Peru Travel Guide
The Ultimate Packing List for Machu Picchu
Trekking the Andes requires technical gear, altitude sickness preparation, and serious layering strategies to handle the extreme temperature swings.
Real-Time Weather Currently 41.2°F
Expect 35°F - 68°F during Dry Season
Expect 35°F - 68°F during Dry Season
Best Time Dry Season (May - Oct)
3 Costly Packing Mistakes to Avoid in Machu Picchu
Every destination has its quirks. When traveling to Machu Picchu, many travelers make these common errors that cost time and comfort:
1
Not packing altitude sickness medication.
2
Wearing brand new, unbroken-in hiking boots on the Inca Trail.
3
Assuming it will be warm all day.
The Top 5 Non-Negotiable Essentials
While you'll need a full packing list for a multi-day trip, these 5 items are absolutely essential for a successful time in Machu Picchu.
- ✓Well-broken-in waterproof hiking boots
- ✓Altitude sickness pills (Diamox)
- ✓Fleece mid-layer and insulated puffer jacket
- ✓Headlamp with extra batteries
- ✓High SPF lip balm (the sun is intense at altitude)
💡 Local Knowledge
Machu Picchu is completely earthquake-proof, built without mortar.