Before setting out on the Salkantay Trek, it is worth adjusting one key expectation: for much of the route, you will be disconnected, and charging your devices will not always be possible. It is not a problem if you come prepared, but it can become complicated if you expect to have signal or a power outlet nearby when you need one. Here, we explain how cell coverage works, where wifi is available, what you can expect when charging batteries, and how to be ready so that cold weather and lack of electricity do not leave you without a camera or phone.
Cell phone signal: it disappears on the first day
Mobile coverage on the Salkantay Trek is limited and unreliable. You will usually lose signal from the morning of the first day, shortly after leaving Mollepata and heading up toward Soraypampa, and it will not return consistently until after the third day, when the route approaches towns again. At the pass, over 4.600 m a. s. l., and in the more enclosed valleys, there is no signal at all. Near Aguas Calientes, it works normally again.
For this reason, you should not rely on your phone for navigation or communication in case of need. If you hike with an agency, your guide is your point of contact, and teams usually carry a radio or satellite phone for emergencies. If you go independently, download offline maps before leaving and do not count on having data along the way.
Some campsites and accommodations offer wifi, especially from the second camp onward around Chaullay and Collpapampa. However, it is best to treat it as an extra rather than something guaranteed. It is usually a slow connection, shared by many people, and dependent on the weather. In most cases, there is an additional cost of around 10 soles (USD 3) per person, although some accommodations include it in their package.
The practical recommendation is to turn on airplane mode during the day to save battery and download in advance anything you want to have handy: maps, music, podcasts, or a book. That way, you will not depend on a connection that may or may not be available.
Charging devices: limited and not always guaranteed
Electricity along the route is intermittent. In the luxury dome option, there is usually power to charge your devices more comfortably, while in the tent option or simple accommodations, choices are more limited. In many accommodations, you can charge batteries at some point during the day using power outlets in the dining area or reception, and some campsites even charge per charging point, around 10 to 15 soles (USD 3 to USD 4) per device.
The important point is that you cannot take it for granted. The most reliable way to avoid running out of power is not to depend on the infrastructure along the route and to bring your own charging source.
Cold weather drains batteries faster
One detail that surprises many people: at high-altitude camps, temperatures drop below zero at night, and the cold drains batteries much faster than usual. Your phone, camera batteries, and headlamp can lose charge even when you are not using them. The solution is simple: keep them inside your sleeping bag overnight or wrapped in clothing, close to your body, to keep them warm. They will have considerably more charge in the morning than if you leave them loose inside the dome or tent.
What to bring so you do not run out of power
With a couple of accessories, you can solve the issue completely. A high-capacity power bank, at least 10.000 to 20.000 mAh, is the most important item, and you should bring it fully charged from Cusco. A solar charger can be useful as a backup if you travel during the dry season. Do not forget a plug adapter, as outlets in Peru may differ from those in your country; you can easily get one in Cusco before leaving. And if you rely heavily on your camera, charged spare batteries will save you from unpleasant surprises during the best photo opportunities.
Quick summary
| Feature | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Cell phone signal | Disappears on the first day; returns consistently after the third day and in Aguas Calientes |
| Wifi | From the second camp onward; slow, shared, and paid (around 10 soles / USD 3) |
| Device charging | Limited; at some campsites it costs 10 to 15 soles (USD 3 to USD 4) per device |
| Luxury domes | Usually have electricity for more convenient charging |
| Effect of cold | Drains batteries at night; keep them warm close to your body |
| Essentials | Charged power bank, plug adapter, and spare batteries |
Frequently asked questions
Is there cell phone signal on the Salkantay Trek?
It is limited. You will usually lose it from the morning of the first day, and it does not return consistently until after the third day, near towns and Aguas Calientes. There is no coverage at the pass or in the valleys.
Can I connect to wifi during the route?
At some campsites from the second day onward, but it is slow, shared, and usually costs around 10 soles (USD 3). It is best to download maps and content before leaving.
Where can I charge my phone or camera?
Several accommodations have electricity at some point during the day, and certain campsites charge per charging point, around 10 to 15 soles (USD 3 to USD 4). It is usually more convenient in luxury domes. Even so, the safest option is to bring your own power bank.
Why do batteries drain so quickly?
Because of the nighttime cold at high-altitude camps, where temperatures drop below zero. Keep your devices warm close to your body or inside your sleeping bag to preserve their charge.
What should I bring to ensure power for my devices?
A 10.000 to 20.000 mAh power bank charged from Cusco, a plug adapter, and spare camera batteries. A solar charger works as a backup during the dry season.