Peru packs three very different worlds into one trip — desert coast, high Andes, and Amazon rainforest — often within a single itinerary. The secret is layering, because you can start the day in cool mountain air and finish it in the jungle heat. Remember that seasons run opposite to the Northern Hemisphere, and that the Andean dry season (May to September) brings warm days and genuinely cold nights.
Lima & the Coast: Lima is mild and often grey, so pack light layers and a light jacket for the coastal garúa mist. Smart-casual clothes are perfect for the capital’s celebrated restaurants.
Cusco & the Sacred Valley: This is high country — Cusco sits at 3,400m (11,150ft) — so altitude is your main planning factor. Bring warm layers, a hat and gloves for chilly evenings, and strong sun protection, as the high-altitude sun is intense. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for the cobblestones and ruins.
Machu Picchu & the Inca Trail: For the citadel and its trails, pack broken-in hiking boots, quick-dry layers, a rain jacket (weather turns fast), insect repellent, and refillable water. Trekking the classic Inca Trail? Your porter allowance and duffel are strictly limited, so pack light and prioritize.
The Amazon: For Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado, bring long lightweight sleeves and trousers in neutral colors, closed shoes, a rain poncho, and serious insect repellent (with DEET). A yellow fever vaccination is recommended for the jungle — carry your certificate.
Regardless of when you visit, here are the essentials worth having in your bag for Peru.
Note: for those traveling to the Amazon or Machu Picchu, pack a smaller soft-sided bag that meets weight restrictions. On the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu you are limited to roughly 5kg (11lb) of hand luggage, so leave the large suitcase at your Cusco hotel.
Planning to combine the highlands, jungle, and coast? Our specialists build private, tailor-made Peru tours and can tell you exactly what to pack for each leg and altitude.
