Trekking the Salkantay Trail: A Peruvian Adventure with Friends

A Day of Turquoise Dreams and Stone Whispers

Today, the Salkantay Trail gifted us with moments of breathtaking beauty and intriguing history. It was a day where the vibrant turquoise waters of Humantay Lake met the ancient, whispering stones of Sayacmarca. The altitude challenged us, but the rewards were immeasurable.

Our day began early, as is typical on the trail, with a hearty breakfast at Julian Restaurant. Fueled up, we set off towards the legendary Humantay Lake. The crisp morning air nipped at our faces, but the anticipation of seeing the turquoise waters kept our spirits high. The hike itself was a bit of a challenge, especially with the altitude, but taking it slow and steady, with plenty of water, made it manageable. I even remembered to pack an extra pair of socks today, learning from yesterday’s slight mishap! The trail, while well-trodden, presented a moderate challenge, a fact well-documented by other adventurers who've made this pilgrimage.

As we ascended, the views became increasingly spectacular. The towering peaks of the Andes, dusted with snow, framed the landscape. It was a reminder of the sheer scale and majesty of this part of the world. Finally, after a good couple of hours of hiking, we reached Humantay Lake, and I must say, the pictures don't do it justice. The water was an unbelievable shade of turquoise, a vibrant jewel nestled amongst the rugged mountains. The Humantay Glacier fed the lake, giving it that incredible color and an almost ethereal quality.
The crisp mountain air, the stunning glacial landscape, and the serene ambiance created a perfect spot for reflection and photography. I took some time to simply sit by the shore, soaking in the beauty and the tranquility. It was a moment of pure peace, a chance to escape the noise and chaos of everyday life and connect with nature on a deeper level. Greta would have loved this view; I made a mental note to find a similar spot for us to visit in the Alps sometime. I even saw a few brave souls taking a dip in the freezing water – needless to say, I admired their courage from the shore!


Experience the breathtaking turquoise waters and majestic peaks at Humantay Lake, a must-visit natural wonder in the Peruvian Andes.

The mountains whisper, the lake glistens, and the soul finds its peace.

After spending a good amount of time at Humantay Lake, we began our descent and made our way to Hacienda Huayoccari for lunch. This was not just a meal; it was an experience. The hacienda itself is steeped in history, a beautiful colonial building surrounded by lush gardens. We enjoyed a traditional Peruvian lunch, savoring the flavors of the region while surrounded by art and history. It felt like stepping back in time, a welcome respite after our morning hike. I learned that the Hacienda has been in the Lámbarri Orihuela Family for a hundred years. The family has worked its lands and looked after this farming estate devoted during centuries to the renowned giant white corn.

In the afternoon, we journeyed to Sayacmarca, an ancient Inca site perched high on a rocky hill. The name Sayacmarca means inaccessible town in Quechua, and it certainly lived up to its name. The ruins are located 20 kilometers from Machu Picchu. Exploring the ruins, I couldn't help but marvel at the ingenuity and skill of the Inca people. The stonework was incredible, and the location, with its panoramic views, was simply breathtaking. It is believed that Sayacmarca was a village and a sacred area dedicated to the mountains. It might also have served as a military outpost, ceremonial site, and resting place for pilgrims en route to Machu Picchu.

Explore Sayacmarca, a hidden Incan archaeological site along the Inca Trail, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into ancient history.
As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the mountains, we made our way to Taywa for dinner. After a satisfying meal, some of us decided to check out the Velvet Lounge for a nightcap. Sipping on a Pisco Sour, I reflected on the day's adventures. It was a day of contrasts – the vibrant turquoise of Humantay Lake, the ancient stones of Sayacmarca, the physical challenge of the hike, and the peaceful moments of reflection. It was a day that reminded me why I love to travel, to explore, and to connect with the world around me.

Tomorrow, we continue our trek, heading towards Rodadero and the Ruinas de Qhalispuqyo. I’m looking forward to uncovering more of Peru's hidden gems and sharing them with you all. I am also planning to do some souvenir shopping at Inspira Peru. I have to get something for Greta and Lila!

Until then, safe travels!