A packing list of supplies needed for the Salkantay Trek through the Andes to South America's biggest attraction: Machu Picchu

Reputable trekking companies will provide the essentials for your Salkantay Trek in Peru, such as tents, sleeping mats, food, and drinks. Before you book, ask your chosen company exactly what they'll supply and what you'll be expected to provide. Below is a list of supplies you'll most likely have to provide for yourself.

Sleeping bag. Can be rented in Cusco for about $5 per day.

Clothing for layering. Temperatures will range from hot to near-freezing in the course of a day. You'll want to be able to go from a fleece or other warm jacket to a t-shirt, and back again. A thermal underlayer and thick, warm socks are a must.

Warm Hat, Scarf, and Gloves. Alpaca wool gear is sold all over Cusco - this is your chance to buy some cool souvenirs that you’ll actually use.

Sun Hat, Sunglasses, Sunscreen. At such high altitude, the sun is fierce.

Hiking boots. The trail can be steep, rocky, dusty, or muddy - sometimes all at once. You will need good, strong shoes. Sports sneakers (not fashion sneakers) or hiking sandals might work, but hiking boots are better.

Sandals. For walking around camp in the evenings.

Rain gear. If you don't have a rain jacket, you can get a plastic poncho cheaply in Cusco.

Swimsuit. For the hot springs!

Insect repellent. Biting bugs abound along the warmer portions of the trail.

Flashlight/torch, batteries. In case you end up hiking in the dark and to help you find the "toilet tent" at night.

Snacks. A good trekking company will supply plenty, but you'll be expending a lot of energy - better safe than sorry. Stock up on granola bars, dried fruit, nuts, cookies, jerky, and other compact, high-energy snacks in Cusco.

Water bottle. Trekking staff should supply boiled water at all meals. Bring a one-liter bottle for refilling. Always have water with you!

Coca leaves and catalyst. Locals chew coca leaves to alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness. If you're going to try it, be sure to buy the catalyst as well, because the leaves won't work without it. The catalyst will look like a gray-black ball of ash.

Walking stick/trekking pole. Some find the steep downhill portions of the trail to be tough on the knees. You can rent these in Cusco.

First Aid kit. Your guide should have one, but it doesn't hurt to bring your own. It should include moleskin for blisters.

Cash. Be prepared to tip your trekking staff for good work. You might also want to buy a snack or drink along the trail. (Note that snacks stands are quite rare; don't depend on them.) Peruvian sols are best, but US dollars sometimes work. Bring small denominations, as many people will not have change.

Toilet paper. You won't find this along the trail!

Personal medication. If you're taking any medication, carry it on your person.

Camera, extra memory cards/film. These may be the most stunning views you'll ever see.

Daypack. If your company allows this, hand the majority of your things over to the porters and carry only what you'll need for the day.

Be sure to find out what/how much you'll be expected to carry on the trek to Machu Picchu, what will be carried by a porter or a horse or mule, and whether there is an extra charge for this service. Most hotels and hostels in Cusco will be happy to store backpacks or other luggage while you're trekking, so rather than overburdening yourself or a porter or pack animal, consider taking advantage of that service and carrying only the essentials.

The Salkantay Trek is a real highlight of a visit to South America, but you’ll enjoy it more if you’re comfortable. Do make sure you have everything you will need.