A trip to Machu Picchu is a dream come true for every traveller and tourist. Whether taking a train tour or hiking through the world-renowned Inca Trail, having some notion of what to bring along is essential to ensure your journey is both hassle-free and enjoyable. Weather, height, and Andean terrain can be capricious, and hence dressing up is being ready for all the highs and lows.
This blog provides a comprehensive checklist of what you will need to prepare for your Machu Picchu Adventure Tour, complemented by Qoricancha Expeditions.
What You'll Need for Your Machu Picchu Tours
1. Passport & Documents
- Passport (copies): It will be utilized for Machu Picchu entry.
- Tickets and Itineraries: Electronic and printed copies of train, bus, and entrance tickets.
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended, especially for Inca Trail Treks.
2. Backpack/Daypack
- Choose a comfortable, light daypack (20–30L) for carrying day trek or site walking equipment.
- Clothing: Layer Like a Pro
The weather at Machu Picchu changes in the blink of an eye, from sun in the morning, rain in the afternoon.
Upper Body
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Fleece or insulated jacket
- Waterproof raincoat or poncho (especially rainy season)
Lower Body
- Quick-drying hiking pants (optional)
- Waterproof hiking pants (lightweight)
- Shorts (for warm days)
Other Clothing Items:
- Moisture-wicking short- and long-sleeve T-shirts
- Underwear and sports bras (moisture-wicking)
- Sleepwear
- Aguas Calientes hot springs swimsuit
Footwear: Comfort First
- Hiking boots: Waterproof, rugged, and already broken in before the trip.
- Lightweight walking shoes or sneakers: Walking around city neighborhoods in Aguas Calientes or Cusco.
- Sandals or flip-flops: Hostel showers or kicking back after hiking.
Accessories and Sun Protection:
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- High-SPF sunscreen
- Lip balm SPF
- Buff or sun, and dust neck gaiter
Hydration and Snacks:
- Re-usable water bottle or hydration bladder (1–2 litres)
- Water purification tablets or a portable filter (especially for Inca Trail Treks)
- Electrolyte tablets or sports drinks
- Energy bars, trail mix, and dried fruits
Toiletries and Personal Hygiene:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant
- Biodegradable soap and shampoo
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Toilet paper (always have some in your pack)
Small Towel Or Travel Microfiber Towel:
- Insect repellent (a must in warmer months)
- Female hygiene products
- Camping Equipment (For Inca Trail Tours)
If a guide, like Qoricancha Expeditions, is used, then the chances of carrying camping equipment will be zero. But carry:
- Sleeping bag (if one has hired it on rent)
- Headlight and extra batteries
- Air pillow or travel pillow
- Earplugs (camping sites are noisy)
First Aid & Medicines:
- Minimum first-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, etc.)
- Medicines as prescribed
- Altitude sickness pills (take doctor's permission beforehand)
- Painkillers (ibuprofen, paracetamol, etc.)
- Diarrhoea and motion sickness pills
Electronics & Extras:
- A cell phone or camera with extra memory and battery
- Power chords and power bank
- Travel adapter (220V with Type A & C plugs in Peru)
- Travel diary and pen
- Book or Kindle for some downtime
Pro Tips by Qoricancha Expeditions
- Pack Smart but Light: Don't pack too much. Bring light, multi-use gear and apparel.
- Dress for All Seasons: Machu Picchu experiences all four seasons in a day.
- Leave No Trace: Respect the holy site and assist in keeping it clean for centuries to come.
- Book Tour with Qoricancha Expeditions: Their experience guides, meticulous planning, and cultural awareness will make your Machu Picchu Adventure Tour a success.
Conclusion: Travel Smart, Pack Smart, And Let The Magic Of Machu Picchu
Your Machu Picchu adventure will be one of a lifetime. Following Inca ancient paths down or watching the citadel emerge from the peaks at dawn, being prepared allows you to appreciate the experience with less than an excess preoccupation with the mechanics.
If you're still organizing, don't forget to book a Tour with Qoricancha Expeditions, a name you can rely on in organizing Machu Picchu Tours and Inca Trail Treks that weave adventure, history, and culture into one truly unforgettable experience.
