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Before you go

What to pack for the Andes: a Cusco packing list

By the Machu Picchu Online team·2 min read

Packing right makes every Cusco trip easier — from a rainy-season day tour to a five-day high-altitude trek. Here's what we recommend, plus what we already provide so you don't over-pack.

Documents & essentials

Original passport (required to enter Machu Picchu and to board the train — the name must match your booking), a printed and digital copy of your tickets, some cash in soles for snacks and tips, and any student or youth ID if you booked a discounted rate.

Dress in layers

Andean weather swings from cold mornings to strong midday sun. Bring a base layer, a warm fleece or down mid-layer, and a waterproof rain jacket. Quick-dry trekking pants beat jeans. Even in dry season, nights at altitude are cold.

Footwear & sun protection

Broken-in hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes for treks; comfortable walking shoes for day tours. The high-altitude sun is intense — pack sunglasses, a wide-brim hat, SPF 50 sunscreen and lip balm. A buff protects your neck and face from sun and dust.

Day-pack & extras

A small day-pack with a reusable water bottle, snacks, a power bank, a headlamp for early starts, insect repellent for cloud-forest and jungle sections, and any personal medication. Wet wipes and a small towel are handy on multi-day treks.

Altitude & health

Spend at least two days in Cusco (3,400 m) before any high trek. Bring altitude-sickness tablets if your doctor recommends them; coca tea and staying hydrated help too. On our multi-day treks, guides carry emergency oxygen and a first-aid kit.

What we already provide

On multi-day treks we provide the tents, sleeping mats, meals and a duffel carried by horses or porters, so you only hike with a light day-pack. Check each tour's ‘What's included’ for the exact list before you buy anything new.

Plan this trip with a local specialist

Tell us your dates and what you have in mind — a specialist from our Cusco team builds a trip to match your plans and budget, and answers every question. No obligation.

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