Packing for Machu Picchu (and Beyond): What to Bring for a Smooth Adventure
Getting ready for Machu Picchu? Whether you’re trekking the Salkantay Trail, exploring nearby cities like Lima and Arequipa, or just visiting Machu Picchu itself, packing light and smart will make all the difference. Here’s a comprehensive packing guide, including insights from the many times I have visited Machu Picchu. This will help you enjoy every moment without the hassle of over packing.
Essentials for Hiking and City Exploring
Packing light in a 46 or 35L backpack is totally doable—even with a packed itinerary which includes a mix of hiking and city exploring. I love the Osprey 45 L backpack or Cotopaxi Allpa 35L plus a packable daypack for essentials on the trail.
If you prefer a roller this is my favorite
Here’s my packing list for a balanced, light setup:
- 2 Hiking Pants – Lightweight and quick-drying, ideal for both trekking and folding compactly in your bag.
Ferrosi Convertible Pants – Women’s
- 4 Pairs of Socks – Two Merino wool pairs for the trail (warm, moisture-wicking) and two athletic pairs for lighter days.
- 3 Athletic Merino Shirts – Great for hiking and warm-weather days.
- 1-2 Regular T-Shirts – For city sightseeing or layering
Capilene Cool Trail Shirt – Women’s
Base Layer
- 1 Pair of Jeans – I’ll wear these on travel days and city outings, so they don’t take up space in the pack.
- 1 Pair of Hiking Shoes – Hiking shoes are versatile enough for almost every occasion in Peru—whether you’re trekking or walking through towns.
If you are doing Inca trail, this one are great:
- Dress for town: here are some options choose one
Layering Up for Changing Climates
Packing for Peru means being ready for both warm and chilly conditions, especially in the Andes. I recommend layering with these lightweight pieces:
- Packable Puffer Jacket – Essential for chilly mornings and nights; Uniqlo has great options under $100, and they pack down small.
- Packable Rain Jacket – Lightweight, easy to fold, and a lifesaver for unexpected rain showers.
- Quick-Dry Towel – Handy for both hiking and city stays, compact and versatile.
Toiletries and Accessories
Keep it simple with just the essentials—toiletries in travel sizes and any medication or gear you’ll need. Here’s what I’m bringing for comfort:
- 5 Pairs of Underwear – Enough to stay fresh without weighing down the bag.
- 1 Pair of Flip-Flops – for shower since I dont like to walk in many different bathroom and this don’t take space
- Walking shoes Perfect for relaxing at the hotel or walking around town.
- Daypack (16L) – Great for carrying snacks, a water bottle, and essentials for day trips.
What to pack for Mahcu Picchu and Cusco Hikes
Hiking Poles: If you’re planning to do the Inca Trail, consider packable hiking poles for easy transport. However, keep in mind that walking sticks aren’t allowed within the Machu Picchu Citadel unless they have rubber tips and are used for mobility due to age or disability. Here are some great options for hiking poles that meet these guidelines:
Tips for Packing Light and Staying Comfortable
- Compact Everything: Hiking pants, puffer jackets, and rain gear all come in packable versions. These fold up small to fit neatly into a 35L pack without taking up space.
- Dress Smart: Hiking shoes work well for both trails and city streets, so you can skip packing an extra pair. A couple of nice shirts can keep you city-ready after days on the trail.
- Packing Cubes
- Maximize Your Backpack’s Potential: A 35L pack is big enough for a 10-day Peru trip if you’re strategic. Using your day pack for overflow items or snacks keeps things organized and light. However if you want comfort I recommend you a 46L or a hard case roller. I have used this as carry on many times
Travel Accessories for a Smooth Trek
- Water bottle, although I bring my water bottle everywhere, I recommend be extremely careful with where you get water from. usually I buy water bottle so I avoid getting sick.
- First Aid Kit, Sun Protection & Bug Spray – Essentials for your health and comfort; altitude sickness treatments are helpful, too.
- Toiletries & Lightweight Towel – A quick-dry towel and compact toiletries keep the pack light.
- Portable Charger, Camera, and Waterproof Bag for Documents – Stay connected and capture memories with a smartphone or camera; protect your essentials from unexpected rain.
Rules and Extra Tips for Machu Picchu
Sneakers are allowed but closed-toe hiking shoes are better suited for the rugged terrain. If you’re sensitive to bugs, carry insect repellent as certain areas have more insects. To maximize your experience, pack light—your bag will go everywhere with you, and a lighter load makes every part of the trip easier.
I love using packing cubes even if I pack in backpacks. These are the ones I use.
To keep the site safe and enjoyable, avoid packing items like food, umbrellas, tripods, hiking poles and drones, as they aren’t allowed. Storage is available near the entrance, and snacks are permitted, but only pack what you’ll need and dispose of waste responsibly.
Packing light doesn’t mean sacrificing essentials. With this setup, I’ll be ready to tackle Peru’s beautiful trails, explore bustling cities, and relax knowing I haven’t overpacked. By choosing versatile, packable items and planning carefully, you’ll be all set for an unforgettable adventure to Machu Picchu and beyond!
Packing for Machu Picchu involves striking the right balance between comfort, functionality, and lightness. This list has been fine-tuned over my travel experiences and aims to make your trip as seamless as possible, whether you’re hiking, exploring nearby cities, or enjoying the rich Peruvian culture. Here’s what I’m bringing—and a few extra tips to help you pack like a pro.
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