What to Bring on the Salkantay Trek?

What to Bring on the Salkantay Trek

When I first started preparing for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, I wasn’t sure what I truly needed to pack. I read tons of blogs, watched videos, and still had doubts. Now, after completing the trek myself, I want to share exactly what I packed (and what I wish I had packed) to help you get ready for this amazing adventure.

Essentials I Brought (And Was Glad I Did):

• Good Hiking Boots:
  Absolutely essential. I wore boots that I had already broken in, and they saved my feet on the rocky and uneven trails.
• Layered Clothing:
  Mornings were cold, afternoons were warm, and nights were freezing at high altitude camps like Soraypampa. I packed thermal shirts, a fleece jacket, and a waterproof outer shell, plus quick-dry T-shirts and hiking pants.
• Rain Jacket and Rain Cover for Backpack:
  Even during the dry season, short rains can happen, especially near the cloud forest area. My lightweight rain jacket was a lifesaver.
• Sleeping Bag (Four-Season):
  Nights got really cold, especially at high-altitude camps. I brought a four-season sleeping bag rated for low temperatures, and it made a huge difference.
• Daypack:
  I carried a small, comfortable daypack with essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera.
• Headlamp:
  Very useful for early mornings and late-night bathroom trips in the campsites.
• Water Bottle or Hydration System:
  I brought a 2L hydration bladder, which made it easy to sip water during the trek.
• Snacks:
  Although meals were provided, having extra energy bars, nuts, and chocolate really helped on long hiking days.
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm with SPF:
  The sun at high altitudes is intense, even if it’s cloudy.
• Toiletries:
  I packed biodegradable soap, a toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and a quick-dry towel.
• First Aid Kit:
  I included blister patches, ibuprofen, altitude sickness pills (just in case), and personal medication.
• Cash in Small Bills:
  For small purchases like snacks, tips, and souvenirs along the way.

Things I Wish I Had Brought:

• Walking Poles:
  I didn’t bring any, thinking I wouldn’t need them, but I ended up renting a pair. They were really helpful, especially during the steep downhill sections.
• Extra Pair of Shoes or Sandals:
  After hiking all day, it would have been amazing to have something comfortable to wear around the camps.
• More Socks:
  You can never have too many clean, dry socks!

Bonus Items That Made My Trek Even Better:

• Buff or Scarf:
  Perfect for protecting against dust and the cold wind.
• Portable Charger:
  There’s very limited electricity during the trek, so my power bank was essential to keep my phone and camera charged.
• Travel Pillow:
  It made sleeping in tents way more comfortable.

Final Thoughts

Packing smart was a big part of why I enjoyed the Salkantay Trek so much. The weather can change quickly, and being prepared makes the difference between an amazing adventure and an uncomfortable struggle.
If you’re about to do the trek, focus on lightweight but essential gear — and don’t forget to break in your boots before you go!

Happy trekking! 🏔️✨