What to pack for Machu Picchu?

To make your trip to Machu Picchu an even more pleasurable experience, it is important to keep in mind what you should pack in your suitcase, as there are different factors that require you to be prepared, such as the weather, the time you visit it, and the route you decide to do to get to the famous sanctuary.

So if you plan to visit the Inca Citadel anytime soon, read this post carefully because it will save you a lot of time when packing your luggage.

The first thing to know is that the weather can change very quickly in Machu Picchu: from sun to rain in minutes and vice versa. It also varies a lot according to the time you go: it is cold at dawn and everything can be humid, while at noon there may be a bright sun accompanied by an intense heat.

In addition, if you decide to do the Inca Trail or a trekking route inside Machu Picchu, ideally you should wear dry-fit and sport clothes to move more easily.

These being the possible scenarios, we recommend to always be prepared and pack the following for your visit to Machu Picchu:

Convertible pants to shorts (this will allow you to adjust your clothing quickly according to the weather)

Cotton tops (it is best to wear layers so that you can be warm if necessary or take off your long sleeve clothes if it is hot)

Jacket of fleece or polar (especially for the cold of the dawn and of when the sun is hidden in the afternoon)

Windbreaker or poncho (in case of rain)

Sports or trekking shoes

Nylon, polyester or cotton socks for trekking or sport

Sunglasses

Hat

Umbrella

We also recommend you to carry in your backpack:

Sunscreen

Insect repellent

Lip balm

Water to drink

You should know that when entering the Citadel you will only be able to carry a a small backpack, so if you go to Machu Picchu for the day you can leave your suitcase or backpack in the luggage storage of Inca Rail located in the train station of Ollantaytambo.

And if you spend the night in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) you can leave your luggage in your hotel or in a locker of your hostel.

The important thing is that you take with you what is necessary to be comfortable and enjoy the day as you dreamed it.