Salkantay Trekking

With its wide variety of terrains, the Salkantay Trek elevation ranges from 1,600 to 4,650 meters (5,250–15,255 feet). Although the elevation varies significantly, you'll start up higher and gradually work your way downhill.

Before the trek, we highly recommend taking 1–2 days at a minimum to acclimatize in Cusco, as the maximum Salkantay Trek elevation is significantly higher than in Cusco city.

The Salkantay Trek difficulty is moderate to difficult, but is attainable for most people with some hiking experience, depending on your fitness level.

Although it is accessible to most hikers with good fitness levels, the altitude, length of trekking each day, and tough uphill/downhill stretches definitely increase the difficulty. We recommend being fully acclimatized to the altitude before embarking on the Salkantay Trail.

Pack as lightly as possible. Tour operators will let you pack a small duffel with extra clothes and toiletries, transported by mule from campsite to campsite. Carry your own day pack with essentials like water, sunscreen, and clothing layers. We recommend a 30L hiking backpack.

• Original passport
• Waterproof hiking boots
• 3–4 pairs of thick hiking socks
• 2–3 sweat-wicking t-shirts or tank tops
• 1–2 long-sleeve shirts (including a baselayer)
• 1–2 pairs of long pants
• A thermal jacket
• A rain shell
• A reusable water bottle
• A headlamp
• A hat or visor
• Bug spray and sunscreen
• Toiletries
• Sleeping bag – can be rented from SAM Travel Peru
• Trekking poles – can be rented from SAM Travel Peru
• Rain gear

There are two main seasons in the sub-tropical Peruvian Andes:

• The dry season runs from late April through to early October.
• The wet season starts mid to late October and ends in April.

The trek can be completed all year round, but the peak trekking season occurs during the dry season, busiest between May and September. The best time to do the Salkantay Trek runs from the shoulder months of March/April all the way through to October/November.

Cusco offers an extensive network of reasonably priced hotels in the city's historical center. If your hike starts soon, find out where the meeting point is or whether the company offers pick-up. If traveling independently to the trailhead, look for a hostel where you can store your luggage safely.

Mid-range: Tierra Viva Cusco Centro – A tranquil environment, beautiful rooms, and one of the top-rated locations in Cusco.

Luxury: JW Marriott El Convento Cusco – Impressive interiors, a charming colonial courtyard, luxury rooms, and just three blocks from Cusco's main square.