What to pack for a trek in Cusco: a complete high-altitude list

You’re about to go trekking in the Andes, whether it’s the Salkantay Trek, the Inca Trail or the trail to Rainbow Mountain.

In the high mountains, one packing mistake is the difference between a great day and a miserable one. The weather in Cusco changes a lot: from bitter cold to strong sun in a matter of hours.

Here is the complete list for your trekking backpack.

1. Layering: the golden rule

The key to handling altitude is dressing in layers, so you can add or remove clothing as the weather and your body temperature change.

• Base layer (moisture control). Thermal base layers or merino wool or synthetic shirts. Avoid cotton: it holds moisture and leaves you cold.
• Mid layer (insulation). A fleece or a light down jacket. It traps your body heat.
• Outer layer (protection). A good-quality waterproof, windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar). It’s your shield against rain and extreme cold.

2. Footwear and essential accessories

Good footwear is the most important investment for a trek.

• Trekking boots. Waterproof, with ankle support and, most important, already broken in. Never wear new boots for the first time in the mountains.
• Socks. Bring several pairs of merino or thick wool socks. Changing them partway through helps prevent blisters.
• Sun protection. At altitude, solar radiation is intense. Bring sunglasses (for snow and sun), a cap or hat and good-quality SPF 50+ sunscreen.
• Headlamp. Essential for getting around camp or for early starts before dawn.

3. Health and safety

Your well-being comes first. These items help you fight altitude sickness and small discomforts.

• Acclimatization. Coca leaves or pills for altitude sickness (soroche) (check with your doctor first).
• First aid kit. Pain relievers, stomach medicine, bandages and blister dressings (a priority!).
• Hydration. A reusable water bottle and purification tablets (if you’re not traveling with an agency that provides boiled water).
• Snacks. Energy bars, nuts, chocolate and coca candies.

4. What the agency provides

If you travel with an agency like Tari Tours, you save space and weight, because we carry the heavy gear.

We provide: camping tents, thick sleeping pads, an advanced first aid kit and, on many routes, trekking poles.