How Many Days in Cusco Before the Salkantay Trek?

If you’re planning to do the Salkantay Trek, one of the most famous hikes in Peru, you’re probably wondering how many days you should stay in Cusco before starting. This is an important question because Cusco sits at an altitude of 3,400 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level, and hiking at high altitudes can be challenging for your body if you’re not properly acclimated.

Acclimatizing in Cusco: How to Prepare for the Altitude

Acclimatizing means that your body needs time to get used to the thinner air in the mountains. Cusco is at a high altitude, which means there is less oxygen in the air compared to lower places. If you don’t acclimatize well, you might feel symptoms of altitude sickness, like headaches, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

The good news is that you can help your body acclimatize by taking things slowly during your first few days. Here are some tips to acclimatize better:

• Rest when you arrive: Don’t rush into heavy physical activities on your first day. Let your body adjust.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps your body adapt to the altitude.
• Eat light: Avoid heavy meals that might make you feel uncomfortable.
• Drink coca leaf tea: Coca leaf is very popular in Cusco and is believed to help relieve altitude sickness. You can find it served as tea in many places.

How Many Days in Cusco Before the Salkantay Trek?

Most people recommend staying in Cusco for two to three days before starting the Salkantay Trek. These extra days will give you time to acclimatize properly and enjoy everything Cusco has to offer before you begin your mountain adventure.

If you’ve never been at high altitude before or are more sensitive to altitude sickness, it’s better to plan for at least three days. During this time, you’ll feel more adjusted and prepared for the physical challenge of the hike. Plus, being properly acclimatized will allow you to enjoy the trek more, without worrying too much about altitude sickness symptoms.

Recommended Activities in Cusco Before Your Trek

While you’re acclimatizing, you can also take the opportunity to explore Cusco, a city full of history, culture, and fun activities. Here are some ideas of what you can do:

• Visit the Historic Center of Cusco: Take a relaxed walk around the Plaza de Armas and visit the Cathedral and the Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha) to learn about Inca history without too much physical effort.

• Explore Sacsayhuamán: This is an incredible archaeological site near Cusco, with huge stone walls. It’s best to visit on your second day when your body has had some time to adjust to the altitude.

• San Pedro Market: Visiting this market is a unique experience. You can buy souvenirs and try some local foods without moving around too much.

• Relax at a local café: Cusco has many cozy spots where you can enjoy a warm drink and watch life go by while taking a break.

Additional Recommendations for Physical and Mental Preparation

The Salkantay Trek is a challenging hike, so it’s important to be prepared both physically and mentally before you start. Besides acclimatizing in Cusco, make sure to follow these tips:

• Do aerobic exercises before your trip: Walking, jogging, or cycling before your trip can help improve your endurance.
• Don’t rush during the trek: Walk at a steady pace, it’s not a race. It’s better to go slow and enjoy the scenery than to tire yourself out too quickly.
• Keep a positive attitude: The Salkantay Trek can be tough, but it’s also a wonderful experience. Staying optimistic will help you enjoy the journey, even when it gets hard.

Tips on Equipment and Logistics

To ensure your experience is comfortable and safe, it’s essential to have the right gear. Here are some must-have items:

• Comfortable and sturdy hiking boots: You’ll be walking long distances, so make sure to bring shoes you’ve already worn in and that are waterproof.
• Proper clothing: Bring several layers. In the mountains, the weather can change quickly, so it’s better to be prepared for cold, heat, and rain.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses: Even if it’s cold in the mountains, the sun can be very strong, especially at high altitude.
• Trekking poles: They help you keep your balance and take some pressure off your knees, especially on the downhill sections.
• Energy snacks: Bring some nuts, energy bars, or dried fruits to keep your energy up during the hike.
• Cash: Believe it or not, in the more remote areas of the trek, it’s hard to find ATMs, so carry enough cash for any extra expenses.

Conclusion

Spending at least two to three days in Cusco before starting the Salkantay Trek is a great idea to acclimatize to the altitude, enjoy the city, and prepare yourself physically and mentally for the adventure. With the right gear, the right mindset, and giving your body the necessary time to adjust, you’ll be ready to fully enjoy this incredible hike.

FAQs about in Cusco Before the Salkantay Trek

How many days should I spend in Cusco before starting the Salkantay Trek?

It is recommended to spend at least two or three days in Cusco before starting the Salkantay Trek. This gives your body time to acclimate to the altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and helping you be in better shape to enjoy the trek.

What is altitude sickness and how can I prevent it in Cusco?

Altitude sickness occurs when your body doesn’t adapt well to the lack of oxygen at high altitudes. It can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. To prevent it:

• Rest when you arrive.
• Stay hydrated.
• Avoid alcohol and heavy meals.
• Drink coca leaf tea, a popular remedy in the region to alleviate symptoms.

Can I do tourist activities in Cusco while I acclimate?

Yes, you can engage in light activities like walking around the historic center, visiting San Pedro Market, or exploring nearby sites like Sacsayhuamán, while taking it easy to avoid overexerting your body as it adjusts to the altitude.

What should I bring for the Salkantay Trek?

Some essential items include:

• Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots.
• Layered clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Trekking poles for added stability.
• Energy snacks like dried fruits or granola bars.

What happens if I don’t acclimate well in Cusco?

If you don’t acclimate well, you might suffer from altitude sickness during the trek, making the hike very difficult or even dangerous. In that case, it’s important to stop, rest, and in severe cases, seek medical advice or descend to a lower altitude.