So, you’ve decided to take on the unforgettable Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu through the breathtaking Peruvian Andes—what an adventure!
We know you’re excited to begin your journey, but before setting off, it’s essential to make sure you have everything you’ll need along the way.
Often considered the best alternative to the famous Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek combines spectacular mountain landscapes with rich Peruvian culture, offering an experience you’ll never forget. To help you prepare, we’ve put together the ultimate Salkantay Trek packing list—a guide designed to keep you comfortable, safe, and ready for every challenge on the trail.
Our recommendations are based on real trekking experience and carefully chosen gear that provides the best balance of performance, durability, and value. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of the essential items you’ll need, adapted to both the season and the unique conditions of this incredible route.
Looking for a stress-free adventure? Check out the Salkantay Trek packages — designed to give you the perfect balance of expert guidance, authentic cultural experiences, and the best support along the trail.
Take a look at our Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu packing list and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
The ultimate Salkantay Trek packing list has been carefully designed to make sure your adventure is safe, comfortable, and truly unforgettable. By following these recommendations, you’ll bring everything you need—nothing more, nothing less. From proper clothing and hiking boots to camping gear, personal essentials, and useful accessories, every detail has been considered so you can fully enjoy the journey.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we know that good preparation is the key to enjoying the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu at its fullest. With the right equipment, a positive spirit, and our professional guidance, your trek will take you through breathtaking landscapes and finally to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. Every step of the trail can be enjoyed with confidence and peace of mind.
Pack smart, walk with confidence, and join one of our legendary Salkantay Trek packages for an unforgettable adventure in the Andes.
The most important item on your Salkantay Trek packing list is without a doubt your original passport. You’ll need it not only to enter Peru but also to access Machu Picchu at the end of the trek. Without it, you won’t be able to enter the site.
💡 Pro Tip: Double-check that your entrance tickets to Machu Picchu exactly match your passport details to avoid any complications.
Although our team of muleteers will carry your main duffle bag with most of your belongings, you’ll still need a lightweight backpack to keep your essentials at hand during the hike. Think of it as your personal daypack for snacks, a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, rain gear, and your camera.
When choosing the best backpack for the Salkantay Trek, look for:
Many trekkers recommend models like the Osprey Talon series—light, durable, and perfect for long hikes. Don’t forget a rain cover, since weather in the Andes can change unexpectedly.
When you trek with Tunqui Expeditions, you’ll receive a special Salkantay Trek duffle bag during the pre-trek briefing. This bag is where you’ll pack your clothes and extra gear, with a maximum weight allowance of 7 kg / 15.4 lbs.
Our professional muleteers will carry your duffle bag together with food and camping equipment. You won’t have access to it until you reach the campsite each evening, so make sure your backpack has everything you’ll need during the day:
A 30-liter daypack is usually the perfect size for the Salkantay Trek.
When it comes to Salkantay Trek clothing essentials, underwear is one of the most overlooked yet most important items. You’ll be trekking long distances across high mountain passes and warm valleys, so comfort should always be your top priority.
Pack at least 4–6 pairs of breathable sports underwear to keep you fresh and dry during the hike. The best hiking underwear for the Salkantay Trek is made from moisture-wicking and quick-dry fabrics, which help manage sweat and prevent chafing. Reliable options include Icebreaker merino wool underwear, Adidas sports performance, and Under Armour trekking underwear.
The Salkantay Pass reaches 4,650 meters (15,255 ft), where temperatures can drop significantly. A thermal base layer is essential for these colder sections, as well as for early morning climbs.
Look for high-wicking fabrics like merino wool or technical synthetics, which regulate body temperature and keep you dry. For a balanced setup, we recommend packing two tops and one bottom base layer.
Packing the right shirts is key for comfort along the diverse climates of the Salkantay Trek. Bring 4–5 trekking shirts, mixing short and long sleeves.
Avoid cotton (which traps moisture) and instead choose quick-dry, breathable fabrics. Excellent choices include Icebreaker merino wool shirts, Columbia performance hiking shirts, or Hanes lightweight trekking shirts.
The weather in the Andes is unpredictable—especially during the rainy season (November–March). A hard shell jacket is one of the most important items on your Salkantay Trek packing list. Models like the North Face Resolve Jacket are durable, waterproof, and breathable.
In addition, carry a lightweight rain poncho to quickly cover yourself and your backpack during unexpected showers.
Your insulated jacket is critical when crossing the high-altitude Salkantay Pass. As your outer layer, it should be windproof, waterproof, and warm.
We recommend investing in a high-quality trekking jacket such as the North Face Nuptse, Patagonia Down Jacket, or Arc’Teryx Atom. Synthetic alternatives are also practical—warm, affordable, and quick-drying.
For your second layer, a fleece jacket is ideal. Lightweight, breathable, and warm, it provides just the right insulation for chilly mornings and evenings.
A great choice is the Polartec 200 Fleece Jacket, or alternatives from The North Face, Patagonia, or Helly Hansen.
The Salkantay Trek takes you from warm valleys to icy mountain passes, so flexibility in clothing is essential. Convertible trekking pants, such as those from Craghoppers, are perfect since they can be turned into shorts.
Bring two pairs of trekking pants and one pair of hiking shorts to cover all conditions. Trusted brands include Columbia and O’Neills, known for their quick-dry and durable fabrics.
After a long trekking day, you’ll want to change into something cozy. Pack a pair of warm pajama pants or fleece sweatpants for the cold Andean nights at camp. This small detail makes a huge difference in how refreshed you’ll feel each morning.
Your hands need proper layering too. Pack:
This combination ensures warmth and protection against the unpredictable Andean weather.
At the high altitudes of the Salkantay Trek, the sun’s UV rays are much stronger than at lower elevations. That’s why a sun hat for trekking in Peru is a must-have item. The right hat will protect your face and neck from sunburn while also helping prevent dehydration and heat exhaustion during long, exposed sections of the trail.
Look for a UV protection trekking hat that is:
Adding a sun hat to your Salkantay Trek packing list is a simple but crucial step to stay safe and comfortable as you hike through valleys, open fields, and mountain passes.
While days can be warm, nights on the Salkantay Trek are often very cold, especially near the Salkantay Pass at 4,650 m (15,255 ft). To stay comfortable, pack a warm beanie or fleece headband.
Trusted brands like The North Face and Berghaus offer high-quality cold-weather headwear designed specifically for trekking. Having a warm beanie for the Salkantay Trek will make a big difference in how cozy you feel at camp.
The Salkantay Trek includes high-altitude sections where the air is thin and cold, especially during mornings and evenings. To protect yourself, pack a neck gaiter or trekking balaclava.
Including one of these cold-weather accessories for the Salkantay Trek ensures you’ll be ready for every climate change the Andes throws your way.
Your hiking boots are the single most important item on your entire Salkantay Trek packing list. Since your feet will carry you over mountain passes, rocky trails, and long descents, choosing the best trekking boots for the Salkantay Trek is critical for both comfort and safety.
Never wear brand-new boots on the trek—breaking them in beforehand is essential to avoid painful blisters or injuries. To check the right fit, try this: place your foot inside the boot without tying the laces and slide your toes forward. You should be able to fit one index finger between your heel and the back of the boot. Too much space means the boot is too big; no space means it’s too small.
Trusted brands for high-quality trekking boots in Peru include Salomon (Quest range), Scarpa, Berghaus (Explorer range), Hi-Tec, and Karrimor. These models are durable, supportive, and designed for rugged mountain terrain.
Investing in comfortable and durable boots for the Salkantay Trek will make all the difference, letting you focus on the breathtaking views instead of sore feet.
After a long day of hiking through diverse landscapes, nothing feels better than changing into lightweight trekking shoes or sandals at camp. This extra pair of footwear is essential for giving your feet a much-needed rest.
We recommend Merrell trekking shoes or durable outdoor sandals for maximum comfort.
Packing an extra pair of camp shoes for the Salkantay Trek ensures your feet recover properly and stay ready for the next day’s challenge.
Just like boots, socks are crucial for trekking comfort. Pack 5–6 pairs of hiking socks and 4–5 pairs of moisture-wicking liners to help reduce friction and prevent blisters.
The best socks for the Salkantay Trek are breathable, quick-drying, and cushioned. Recommended options include Coolmax socks, Smartwool, Bridgedale, and Point6, all designed for multi-day hikes.
🚫 Avoid cotton socks, as they trap moisture and can quickly lead to blisters. Instead, stick to technical trekking socks that keep your feet dry and comfortable.
During the cold nights at higher camps, especially near the Salkantay Pass, you’ll need 1–2 pairs of thermal socks. These provide extra insulation and comfort, making them a key part of your cold-weather trekking gear.
Great choices include Smartwool thermal socks, Wigwam, and Bridgedale—all known for warmth, durability, and blister prevention.
Waterproof trekking gaiters are a smart addition to your Salkantay Trek gear. They cover the top of your boots and lower legs, keeping out mud, dust, rain, and small stones.
Gaiters are especially useful when crossing streams, trekking in wet conditions, or walking along dusty trails. Lightweight and easy to pack, they help keep your boots and socks dry and clean, so you can stay focused on the adventure.
A sleeping bag for the Salkantay Trek is one of the most important items you’ll need on your packing list. Nights in the Andes can be freezing, especially at higher campsites near the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft), where temperatures often drop below zero. Having the right sleeping bag is essential to ensure comfort, recovery, and a good night’s rest after long trekking days.
The best sleeping bags for trekking in Peru are filled with duck or goose down, offering superior insulation while staying lightweight and compact. However, these premium models can be expensive. If you’re on a budget, a synthetic sleeping bag is also a great choice—just make sure it is rated to at least -10°C (14°F) to handle the cold Andean nights.
When choosing a sleeping bag for the Salkantay Trek, look for:
Recommended sleeping bags for trekking in the Andes include:
Packing the right sleeping bag for the Salkantay Trek will ensure you stay warm, sleep deeply, and wake up ready to conquer the trail each day
A reliable pair of trekking poles for the Salkantay Trek can make a huge difference in your hiking experience. The trail includes steep climbs and long downhill sections, and poles help reduce impact on your knees and ankles by up to 20%. They also provide extra balance when crossing uneven terrain or rocky paths.
Choose lightweight, adjustable trekking poles (around 350 grams per pair) for maximum flexibility. Adjustable designs are easy to adapt to different terrains and can be collapsed for storage when not in use.
Trusted brands like Black Diamond trekking poles and Leki walking poles are highly recommended for their durability and comfort. Adding poles to your Salkantay Trek packing list will make your trek safer and more enjoyable.
At the high altitudes of the Andes, UV rays are much stronger, and sunlight often reflects off snow and rocky surfaces. That’s why a good pair of sunglasses for the Salkantay Trek is essential.
Look for trekking sunglasses that:
For high-performance and reliability, we recommend Julbo mountain sunglasses, specifically designed for trekking and mountaineering. They’ll protect your eyes so you can fully enjoy the breathtaking Andean landscapes.
While you won’t be hiking at night, a headlamp for the Salkantay Trek is a must-have for campsites. Many are dimly lit or without electricity, so having a reliable light source makes simple tasks—like organizing gear, walking to the bathroom, or reading—much easier.
A headlamp is more practical than a flashlight, as it keeps your hands free. The Petzl Tikka headlamp is a top choice, known for its brightness, comfort, and long-lasting performance.
Don’t forget to pack extra batteries or a rechargeable model to ensure you always have light when you need it.
Hiking at altitude demands more hydration than usual—expect to drink 2–3 liters per day. Carrying a reliable hydration system for the Salkantay Trek is non-negotiable.
Options include:
Whichever you choose, staying hydrated is key to keeping your energy levels high and avoiding altitude-related fatigue.
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu offers some of the most stunning scenery in South America, from snow-capped peaks to cloud forests and the iconic Machu Picchu itself. Bringing a camera for the Salkantay Trek ensures you capture these unforgettable moments.
For photography, consider a lightweight DSLR or mirrorless camera such as the Panasonic Lumix, which balances quality and portability. For adventure shots, a GoPro is perfect—rugged, compact, and ideal for capturing videos and action shots hands-free.
Your photos will become lifelong memories of your incredible journey through the Andes.
While not strictly necessary, packing a notebook for the Salkantay Trek can add great value to your adventure. Writing a few notes each evening about your day, the landscapes, and your personal reflections creates a personal keepsake of your journey.
A compact trekking journal is easy to carry and lets you capture both the highlights and the challenges of your trek. Later, your notes can inspire blog posts, social media captions, or simply serve as a meaningful reminder of your time in the Andes.
Beyond your main gear and clothing, there are a number of personal items and medical supplies that will make your trek safer, cleaner, and far more comfortable. These small details are easy to overlook, but they can make a big difference on the trail.
Health should be a top priority on the trail, especially when dealing with high altitude trekking in Peru. These items are strongly recommended:
We’ve already mentioned how important it is to take a lightweight backpack for the Salkantay Trek, but knowing what to carry in your daypack is just as crucial. Since your duffle bag will be with the porters, your daypack should contain only the essentials you’ll need during the day.
Here’s a simple Salkantay Trek Peru daypack checklist to help you prepare:
By keeping your backpack essentials for trekking in Peru light yet complete, you’ll ensure comfort, safety, and convenience throughout each hiking day.
