Salkantay & Inca Trail Guided Trek - What to Bring

What to Bring

On the Salkantay & Inca Trail Guided Trek

We run our Salkantay & Inca Trail trek during October, a fabulous time to experience the Peruvian Andes. The weather is more pleasant and the trails a little quieter. 

Clothing and Equipment Essentials

The weather can be changeable so it is essential to bring waterproof and breathable outer layers as mountain weather can change rapidly. A lightweight high-quality Gore-Tex (or equivalent) waterproof jacket and trousers should be packed and carried at all times. This will also act as a windproof layer when we are higher up in the mountains. Depending on altitude expect to weather a combination of trekking trousers or shorts and T-shirts, warmer layers are also needed. Be sure to pack gloves, and a warm hat. A moisture-wicking thermal base layer is highly recommended for comfort and warmth when higher in the mountains and a warm duvet jacket for cold nights at altitude.

Footwear is one of the most important pieces of gear for this adventure. Trekking boots with good ankle support, excellent grip, are essential. The terrain on the Salkantay & Inca Trail Trek is highly varied, expect rocky paths, steep ascents. 

Accommodation during the trek will be a mix of high-quality hotel when in Cusco and private cabins and tents when on the trail. While on the trail, the key to staying comfortable is having versatile and reliable gear. A layered clothing system is the most effective way to manage your body temperature as you gain or lose altitude throughout the trek

Additional Gear Tips

Trekking poles are strongly recommended. They provide extra stability on ascents, help reduce strain on your knees during long descents, and are invaluable on uneven or slippery terrain.

All your gear should be suitable for multi-day trekking in remote, unpredictable mountain environments. On the Salkantay & Inca Trail trek, it’s entirely possible to experience a range of conditions from warm sunny days to snow at altitude. Preparation is essential.

For a detailed checklist, take a look at our Kit List to help you plan and pack. And as always, feel free to get in touch if you need further guidance.

Trekking Kit List

Base Layers

Short sleeve: Lightweight, breathable base layer made out of a synthetic fabric that can be washed and dried quickly.

Long sleeve: Long sleeve merino wool layer is a great idea for use as an extra layer if needed over a t-shirt. It is also useful to wear in the evenings.

Mid Layer

Fleece or merino wool mid layer to go on top of the base layer this will give you a bit of warmth early mornings, on cooler days or when descending.

This could be with or without a hood, make sure it’s lightweight and packs down small.

Leg Layer

Shorts: The majority of the time trekking shorts would be the best option for those warm summer days in the mountains.

Trousers: Lightweight walking trousers are a good idea to wear if it is cold, or during the evenings. Another possibility would be trekking trousers that are adapatable & have zip off legs so they can be worn as shorts.

Warm Layer

There are many lightweight insulated layers available these days, this could be filled with down or synthetic material. Synthetic filled jackets tent to retain their thermal properties better if they get damp so we would recommend this option. This ultra-warm lightweight layer weighs no more than a fleece jumper and packs down even smaller! Great for cooler days, when taking a break or for refuge nights.

Waterproof Layer

This is the most essential bit of kit there should be no compromise here! Gortex (or similar) lightweight waterproof jacket with a good hood and rain pants that will pack-down small. It is essential that both layers are carried every day as the weather can change rapidly in the Alps. They will protect you from top to toe on the foulest of wet weather days and also can be worn to give extra warmth from a harsh wind.

Footware

Good sturdy walking boots that offer support to the ankle or trekking shoes if you are confident on difficult terrain. They don’t have to be leather as these days you can buy ight-weight fabric alternatives that dry quickely. Makes sure they have a good sole Vibram or similar. If you are purchasing new boots make sure they are comfortable and worn in beforehand. Blisters could ruin your trek!!

Hats & Gloves

Sun hat as the sun can be fairly intense at high altitude, neck protection is also recommended.

Warm hat, gloves and a scalf or buff are essential if you experience cold weather.

Hopefully the weather will be kind and the hats and gloves will stay at the bottom of the rucksack for the duration of your trek!

Food & Drink

It is important to get your nutrition right, as you will be burning lots of calories each day, food can be purchased from local supermarkets & bakeries when staying in villages or from the refuges if ordered on arrival for the following day. It is essential you carry enough water with you so you don’t get dehydrated during the day. On some days it may be possible replenish your water at certain places but this is not always the case.

Rucksacks

Day sack: A small sack will be required when opting for a baggage transfer. Approximately 20 litre, the bag must be large enough to carry warm and waterproof layers, essential kit, food and drink. You will need a rucksack liner to keep the contents dry and waterproof.

Multi-day sack: If you do not opt for the bag transfer service then a larger rucksack will be needed of approx. 28 - 35 litre. Rucksack liner will also be needed.

Refuge Nights

When staying in the mountain refuges you will need a few extra items as bag transfer would not be available in the remote locations. You will need travel towel, toiletries, head torch, ear plugs and a sleeping bag liner.

The majority of the time you will be staying in good quality hotels therefore it is easy to wash and dry kit through before the next day. Hotels will provide towels and soap.

Other Essentials

  • Map, route cards, compass, altimeter if self guided
  • Sunglasses
  • Basic medical kit including blister plasters, sunscreen & lip salve
  • Essential medication
  • Trekking insurance
  • Money (cash and credit cards)
  • Passport and travel documents

Recommended Items

  • Trekking poles, very useful to help on the ascents and save knees on the descent
  • Camera
  • iPod
  • Pocket knife
  • Mobile phone and charger
  • Travel adapter
  • Water purifying tablets
  • Sleeping sheet, travel towel, head torch & ear plugs for mountain huts

Trek Information