You need your passport to enter Peru. For the Salkantay Trekking, it is also necessary. Certain sites won’t let you in without it and it’s always a good idea to take it with you in case of an emergency.
At the briefing the night before the hike. You will be provided with a duffel bag. Here, you will pack all your clothes and trekking essentials. It has a maximum permitted weight of 15.4 lbs.
Sleeping is one of the most important things during the Salkantay Trekking. Having a sleeping bag that can provide comfort, warmth and protection is essential to have a unique experience.
Walking poles are an optional item, but are generally recommended. Because they can really help with the heavy impact on the knees and ankles by up to 20% during these multi-day hikes.
We’ll carry your duffel bag for you, which means all you need to pack for the day is a backpack. You want it to be lightweight and only hold the essentials: snacks, water, camera, sunscreen, etc.
There is always the possibility of rain when doing the Salkantay Trekking, especially during the rainy season (October-March). You should bring a jacket for maximum protection from the rain.
The outer layer is usually made up of a windproof, waterproof, and importantly, warm jacket and pants. These items are essential in the colder parts of the Salkantay Trekking at high altitudes.
Under the outer layer, you need a warm second layer to insulate you, which is why we call it the insulation layer. Fleece material is the best for this. Because the material is lightweight.
This is sometimes referred to as the next-to-skin or first layer—here, we’ll call it the base layer. This is essential when you reach higher parts of the Salkantay Trekking, where it gets very cold.
You’ll need to bring a trekking shirt for every day of the trek. We highly recommend these breathable and lightweight shirts. Since they are usually used during the day and more so on a sunny day.
Another extremely comfortable garment that you need for the walk through the Salkantay are trekking pants. One is enough if the trek is less than 4 days. If it’s for multiple days, bring two.
Like your outer jacket, the outer gloves are like a shield that protects you from the rains and cold of the Salkantay Trekking. They should be warm, waterproof, and durable.
A hiking hat is a must on the Salkantay Trekking. You’re extremely close to the sun here and need to protect your face and neck from the UV rays. You can burn in minutes if you aren’t protected.
The head accessory is a headband or hat to withstand the sub-zero temperatures of the evenings and early mornings. As you reach higher altitudes, you will feel your head getting cold very quickly.
A neckband or balaclava to keep your neck and face warm when temperatures drop below freezing is another Salkantay Trekking essential. We strongly advise taking one fleeced buff and one thin buff.
In Peru, ultraviolet rays are very strong. And more on the Salkantay Trekking, you will reach even higher. You must wear a quality pair of sunglasses with UV protection (minimum 80% light reduction).
The most important piece of trekking equipment is hiking boots. Ill-fitting boots are a hiker’s nightmare and can cause toenail damage, painful blisters, and general foot pain. Be sure to wear your size.
Your feet will be tired and perhaps a little sore after hours of trekking each day. What better way to give them some TLC at the end of the day than with a comfy pair of trekking shoes or sandals.
Another essential footwear item for optimum comfort is hiking socks. You need a pair a day as well as high-wicking sock liners. You know that the Salkantay Trekking will get cold, so thermal socks are a must.
The gaiters are made of waterproof material and extend from the boot to the top of the calf. Hikers wear it to keep water, mud, and snow out of their hiking boots. But bringing these are optional.
Even though you won’t be on the road after dark, sometimes you need to go to the bathroom or maybe read before you go to sleep. Many of the camps do not have electricity, so additional lighting is very useful.
At altitude it is much easier to suffer from dehydration, and it is essential to keep the body recharged with 2 or 3 liters a day during the Salkantay Trekking. Otherwise, you run the risk of heat stroke or dizziness.
There is no doubt that the most spectacular part of the Salkantay Trekking is the scenery, so you will surely want to capture some amazing photos. If you do not have a camera, you can also bring your cell phone.
Sunscreen is very important on this trek to Salkantay. Since most of the day, we will be exposed to the sun and sun cream is ideal to protect you from ultraviolet rays. It is recommended to take 70 degrees.
The Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most famous treks in Cusco, and is undoubtedly the best alternative route to experience the original Inca trails. This hike takes you through many different types of landscapes.
You will have the best opportunity to see the typical Andean landscape up to the snow-capped mountains, down into the tropical forests, and finally even venture into the dense rainforest. If you are considering a trekking trip to Machu Picchu and want to be off the beaten track, close to Andean communities and appreciate the beautiful and diverse nature of Peru, the Salkantay Trek is highly recommended.
