What to Pack for a Trip to Peru
Published on: June 14th, 2018
Last updated: September 25th, 2024
If you're wondering what to pack for a trip to Peru, look no further.
Our experts have weighed in on the essentials; with frequently changing weather and a range of climates, it's best to be as prepared as possible.
Lots of layers, sun protection, and a plan to deal with the altitude are just a few must-haves for your trip. Check out our comprehensive packing list here.
What to pack if you're going on a trek
Clothing
Often the days are warm but temperatures drop at nighttime, particularly when you are at high altitudes (Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca) so layers are a must in case you need to adjust to the changing temperature (it can be sunny one moment, snowing the next!).
- Fleece sweater
- Light rain jacket or poncho as well as a cold-weather jacket
- Convertible trousers/shorts
- Hat
- Broken in hiking boots
- Gloves and wool hat for evenings
- Breathable t-shirts for hiking
- At least 4 pairs of comfortable, warm socks
Typically, you can expect to be hiking in a t-shirt or shirt, with shorts or trousers (depending on how warm you get when you hike). It’s good to carry an extra layer in your day backpack, as well as a waterproof outer shell jacket and trousers, in case it really starts pouring.
Extras
Aside from the below, make sure you…
- A good, small backpack to carry with you during the day
- Camera with a good strap, in case you want to carry it on your body
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellant
- Binoculars (optional)
- Headlamp
- Trekking poles (keep in mind the metal ends must be covered as part of the trail rules)
- Refillable water bottle (hydration bags are recommended
- Toilet tissue in small, handy-pack size and a small personal towel
Lastly, you may want to buy some souvenirs, so make sure you leave some space in your luggage for these!
Amazon cruises and jungle tours
Clothing
- Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes (hiking boots are best)
- Lightweight t-shirts
- Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts (to deter mosquitos)
- Extra socks
- Waterproof jacket
- *Rubber boots and waterproof ponchos are provided for wetland excursions.
During meals in the dining room, guests are asked to wear casual clothing and shoes.
Extras
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent
- Torch, as a lot of lodges don’t have power at night.
- Day pack
- Personal toilet roll
A few tips on altitude...
- Rest and take it nice and easy the first few days as your body adjusts
- Keep hydrated, with water, and avoid too much of the things that will dehydrate you (alcohol and coffee)
- A glass of water on the bedside table will help keep your throat and mouth from getting too dry when sleeping at altitude with less oxygen
- Avoiding big, greasy heavy meals will also help you get acclimatised better
- If you feel unwell, let your guide or hotel staff know. They will get you down to a lower altitude, or get some oxygen and, if needed, get you help from a medical professional
- The locals also swear by the leaves of the coca plant. We’ve also found muña tea helpful, as well as candy sweets.
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