One of the details that most defines the Salkantay experience is where you spend the night. Along the route, you sleep at different locations depending on the duration you choose, and the type of accommodation varies greatly between a budget and an upgraded version. In this guide, we explain the options you will find, from tent campsites to domes and mountain cabins, so you know what to expect each night before booking.
Tent Campsites
This is the standard option on the most budget-friendly versions. You sleep in camping tents that the support team sets up and takes down at each point along the route, with a sleeping pad included and space for your luggage. There is usually also a dining tent where you share meals with the rest of the group. It is the classic way to do the trek, closest to the traditional hiking experience, and works well if you are looking for a simple, budget-friendly adventure. It is best to bring warm clothing for the night, as temperatures drop considerably at the higher points.
Eco Majestic Sky Domes
The Eco Majestic Sky Domes are wooden geodesic domes located in the heart of a green valley, surrounded by forest and with their own private terrace. You sleep in a warm, sheltered setting with real beds, and your stay includes dinner, breakfast, and bedding. They are the option for those seeking comfort without giving up being surrounded by nature, with the advantage of an enclosed space that protects you from the cold and nighttime humidity. They are a clear step up from a tent, both in terms of rest and comfort.
Mamá Andrea Cabins
The Mamá Andrea Cabins are wooden cabins with thatched roofs in the heart of the mountains, nestled among the hills along the route. They are designed for the highest part of the journey, with warm beds and protection from the high-altitude cold. Your stay includes dinner, breakfast, bedding, and warm gear to comfortably enjoy the night. Since you are at a higher altitude, it is still best to bring warm clothing because temperatures drop considerably at night. They offer a great combination of comfort and location for mountain days.
How to Choose Where to Sleep
The choice depends on how much comfort you are looking for and your budget. If you are keeping costs low and do not mind the basics, tent campsites work perfectly well. If you prefer better rest between hiking days, the Eco Majestic Sky Domes and Mamá Andrea Cabins provide an extra level of comfort that makes a difference, especially after a long day of climbing. Many upgraded packages combine both types of accommodation depending on the section of the route, so you can stay in a dome in the valley and a cabin in the highlands. Booking in advance ensures availability at the accommodation you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do you sleep during the Salkantay Trek?
It depends on the version you choose. Budget options use tent campsites, while upgraded versions include the Eco Majestic Sky Domes in the valley and the Mamá Andrea Cabins in the higher part of the route.
What is the difference between sleeping in a tent and a dome?
A tent is the basic, simple, and budget-friendly option, with a sleeping pad and dining tent. A dome is an enclosed wooden space with real beds, included bedding, and greater insulation from cold and humidity, so you get better rest between hiking days.
Do the Mamá Andrea Cabins include warm gear for the night?
Yes. Your stay includes dinner, breakfast, bedding, and warm gear. Since they are located in the highest part of the route, it is still advisable to bring warm clothing because temperatures drop considerably at night.
Can I choose the type of accommodation?
Yes. The type of accommodation is usually determined by the package you book. Upgraded versions combine domes and cabins, while budget options keep tent campsites. Booking in advance ensures availability at the one you prefer.