Spending the first night of the Salkantay Trek in Soraypampa comes with one particularity: you are at nearly 3,850 m a.s.l., where nighttime cold is intense. Knowing what to pack and what to keep in mind will make your stay at Mama Andrea Cabins much more comfortable. Here is a practical guide.
What You Should Know Before Arriving
The cabins are in Soraypampa, at around 3,850 m a.s.l., at the starting point of the trek. It is a high-mountain area, so the weather is cold, especially at night. Unlike accommodations at lower elevations, staying warm is the key here.
Also, keep two things in mind: the bathroom is shared and the showers have cold water. Being prepared for this will help you avoid surprises.
What to Pack
Clothing and warm layers:
- Thermal sleepwear: a thermal base layer, wool socks, and a beanie.
- A thermal jacket or warm coat for the evening.
- Gloves and a scarf, as temperatures drop considerably.
- Comfortable, dry clothes to relax in when you arrive.
For rest and personal hygiene:
- The cabins include beds and warm blankets, but if you get cold easily, an extra sleeping bag will add comfort.
- Wet wipes, which are useful because the showers have cold water.
- A quick-dry towel and personal toiletries.
For the altitude:
- Water and something to help you stay well hydrated, which is essential at this altitude.
- Energy snacks.
- If you tend to feel the effects of altitude, coca leaves or whatever you normally use for acclimatization.
Other useful items:
- A flashlight or headlamp for getting around at night.
- Cash in soles, as electronic payment methods are not always available in the mountains.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses for the afternoon of your arrival and your visit to Humantay.
What You Need to Keep in Mind
- The bathroom is shared: there are no private bathrooms in the cabins.
- The showers have cold water: if you prefer, many travelers choose to freshen up with wet wipes and save a full shower for later on the route.
- The night is cold: this is the most important consideration when packing for this stop.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Stay
- Arrive the afternoon before if you can. Sleeping in Soraypampa before hiking helps you acclimatize and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.
- Take advantage of being close to Humantay. The lake is about 25 minutes away on foot; the afternoon you arrive is a great time to visit it.
- Stay hydrated from the moment you arrive. The altitude places greater demands on your body, so drink water frequently.
- Bundle up before nightfall. As soon as the sun goes down, the temperature drops quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it very cold at Mama Andrea Cabins?
Yes. They are at nearly 3,850 m a.s.l., so nights are cold. It is advisable to bring thermal clothing and warm layers.
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
The cabins include beds and warm blankets. It is not mandatory, but if you get cold easily, an extra sleeping bag helps.
Do the cabins have hot water?
No. The showers have cold water, so many travelers prefer to use wet wipes for personal hygiene.
Should I bring cash?
Yes, it is advisable to bring cash in soles, because electronic payment methods are not always available in the mountain area.
Why is it a good idea to sleep here before the trek?
Because it helps your body acclimatize to the altitude of Soraypampa before starting the hike, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.