Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days (Return by Train)

Planning a trek to Machu Picchu? The Salkantay Trek offers a compelling alternative to the famous Inca Trail, blending impressive scenery, cultural experiences, and a sense of adventure. This 4-day journey, provided by OkiDoki Travel, has garnered glowing reviews for its well-organized logistics, knowledgeable guides, and authentic local flavor. At a price point of around $589 per person, it promises a memorable, high-quality experience without breaking the bank.

What makes this trek stand out? First, its focus on stunning landscapes—snow-capped mountains and lush jungle—delivered by a knowledgeable team. Second, the cultural touchstones, like the traditional Andean ceremony at Salkantay Pass, enrich the trek beyond just hiking. That said, the long daily hikes and altitude challenges could be demanding for some, so fitness and preparation are key. The trek is ideal for those craving more than just the classic tourist circuit and who want an immersive adventure with plenty of genuine moments.

Key Points

• High praise for guides’ knowledge, kindness, and attentiveness
• Spectacular scenery including snow-covered mountains and jungle landscapes
• Well-organized logistics and good value for money
• Authentic camping experience with comfortable, well-managed campsites
• Delicious, plentiful meals prepared by skilled cooks
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness

An Honest Look at the Salkantay Trek Experience

If you’re considering a trek leading to Machu Picchu but want to avoid the crowds and over-touristy routes, the Salkantay Trek is a fantastic choice. It combines challenging hikes, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of local culture, all wrapped into a manageable four-day itinerary. Based on reviews and detailed itineraries, here’s what you can expect from this well-regarded tour.

The Starting Point: Cusco to Mollepata

The adventure begins early, with pickup from your Cusco hotel between 4:20 and 4:50 am—a very civilised hour considering the epic day ahead. The initial drive takes about two hours to Mollepata, a small town at 2,900 meters (9,514 ft). This lays the ground for your physical and mental preparation as you start gaining altitude. The first stop is for a quick rest, then the journey continues towards Challacancha—the trailhead at 3,600 meters (11,500 ft).

The drive itself is scenic, setting the tone for the trip with views of mountains and fertile valleys. Once you arrive at Soraypampa, your base for the first night, you’ll have a chance to soak in the panoramic mountain vistas, including the snow-covered Humantay peak. The approximately six-hour travel from Cusco to Soraypampa gives you plenty of time to acclimate before your first hike.

Day 1: From Soraypampa to Challacancha and Mollepata

While the itinerary suggests a transition from the drive to hiking, it’s the initial exploration of the high Andean landscape that gets you excited. The day is mostly about traveling to the start point, with a short rest at Mollepata. The highlight here is the gradual ascent through varied terrain, with the option to marvel at the snow-capped peaks above.

Day 2: The Challenge of Salkantay Pass

This is the toughest day—no doubt. You’ll need to wake early, with breakfast at 5:30 am, to start the 6:00 am trek. The day’s main event is the ascent to Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters (15,190 ft)—the highest point of the trek. The climb takes about three hours, and the physical exertion is rewarded with an authentic Andean ceremony at the pass, a unique cultural touch that adds meaning to the ascent.

We loved the way the guides incorporated local traditions, making it more than just a hike. The descent to Huayrapunku (3,912 meters) offers spectacular views, and the rest of the day continues with a manageable downhill to the second campsite in Chaullay. Expect a roughly nine-hour day filled with awe-inspiring vistas, lush flora, and a sense of accomplishment.

Day 3: Jungle and Coffee – A Change of Scenery

From high mountains to verdant jungle, this day offers a delightful contrast. The trek starts early, with breakfast at 6:30 am, as you descend into the lush lower elevations. You’ll pass rivers, waterfalls, and plantations of orchids, cocoa, coffee, and bananas. This stretch is described as a highlight for many, with reviews praising the flora and fauna, including hummingbirds, parrots, and the cock-of-the-rock.

The journey takes you to Sahuayo Beach (2,064 meters), where you’ll have lunch. Afterwards, a bus ride takes you to Hydroelectric—a popular stop for trekkers heading to Machu Picchu. The final part involves a scenic hike from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll stay overnight in a private hostel, offering a comfortable respite after three intense days.

Day 4: Machu Picchu and Return by Train

The final day begins early, with a 4:00 am departure from Aguas Calientes. The walk to Machu Picchu is a half-hour flat climb, and arriving around sunrise gives you a chance to witness the iconic site bathed in early morning light—an experience many reviewers describe as magical. You’ll have about two hours of guided exploration, with free time afterward for personal discovery.

After soaking in the history, the descent takes you back down to the town of Hot Waters, where you’ll board your train for the return to Cusco. The whole experience is designed to maximize your time exploring the archaeological wonder while offering a comfortable end to your adventure.

What Travelers Say

The glowing reviews from previous trekkers highlight several recurring themes:

• Expert guides like Guillermo and Wilbur are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the journey both educational and fun. One reviewer said Guillermo “kept morale high and made us feel very welcome and safe,” which is exactly what you want from a guide in a challenging environment.
• The scenery is frequently described as “stunning,” with many noting the snow-capped mountains, lush jungle, and waterfalls. Several reviews mention how the trek surpasses expectations in visuals, making each difficult step worth it.
• The meals prepared along the way get rave reviews for their quality, quantity, and variety. A reviewer highlighted the chef, Ronald, calling his food “incredible, big portions,” even as a vegetarian. The inclusion of hot drinks and the friendly staff really enhance the experience.
• Value for money is another recurring theme. For just under $600, travelers seem to feel they get a comprehensive experience that includes professional guides, all camping gear, meals, entrance tickets, and transport.
• The campsites are generally described as comfortable and well-managed, making camping a highlight rather than a hardship.

Considerations for potential trekkers

While the trek is highly praised, it’s important to acknowledge that the daily hikes are long and at high altitude. The second day, in particular, demands physical stamina and acclimatization. Travelers with moderate fitness levels and some experience with altitude will find it manageable, but absolute beginners should prepare accordingly.

The additional costs—such as optional extras for Huayna Picchu or extra meals—are not included, so budget accordingly. Also, the non-refundable policy might be a concern for some, so securing travel insurance or flexible bookings may be wise.

Deep Dive: Logistics, Details, and Value

The transport arrangements are straightforward but well considered. Starting with an early morning pickup from Cusco, the tour takes you into the heart of the Andes, skipping the crowded Inca Trail but offering equally impressive scenery. The group size of up to 15 travelers helps maintain intimacy and personalized attention.

The 4-day itinerary strikes a balance between adventure and comfort. It includes all necessary gear—like a duffel bag for your equipment, sleeping bags, and tents—making it easier to focus on the trekking rather than logistics. The guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for international travelers.

Food is consistently commended, with local cooks serving hearty meals that fuel you for each day’s exertion. Camps are described as clean and comfortable, with some reviews mentioning the availability of hot drinks at night further adding to the cozy atmosphere after a long day.

The return train from Aguas Calientes to Cusco is a highlight, providing a relaxing and scenic end to the trek. The package includes transportation, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, and a guided tour—covering the essentials while allowing some personal exploration time.

The true value

At $589, this trek offers a comprehensive package—guides, meals, equipment, transport, and Machu Picchu entry—at a price that beats many alternatives, especially considering the quality of the reviews. Some may find that paying extra for optional upgrades or additional excursions (like Huayna Picchu) can enhance the experience, but even without these, many travelers report that it’s an excellent value.

Who Should Consider This Trek?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want more than just a touristy visit to Machu Picchu. It appeals to those comfortable with physical activity and altitude, eager to see diverse landscapes, and interested in engaging with local culture. The trek’s small group size fosters camaraderie and personalized attention, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small groups alike.

If you’re looking for an authentic, scenic, and well-organized adventure that combines challenging hikes with cultural insights and delicious food, the Salkantay Trek provided by OkiDoki Travel ticks all these boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
The trek requires moderate physical fitness, as it involves several long days of hiking at high altitude. Travelers should be prepared for rugged conditions and possibly some altitude sickness symptoms.

What is included in the price?
The package covers entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, detailed pre-departure information, equipment like a duffel bag and sleeping bag, professional guides (English and Spanish), all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), camping gear, and transportation including the return train from Aguas Calientes.

Are hotels included?
Yes, you will stay overnight in a private hostel in Aguas Calientes, providing a comfortable resting spot before visiting Machu Picchu.

What about optional extras?
Extras like entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, trekking poles, or additional meals are not included and should be booked separately if desired.

How is the food?
The food is highly praised for being plentiful, delicious, and suitable even for vegetarians. Cook Ronald is frequently commended for his culinary skills.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly, personalized atmosphere.

What kind of scenery can I expect?
Expect a mix of snow-capped mountains, lush jungle, rivers, waterfalls, and local plantations—each day offering different stunning vistas.

Is transportation reliable?
Transport from Cusco to the start of the trek and from the final destination back to Cusco is included, with well-organized pickups and drop-offs.

Can I customize this experience?
While the tour is set, optional activities like extra days or specific mountain climbs can sometimes be added—though these require separate arrangements.

Final Thoughts

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with OkiDoki Travel offers an exceptional blend of adventure, cultural richness, and scenic beauty at a very competitive price. Guided by passionate, knowledgeable staff and supported by excellent logistics, this trek stands out as a highly trusted choice for those seeking a genuine, immersive experience beyond the typical crowds.

You’ll love the stunning landscapes, the warm camaraderie, and the delicious food that make each day memorable. The authentic camping experience adds a layer of adventure, while the well-organized itinerary ensures you’re well cared for along the way. If you’re prepared for some exertion and altitude, this trek will reward you with some of the most impressive sights in Peru—culminating in the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.

Who is it best for?

Active travelers who appreciate nature, culture, and a challenge will find this trek fulfilling. It’s also ideal for those wanting an authentic experience that combines adventure with comfort. If you’re on a budget but refuse to compromise on quality, this tour offers fantastic value and unforgettable memories.