The Salkantay Trek: One of South America's Greatest Adventures

The Salkantay Trek is typically offered as a 4-day or 5-day itinerary, with most operators departing from Cusco. The core route is the same. The difference comes down to pace, acclimatisation time, and how much of the surrounding area is included along the way.

The 4-day version moves at a solid pace and suits trekkers who are reasonably fit and already acclimatised. The 5-day option allows a more gradual ascent through the high passes and is generally recommended for those coming from lower elevations.

Both versions finish at Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, before the final ascent to the ruins. Machu Picchu Team is a well-regarded local operator running both itineraries, with experienced guides and strong organisation. Tickets to Machu Picchu require a reservation and are often included in the package, so booking early is essential.

The first day climbs steadily to a high alpine lake, gaining significant elevation before the trail levels out. It is more demanding than many expect, and it is also where the cold becomes a factor. Nights at the higher camps are genuinely frigid, the weather is unpredictable, and the star dome accommodation cools quickly once the sun goes down.

Gear focus: base-layer warmth

A quality thermal base layer is the single most useful item on this trek, both on the trail and in the tent at night. The Montbell Super Merino Wool Expedition Weight range regulates temperature during exertion, retains warmth when damp, and is comfortable enough to sleep in on the coldest nights at camp.

The high point of the trek is the Salkantay Pass at approximately 4,600 metres. The scenery is extraordinary, taking in glaciated peaks, sweeping valleys, and the mass of Salkantay mountain itself. It is also highly exposed, and the wind and cold at the pass can be severe in any season.

Gear focus: insulation and shell protection

Above 4,000 metres, a high-loft insulated jacket is non-negotiable. The Montbell Down jacket Range offers excellent warmth-to-weight performance and compresses neatly into a day pack. There are various weights and fills for all temperatures. Overall the Montbell Puffer Jackets deliver some of the best warmth-per-gram available for those who feel the cold more acutely.

A waterproof shell is equally important, both for rain on the lower days and for wind protection at the pass. The Montbell Versalite Jacket is a lightweight GORE-TEX option that packs small, while the Montbell Storm Cruiser Jacket suits trekkers expecting heavier weather.

At altitude and in cold, wet conditions, extremities are affected first. A few items make a clear difference across the four or five days.

Gloves — The pass is genuinely cold, and hands need protection from both wind and chill. The Montbell Trail Gloves are warm enough for alpine conditions and dexterous enough to manage poles and pack straps without removing them.

Socks — After several days of sustained ascent and descent, foot comfort becomes a priority. The Montbell Merino Wool Trekking Socks manage moisture, reduce hotspots, and hold up across multiple days on the trail.

Trekking poles — On the steep descents that follow the pass, poles take pressure off the knees and add stability on loose or wet ground. The Montbell Alpine Carbon Pole Cam Lock is a reliable, lightweight option for both ascent and descent.