Start getting prepared and check our list of essential gear and things you will need to buy before embarking on this thrilling adventure.

If you are wondering what gear to bring and how much clothing to pack our guide will be helpful. Please note this is only a general guide and you will need to finalize depending on which trip you do and the time of year you visit.

Also if you book a tour of Machu Picchu with a respected operator they will also provide suggestions for what to take and will also usually include a lot of essentials like tents and sleeping bags.

 

Ultimate Machu Picchu & Inca Trail Packing List

 

Before Departing

  • Paperwork
  • Passport
  • Visa 
  • Travel insurance
  • Tour booking information

 

Clothing

  • Waterproof Jacket, breathable with hood
  • Insulated Jacket, synthetic or down
  • Soft Jacket, fleece or soft-shell
  • Long Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
  • Short Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
  • Waterproof Pants, breathable (side zipper recommended)
  • Hiking Trousers
  • Comfortable Trousers
  • Shorts 
  • Underwear

 

Headwear

  • Cap to protect from the sun which can be intense
  • Knited Hat / El paca hat to keep you warm (temperatures can drop especially at night)

 

Handwear

  • Gloves (thermal are recommeded or with grips)

 

Footwear

  • Comfortable / thermal socks, wool or synthetic
  • Hiking boots - make sure they are broken in before departing
  • Comfortable trainers to give your feet a break when you are not hiking
  • Flipflops are sometimes useful

 

Important Accessories

  • Sunglasses
  • Backpack Cover, waterproof (optional)
  • Water Bottle
  • Towel, go for a quick drying lightweight one
  • A couple of plastic bags for dirty clothes and to keep items seperate

 

Equipment

  • Sleeping Bag (warm)
  • Trekking Poles (optional)
  • Head lamp, with extra batteries
  • Backpack, 50-90L capacity, for porters to carry your equipment
  • Daypack, 30-35L capacity, for you to carry your personal belongings

 

Other

  • Toiletries
  • Prescriptions
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip Balm 
  • Insect Repellent, containing DEET
  • First Aid Kit
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Toilet Paper 
  • Wet Wipes 
  • Snacks, light-weight, high calorie, high energy 
  • Electrolytes, powder or tablets (optional)
  • Camera, with extra batteries (optional)

 

Keen to plan a trip to Peru? Browse our website for tour and options. If you have ever been to see Machu Picchu and have any recommendations for things to pack leave your feedback in the comments section below.