throughout the trek, and you will have access to it at the campsites.
Prices
Pricing
LLACTAPATA TREK 3D-2N PRICES (GROUP SERVICE) – 2025 & 2026 SEASON
The prices for the Llactapata Trek vary based on whether you are a student or an adult, and your chosen return option—by train or by car. Below, we outline the group service pricing details:
LLACTAPATA TREK 3D-2N WITH RETURN TO CUSCO BY CAR: +info
- STUDENT: $250 USD per person – (Valid student ID required)
- CHILD: $250 USD per person – (For visitors aged 8 to 17 years)
- ADULT: $270 USD per person
LLACTAPATA TREK 3D-2N WITH RETURN TO CUSCO BY TRAIN: +info
- STUDENT: $300 USD per person – (Valid student ID required)
- CHILD: $300 USD per person – (For visitors aged 8 to 17 years)
- ADULT: $320 USD per person
Check Student Price: +info
Addons & Upgrades
How to Book
How to Book with Machu Picchu Team
HOW TO BOOK THE LLACTAPATA TREK 3 DAYS & APPLICABLE TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
STEPS TO BOOK THE LLACTAPATA TREK
- Step 1:
Click the “BOOK ONLINE” button to check availability. You’ll be taken to the calendar and our booking platform. If your desired date is available, select it and proceed with your reservation. - Step 2:
Once you choose your date, you’ll be asked to select your return option (by car or by train), the number of participants, and the type of traveler (adult, student, or child). Then, you can choose whether to pay only the $180 deposit per person (non-refundable) or the full amount. Either option is available. - Step 3:
Next, fill out the personal information form for each participant, including: full name, passport number, WhatsApp number, hotel in Cusco, and more. - Step 4:
After that, you’ll be able to add optional extras if you wish, such as trekking poles, or entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Once you’ve selected any extras, continue to the next step. - Step 5:
Finally, you’ll be directed to the payment form. You can pay with any debit or credit card, and in some countries, bank transfers are also available. Payments by card include a 2.9% transaction fee, which is covered by the client. - Once your payment is completed, you’ll automatically receive a payment confirmation email. Within 24 hours, we’ll send you the final tour confirmation, including all details and your Machu Picchu entry tickets and train tickets, if applicable.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR BOOKING
To confirm your Llactapata Trek reservation, a non-refundable deposit of $180 USD per person is required. This amount secures your spot on the tour and is used to purchase your Machu Picchu entrance tickets.
Cancellations:
- If you decide to cancel your tour, the deposit will not be refunded. However, any tickets already purchased (such as the Machu Picchu entrance) can still be used by you on the original date for which they were issued, as tickets cannot be changed or refunded.
- If you paid the full amount for the tour and later cancel, you will receive a refund of the remaining balance, excluding the $180 USD deposit.
Date Changes:
- You may change your tour date as long as there is availability. Please note that new Machu Picchu and train tickets will need to be purchased for the new date, and you will be required to pay a new deposit of $180 USD per person to cover these additional costs.
Remaining Balance Payment:
- If you only paid the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid at least 24 hours before the tour starts. You can pay through:
- Our online booking platform
- Or in person at our offices in Cusco, in cash (USD or soles)
- Card payments are also accepted, with an additional 3.9% processing fee
Customer Support:
- For any changes, cancellations, or modifications to your reservation, please email us at: ? info@machupicchuteam.com
- If you contact us during business hours (7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.), one of our agents will respond immediately.
Gallery
Photo Gallery
Why Choose the 3-Day Llactapata Trek with Machu Picchu Team?
1. We are the only company offering this itinerary
The 3-Day Llactapata Trek is a truly special and different option, and Machu Picchu Team is the only company that offers this itinerary in this way. This program has been designed for travelers who want to enjoy a more authentic, less crowded experience that combines nature, adventure, culture, and history before arriving at Machu Picchu.
2. This tour includes one night in the Sky Star Crystal Domes in Lucmabamba
One of the main highlights of this tour is that it includes one night in our exclusive Sky Star Crystal Domes in Lucmabamba. These crystal domes offer a much more comfortable and unique experience, allowing you to rest surrounded by nature while enjoying panoramic views of the landscape. It is a different and memorable way to spend the night during your journey to Machu Picchu.
3. This tour includes the zipline activity in Lucmabamba
This tour also includes the exciting zipline activity in Lucmabamba, an ideal experience for travelers who want to add a touch of adrenaline to the journey. This activity allows you to enjoy impressive views of the valley from a different perspective, making the tour even more complete and fun.
4. You will have the opportunity to enjoy one of the best hot springs in the Cusco region
During the trek, you will also have the opportunity to relax in one of the best hot springs in the Cusco region. This is an excellent way to rest your body after the hike, enjoy the natural surroundings, and make the whole experience even more enjoyable. The combination of trekking, nature, and hot springs makes this tour much more complete.
5. Llactapata combines Inca ruins, the original Inca Trail, and a unique view of Machu Picchu
Llactapata is one of the most special places on this route because it combines three unique elements in a single experience:
- an important Inca archaeological site
- a section of the original Inca Trail
- and a view of Machu Picchu from a different, much less common, and more exclusive angle
This makes the Llactapata Trek a very special experience for travelers who want to explore a less traditional route with great scenic, cultural, and historical value.
A different experience before arriving at Machu Picchu
The 3-Day Llactapata Trek with Machu Picchu Team is not just a hike; it is an experience that combines adventure, relaxation, unique landscapes, special accommodation, and a much more original arrival to the Machu Picchu area. For that reason, it is one of the best options for travelers looking for something different and more complete.
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