So, you’re all signed up and ready to head to Machu Picchu! Our expedition is an absolute beauty – you’ll see parts of the Peruvian Andes that other treks don’t even come close to. But if you’re spending your days trekking, and your nights by the campfire, you’re probably wondering what on earth you’ll need to pack. To give you a hand, here’s our ultimate Machu Picchu packing list, so you’ll know exactly what you need to bring…
The Earth’s Edge ultimate Machu Picchu packing list
Clothing
Unless you’re ready to hike in the nip, your hiking gear will be the first thing to think about. We recommend…
- Walking boots (make sure they’re well broken in)
- Runners or sandals (to wear in transit & around camp)
- Mid-weight hiking socks x 3
- Underwear (synthetic rather than cotton)
- Shorts x 1 (knee length or below)
- Lightweight trousers x 1
- Synthetic/wool/silk long johns
- Waterproof trousers (N.B. make sure the trousers have zips to the knee at least).
- Long sleeve base layer x 1 (silk, wool, or synthetic)
- Short sleeve base layer x 2 (as above)
- Mid weight fleece x 1
Outerwear
The weather can be changeable in Peru, with hot days and chilly nights. Be prepared for any outcome with the following…
- A down jacket (at least 600 grams in weight)
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof poncho
Accessories
And no, we don’t mean a jazzy scarf or fedora. These little bits will be a lifesaver…
- A fleece hat to wear in the mornings and evenings
- Sunglasses (category 3)
- A sun hat with a wide brim to cover the face and neck
- A pair of lightweight wool or synthetic liner gloves
- A pair of waterproof gloves or mitts (down mitts are preferable)
Hiking Gear
The technical bits you’ll need throughout the trek. Don’t worry, there’s nothing too tricky…
- Walking poles
- Small rucksack for day use (30 to 35 litres)
- A large suitcase or holdall carry your equipment to Peru
- Dry bags or plastic bags
- Water bottles and water bladder – you must have the capacity to carry three litres of water while walking
- A warm sleeping bag (comfort rating of -15°C or lower)
- Suncream at least factor 30
- SPF lip balm
- Insect repellent, deet based products are best
- Hand sanitiser – you need to have enough supplies for the duration of your expedition. Remember, it’s better to be looking at it than looking for it
- Toiletries (as few as possible! Wet wipes and a nail brush are very useful)
There are plenty of other bits we suggest, from personal first aid kits to little bits like diaries and cameras. We’ll send this on to you when you book the expedition, but feel free to get in touch with any questions. If you want to read any more about our expedition to Machu Picchu, click here.
