Embarking on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most unforgettable adventures in South America. But packing for it? That’s where many trekkers go wrong — bringing either too much or too little. In this post, we’ll help you pack smart, so you carry only the essentials and leave behind the unnecessary weight. 🎒
📌 Quick Overview: About the Salkantay Trek
- Distance: ~74 km / 46 miles
- Duration: 4 to 5 days
- Altitude: Up to 4,650 m / 15,255 ft
- Weather: Varies dramatically — from freezing nights to humid jungle days
That means packing for all types of weather, terrain, and physical challenges.
✅ What You REALLY Need (Essentials)
1. Backpack
- Size: 30–50L (for personal gear if using mule support), or 60–75L (if carrying everything yourself)
- Features: Padded hip straps, rain cover, hydration compatibility
Tip: Use a rain cover or waterproof liner. Sudden downpours are common!
2. Daypack (Optional but Useful)
If mules carry your main bag, bring a small 10–20L daypack for water, snacks, jacket, and camera.
3. Clothing Layers
You’ll hike through freezing mountain passes and tropical forests — layering is key.
- Base Layers: 1–2 moisture-wicking shirts & leggings (avoid cotton)
- Insulating Layer: Fleece or down jacket (essential at high altitudes)
- Outer Shell: Waterproof & windproof jacket and pants
- Trekking Pants: 1–2 pairs (lightweight and quick-dry)
- T-Shirts: 2–3 breathable hiking shirts
- Shorts or Leggings (for lower altitudes)
- Sleepwear: Warm thermal set
- Underwear & Socks: Quick-dry & breathable (3–4 pairs of each)
- Gloves, Beanie & Buff/Neck Gaiter: For cold mornings and dusty trails
- Sun Hat or Cap
4. Footwear
- Hiking Boots: Waterproof, broken-in, with ankle support
- Sandals or Camp Shoes: To rest your feet in the evening
5. Sleeping Gear
- Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C / 14°F (can usually be rented in Cusco)
- Sleeping Bag Liner: Optional but adds warmth and cleanliness
6. Personal Items
- Headlamp or Flashlight: With extra batteries
- Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration Bladder (2–3L capacity)
- Water Purification Tablets or Filter: Streams are not always safe to drink from
- Sunscreen & Lip Balm: SPF 30+ minimum
- Bug Repellent: Especially for the jungle sections
- Toiletries: Travel-size toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, wet wipes, toilet paper
- Small Towel: Quick-dry microfiber
- Hand Sanitizer
- Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, candy, or coca candies
7. Health & First Aid
- Altitude Sickness Pills (e.g. Acetazolamide)
- Pain Relievers: Ibuprofen or paracetamol
- Blister Plasters / Band-Aids
- Diarrhea Tablets
- Personal Medications
8. Electronics
- Power Bank: No electricity for 1–2 days
- Phone or Camera: With waterproof pouch
- Extra Memory Cards & Batteries
🚫 What You DON’T Need
Avoid overpacking. Here are items commonly packed but rarely used:
❌ Jeans or Heavy Clothes
- They’re heavy, take forever to dry, and aren’t suitable for trekking.
❌ Fancy Outfits or Jewelry
- This is a trek, not a runway. Leave them at your hotel in Cusco.
❌ Full-size Toiletries
- Too bulky and unnecessary. Stick to travel-size.
❌ Books or Heavy Entertainment
- You’ll be tired each night and unlikely to read much. Try a Kindle if you must.
❌ Drones (Unless Permitted)
- Drone use is often restricted in many parts of the trail and Machu Picchu.
📦 Optional But Nice to Have
- Trekking Poles: Help reduce impact on knees — highly recommended (can rent in Cusco)
- Earplugs: Campsites can be noisy
- Travel Journal or Notebook
- Small Trash Bag: Pack out all personal waste
📝 Final Tips Before You Pack
- Pack light. Every gram matters when hiking at altitude.
- Do a trial pack. Try carrying your full backpack before the trek.
- Rent what you can. Many companies in Cusco offer quality gear rentals.
🌄 Conclusion
Packing for the Salkantay Trek is all about function, layers, and comfort. With the right gear, you’ll be free to fully enjoy the dramatic landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and jungle valleys that await you.
Don’t let a heavy bag or poor planning slow you down. Follow this guide, and you’ll be ready for the adventure of a lifetime. 💪✨