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Peru is one of my favorite countries and the Machu Picchu hike is one of the most incredible experiences! Machu Picchu is one of the most famous destinations in South America and a sought-out wonder for international travels around the world.
I get many questions about the Inca Trail trek, and in addition to creating a Machu Picchu packing list, I’m answering readers’ questions to give you a better idea of what to expect.
Machu Picchu Packing List and Travel Tips
Table Of Contents
I’ve made two separate journeys to this mystical world wonder: I completed the Lares Trek in July 2008 as part of the Peru Panorama
tour with G Adventures (I highly recommend G Adventures especially for solo travelers) and the Inca Jungle Trek in February 2011. Each of these treks was challenging in its own way.
The Lares Trek was physically challenging because it was steep, and the Inca Jungle was mentally challenging because we got stuck in a mudslide and rockslide during the rainy season.
To hike the Inca Trail or Huayna Picchu, you need to book well in advance (even months) because only a certain number of permits are given per day. However, alternate hikes, like Lares, don’t require permits, so you could potentially book a tour when you arrive in Cusco.
START BY READING THESE POSTS:
- Where to Leave Your Luggage While Trekking Machu Picchu
- What to Pack for Machu Picchu when you’re not Trekking
- What to Wear in Peru
What to Expect on the Machu Picchu Hike
You probably hear this tons, but plan to layer. Layers should make up a bulk of your Machu Picchu packing list. It can be very hot during the day–even in the winter–since the sun is strong due to the high altitude. Sunscreen is super important year round! I have a natural tan and still burnt to a crisp in Lake Titicaca.
This is an adventure where you’re just going to have to get comfortable with the idea that you won’t be able to shower, so don’t feel bad about re-using the same pair of trousers for several days. You’re not alone, and nobody will be walking right next to you as everyone walks at their own pace, some much further ahead than others.
(Check your itinerary as some treks include hostel or guesthouse accommodation, not camping.) Pack baby wipes so you can freshen up at the end of the day and in the morning if you’re camping.
Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Tours Packing List
Please note: This list will vary slightly depending on which of the Machu Picchu tours you choose because accommodation varies, the way you arrive to Machu Picchu changes, and your activities also vary. For ease, this Machu Picchu packing list is based on the 4-Day Inca Trail.
Shop Osprey Tempest 20: Amazon | Osprey | REI
1 Daypack
You’ll need a daypack to carry your daily essentials. Ideally, the size should be between 20-25L if you’re not carrying your own camping equipment. Choose one with comfortable padded straps and exterior compartments to hold water bottles. If not included, use a backpack cover to keep your belongings protected from rain and dirt.
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot
Footwear
This varies by person. Some wear hiking boots and others wear trainers. I’ve worn my trusty New Balance Trainers both times and have been very happy, but if you’re unsure, try a pair of trainer/hiking boot hybrids like these Columbia shoes.
Find out how to choose the best hiking shoes!
Columbia Pardon My Trench Rain Jacket | Sizes XS-3X
1 Waterproof Jacket
Many travelers choose to wear a plastic poncho to protect their belongings and avoid wet clothing at night and the next day. You can buy a poncho before the trek.
It can be hot and uncomfortable to wear both a rain jacket and poncho in the rain. However, it is advised to add a light waterproof or windbreaker jacket to your Machu Picchu packing list.
Here’s the best waterproof jackets for stylish travel!
Athleta Trekkie North Jogger | Sizes 0-26
2 Pants
Your Machu Picchu packing list should include a pair of trekking Pants and one pair of leggings or fitness/yoga pants. Take a pair of travel pants for the trek and leggings or yoga pants for the final day when you want something clean.
Choose trekking pants or pants you would wear to work out. Rugged materials that dry quickly can be especially helpful in case of poor weather conditions. You can always pick up a cheap pair in Cusco and trash them when you’re done. In fact, you can buy everything you need for this trek in Cusco so don’t worry, you’ll be okay if you forget something.
Wear your trekking pants every day except the last so you can arrive at Machu Picchu wearing a nice clean outfit for 3 reasons: 1) you’ll be taking lots of pictures 2) you might be headed back to Cusco the same day and 3) you want to feel comfortable while exploring this magical destination.
Readers recommend the Athleta Trekkie North Pants for a versatile and stylish pair of pants you can wear on the trek and throughout the rest of your trip. One reader says, “I did the four day Inca trail trek last week and wore them, plus I plan to wear them this week in Buenos Aires. They are so comfy, versatile, go with everything, and are lightweight.” They truly are the best travel pants ever!
Check out the best hiking pants and quick drying pants for more outdoor wardrobe ideas!
Eddie Bauer Favorite Scoop-Neck Tank Top | Sizes XS-3X
4 Tank Tops or Tees
While quick dry, fitness, or yoga tees are great for the trek, you’ll be fine wearing regular tops, too. Just add items to your Machu Picchu packing list that you feel comfortable exercising and sweating in.
Whatever you choose, remember that you should also like wearing it out to sightseeing during the day and to hang out at night in other Peruvian towns and cities. Pack a clean top for every day of the trek.
Find out the best hiking shirts to keep you cool or warm on the trail!
Unbound Merino Slim Merino Long Sleeve V-Neck | Sizes XS-XL
1-2 Long Sleeve Tops
For your Machu Picchu packing list, include one long-sleeve top for summer or two for winter.
Choose a layering long sleeve to carry on the trek. It can add warmth if needed and easily be removed if you get too warm. A thin shell or other fitness type top is good. Also available in crewneck style!
Columbia Benton Springs II Long Hoodie | Sizes XS-3X
1 Fleece or Hoodie
A fleece is great to add to your Machu Picchu packing list because it won’t weigh you down as much as cotton, it’s lightweight and will keep you warm if it’s cold. It also dries quickly, which is very helpful.
Check out some fleece travel jackets here!
Terramar Thermasilk Pointelle Scoop Shirt | Sizes XS-XL
Thermals
Choose thermals in the winter or a shirt and leggings in the summer. If you’re camping, then it will be cold at night. You’ll be so tired you won’t be interested in having a drink or a chat with your new trekking buddies for long, so don’t worry too much about bringing clothing other than your sleeping clothes for nighttime.
Minimalist Machu Picchu packing list tip: If you use everyday items to sleep, then they can double as your “clean outfit” on the last day. I used my sleeping shirt/leggings as my 4th day outfit to avoid carrying excessive clothing.
If spending the night in Machupicchu Pueblo (also known as Aguas Calientes) after completing your Machu Picchu tour, then also add 1 more clean outfit, like leggings and a top. You can also find laundry service here if you don’t bring an extra set of clothing.
For those heading straight back to Cusco or Ollantaytambo, make sure you save a clean set of clothes for the last day!
Find out the brands our readers most recommend the best thermal underwear for women!
4 Pairs of Socks
When packing clothes for hiking, don’t forget to bring socks! Invest in a few pairs of quality hiking socks if you can. Socks such as the Darn Tough socks have cushioned areas for the toe and heel, both of which will help prevent you from getting blisters.
It is also advisable to get socks that are made with a high wicking material (such as merino wool) to keep your feet dry. Kirkland socks are a highly popular merino wool sock brand for outdoor adventuring. They are sturdy, comfy, and perform on the trails.
You can get hiking socks with different thicknesses, depending on whether you are hiking in warmer or colder climates. Just don’t forget to give your feet a little breathing room—they will tend to swell up the warmer they get.
Icebreaker Merino Siren Bikini
5 Pairs of Underwear
Because you don’t want to worry about washing them daily, pack enough for each day of the trek plus one or two extras.
If you prefer natural materials as opposed to synthetic fabrics, then Icebreaker’s wool travel panties might be the best pair of travel underwear for you. Most travel clothing is made from synthetic fabrics, but Icebreaker makes some of the best underwear for women with natural materials.
Icebreaker is known for its merino wool clothing line, which is a great material for travel! The merino wool line creates travel underwear that’s perfect for women headed out on longer treks.
1 Sports Bra
If you’re grimy all week, having the same bra one more day doesn’t hurt. You’ll definitely want to add this to your Machu Picchu packing list.
This is a supportive sports bra recommended for travelers who like to workout, hike and require underwire styles. A supportive sports bra like this also can be worn with other clothing as well.
One reader shares how happy she is with this bra. “It gives a flattering, mostly normal, separated shape as far as sports bras go!” Another adds, “I own a Panache wire-free sports bra, and it gives you a good shape, similar to a proper bra.”
I personally own this sports bra, and I love the Panache Underwire, with its phenomenal size range! Panache also has a wireless version, too.
Quince Italian Cami One-Piece Swimsuit | Sizes XS-XL
1 Bathing Suit
Many people soothe their sore muscles in the hot springs in Aguas Calientes after visiting Machu Picchu. If you decide not to, at least you have an emergency set of underwear/bra.
This timeless one-piece swimsuit is made to last, with Italian-crafted fabric, and thoughtfully made with recycled materials. With moderate backside coverage, it feels comfy and secure. Resists fading, pilling, and snagging, so you’ll be wearing it for years to come.
Shop Osprey Farpoint 55 Backpack: Amazon | REI | Osprey
Preparing For the Trek
A few notes on physical preparation for this trek: having already painfully done it once, I was better prepared the second time around. What I found was that it was more helpful to “train” by using the step machine at the gym or using something with a steep incline versus running or regular aerobics. You shouldn’t stop cardio altogether, but add incline workouts to your training.
Every day for two weeks before I left to Peru (it was a last-minute trip) I did a 45-60 minute hike up and down a steep hill by my house, and stopped my usual cardio. Not being in particularly good shape otherwise, I found this to be extremely helpful and it made the trek much easier the second time around.
Porters: While some tours do offer porters for your belongings, don’t use this as an excuse to overpack. Normally you’ll leave your main bag in Cusco, so only pack what you need on the trek. The porters can carry your clothing and while you’re walking you can carry wet wipes, lip balm, sunscreen, snacks, and water in your daypack (or other versatile bag). If you’re camping, the porters can carry your sleeping bag/mat.
Quince 100% European Linen Button Front Dress | Sizes XS-XL
What to Wear Everywhere Else in Peru
Read this post to find out what to wear in Peru so you can add these items to your Machu Picchu packing list if you plan on sightseeing after the trek. The general rule in many places around the world is that big cities and beach towns are more relaxed and small towns are more conservative.
Cusco and Lima have nice restaurants and a fun nightlife, so when you’re out at night you probably do want to wear a cute dress or a dressy outfit with jeans. I carried on traveling with a few girls from the Machu Picchu trek that only packed travel clothes and when we were done they started looking for a “sexy” dress in Arequipa to fit in with the rest of the backpacker scene at night.
A couple outfits you can dress up or down are suggested, especially if you want to go out at night or to the nice restaurants. Keep in mind that Lima is a modern city and women care for their appearance and dress well.
Antropologie The Colette Cropped Wide-Leg Pants by Maeve | Sizes 23-24 and 16W-26W
In Puno and Lake Titicaca, on the other hand, you might want to wear dressy jeans at night versus a short dress. As for how short is too short, if you’re questioning a piece, then wear it with leggings or don’t pack it.
Shorts above the knee are fine in larger cities and beachside towns like Mancora. Just wear them tastefully as you would anywhere. During the day and night, jeans are as useful in Peru as trekking pants on your Machu Picchu tour.
Creating an interchangeable capsule wardrobe is the key to simplified packing.
Bringing Jewelry to Peru
A general rule about jewelry: Costume jewelry is totally fine, but real jewels should stay home. Cusco and Mancora have INCREDIBLE handicrafts and talented jewelry makers, so it’s a travelista’s dream! I’m always ready for two things in Peru: Handcrafted Jewelry and Artisan Leather Handbags.
Save your shopping for the end of your trip and buy a super cute carrier bag from the local handicraft vendors to carry all your new wearable souvenirs!
Travel Tips
Save time for 1-2 days in Cusco post-trek to recuperate after your journey. They have cheap massages to soothe your sore muscles, too.
And if you’re finished hiking Machu Picchu and you still want more, head to Colca Canyon in Arequipa and do another 2-day trek or make your way up north to Mancora for beachside fun in the sun!
If you’re not ready to travel alone, join a group travel tour–that’s how I got my feet wet! My first trip to Peru in 2008 was a 17-day Peru Panorama tour with G Adventures following a Brazil/Argentina combination tour. Once you get comfortable with travel, you’ll be ready to set off on your own solo adventures!
What items would you add to this Inca Trail and Machu Picchu packing list?
For tips more on what to pack for Peru, please read:
- Backpacking South America Packing List
- Plan Your Outdoor Capsule Wardrobe
- Best Hanging Toiletry Bag for Women
- Best Hiking Poles to Tackle Any Terrain Near or Far
Suggested Travel Resources:
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This is a great post! I love Merrill Hiking Boots too, but have found a new favorite in Oboz — the sole feels like an athletic shoe to me, making it super comfortable. Also, for layering, picking up an Alpaca sweater in Peru is great option for chilly nights in the Andes.
Thank you for a wonderful blog. I’m off to Peru next month and stumbled across this blog and have read it over and over again. One question if I may though. I’m doing the one day trek to macchu picchu, and stuggling with what day pack to get 20L seems large. Would a 15L realistically be too small? Im looking at get either the osprey 20L tempest or the 15L Zealot. You’re thoughts one this would be brilliant. Cheers
Personally, less is more on this trek! The porters bring EVERYTHING except your clothing/personal items. I wore the same pants the entire time and had layers for nights/high elevation, etc. I did wish I brought some lounge shoes for around the camp in the evenings when my feet didn’t want to wear hiking boots anymore!
Sharing this with my stepdaughter who will be hiking the trail with my husband, thanks!
So helpful! I’m bringing hiking boots definitely! I added an extra pair of pants so that I have a clean pair to summit with ( for pictures!)
Good plan Amanda!
I’m doing the 4 day hike at the end if April. I was wondering how steep are the stairs,I heard that there are three steep set of stairs on the 2 nd day,can you tell me how may stairs are we talking about –100-200
Love your notes,thanks
The entire second day is long and has large uneven stairs.
Hi Alex,
We are starting the 4 day Inca Trail on March 31st and I’m TOTALLY torn about hiking boots vs my favorite Merrell Chameleons!! We’ll be in Peru for 4 weeks and will be doing the Santa Cruz and a couple others as well. Trying to talk myself into the Merrells, but worried about ankle support. Did you have any trouble??
Thank you!
Hi Kim, it really depends on your personal needs. Some people did the trek in regular trainers and others used hiking boots. I just used cross trainers on both my trips and I felt comfortable with that. I would use them again.
Thank you for this it’s so helpful! I’m doing the inca trail in November this year 🙂 Do you have any advice on whether it’s better to take a water bottle or hydration bladder? and whether I should take some water purification tablets or a filtering bottle? Thank you again!
If most of your activities will center around hiking than the hydration bladder may be a good choice, if not, then a waterbottle will do! If you get bottled water you won’t need any of those and it’s readily available in the area! It’s fairly cheap and saves you the worry of purifying your drinking water. Happy travels!
Hi everybody. I remeber when I traveled to Cusco the last year, the experience was spectacular, Cusco has the best place to know about history. Also I remember the experience with my travel agency, was perfect, if you want know more the MachuPicchu and Peru, can search the web page and travel for all Peru. Hugs.
http://www.ericadventures.com/
Thanks for sharing this 🙂 Sounds really exciting!
I am heading to Peru at the end of the year and this post is wonderfully informative and has given me lots of tips on what to pack for the trek and my journey there. I can’t wait to head off now with the minimum packed as possible. Thanks again TFG.
Yay 🙂 I’m glad you found it helpful. Have an awesome time!
My hubby and I are leaving this Saturday for a 4 day Trek to Machu Picchu and 3 days in the Amazon rainforest. Thanks for the packing tips. It really helped in knowing what to bring.
Wow this trip sounds amazing 🙂 Have a great time!
This list is everything, thanks Alex! Heading to Peru this November and I’ll be stalking your site until then.
Yay! So glad you like it Stephanie! Have a great time in Peru!
Hey Alex!
I’m going to Peru for 14 days in 2 weeks! I’m going on a 5-day salkantay trek to Machu Picchu and am bringing my own trekking poles and sleeping bag. I have a 65L Osprey Ariel (http://www.ospreypacks.com/us/en/product/ariel-65-ARIEL65_639.html) I was planning on taking this up to Machu Picchu, but now that I’ve read your blog, I’m thinking that’s not the best idea. I’d rather not carry everything up there.
Is there a good daypack that I can bring that I can both stuff in my Ariel 65L backpack AND attach my (rather large – https://www.rei.com/product/897244/marmot-ouray-sleeping-bag-womens) sleeping bag to? I know it’s not going to be subfreezing temperatures, but I really love this bag and don’t want to rent one.
Thanks so much,
Amanda
Hi Amanda, it’s not subfreezing but you are going into the winter so a sleeping bag is definitely a good idea. Here is an article providing you answers to all your questions and detailing exactly how to separate and pack your belongings when doing the trek: https://travelfashiongirl.com/machu-picchu-luggage-tips/
To be honest, you can attach a sleeping bag to pretty much any daypack. All you do is use the outside hooks/loops/attachments on the outside of the backpack to attach your sleeping bag. Read the article provided for ideas and daypack suggestions.
I went to Machu Picchu and did the Inca Trail in January, and this guide was really useful to see what to pack. I always have trouble with overpacking – though I’m sure I’m not the only one! I love your blog 🙂
xoxo
YAY!!! Happy to help 🙂
Do you have a recommendation for a good pack to take on the trip?
We are taking a two week trip and Machu Picchu is just one stop. Do we take all of our belongings with us on the trail or is there someplace to leave those before your hike so we only take what we need? Thanks!
Hi Sara. Whether you leave your stuff at your hotel in Cusco or take it with you depends on your trip. Most people leave it at their accommodation in Cusco because they start and end the Machu Picchu segment of their trip here. However, I did see some backpackers who carried all their stuff the entire way because they were doing it on their own and carrying their own camping gear.
– Are you on a tour through Peru? If so, ask them if there is a place to leave your stuff behind.
– Alternatively, if you are you planning the trip on your own? You can easily leave the main bulk of your stuff at your accommodation in either Cusco or possibly Ollantaytambo.
I’ve done this twice and left my gear behind both times. For the trail I transfer over just the items I need into my 20L daypack using slim packing cubes to organize. The items I’ve used are shown in the above section on what to wear on the trek. A good daypack for this is one the is a minimum of 15L, max of 25L (if you’re not carrying your own camping gear) and has a space for you to insert your water bottles on the outside. An external pocket is always a bonus, too so you can easily access certain things.
Here are some suggested day pack examples:
http://amzn.to/1NpdSzj
http://amzn.to/1NpfkS8
http://amzn.to/1NpgahZ
http://amzn.to/1SgVaYN
I love the Osprey brand because they’re products are durable, they offer a life-time warranty and the packs are rugged but have nice designs. All my long-term travel luggage the past 8 years has been from Osprey: https://travelfashiongirl.com/best-osprey-backpacks/
Even though this Osprey backpack has water-repellant fabric, a cover is always recommended when using a backpack: http://amzn.to/1Nped52 Not only does it help keep water from saturating your belongings but it also protects your gear from dirt, tears, and other things.
Hope this helps!
Thanks so much for the info!! 🙂
Hi Alex,
In regards to bags, what type of bag did you have for your items the porters carried?
Great article! Really helpful, thanks!
Hi Alicia! I never had a porter carry my bags because I only took my daypack on both trips. You can usually leave anything you won’t be using on the trek in your hotel in Cusco. Most people leave it at their accommodation in Cusco because they start and end the Machu Picchu segment of their trip here.
• Are you on a tour through Peru? If so, ask them if there is a place to leave your stuff behind.
• Alternatively, if you are you planning the trip on your own? You can easily leave the main bulk of your stuff at your accommodation in either Cusco or possibly Ollantaytambo.
I’ve done this twice and left my gear behind both times. For the trail I transfer over just the items I need into my 20L daypack using slim packing cubes to organize. The items I’ve used are shown in the above section on what to wear on the trek. A good daypack for this is one the is a minimum of 15L, max of 25L (if you’re not carrying your own camping gear) and has a space for you to insert your water bottles on the outside. An external pocket is always a bonus, too so you can easily access certain things.
Here are some suggested day pack examples:
http://amzn.to/1NpdSzj
http://amzn.to/1NpfkS8
http://amzn.to/1NpgahZ
http://amzn.to/1SgVaYN
I love the Osprey brand because they’re products are durable, they offer a life-time warranty and the packs are rugged but have nice designs. All my long-term travel luggage the past 8 years has been from Osprey: https://travelfashiongirl.com/best-osprey-backpacks/
Even though this Osprey backpack has water-repellant fabric, a cover is always recommended when using a backpack: http://amzn.to/1Nped52. Not only does it help keep water from saturating your belongings but it also protects your gear from dirt, tears, and other things.
Hope this helps!
Great blog post! I am about 3 weeks out from the Inca Trek with my husband, and your post was very reassuring! Did the elevation/altitude bother you at all? We are spending a day and a half in Cusco before the trek and I am getting nervous that it is not enough time to fully acclimate.
Hi SaraBeth! The altitude has never bothered me but I do know it is suggested to spend at least a day or two in Cusco in advance. It’s a lovely town, worth getting there even before 🙂 Just make sure to take altitude tablets as needed and drink the local coca leaf tea
Just a comment about passports…if you are doing the classic Inca Trail where permits are needed you need your passport to be able to enter the trail and it must be the same passport you booked the permit with. If you got a new passport between booking and trekking you need to bring only the passport you booked the permit with. I recommend bringing a dry bag or putting the passport in a ziploc to keep it dry during the trek. I am leaving in a week for Peru to do my trek and have been reminded three times now about the need to bring my passport to enter the trail.
Thanks Jocelyn, very important! I’ll make sure to add to the post too. Thanks again!
hi alex.
Your website is soooo great – really helpful! was just wondering when you did the inca trail and in the amazon, did you carry your passport with you? or leave it behind? I have read your tips on keeping passport safe (the’re great) but was wondering about day trips like this where you might not have a hotel to leave them at?
Thank you 🙂
Hi Ursla, thanks! I never carry my passport with me. It’s always locked away in my backpack/suitcase inside my accommodation. I did the Lares Trek in July of 2008 and the Inca Jungle in Feb 2011. Have a great trip!
OK, I finally had to comment on your blog. I’m planning an open-ended RTW trip right now and, today alone, I’ve googled things about three times and each time, you’ve had the best articles about the topic. Bookmarked and now stalking you on FB and Insta. Thanks for the great articles!
Thank you 🙂 that’s great to hear! What are you searching for?
This is such a great article with helpful tips! I do have a couple of questions. I am going to Peru with mu boyfriend in November. We are acclimating in Cusco for 2 days, then doing the 4 day Inca Trail to Macchu Pichu, going to Sacred Valley for 2 days then doing 7 days in the Amazon. Do you think the 55L bag would work for this trip? Also would the 15L day bag suffice for the Inca Trail? And would you wear similar (or even the same clothes) for the Amazon? Thanks in advance!!!
Kylie
Hi Kylie, thanks for your comment! Sounds like you have quite an amazing trip planned. To answer your questions:
Yes a 55L bag can work for any trip so long as you use packing organizers. I travel 365 days a year and use a 40L. Check out these packing options: https://travelfashiongirl.com/packing-organizers-the-luggage-accessories-that-help-you-travel-light/
I have used a 15L daypack for the trek. I used 1-2 slim packing cubes to make sure everything fit into this small space. You an find more info here: https://travelfashiongirl.com/packing-cubes-video-tutorial-learn-how-to-pack-light/
I would use the same clothing for the Amazon as the trek because in principle, the trekking clothes would be lightweight, moisture wicking, and quick dry which is also essential for the humidity of the jungle.
Now I have a question for you: Are you bringing along your own camping gear (sleeping bags, mats, tent) for the Inca Trail or are these being provided for you? Who is carrying them? This would impact your daypack size.
Thanks!
alex
This sounds like an amazing trip. I just started researching it more and I think we’re going to add this to the list of things we want to do within the next year. Have to start saving! 🙂
It’s great! One of my favorite experiences. Safe travels!
This is a great post! I’m glad to see people doing this trek without hiking boots. I loathe hiking boots! I’ve been doing ballet most of my life and rely on my ankles for balance. Most hiking boots limit range of motion in the ankles and then put stress on the knees (the most delicate joint in the body). No thanks. I’m going to show this post to my fellow trekkers so they’ll stop bugging me about “proper” hiking boots.
Also, the clothes you picked out are great! And thanks for the info about clothes for the city. I totally would have brought hiking stuff and looked like a turista.
Thank you – Glad you like the post! People do the trek in a variety of clothing. Some have even done it flip flops and denim shorts – which I don’t recommend but the point is that so long as you have fitness wear that wicks moisture (and layers) you should be good to go. Quick dry is key and good layers because it gets COLD at night and warm during the day. Have a great trip to Machu Picchu!
hi, I’m really struggling with finding the right “light jacket” the one you suggested is no longer available. we’re travelling to MP in June. do you have any other suggestion for a soft shell jacket? thanks and hope to hear from you!
Hi Leanne, you can find numerous waterproof jacket options at retailers such as REI.com and Moosejaw.com from the brands featured in this post https://travelfashiongirl.com/14-waterproof-jackets-for-stylish-winter-travel/
I will also post your question on Facebook to see if the readers have waterproof jackets that they recommend.
This post might also be useful if you’re looking for a thermal layer for underneath your waterproof shell: https://travelfashiongirl.com/readers-choice-top-13-fleece-travel-jackets/
Thanks for reading!
We are hiking the Inca Trail for New Year’s and this list was super helpful!
Any chance you want to elaborate on the mudslide/rockslide in the “rainy” season. That’s obviously when we’re going to I’d love your thoughts on what else you wish you had with you. Did you feel you were in danger or just made it more challenging?
None of the sites have mentioned an extra pair of shoes, but I would assume the hiking boots get wet and stay wet for the whole trip. So, did you bring extra shoes post hike?
Last question – did you pack everything in your backpack for the plane ride or did you also check a duffel that you left at the hotel? I’m not clear how much the extra porters can carry. 25 pounds? 30?
Thanks for putting together such a great list!
Hi Karen How exciting for you, sounds like a great trip you have planned.
The mudslide I encountered was actually downright dangerous and we had rocks flying at our heads. We had to evacuate the location and were picked up by cars and taken back to the previous town so we could continue our journey the next day. My hike was the Inca Jungle trek in February when the Inca Trail was closed. Although I have also done the Lares trek in July and there was nothing muddy about that – just cold!
As for shoes, my New Balance trainers always dried overnight and others just walked in their wet or moist shoes or hiking boots. We just wore flip flops around aguas calientes after we got cleaned and showered. I think we send the shoes to be washed in the laundry, too, but I don’t remember.
I carried my own belongings both times. I only took a 25L daypack with just the stuff I would need (or could carry myself) for the hike and left my regular backpack back at the hotel in Cusco. with anything I wouldn’t need for the journey. Unless you’re packing your own tent and camping supplies the porters shouldn’t have to carry much for you unless you’re not returning to Cusco?
Hope this helps!
Hi Alex! Just a follow up note since I was perusing your site again for travel pants for my upcoming fall trip….:-)
Our Machu Picchu Inca Trail hike/camp was fantastic! We were blessed with excellent weather. Cold but nice. When we went over the peak, it was so warm on the way up that we were in t-shirts. On the way down, we were back in full on cold weather gear. It rained for about 20 hours the last night/day. But it was a lot of fun to hike in, actually, and we were fully set with rain gear/pants. We arrived at the Machu Picchu Sun Gate at sunset on the last day and sat there with our feet dangling in the clouds until at last it cleared and we got the best view of an empty park. Then we got to go down and walk through it to the buses down the mountain. (toured the next morning)
Also – the slim packing cubes made all the difference in the world. It was so much easier to pack my backpack and I was very organized. I ended up wearing Merrell waterproof hiking boots (LOVE LOVE LOVE) and took a 45lb pack (which was kinda overkill).
When I got home, I ordered the larger packing cubes for suitcases. My kids each have their own color (small, med, large) and I have them pack for trips. Large always has pants/shorts, medium is for shirts/sweaters and small is for underwear/socks. Then we throw them all into a suitcase and now they know exactly where their clothes are. Most excellent tip from you.
Happy travels and thanks again!
Hi Karen, thanks for sharing the feedback from your trip! I’m glad I was able to help with your packing. Will also check out the shoes you suggested. It’s so hard to be prepared for these types of trips. Thanks again!
I’m so glad I found your blog. We are leaving for Peru next week and I was so confused trying to figure out my outfits. Don’t want to over pack or run out of outfits. Extremely helpful, specially since its advice from woman to woman
I’m glad to help Regina! Hope you have a wonderful trip 🙂
Thank you, thank you!! My husband and I are embarking on a rtw trip for a year starting in October and Machu Picchu / Inca Trail are most definitely on the list – Peru could be the first country we visit. I have been wracking my brain for a few weeks now trying to figure out what I’ll need for the trek. This helps immensely.
Hi Jamie, glad you’ve found this helpful. Have a wonderful trip!
Love your blog, just a thought not sure how much it rains there but maybe a rain sleeve for the backpack would also be a good idea to keep things dry during the hike.
awesome call Sam! Totally forgot that 😉 Thanks for reading!
A durable plastic bag as a liner for your daypack and duffle works best. Sometimes covers leak
Just happened to drop by to check out the blog Alex, and here is this great post about Peru and the Inca Trail. Thanks again for all your help with my trip to Peru and Mexico in October last year. You were so right about packing a fleece. It and my leggings were vital at night.
That’s great! I’m really happy it worked out 🙂
This is great! I am leaving for Peru (Machu Picchu included) and Costa Rica in two months! However, it looks like the “shop here” link for the suggested clothing list does not work?
ooops! thanks for letting me know. here’s the correct link: https://travelfashiongirl.com/shop-for-inca-trail-and-machu-picchu-tours-travel-gear/
happy travels!
This is such an amazing post! I’ve been thinking about a trip to Peru, and now not only do I have suggestions on what to wear but also suggestions and tips on the hike itself as well as what else to do/where else to go. Thanks!
Thank you, I’m glad you like it! I love Peru it is a beautiful country with so many treasures – I hope you do decide to go 🙂