On the Salkantay Trek, there are two things that almost always surprise you:
- the long descent after the pass (it’s hard on your knees), and
- the ever-changing terrain (loose rocks, mud, steps, steep slopes).
That’s why, even though trekking poles aren’t mandatory, for many people they become “essential gear” 🙌. Used correctly, they provide stability, reduce impact, and help you maintain a steady pace at altitude.
Here’s a complete guide: when they’re worth it, how to use them properly, what type to choose, and common mistakes.
1) Are trekking poles worth it on Salkantay?
Realistic answer:
Yes, for most travelers. Especially if:
- it’s your first multi-day trek
- you’re carrying a heavy backpack
- you have sensitive knees or a history of knee problems
- you’re going during the rainy season (mud + slippery conditions)
- you’re worried about the descent from the pass on the day you hike.
If you’re very experienced and have strong knees, you can do Salkantay without trekking poles. But even many advanced trekkers use them because they reduce wear and tear.
2) Real advantages (not theory) 💪
✅ 2.1 Less impact on knees and ankles
The real star of trekking poles is the descent:
- By using poles, some of the weight is distributed to the arms and upper back.
- This reduces repetitive stress on the knees (especially on long descents).
💡 This is especially noticeable on day 2, when you cross the Salkantay Pass and then descend for hours.
✅ 2.2 More stability on uneven terrain
The Salkantay trail can have:
- loose gravel
- uneven rocks
- mud
- small water crossings
- sections with frost early in the day
Trekking poles give you two extra points of support, which:
- reduces slipping
- helps you regain your balance if you misstep
- gives you mental confidence (yes, that counts too 😄)
✅ 2.3 Better pace at altitude (uphills)
At altitude, the goal is to walk slowly but steadily.
Trekking poles help you:
- maintain a steady cadence (regular pace)
- distribute effort when you’re short of breath
- climb with less leg fatigue on inclines
A common trick: synchronize your pole movements with your steps so your body becomes more automatic.
✅ 2.4 Energy Savings and Less Accumulated Fatigue
Even though you’re working your arms, in the long run:
- you reduce the load on your quadriceps and knees
- you tire less on descents
- you recover better for the next day
On multi-day treks, this saving is noticeable.
3) Are there any disadvantages? ⚠️ (so you’re not surprised)
Yes, some:
- If you don’t know how to use the straps, your hands will get tired.
- If you adjust them incorrectly, they’ll be uncomfortable.
- On flat sections, they can feel like extra weight.
- If you walk too close to others, you can get in their way (especially in large groups).
- In certain spaces, they can be uncomfortable if there are a lot of people.
✅ Solution: learn basic technique + adjust the height properly. With that, they become your allies.
4) In which parts of the Salkantay are they most useful? 🗺️
| Trecho / dia | São úteis? | Por quê |
|---|---|---|
| Dia 1 (início e Humantay opcional) | Recomendados | Subidas e descidas, adaptação à altitude |
| Dia 2 (Abra Salkantay) | SUPER recomendados ✅ | Subida intensa + descida longa |
| Dias intermediários (selva alta) | Recomendados | Lama, cansaço acumulado |
| Aguas Calientes / cidadela | Opcional | Trilhas definidas (menos necessários) |
If you can only use them one day, make it the day of the pass.
5) Correct technique: how to use them properly (this changes everything) 🧠
✅ 5.1 Height adjustment (easy rule)
- Flat: elbow ~90°
- Uphill: shorten them slightly (for better pushing)
- Downhill: lengthen them slightly (for more forward support)
💡 If you don’t want to be constantly adjusting, set it to “intermediate mode” and only change them on long climbs/descents.
✅ 5.2 How to Use the Straps (the secret to avoiding fatigue)
Many people use them incorrectly, which is why their hands hurt.
Correct (simple) way:
- Put your hand under the strap.
- Rest the strap at the base of your hand.
- Hold the handle without squeezing too tightly.
👉 The strap should bear some of the weight, not your fingers.
✅ 5.3 Uphill Technique
- Plant the pole slightly in front of the opposite foot (alternating rhythm).
- Take short steps, breathe steadily.
- Don’t “hit” the ground: plant the pole firmly but gently.
Pro tip: Use your poles as a “metronome” to avoid rushing.
✅ 5.4 Downhill Technique (the most important)
- Use slightly longer poles
- Place pole first → then foot (control)
- Don’t jump downhill
- Keep your knees slightly bent
Typical mistake: going fast downhill because “it’s downhill.” This is where sprains happen.
6) Which poles to choose for Salkantay?
✅ 6.1 Adjustable (the best)
Because you can adjust the height depending on the terrain.
Types:
- Telescopic: the most common
- Folding: super compact, great for traveling
✅ 6.2 Material: aluminum vs. carbon
Aluminum
- More resistant
- Better for impacts and rough handling
- A little heavier
Carbon
- Lighter
- More comfortable for long distances
- Can be more fragile in the event of hard impacts
📌 For most people: adjustable aluminum is a safe bet. If you want lightness, choose carbon.
✅ 6.3 Tips and Baskets
- Metal tips: excellent grip on soil/rock.
- Rubber caps: useful on hard surfaces and for reducing noise.
- Baskets: helpful in mud or light snow because they prevent the pole from sinking.
In Salkantay, having small baskets can be useful if it’s muddy.
7) Rent or bring your own? 🎒
✅ Renting (super common)
Pros:
- Practical
- Cheap compared to buying
- You don’t travel with them
Cons:
- Variable quality
- Sometimes they’re worn out
✅ Bringing your own
Pros:
- They’re already adjusted to your size
- Better quality
- More reliable
Cons:
- Travel logistics (especially by plane)
8) Common mistakes (avoid them and you’ll be fine) ❌
- Using poles without straps or with straps incorrectly attached
- Adjusting them too long on uphills (you get tired)
- Adjusting them too short on downhills (forces you to hunch over)
- Picking them in too hard and tiring your arms
- Walking too close to others (you get in their way)
- Using them for the first time on the toughest day without practicing
✅ Solution: Practice on a short hike beforehand.
9) Quick recommendations based on your profile 👥
- Beginner: trekking poles are a must + practice beforehand ✅
- Sensitive knees: highly recommended ✅
- Heavy backpack: recommended ✅
- Rainy season: recommended due to mud/slipperiness ✅
- Very experienced and light backpack: optional (but still helpful)
On the Salkantay Trek, trekking poles are one of the most useful tools for protecting your knees, improving stability, and walking with more confidence, especially on the Salkantay Pass and its long descents. They aren’t mandatory, but they are one of the best upgrades you can take for very little extra weight 🏔️🙌
