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What to take to Peru: All the essentials for your trip

Portada / Useful information for travel to Peru / Data for traveler / What to take to Peru: All the essentials for your trip

If you are planning to travel to Peru, we recommend bringing the essentials so you can enjoy your visit without worries, mainly depending on the season in which you travel and the places you want to visit, located in different regions (Coast, Highlands, and Jungle), keeping in mind that each one has a different climate.

Beyond the weather, do not forget the essential documents for your trip, such as your passport, and check whether you need a visa depending on your country of origin. In addition, it is advisable to carry a copy of your important documents and travel insurance.
At CuscoPeru.com, we offer a variety of tours so you do not miss all the attractions Peru has to offer. Contact our agents, who will be happy to assist you.


What to Pack for Peru by Region

In Peru, different destinations are located across the country’s three regions, each with a different climate; that is why we recommend the following.

What to Pack for the Coast

The climate in the most visited places on the Peruvian coast, such as Lima, Huacachina, Paracas, and Nazca, is generally warm almost all year round; there is not much rain, so if you are planning to visit any of these places, we recommend bringing:

  • Sunscreen.
  • Light summer clothing.
  • Hats and sunglasses.
  • Sandals.
  • A beach towel or sarong.

What to Pack for the Andes

Keep the seasons in the Highlands in mind, since there are two well-defined seasons, rainy and dry; however, being prepared will not stop you from visiting top destinations such as Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Cusco and its archaeological sites, and more, so make sure to bring:

  • Altitude acclimatization.
  • A rain poncho and waterproof clothing.
  • Warm and lightweight clothing.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Trekking shoes.
  • Hats and sunglasses.
  • Sunscreen.

What to Pack for the Jungle

In this region, the climate is tropical and rainy, and you can visit different places such as Tambopata, Monkey Island, among others, but during the season from May to September the rain decreases; so keep these details in mind and bring:

  • Insect repellent.
  • Waterproof and lightweight clothing.
  • An umbrella.
  • Mountain boots.

What to Pack for Peru by Season

Peru has two well-defined seasons, rainy and dry; however, the climate varies depending on each region and season. With this in mind, we will give you some recommendations for your visit according to the place you choose.

What to Pack in the Dry Season?

The summer or dry season varies depending on the location of the destinations you want to visit; below, we give you recommendations for visiting the most popular places.

What should I pack if I travel to Cusco?

The dry or summer season in Cusco is characterized by sunny days and cold nights, so we recommend bringing:

  • Sunscreen.
  • Warm and lightweight clothing.
  • Hats and sunglasses.

What should I pack if I travel to Machu Picchu?

If you are planning to visit Machu Picchu, keep in mind its two seasons, rainy and dry. The dry season, which runs from May to September, is characterized by scarce rainfall and sunny days; that is why we recommend bringing:

  • Sunscreen.
  • Warm and lightweight clothing.
  • Trekking shoes.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Hats and sunglasses.

However, no matter what season you visit, if you are properly prepared, you will be able to enjoy it to the fullest. So we recommend bringing warm clothing, waterproof jackets, and, if the days are sunny, sunscreen.

What should I pack if I travel to Arequipa?

Arequipa, known as the "White City," is an incredible destination with places you can visit, such as Colca Canyon, the Yanahuara viewpoint, and much more. The summer season, which runs from April to September, is ideal for visiting due to the scarce rainfall and sunny days; with this in mind, we recommend bringing:

  • Sunscreen.
  • Light and comfortable clothing.
  • Sandals.
  • A hat and sunglasses.
  • Basic medications and a first-aid kit.

What should I pack if I travel to Lima?

In the summer season, the city of Lima offers pleasant days with sunshine and high humidity. To make the most of your trip, here is a list of essential things you should bring:

  • Sunscreen.
  • Light and comfortable clothing.
  • Sandals.
  • A hat and sunglasses.
  • Basic medications and a first-aid kit.

What to Pack for Peru in Winter?

In Peru, the winter season is associated with rain, so here are some recommendations depending on the places you want to visit.

What should I pack if I travel to Cusco?

Visiting Cusco during the rainy season, from November to March, means bringing what you need to enjoy this experience without worries. The days are sunny, but the rain is sudden, so with that in mind, we recommend bringing:

  • Waterproof clothing.
  • A scarf or thermal neck gaiter.
  • A waterproof backpack.

What should I pack if I travel to Machu Picchu?

If you are planning to visit Machu Picchu during the rainy season, we recommend bringing:

  • Waterproof clothing.
  • A waterproof backpack.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Trekking shoes.
  • A rain poncho.
  • Water and snacks.

Enjoy this season by bringing everything you need to make the most of your visit. Keep in mind that during this season, especially in February, the Inca Trail is closed because it is the month with the heaviest rainfall.

What should I pack if I travel to Arequipa?

The rainy season in Arequipa runs from December to March. Despite the rain, the weather remains mild, with warm days and cool nights due to its altitude. So here are the recommendations for what to bring on your trip:

  • Waterproof clothing.
  • A rain poncho.
  • Warm clothing.
  • A plug adapter.

What should I pack if I travel to Lima?

During the rainy season in Lima, which runs from December to March, rainfall is usually not intense, but the atmosphere can be quite humid. So make sure to bring:

  • Waterproof clothing.
  • A rain poncho.

The Most Essential Things to Travel to Peru

Whichever place you choose to visit in Peru, keep in mind that there are very important things you cannot forget to ensure your experience is comfortable and hassle-free. So, here is a list of the most important things you should bring with you:

  • Identification documents: Passport, visa (if necessary), and copies of these documents.
  • Money: Cash in Peruvian soles and credit/debit cards.
  • Appropriate clothing: Lightweight clothing for warm climates and warmer clothes for high-altitude and cold areas.
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent: For protection against the sun and mosquitoes.
  • Basic medications: Include personal medications and remedies for altitude sickness if you plan to visit high-altitude areas.
  • Plug adapter: Peru uses type A and C plugs, with a voltage of 220V.

List of Essential Documents for Your Trip

Before departing for Peru, make sure to bring all the necessary documents for a hassle-free trip. Here is a list of the essential documents you should not forget:

  • Passport: Make sure it is valid throughout your entire stay.
  • Visa: Check whether you need a visa to enter Peru and bring a copy if necessary.
  • Plane ticket: Both your outbound and return ticket.
  • Copies of important documents: Digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, and other identification documents.

Things That Should Not Be Missing from Your Suitcase

When packing your suitcase for Peru, make sure to include:

  • Appropriate clothing: Bring lightweight clothes for the heat and warmer clothes for higher-altitude climates.
  • Waterproof jacket: To protect you from the rain, especially during the rainy season.
  • Comfortable footwear: Shoes for excursions and comfortable shoes for the city.
  • Sunscreen: To protect you from UV radiation.
  • Insect repellent: To avoid mosquito bites, especially in tropical areas, in the Jungle region.
  • Reusable water bottle: To stay hydrated during your activities.
  • Plug adapter: Peru uses type A and C plugs, with a voltage of 220V.
  • Basic medications: Any personal medication and remedies for altitude sickness, if necessary.
  • Personal hygiene items: Such as hand sanitizer, a toothbrush, and other essential products.

Are You Adventurous? Pack Well for Trekking in Peru

If you are going trekking in Peru, such as visiting Machu Picchu or hiking Rainbow Mountain, it is important to pack the right things so you are prepared for all kinds of weather

Top Places for Trekking

Machu Picchu

This famous Inca archaeological site offers trekking routes such as the Inca Trail, which takes you through breathtaking landscapes to the iconic citadel high in the Andes. It is an unforgettable experience full of history and spectacular views.

Rainbow Mountain

This natural attraction is known for its colorful stripes and stunning views. The hike to the mountain offers panoramic views of landscapes and snow-capped peaks. The view from the summit is amazing and rewards the effort of the climb.

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