Salkantay Trek with return train 4 Days 3 Nights

The Salkantay Trek with return train (4 Days, 3 Nights): Your Authentic Adventure from Cusco to Machu Picchu

If you’re seeking a trek that combines stunning scenery, cultural richness, and a sense of real adventure without the crowds of the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek might just be your perfect trip. For around $450 per person, this four-day journey takes you through some of Peru’s most breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to lush jungle, culminating at Machu Picchu. Guided by experienced local guides, the trek includes visits to Humantay Lagoon, crossing the Salkantay Pass, and finishing with a train ride into Aguas Calientes.

What we love most about this experience? First, the close-up encounters with diverse flora and fauna, which make every day feel alive and vibrant. Second, the unmatched views—think towering mountains, emerald valleys, and cloud forests—that transform with each step. One possible consideration is the roughness of some walking sections, especially on Day 2, which is the most demanding.

This trek is ideal for travelers who want a challenging but rewarding outdoor experience, appreciate authentic cultural rituals, and prefer a bit more solitude than the busy Inca Trail. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with multi-day hikes and want to see a side of Peru that few travelers get to experience.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From snowy mountain passes to lush jungles, each day offers new scenery.
• Authentic cultural moments: Participate in Andean rituals at the highest point of the trek.
• Excellent value: All essential park entries, camping gear, and transportation are included.
• Physical challenge: Especially Day 2, with 20 km of hiking and elevations up to 4,630 meters.
• Comfort and convenience: 2 nights camping, 1 night in Aguas Calientes, and all meals included.
• Authentic local cuisine: Enjoy delicious, hearty meals that keep you energized.

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A Closer Look at the Salkantay Trek: What to Expect

Starting Point: Cusco to Soraypampa and Humantay Lagoon

Your adventure begins early, with a pick-up from Cusco around 5:45 a.m., heading south toward Mollepata for breakfast after a 2-hour drive. We appreciated this part because it helped us shake off the city’s buzz and prepare for what’s ahead. From Mollepata, it’s just an hour’s drive to Soraypampa, where the real hiking begins.

The highlight of Day 1 is the ascent to Humantay Lagoon, a stunning turquoise spot framed by soaring mountains. The hike takes about 2 hours uphill, and the reward is worth every step—crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky, surrounded by wildflowers and dramatic peaks. We loved how the guide shared stories about local flora and fauna, making the walk both educational and scenic.

After descending back to Soraypampa, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch and some downtime before heading to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,630 meters. The feeling of standing above the clouds, with the towering Salkantay Mountain behind you, is unforgettable.

Day 2: The Most Demanding, But Most Rewarding

This is the toughest day—roughly 20 km of hiking and up to 8 hours on your feet, but also the most rewarding. The early morning begins with coca tea and a hot breakfast, designed to prepare you for the ascent. The climb to the Salkantay Pass takes about 3 hours, where you can participate in a small ritual honoring the mountain gods—an authentic moment of connection with local traditions.

Descending from the pass, the trail takes you through different ecosystems, with a notable change in scenery as you approach the jungle. The trail is steep and sometimes challenging, but the landscape shifts from rocky slopes to lush greenery. “The hardest part was definitely the 20 km day,” one reviewer mentioned, “but the views kept me going.”

You’ll camp at Chaullay, where the surrounding jungle and the beginning of the Amazon basin create a completely different atmosphere from the snowy mountains of the previous day.

Day 3: From Cloud Forest to Aguas Calientes

Day 3 offers a change of pace—less strenuous, more about enjoying lush landscapes. We enjoyed waking up to coca tea and a nourishing breakfast before walking about 5 hours to Sahuayaco beach, a peaceful spot along the river. From there, a local vehicle takes you to Santa Teresa for lunch, where the food is surprisingly good, with options available for vegetarians at no extra cost.

The last stretch involves a 3-hour walk along dirt roads to Hidroeléctrica, a scenic spot popular with hikers heading to Machu Picchu. Then, a scenic train ride brings you into the town of Aguas Calientes—the gateway to Machu Picchu. The convenience of the train makes up for the long day’s walk, and it’s a chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery rushing past.

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Day 4: The Iconic Machu Picchu

The final day begins early—after a quick breakfast, you’ll hike up to Machu Picchu. The journey from Aguas Calientes to the ruins involves a 30-minute walk to the entrance, plus an hour of climbing stairs. Arriving early means you beat the crowds and can enjoy the site with fewer visitors, which we highly recommend.

Your guided tour of Machu Picchu lasts about 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the iconic terraces, temples, and plazas. The guide shares fascinating insights into the site’s history and architecture, making the experience richer. Afterward, you have the choice to return to Cusco by train or bus, as included in the package, depending on your preference and schedule.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Meals, and Comfort

All transportation is arranged for your convenience, from the transfer to the trailhead to the train ride back from Aguas Calientes. The included meals—breakfasts, lunches, and dinners—are surprisingly good, with a focus on energy-rich traditional Peruvian dishes. We especially appreciated the delicious food and tapas offered during the trek, which kept us fueled for the demanding days.

Camping gear, including personal pillows and a first aid kit, is provided, making the outdoor nights comfortable enough. For those without a sleeping bag, rentals are available. The horses carrying 7 kilos of your belongings allow for a lighter, less stressful hike.

The guides, who speak both English and Spanish, are knowledgeable and approachable. Their explanations about local customs, flora, fauna, and mountain gods add depth to the experience.

What to Be Aware Of

• The second day is physically demanding—be prepared for a challenging ascent and descent.
• Some of the walking involves rough terrain and high altitudes, so good footwear and acclimatization are recommended.
• The service is subject to weather conditions; heavy rains or strikes could alter the itinerary, with no refunds for cancellations due to force majeure.

Who Should Consider This Trek?

This tour is best suited for travelers who are fit and adventurous, seeking a more authentic and less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail. If you’re comfortable with multi-hour hikes at high altitudes, and eager to experience a journey that combines spectacular scenery, local traditions, and authentic Peru, this is a great choice.

It’s also ideal if you enjoy outdoor camping and don’t mind spending nights under the stars, or if you want a good mix of hiking, cultural rituals, and comfort with organized meals and transportation.

Final Thoughts

The Salkantay Trek offers an impressive mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and physical challenge. It’s a chance to see Peru’s varied landscapes—from snowy peaks to jungle—while connecting with local traditions and enjoying delicious food along the way. The inclusion of guided tours, organized camping, and a train ride back makes it convenient and well-paced.

For travelers who value authentic experiences over touristy crowds, this trek provides a more intimate and rewarding adventure. It’s especially suited for those who don’t mind putting in some effort, knowing that the payoff is an unforgettable view of Machu Picchu, surrounded by mountains and stories.

FAQs

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
While the trek is accessible to most physically active travelers, Day 2’s long and high-altitude hike can be tough. Beginners should be prepared for a demanding day, and it’s recommended to have some prior hiking experience or good acclimatization.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available at no extra cost, and the guides are happy to accommodate dietary preferences if informed in advance.

What is included in the price?
Price covers all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), camping gear, guided tours, entrance tickets, transportation to the trailhead, and the train back from Aguas Calientes. Horses carry your 7 kilos of belongings.

Do I need to bring my own camping gear?
No, the trek provides tents, personal pillows, and basic camping equipment. If you don’t have a sleeping bag, rentals are available.

What’s the best time of year to do this trek?
While not explicitly stated, Peru’s dry season from May to September is generally best for trekking. Weather can impact the schedule, so check with the provider if traveling in rainy or storm-prone months.

How do I get to Cusco before the trek?
Most travelers arrive in Cusco beforehand by plane or bus. The tour starts from Cusco, so plan your arrival accordingly.

To sum it up, the Salkantay Trek with return train offers a well-rounded, authentic, and scenic adventure into Peru’s highlands and jungles. It’s an excellent choice for those craving a challenge, seeking cultural insights, and wanting a more intimate encounter with Peru’s stunning landscapes—and all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a determined beginner, this journey will leave you with memories of mountains, rituals, and the timeless wonder of Machu Picchu.

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