What if your next adventure could do more than take you somewhere new—what if it could create lasting change?
That’s exactly what the Salkantay Trek Challenge is all about. Operated by Good Life Expeditions, this 5-day journey through Peru isn’t just a physical feat—it’s a charity challenge that raises critical funds for MEDLIFE’s Moving Mountains Program. Your effort supports real, sustainable development in communities impacted by poverty. And yes, you’ll finish with a sunrise view of Machu Picchu.
So if you’re looking for a meaningful hike to Machu Picchu, keep reading—we’re walking you through the experience, step by step.
Why Choose the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of Peru’s most scenic and rewarding routes—and it’s far less crowded than the classic Inca Trail. As you hike, you’ll pass through glacial mountain passes and cultural landmarks, lush cloud forests, and remote Andean villages that most travelers never get to experience.
But what makes this trek truly unique is its purpose. From your first day in Cusco to your final steps at Machu Picchu, you’re part of something bigger. Your registration and fundraising directly support long-term infrastructure projects like staircases, schools, and clean water systems in the same communities you’ll learn about along the way.
This isn’t just a trip—it’s a chance to make a meaningful impact.
What Is a Charity Challenge?
Let’s talk about what we mean by a “charity challenge”. At MEDLIFE, we define it as an adventure-driven fundraiser that combines physical goals with global change.
You sign up for the challenge, commit to a fundraising goal, and prepare for the trek. In the process, you raise awareness and support for access to education and infrastructure in underserved communities. And when it’s time to go, you don’t just travel—you connect, learn, and advocate along the way.
If you’re part of a school or university, Engaged Education’s group travel programs make it easy to integrate this kind of immersive experience into a student-led initiative.
Before the Trek: Cusco & the MEDLIFE Reality Tour
Your adventure starts in Cusco, where you’ll spend your first two days. This isn’t just a sightseeing stop—it’s where you’ll experience the MEDLIFE Reality Tour, a meaningful introduction to the communities we partner with.
You’ll meet local leaders, visit development sites, and learn about the challenges facing families in this region. It’s an eye-opening, human-centered look at why this work matters—and why your role in it is so important.
Plus, you’ll get time for last-minute gear checks, cultural exploration, and a full trek briefing with your guides.
Trek Breakdown: Day-by-Day on the Trail
Here’s what to expect on the Salkantay Trek Challenge:
Day 3: Let the Journey Begin
You’ll start hiking through high-altitude terrain, surrounded by stunning views of the Andes. This is a big moment—you’re doing something powerful, for yourself and for others.
Day 4: The Glacier and the Summit
This is the toughest day physically, but also the most rewarding. You’ll climb past the snow-capped Salkantay Glacier, reaching the highest point of the trek. Take a moment—you’re standing where few ever go.
Day 5: Into the Cloud Forest
As you descend, the landscape shifts dramatically. The air gets warmer, and the trail winds through Peru’s lush cloud forest, full of wildlife and tropical plants.
Day 6: Aguas Calientes
You’ll arrive in Aguas Calientes, the base town below Machu Picchu. Time to rest, refuel, and get excited for tomorrow.
Day 7: Sunrise at Machu Picchu
Wake up early—you’ll enter the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu at sunrise. It’s hard to describe this moment. Just know it stays with you.
Day 8: Celebrate & Explore
Back in Cusco, you’ll have the day free to celebrate or opt into other adventures like Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake.
Day 9: Head Home
Transfer to the airport, full of stories, memories, and maybe a little soreness. But also pride—you did something incredible.
Why Join the MEDLIFE Salkantay Trek Challenge?
Here’s why this challenge is unlike any other:
- Trek with purpose – Every dollar you raise supports real infrastructure projects through the Moving Mountains Program.
- Learn and connect – Through the Reality Tour, you’ll get to know the people and communities your work supports.
- Reach Machu Picchu – And do it in a way that’s immersive, ethical, and meaningful.
Engaged Education – Transformative Educational Travel Experiences
The Salkantay Trek Challenge is so much more than a hike to Machu Picchu—it’s a journey grounded in learning, service, and global impact. Together with Good Life Expeditions and MEDLIFE, we’re making travel matter.
Ready to start your own Charity Challenge? Download the Engaged Education Brochure to get all the details.
