One of the advantages of sleeping at Eco Majestic Sky Domes is that you do not need to carry as much gear as you would for traditional camping. With a bed, private bathroom, and hot water, many essentials are already taken care of. Still, it is helpful to know what to pack and what to keep in mind to make the most of your stay. Here is the practical guide.
What You Should Know Before Arriving
The domes are located in the community of Playa Sahuayaco, at 2,100 m s. n. m., along the section of the route that descends from Salkantay toward Machu Picchu. It is a lush, mild area, warmer than the higher parts of the mountains. During the day, the weather is pleasant, but temperatures drop at night, as is typical in mountain areas.
This is key when packing: you do not need clothing as warm as you would for the higher sections of the trek, but you should bring a light layer for the evening.
What to Pack
Clothing:
- Comfortable clothes to relax in when you arrive.
- A light layer or jacket for the evening, when the temperature drops.
- A dry change of clothes, especially if you have been hiking for several hours.
- Sandals or comfortable footwear to get around the lodge and rest your feet.
For rest and personal care:
- The domes include a private bathroom with a shower, hydromassage, and hot water, so you do not need to carry camping hygiene supplies.
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, and the basics).
- Bedding is included, so you do not need a sleeping bag for this night.
Other useful items:
- A charger and power bank, as electricity along the route can be intermittent.
- A flashlight or headlamp for getting around the outdoor areas at night.
- Insect repellent, as this is a lush, vegetated area.
- Cash in soles for bar drinks, additional meals, or nearby activities, which are paid separately.
What You Do NOT Need to Carry
Since the domes already offer several comforts, you can lighten your backpack:
- You do not need a tent or sleeping pad: you will sleep in a bed inside the dome.
- You do not need a sleeping bag for this night: bedding is included.
- You do not need to plan for cold showers or provide your own hot water: the dome has a hot-water shower.
This is a real advantage over traditional camping on the Salkantay Trek, where you need to carry or rely on more equipment.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Stay
- Arrange your meals in advance. Dinner and breakfast are included, but if you would like lunch or an additional dinner, it is best to request it beforehand.
- Make the most of the terrace. Each dome has its own private terrace; it is a great place to relax outdoors and, on clear nights, admire the starry sky.
- Set aside time for nearby activities. If you have extra time, the area offers a coffee farm, zip line, Tibetan bridge, Chaquiorcco waterfalls, and the Cocalmayo hot springs.
- Bring cash. Bar drinks, extra meals, and activities are paid separately, and electronic payment methods are not always available along the route.
- Plan your connection to Machu Picchu. Transportation from the domes, by car or train, is arranged separately; have it organized before you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag to the domes?
No. Bedding is included, so you do not need a sleeping bag for your night in the domes.
Is it cold in the domes at night?
They are located at 2,100 m s. n. m., in a mild area that is warmer than the higher sections of the trek. Still, it gets cool at night, so bringing a light layer is recommended.
Do the domes have hot water for showers?
Yes. Each dome has a private bathroom with a shower, hydromassage, and hot water, so you do not need to plan for camping hygiene solutions.
Should I bring cash?
Yes, it is advisable to bring cash in soles for bar drinks, additional meals, or nearby activities, which are paid separately.
What do I not need to carry if I sleep in the domes?
You do not need a tent, sleeping pad, or sleeping bag, as you will sleep in a bed with included bedding inside the dome.