Salkantay Trek With Return Train 4 Days 3 Nights

Gather your courage and embark on a breathtaking journey through the Peruvian Andes, where the Salkantay Trek with Return Train awaits your discovery.

The Salkantay Trek with Return Train is an exciting 4-day adventure through the stunning Peruvian Andes. It’s a small-group trek that offers essential inclusions like Machu Picchu tickets and camping gear. Participants will experience challenging hikes, breathtaking landscapes, and culture. The trek culminates in an early morning guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, with the option to return comfortably by train. This unforgettable journey is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking an immersive Andean experience. But what makes this trek truly unique, and why should you consider it?

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Key Points

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  • The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day, 3-night adventure through the Peruvian Andes, with a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the final day.
  • The trek includes hiking to Humantay lagoon, ascending to Salkantay Pass, and participating in Andean rituals along the way.
  • Pricing for the small-group tour (max 15 participants) starts from $540 per person, with most meals, camping gear, and entrance to Machu Picchu included.
  • Accommodations consist of 2 nights camping and 1 night in Aguas Calientes, with transportation provided from the beach to Santa Teresa.
  • The trek is not suitable for those with mobility issues, low fitness levels, or pregnant women, and additional expenses may include tips and transportation from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
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Tour Overview and Pricing

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The Salkantay Trek is a 4-day, 3-night adventure that takes hikers on a stunning journey through the Peruvian Andes.

Priced from $540 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 15 participants) offers incredible value. Guided in English and Spanish, the trek includes an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, camping gear, and most meals.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy and book now, paying later.

With a mix of challenging hikes, cultural experiences, and the iconic Machu Picchu, this trek is a must-do for adventurous travelers seeking an unforgettable Andean adventure.

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Itinerary Highlights

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Kicking off the Salkantay Trek on day one, travelers begin their adventure with an early 5:30 am pickup.

After breakfast in Mollepata, they’ll hike to the stunning Humantay lagoon, spending 2 hours climbing uphill and 2 hours descending. The group then camps at the breathtaking Salkantay Pass.

Day two is the most challenging, reaching the highest point at 4,630m. Participants take part in an Andean ritual before descending to Chaullay at 2,900m.

The second day proves the most arduous, scaling 4,630m before descending to Chaullay at 2,900m, with an Andean ritual in between.

On day three, they’ll hike to Sahuayaco beach, take local transport to Santa Teresa and the Hydroelectric, then walk to Aguas Calientes.

The final day includes an early morning visit to Machu Picchu.

Inclusions and Accommodations

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The Salkantay Trek includes an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu as well as a briefing prior to departure. Hikers receive a duffel bag for 7 kilos of belongings, transported by horses. The trek is led by a professional guide who provides support in English and Spanish.

  • 2 nights camping, 1 night lodging in Aguas Calientes

  • 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners included

  • Transportation from beach to Santa Teresa provided

Additional expenses include tips, bus fares, and rental of sleeping bags. Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed on the trek.

Certain individuals, such as those with mobility issues or low fitness levels, may not be suitable for this challenge.

Important Information and Requirements

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Preparing for the Salkantay Trek requires some important considerations.

Travelers must bring a valid passport or ID, sun protection like a hat, and extra clothes. It’s also essential to have a camera and sufficient cash for incidentals.

The trek isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or individuals with recent surgeries or low fitness levels. Renting a sleeping bag is an option.

Additional expenses include tips, transport from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, and the return bus trip. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited.

Following these guidelines ensures a successful and memorable Salkantay adventure.

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Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantay Pass

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Starting the day bright and early, the group departs Cusco at 5:30 am for the drive to Mollepata, where they enjoy a hearty breakfast.

The day’s hike begins with a two-hour ascent to the stunning Humantay lagoon, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. After taking in the breathtaking views, the group descends and continues the journey to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,630 meters.

Along the way, they witness an Andean ritual, a meaningful cultural experience. As the sun sets, the group sets up camp at the Salkantay Pass, ready to tackle the next day’s challenges.

  • Hike to the iconic Humantay lagoon

  • Ascend to the highest point of the trek at Salkantay Pass

  • Participate in an Andean ritual along the way

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Day 2: Salkantay Pass – Wuayracmachay – Camp Chaullay

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Conquering the day’s most grueling segment, the group tackles the trek to Salkantay Pass, the highest point at 4,630 meters. They participate in an Andean ritual, seeking blessings for the journey ahead.

The descent to Camp Chaullay at 2,900 meters is no easy feat, with rocky terrain and steep inclines testing their endurance. But the breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and lush, verdant valleys make the challenge worthwhile.

Reaching Chaullay, the weary trekkers can rest their tired muscles, refuel, and prepare for the next day’s adventure along the Salkantay trail.

Day 3: Chaullay – Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

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After a challenging day reaching the Salkantay Pass, the trekkers descend to Chaullay, where they can rest their weary legs and refuel.

The third day of the trek takes them through some stunning landscapes:

  • Hiking to the Sahuayaco beach, a 5-hour journey through lush vegetation and river crossings

  • Transferring by local transport to Santa Teresa, then on to the Hydroelectric station

  • Walking the final 3 hours to reach the charming town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu

This day offers a mix of hiking, transportation, and preparation for the grand finale at the iconic Inca citadel.

Day 4: Machu Picchu – Cusco

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With an early morning start, the trekkers make their way to the Machu Picchu checkpoint to begin their guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel.

They’ll explore the ruins and learn about the site’s history and significance from their knowledgeable guide.

After the 2-hour tour, they’ll have the option to return to Cusco by train or bus.

The train offers a scenic ride through the Sacred Valley, while the bus provides a more direct route.

Whichever option they choose, it’ll be a comfortable journey back to the starting point, where they can reflect on their incredible Salkantay Trek experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Stay an Extra Night in Aguas Calientes?

Yes, you can stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes if you wish. Simply let the tour operator know, and they can adjust the package to accommodate your request for an additional night in the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

Do I Need to Purchase Additional Train Tickets?

The itinerary includes return train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Cusco, so no additional train tickets need to be purchased. However, if you’d like to stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes, you’ll need to book that separately.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Trek?

The trek isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, wheelchair users, recent surgery patients, people with low fitness levels, or those over 95 years old. Aside from that, there are no specific age restrictions for this trek.

Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear?

Yes, you can bring your own camping gear on the Salkantay Trek. The tour operator provides a duffel bag for 7 kilos of belongings, but you’re welcome to use your own sleeping bag, hiking shoes, and other personal camping equipment if you prefer.

What Happens if I Get Altitude Sickness During the Trek?

If you experience altitude sickness, the guide will monitor your condition closely. They’ll provide oxygen and assistance as needed, and can arrange for emergency transport if required to ensure your safety and well-being during the trek.

The Sum Up

The Salkantay Trek with Return Train is an unforgettable adventure that takes you through the stunning Peruvian Andes. With challenging hikes, breathtaking landscapes, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu, this trek offers an unparalleled culture and a comfortable return journey by train, making it a must-do for adventurous travelers. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the heart of the Andes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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