Santa Maria

Santa Maria is a small, lush town in the Quillabamba valley, situated where the Andean highlands transition into the subtropical jungle along the route to Machu Picchu. At approximately 1,500 meters elevation, this warm and humid town is a welcome rest stop for trekkers on the Salkantay Trek and other alternative routes, offering a dramatic change in scenery from the high mountain passes to tropical vegetation, coffee plantations, and fruit orchards.

What to Experience

Santa Maria is surrounded by coffee and cacao farms where travelers can learn about organic cultivation and taste freshly roasted coffee. The area is known for its natural hot springs, tropical bird species, and the stunning Cocalmayo hot springs nearby. The town serves as a transit point between the mountain section and jungle section of several trek routes to Machu Picchu.

Tours with Wonders of Peru

Wonders of Peru Expeditions passes through Santa Maria on our Salkantay Trek and alternative Machu Picchu routes. We include visits to local coffee farms, time at the hot springs, and comfortable overnight stays that let you experience the warmth and hospitality of this jungle town before continuing your journey to Machu Picchu.