After three challenging days on the Salkantay Trek, day 4 brings the exciting journey of hiking to Aguas Calientes from Hidroelectrica, following the historic railway trail that leads to Machu Picchu. This detailed guide shares our personal experience of this fascinating day.
Morning in Santa Teresa Hot Springs
The day began with heavy rainfall after 3 AM, making us grateful we hadn’t stayed at Llactapata as originally planned of Day 3. We later met other trekkers who described their challenging descent through water-logged trails. Though we hoped for a final morning soak in the hot springs, we found the pools under maintenance until 10 AM.
Special Breakfast Send-off
Our incredible chef Julio surprised us with a celebratory cake decorated with “Alpaca welcomes you to Machu Picchu!” Guide Francisco distributed portions as we prepared for our final hiking day from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes.
Complete Guide to Hiking to Aguas Calientes
Essential Route Information
- Total Distance: 10 kilometers
- Hiking Duration: 3 hours average
- Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
- Terrain: Flat, following railway tracks
- Historical Significance: Same route used by Professor Bingham in 1911
The Journey Begins at Hidroelectrica
After breakfast, we boarded our minibus for the drive along the roaring Urubamba River to Hidroelectrica station. This marks the starting point of the most accessible section of the Salkantay Trek to Aguas Calientes.
Railway Trail Experience
The path from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes stands out as the busiest section of the Salkantay Trek. Key highlights include:
Notable Views
- Multiple angles of Machu Picchu
- Historic Inca Bridge on the mountainside
- Vibrant bougainvillea flowers
- Scenic railway bridges
- Urubamba River valley
Trail Features
- Well-maintained path alongside railway tracks
- Regular rest stops and small restaurants
- Frequent train passings
- Mixed crowd of trekkers and day visitors
Local Insight
Many tourists choose this route in reverse after visiting Machu Picchu to save money. While the tourist train costs $150 round-trip to Cusco, the minibus from Hidroelectrica costs just 100 soles ($30).
Our packed lunch included:
- Freshly prepared fried rice
- Roasted chicken
- Local avocados (notably larger than imported varieties)
- Trail snacks and drinks
Arriving in Aguas Calientes
The approach to Aguas Calientes reveals a bustling tourist town, complete with:
- Regular Machu Picchu shuttle buses (every 5 minutes)
- Mix of local and tourist restaurants
- Various accommodation options
- Both Peru Rail and Inca Rail stations
Accommodation Experience
We checked into our upgraded hotel, featuring:
- Clean, newly renovated rooms
- Comfortable amenities
- Strategic location for next day’s Machu Picchu visit
Evening Highlights
Farewell Dinner
Our final trek dinner showcased Chef Julio’s culinary skills:
- Fried stuffed plantains
- Chicken in aji sauce with peanut butter
- Lomo Saltado (Peruvian-Chinese fusion beef stir-fry)
Trek Team Appreciation
We held a farewell ceremony with our chef and porters, thanking them for their incredible service. The porters from Alpaca Expeditions, as young as 18, had handled everything from carrying gear to setting up camp and helping in the kitchen. We tipped the porters 80 soles each and Chef Julio 160 soles, with an extra $10 for his outstanding culinary creativity – every meal was unique over our four days!
Essential Tips for Hiking Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes
Planning Advice
- Start Early
- Avoid afternoon heat
- Better photography conditions
- More flexible pace
- Pack Smart
- Water and snacks
- Rain protection
- Camera
- Cash for stops and tips
- Know the Route
- Follow railway safely
- Watch for train schedules
- Use rest stops strategically
- Budget Considerations
- Carry cash for tips
- Plan for final dinner
- Consider return transport options
Next: Preparing for our early morning ascent to Machu Picchu!
