We will depart from Cusco and head towards Challacancha (3400m/11154ft), passing through the charming village of Mollepata (3000m/9843ft), where we can make a brief stop to stretch our legs and take in the early morning views of the countryside. Upon reaching Challacancha, we will meet our horsemen and the rest of the trekking group, marking the official start of our adventure.

Our hike begins in a magnificent valley, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. As we trek, we will be surrounded by the towering, snow-capped peaks of Humantay (5217m/17116ft) and Salkantay (6264m/20551ft), which provide a breathtaking backdrop. The crisp mountain air and the pristine beauty of these peaks make for an inspiring start to our journey.

Our campsite for the night will be at Soraypampa (3700m/12139ft), a scenic location that offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In the afternoon, there is an optional hike to the stunning Humantay Lake, a turquoise gem nestled high in the mountains. This hike provides an opportunity to explore more of the region's natural beauty and to acclimate further to the altitude.