The Back Door to Machu Picchu: what you need to know

Avoid the crowds at Machu Picchu and enjoy the best of Peruvian nature: drive over high altitude mountain pass, relaz in local hot springs, explore small coffee plantations, and see distant views of  Machu Picchu from the secluded valley behind the ruins.  

Here's what you need to know:

• trip can be done in 3 days/2 nights or longer or shorter.  We adjust the ratio of hiking to driving depending on the number of days you have
• involves a combination of driving in a van as well as hiking.  You should be prepared to hike with at least a small backpack for short periods.
• choose hotels, rustic accommodations in jungle lodges or camp in tents.  We provide guide, driver, cook, equipment and porters if needed
• hikes can be modified to accommodate different needs 
• roads are subject to closure without notice during the rainy season.  

Day 1 - drive from Cusco to Santa Maria about 6-7 hrs.  Cross over 4350 m/14,272 ft Abra Malaga pass and descend into a semi-tropical zone where temperatures can easily reach 70s F or higher.  The activity of the day will begin depending on your interests and needs.  Afternoon hike to your jungle lodge (or camp) for overnight.  Cook prepares dinner.  
Day 2 - hike through canyon towards small village of Santa Teresa, home of the Banos Termales de Cocalmayo (hot springs)  Check in to small local hotel then drive about 10-15 minutes to hot springs.  Return to hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 3 - drive and hike part way to Hidroelectrico Train station where you bid farewell to your driver and cook who will drop you off and return to Cusco. The distance will vary from group to group and the amount of time it takes to walk to Aguas Calientes.  At least 2-4 hrs.  Check in to hotel & dine in restaurant of your choice.
Day 4 - take shuttle bus to Machu Picchu for guided tour of ruins followed by time to wander alone.  Take afternoon train back to your hotel in Cusco.  Travel time about 4-5 hours.  Arriving by 5-6 pm.  

Things to know about traveling to the back side of Machu Picchu:

• accommodations are basic.  even if  you stay in hotels with a private bath.  Jungle lodges may have rustic plumbing and limited or no electricity.  beds have linens with warm wool blankets for the cool nights.  or bring your own sleeping bag to use on top of the bed.  Superior or luxury accommodations are not available.
• it's possible that last minute road closures could cancel the trip especially towards the end of the rainy season in March.  We will do everything we can to reroute you through the Sacred Valley with alternative activities & keep you on track to see Machu Picchu. 
• June, July & August are dry season and temperatures at night could dip down to freezing.  
• views of the ruins are of the back, and you can only see the top of some of the structures.  this trip is not focused on the views of Machu Picchu. 

If you need more details about this mini-adventure to the back door of Machu Picchu, just ask. We are experts in all the different ways that people can get to Machu Picchu.