What to pack for Peru

Core Packing Essentials

Consider these items absolutely non-negotiable. They should be in your luggage for any Peruvian journey, regardless of your specific itinerary or the regions you plan to visit.

Documents & Money

• Passport with at least 6 months validity from your date of entry.
• Printed or digital copies of all your travel documents, including flights, hotel bookings, and tour confirmations.
• Your complete travel insurance policy details, including emergency contact numbers.
• Credit cards and a primary debit card. It is crucial to notify your bank of your travel dates to prevent your cards from being blocked.
• Some US Dollars in cash for exchange, and a small amount of Peruvian Soles (PEN) to cover immediate needs upon arrival like a taxi or a snack.
• Both digital and physical copies of your passport’s photo page, kept separate from your actual passport.

Health & First-Aid Kit

• Any personal prescription medications you require, kept in their original packaging. A doctor’s note explaining their necessity is also a wise precaution.
• A basic first-aid kit containing band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin, and blister treatment.
• Altitude sickness medication (e.g., Acetazolamide/Diamox). Please consult your doctor well before your trip to discuss options and dosage.
• Insect repellent containing DEET. This is essential for the Amazon and surprisingly useful in some highland areas during certain seasons.
• High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and a protective lip balm with SPF. The sun’s intensity is much greater at high altitudes.
• Hand sanitizer for moments when soap and water are not readily available.

Clothing: The Art of Layering for Peru’s Climate

Layering is the single most important packing strategy for Peru. The weather, especially in the Andes, can shift from warm and sunny to cold and wet in a matter of minutes. Being able to add or remove layers will ensure your comfort throughout the day.

The Base Layer

• Moisture-wicking short-sleeve and long-sleeve t-shirts. Materials like synthetic fabrics or merino wool are ideal as they draw sweat away from your skin.

The Mid-Layer (Insulation)

• A fleece jacket or a warm, insulated vest provides excellent warmth without much bulk.
• A lightweight, packable down or synthetic puffy jacket is perfect for cold evenings and high-altitude mornings.

The Outer Layer (Protection)

• A waterproof and windproof rain jacket. A breathable material like Gore-Tex or a similar proprietary fabric is ideal for comfort during activity.
• Waterproof rain pants are highly recommended, especially if your itinerary includes trekking.

Region-Specific Clothing & Gear

For the Andes & Highlands (Cusco, Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca)

• Two to three pairs of hiking pants or convertible trousers that can be zipped off into shorts.
• One pair of comfortable trousers or jeans for evenings out in cities like Cusco or Arequipa.
• A warm hat, such as a beanie or a traditional knitted *chullo* which you can purchase locally.
• A pair of gloves or mittens.
• A scarf or a multi-purpose neck gaiter (like a Buff) for warmth and sun protection.
• Several pairs of warm hiking socks. Choose wool or synthetic blends and strictly avoid cotton for hiking.

For the Coast (Lima, Paracas, Nazca)

• Lightweight trousers, shorts, or skirts for warm, sunny days.
• Several short-sleeved shirts or tops.
• A light jacket, cardigan, or sweater is essential for the cool, foggy evenings caused by the coastal mist known as the *garúa*.
• A swimsuit for the beach or hotel pools.
• A sun hat or cap for sun protection.

For the Amazon Rainforest (Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado)

• Two pairs of lightweight, quick-drying, long trousers to protect your legs from insects and foliage.
• Two to three lightweight, long-sleeved, light-colored shirts to help deter mosquitoes.
• Several pairs of high, breathable socks to be worn with boots, protecting your ankles from insects and chafing.
• A swimsuit for lodge pools or approved, safe swimming spots in rivers or lakes.
• A durable rain poncho offers excellent coverage during sudden downpours. Many jungle lodges provide rubber boots for excursions, but you must confirm this in your specific booking details.

Footwear: Your Most Important Gear

For Trekking & Hiking

• A pair of waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support. It is absolutely essential that these are fully broken-in before you travel to avoid painful blisters.

For Cities & Light Day Trips

• A pair of comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sneakers for exploring urban areas and archaeological sites.

For Lodges, Hostels & Coastal Areas

• Sandals, flip-flops, or comfortable slip-on shoes for relaxing at your accommodation or for use on the coast.

Electronics & Gadgets

• A universal travel adapter. Peru uses Type A (two flat parallel prongs) and Type C (two round prongs).
• A portable power bank is essential for keeping your devices charged, especially during multi-day treks where electricity is unavailable.
• Your smartphone and all necessary charging cables.
• Your camera, along with extra batteries and large-capacity memory cards to capture the stunning landscapes.
• A headlamp or a small flashlight, which is incredibly useful for early morning trek starts, navigating in dimly lit lodges, and during jungle night walks.

Miscellaneous & Optional Items

• A comfortable daypack (approximately 18-25 liters) for carrying water, snacks, a rain jacket, and other daily essentials.
• A reusable water bottle or a hydration reservoir (like a CamelBak) to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
• Sunglasses, as the sun is particularly strong at high altitudes and reflects intensely off water and snow.
• Trekking poles. We strongly recommend these for the Inca Trail or any serious hike to save your knees on descents. They can often be rented in Cusco if you prefer not to bring your own.
• Binoculars are excellent for wildlife spotting in both the Amazon and the Andes.
• Travel-size toiletries to save space and weight.
• A small, quick-dry travel towel.
• A Spanish phrasebook or a translation app downloaded to your phone for offline use.

What to Leave at Home

• Expensive or sentimental jewelry, which can attract unwanted attention.
• Heavy cotton clothing, especially jeans, for any trekking or jungle activities. Cotton absorbs moisture and takes a very long time to dry.
• High heels or formal dress shoes, unless you have a specific upscale event planned in Lima.
• A drone. Drone laws in Peru are very strict, particularly around archaeological sites, and require special permits that are difficult for tourists to obtain. It is best to leave it at home to avoid confiscation or fines.