What to Bring

For the five days of Salkantay treks, you need personal trekking gear and a sleeping bag. If you do not have a sleeping bag is possible to rent one from us also if you like trekking poles, you can rent them from us. The rest needed for this trek we provide.

Here is a general packing list for the Salkantay trek that you can use as a reference:

Clothing:

• Hiking boots or shoes
• Hiking socks (wool or synthetic)
• Long pants (hiking pants or leggings)
• T-shirts or breathable shirts
• Fleece jacket or sweater
• Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
• Warm hat and gloves
• Swimwear (for hot springs or swimming)
• Sandals / Flip flops
• A towel

Gear:

• Backpack (20-30L)
• Sleeping bag (rated to 0-5 degrees Celsius/32-41 degrees Fahrenheit). If you do not have one, you can rent one from the company
• Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
• Trekking poles (optional but recommended), if you do not have one pair you can rent from the company
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat or cap
• Water bottle or hydration system (at least 1.5 liters capacity)
• Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
• Personal medication (if necessary)

Optional:

• Camera or phone for taking pictures
• Portable charger or power bank
• Book or Kindle for reading during downtime
• Snacks (such as energy bars, trail mix, or dried fruit)
• Cash in soles (for buying souvenirs or optional activities)
• Also, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable in the Andes, so it’s recommended to dress in layers and bring both warm and waterproof clothing or rain ponchos.

DOCUMENTS YOU MUST CARRY DURING THE TREK

• Original Passport
• Original student card if you have applied for a student discount.

NOTE: Salkantay Treks Peru provides a duffle bag in which you can pack up to 7 kilograms of your personal belongings, which will be carried by horses during the trek. During the trek, you will carry a small backpack with the necessary items for the day hike. The rest of your belongings can be packed in the duffle bag, which will be accessible at each campsite.

Travel Guide

Choquequirao is an ancient Inca city located in the Vilcabamba mountain range in Peru. The site is often referred to as the “sister city” of Machu Picchu and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the country. If you’re planning a trip to Choquequirao, here’s a travel guide to help you get the most out of your visit:

1. When to go: The best time to visit Choquequirao is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This is the peak tourist season, so expect crowds at popular sites.
2. How to get there: To reach Choquequirao, you must first travel to Cusco, the nearest major city. From there, you can take a bus or hire a private car to the town of Cachora, which is the starting point for the trek to Choquequirao. The trek itself takes two to three days each way and is considered challenging, so be prepared for steep climbs and long hikes.
3. Where to stay: There are no accommodations at Choquequirao, so most visitors choose to camp along the trekking route. There are several campsites along the way, and some even offer basic amenities like toilets and showers. Alternatively, you can hire a guide and stay in a tent or cabin.
4. What to see: The main attraction at Choquequirao is the Inca ruins themselves. The site covers a vast area and includes several terraces, temples, and plazas. Be sure to visit the main plaza, the temple of the sun, and the llama sector, which contains several stone llamas.
5. What to do: In addition to exploring the ruins, there are several other activities you can enjoy in the area. Hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting are popular options, and you can also visit nearby villages to learn about local culture and traditions.
6. Tips: Be sure to bring plenty of water and food, as there are few facilities along the trekking route. Also, be prepared for variable weather conditions, as it can be hot and sunny during the day but cold and windy at night. Finally, be respectful of the ruins and follow all posted rules and regulations to help preserve this important historical site.

Best Time to Visit Choquequirao

Choquequirao is best explored between May and September, during the dry season. The biggest travel season, when the weather is typically dry and sunny, makes it easier to navigate the trekking trail and visit the ruins. The rainy season in Choquequirao lasts from November to April, and during this time, it is more likely that it will rain and that the trails will be muddy. But visitors should also go when it’s rainy if they want to avoid crowds and take in the region’s lush, green scenery.

What to Bring Choquequirao

When visiting Choquequirao, it is important to be well prepared and bring the necessary gear and supplies for a successful and comfortable trip. Here are some things you should consider bringing:

1. Hiking shoes: A good pair of hiking shoes with ankle support and a sturdy sole is essential for trekking on the rocky and uneven terrain.
2. Backpack: A comfortable backpack is necessary to carry your water, food, and other essentials during the trek.
3. Water and water filter: Bring plenty of water, as there are few sources of potable water along the trekking route. A water filter can also be helpful to avoid carrying too much weight.
4. Food and snacks: Bring enough food and snacks for the duration of your trek. Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits are great options.
5. Sun protection: The sun can be intense during the day, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your skin and eyes.
6. Warm clothing: The temperature can drop significantly at night, so bring warm layers, including a warm jacket, hat, and gloves.
7. First-aid kit: Bring a small first-aid kit with basic supplies such as band-aids, pain relievers, and blister treatments.
8. Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be a nuisance, so bring insect repellent to protect yourself.
9. Headlamp or flashlight: A headlamp or flashlight is essential for navigating the ruins and campsites at night.
10. Cash: There are no ATMs or banks in Choquequirao, so bring enough cash to cover your expenses, including food, guide fees, and camping fees.

How to prepare to Choquequirao Trek

The Choquequirao Trek is a challenging and rewarding journey that requires some preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips on how to prepare for the trek:

1. Train for the trek: The Choquequirao Trek involves long hikes with steep ascents and descents, so it’s important to build up your endurance and stamina before embarking on the trek. Incorporate regular exercise, such as hiking, running, or cycling, into your routine to prepare your body.
2. Acclimatize to altitude: The trek reaches an altitude of 3,050 meters, which can cause altitude sickness. Spend a few days in Cusco or other high-altitude destinations before starting the trek to acclimatize your body to the altitude.
3. Hire a guide: Hiring a guide can help you navigate the trekking route, provide historical and cultural context, and ensure your safety. Make sure to hire a reputable guide with experience and positive reviews.
4. Pack smart: Bring appropriate clothing and gear, including hiking shoes, warm layers, rain gear, and a headlamp. Pack light, but make sure to bring enough food and water for the trek, as well as any necessary medications.
5. Stay hydrated: Dehydration can cause altitude sickness, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the trek. Consider bringing a water filter or purification tablets to purify water along the way.
6. Respect the environment: Choquequirao is an important historical and archaeological site, so it’s important to respect the ruins and follow all posted rules and regulations. Leave no trace by properly disposing of waste and avoiding damaging the environment.
7. Have a positive attitude: The Choquequirao Trek can be challenging, but it’s also a unique and rewarding experience. Maintain a positive attitude and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and cultural sites along the way.

Inca Trail Avaialability, (Oficial Inca Trail Permits 2024)