A true Andean odyssey, this 4-day trek through the dramatic Cordillera Vilcabamba is a wonderful alternative for those who want to take a less-traveled and exceptionally beautiful route to Machu Picchu. Mount Salkantay is the 2nd largest mountain in the entire Cusco area (2nd only to the mighty Mount Ausangate) and is said to be the "guardian" that stands between the mountains and the jungle. Crossing over a pass between the peaks of the immense mountains, Salkantay (6270m) and Humantay (6070m), you will get to see some spectacular views of the glacial monsters and the sprawling valleys that they stand over. The great thing about this particular trek, that none of the other treks can offer (including the Inca Trail) is that you get to see so many different microclimates in such a short amount of time. You will start on day 1, in the high plateau area of the Andes. Then, on day 2, you will start the day in the plateaus, then go up to an altitude of 4,650 meters (forementioned pass) and then down into the lush outer rim of the jungle on the other side of the mountains. You can actually see the microclimates changing before your eyes.