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

Lares Trek is a popular hiking route located in the Cusco region of Peru. This trek takes you through the breathtaking Andean mountains, high-altitude lagoons, and remote Quechua villages. Here is a travel guide to help you plan your Lares Trek experience.

Getting There:

The Lares Trek begins in the town of Lares, which is located approximately 60 miles north of Cusco. To get to Lares, you can either take a bus or hire a private car. The journey takes about 4-5 hours from Cusco. Alternatively, you can also take a train from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and then take a taxi to Lares.

When to Go:

The best time to do the Lares Trek is from April to November. During this period, the weather is relatively dry, and the skies are clear, offering stunning views of the mountains. It is important to note that the temperatures can drop significantly at night, so it is recommended to bring warm clothing.

Trekking Route:

The Lares Trek is a 3-day trek that covers a distance of approximately 33 miles. On the first day, you will hike from Lares to the first campsite, which is located at an altitude of around 12,000 feet. The second day is the longest and most challenging day of the trek, where you will cross two high-altitude passes at an altitude of over 15,000 feet before descending to the second campsite. On the third day, you will hike to the village of Ollantaytambo and take a train to Aguas Calientes to visit Machu Picchu.

What to Bring:

It is recommended to pack light for the Lares Trek as you will be carrying your own backpack. Essential items to bring include a good quality sleeping bag, warm clothing, hiking boots, waterproof jacket, sunscreen, hat, and gloves. You should also bring a water bottle, water purification tablets, and snacks for the trek.

Accommodation:

During the trek, you will be camping in tents at designated campsites. The campsites are basic but comfortable and come with toilet facilities and a dining tent. You will be provided with a sleeping bag, foam mattress, and a pillow.

Food: The trek includes all meals, which are prepared by the trekking company. The meals are usually a mix of Peruvian and international cuisine and include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available upon request.

Guides and Porters:

It is mandatory to trek with a licensed guide and a team of porters who will carry the camping equipment and food supplies. The guides are knowledgeable about the local culture and history and are fluent in English and Spanish. It is customary to tip the guides and porters at the end of the trek.

In conclusion, the Lares Trek is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail for those looking for a less crowded and more off-the-beaten-path experience. With stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, and challenging hikes, it is a trek that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Inca Trail Avaialability, (Oficial Inca Trail Permits 2024)