A complete Salkantay Trek Packing List requires preparing for freezing Soraypampa nights (-5°C / 23°F) and warm jungle valleys. Packers must split gear between a 7 kg horse duffel bag and a 20-30L daily daypack.
Gear Allocation and Weights
On the Salkantay Trek, horsemen and pack horses carry your main duffel bag (up to 7 kg), which is provided by the agency. You will carry a lightweight daypack (20L to 30L) for your daily essentials.
| Duffel Bag (7 kg – Carried by Horses) | Daypack (20-30L – Carried by You) |
|---|---|
| Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C / 14°F) | Passport, tickets, and cash (Soles) |
| Inflatable air mattress (Therm-a-Rest) | Water reservoir or bottles (2-3 Liters) |
| Thermal underwear (base layers) | Waterproof rain jacket (Gore-Tex) |
| Extra hiking shirts and trekking socks | Warm fleece jacket or down layer |
| Campsite shoes (sandals or light sneakers) | Sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent |
| Personal toiletries and wet wipes | Headlamp, camera, and power bank |
The Layering System
Temperatures shift drastically along the trail. You will start in freezing mountain climates and finish in humid jungles. The key is a three-layer system: a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm insulating mid-layer (fleece or down jacket), and a waterproof, windproof outer shell.
Essential Accessories
Do not forget to pack rubber-tipped trekking poles (mandatory to protect the knee joints on steep downhills), a headlamp with extra batteries for dark mornings, and warm gloves and a beanie. A sun hat and UV-blocking sunglasses are also important to protect against the high-altitude sun.
“Soraypampa camp sits right below the glacial wind corridor, and temperatures drop below freezing. Packing proper thermal underwear and a high-quality sleeping bag is not just about comfort—it is a matter of safety for the high altitudes.”
— Willy, Cusco Trekking Guide & Cultural Specialist
To check availability and book your hike, visit our main page Salkantay Trek 5 Days, where you can secure your Machu Picchu tickets and train schedule in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weight limit for the duffel bag on Salkantay?
The horsemen and pack horses will carry a duffel bag up to 7 kilograms (15.4 pounds) per person. Any gear over this limit must be carried by you in your daypack.
Do I need trekking poles for the Salkantay Trek?
Yes, trekking poles are highly recommended. The descent on Day 2 from the pass is extremely steep, rocky, and slippery. Trekking poles with rubber tips are required to protect your knees and maintain balance.
How cold does it get at the campsites?
At Soraypampa camp (3,900 m) on Night 1, temperatures regularly drop below freezing, reaching -5°C (23°F) in winter (June-August). Night 2 at Chaullay is milder but still cold (~5°C/41°F).
