The Call of the Savage Mountain

As a biologist and environmental activist, the allure of the Salkantay Trek was irresistible. The promise of diverse ecosystems and striking views, combined with the opportunity to visit the iconic Machu Picchu, was a siren call I couldn’t ignore. The journey began in Cusco, where the air was thick with anticipation and the scent of adventure. Our guide, a seasoned trekker, met us with a warm smile and a reassuring presence. The night before our departure, we gathered for a briefing, where we were advised on what to carry for the trek. This preparation was invaluable, especially as I was traveling with my 12-year-old son, eager to explore the wonders of the Andes.

The first day of the trek was a gradual ascent through the Salkantay Valley. The landscape was a tapestry of alpine views, with the towering peaks of Humantay and Salkantay standing sentinel over our journey. The air was crisp, and the sound of waterfalls provided a soothing soundtrack to our hike. As we reached Salkantay Pampa, the views of the glacier peak were breathtaking. It was here that I felt the true power of nature, a reminder of why I dedicate my life to conservation. Our trekking chef prepared a hearty lunch, and as we rested, I marveled at the beauty surrounding us. The day ended at Wayracmachay, where the sunset painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, a perfect backdrop for the condors soaring above.

Into the Heart of the Andes

The second day greeted us with the sunrise over glacier peaks, a sight that filled me with awe and gratitude. The micro-climate shifted as we descended into the cloud forest, a lush, green paradise teeming with life. Orchids, ferns, and begonia flowers lined our path, and hummingbirds flitted above, their iridescent feathers catching the light. This was a biologist’s dream, a living laboratory of biodiversity. Our guide’s knowledge of the flora and fauna enriched the experience, and I found myself sharing stories of the Amazon with fellow trekkers, drawing parallels between these two incredible ecosystems.

As we continued our descent, we entered the tropical forest, where local farmers cultivated coffee, passion fruit, and avocados. The scent of ripe fruit filled the air, and we were treated to a visit at an organic coffee farm. Here, we tasted freshly brewed coffee, a testament to the rich agricultural heritage of the region. The day ended at La Loreta, where we were welcomed with open arms by our trekking staff. The evening was spent exploring the ecological garden, a reminder of the importance of sustainable practices in preserving these precious landscapes.

The Final Ascent to Machu Picchu

The final day of our trek was the most anticipated, as we made our way towards the legendary Machu Picchu. The path led us through the Santa Teresa valley, offering glimpses of the Lost City of the Incas. As we climbed the Inca trail, the views were nothing short of spectacular. The Llactapata Inca site provided our first sight of Machu Picchu, a moment that took my breath away. The ruins stood majestically against the backdrop of the Andes, a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Inca civilization.

Our guide shared stories of the Incas, their connection to the land, and their understanding of the cosmos. As we explored the site, I felt a deep sense of connection to the past, a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural and natural heritage. The trek concluded with a visit to Aguas Calientes, where we celebrated our journey with a final dinner. As I reflected on the experience, I was filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share this adventure with my son, to witness the beauty of the Andes, and to be reminded of the vital role we all play in protecting our planet for future generations.