What to Pack for a Trip to Peru: A Complete List for the Southern Route
Packing for a trip to Peru is probably one of the biggest logistical challenges for any traveler. Unlike other destinations with uniform weather, the famous southern Peruvian circuit is a land of extremes and microclimates.
Within 48 hours, you can be sweating under the desert sun in Ica and then shivering at dawn on Lake Titicaca in Puno. So how do you pack without overpacking? The secret of savvy travelers boils down to one technique: dress in layers.
Here is the definitive list of what you should pack to travel the coast and highlands of Peru like a pro.
The "Onion Layering" Technique«
In the Peruvian highlands (Arequipa, Puno, Cusco), the weather changes drastically within the same day. At midday, under the radiant sun, you can be wearing a t-shirt; but as soon as the sun sets at 5:30 pm, the temperature plummets.
Dressing in layers allows you to easily put on and take off clothes as the day progresses, without having to return to your hotel to change.
1. For the Coast and the Desert (Lima, Paracas, Ica, Nasca)
The climate here is more temperate to warm, especially between December and April.
- Light clothing: Short-sleeved cotton t-shirts, shorts and light dresses.
- Sunglasses and hat: The sun in the Huacachina desert and over the Nazca Lines is relentless.
- Windbreaker: Essential for the boat tour to the Ballestas Islands in Paracas, as the sea breeze in the morning is quite cold.
- Footwear: Comfortable sandals for walking along the coast and lightweight sneakers.
2. For the Sierra and the Altitude (Arequipa, Puno, Cusco, Machu Picchu)
As you gain altitude, the nighttime and morning cold becomes intense.
- Thermal clothing (First layer): Thermal pants and long-sleeved shirts ("Long johns"). They're lightweight and will be a lifesaver in the early mornings in Puno.
- Fleece jackets and sweaters (Mid-layer): Ideal for maintaining body heat. Tip: If you don't have one, don't worry! In Cusco you'll find beautiful alpaca wool sweaters everywhere.
- Waterproof jacket or heavy coat (Outer layer): Essential for the nights and if you travel during the rainy season (December to March).
- Trekking Footwear: Waterproof hiking shoes or boots with good traction are essential. The streets of Cusco are cobblestone and slippery, and you'll need them for Machu Picchu.
- Winter accessories: Gloves, wool hat (chullo) and scarf.
3. The First Aid Kit and the Essentials
Don't fill your suitcase with things you can easily buy at any Peruvian pharmacy, but do make sure to bring:
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ and moisturizing lipstick: At high altitudes in Cusco and Puno, the sun burns much faster due to radiation, and the cold cracks the lips.
- Mosquito repellent: Mandatory for your visit to Machu Picchu (which is in the cloud forest).
- Plug adapter: In Peru the voltage is 220V and the plugs are usually type A, B and C.
- Portable battery (Power bank): You'll take so many photos and videos that your phone's battery won't last all day!
The relief of not carrying your suitcases all day
Traveling through Peru involves constantly moving your luggage from one hotel to another. If you travel by interprovincial bus, this means lugging your heavy backpack or suitcase through terminals and cobblestone streets, looking for somewhere to store it while you're on a tour.
With Adventure Tours Peru, That problem disappears.
Am Favio Valcárcel, And when you book private transportation with me, your comfort is my priority. You can leave your heavy luggage safely in the vehicle while you get out to enjoy the sights, take a walk along a viewpoint, or have a leisurely lunch. We travel in spacious vehicles where your luggage will always be protected.
Also, if you have any specific questions before packing your suitcase, I offer my help:
- Do you want to get a quote for your route with complete ease? Contact me and let's put together an itinerary where you'll travel at your own pace and without carrying extra weight.
- Still unsure what to pack for your month-long trip? The weather varies depending on whether you come in May or October. Write me a message. Tell me your travel dates and I'll advise you on exactly what clothes to pack, at no cost and with no obligation to buy.
I love helping travelers arrive in my country super prepared!
Click here to message me directly on WhatsApp. Let's talk about your trip!