Are you planning an unforgettable adventure in Peru? From the majestic Andes, from the Amazon rainforest to the Pacific coast, this country has a wealth of natural and cultural treasures that deserve to be explored. But to make the most of your trip, it’s essential to know what to pack.

In this definitive guide, you’ll find a detailed packing list for Peru, divided by region, activities, and climate, so you’ll have everything you need on your trip.

Why Do You Need a Special Packing List for Peru?

Peru is a geographically diverse country. You can go from the cold of the mountains to the humid heat of the Amazon in a matter of hours. Furthermore, many areas are at high altitudes, which affects both your health and your clothing choices.

Basic Packing List for Peru

This is the basics of what you should bring on any trip to Peru, regardless of the region you’re visiting:

  • Passport and printed copies
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Cash (Peruvian soles) and debit/credit card
  • Daypack (25-30L)
  • Reusable water bottle
University ID card
Essential travel items such as passport, money, backpack, and hat, on a white surface
A brown and white llama standing on a rock in the ruins of Machu Picchu
  • Plug adapter type A/B (110V and 220V), different regions have different plug types. The plugs vary between type A common in the United States and type C common in Europe so be sure to remember to not run into unexpected problems during your trip. The voltage in Peru is 220 volts. 

 

Clothing for Peru: Layering is Key

Tops:

  • Short and long-sleeved t-shirts
  • Thermal shirt (ideal for high altitudes)
  • Water-proof jacket or windbreaker 

Bottom:

  • Convertible pants (useful for hiking)
  • Leggings or comfortable clothes to relax in
  • Jeans or casual pants

Footwear:

  • Waterproof trekking boots
  • Comfortable sneakers
  • Sandals (for warm areas such as the jungle or the coast)
Assortment of T-shirts and a folded jacket, illustrating the layers of clothing for hiking
Variety of travel pants: black leggings, navy convertible pants, and classic jeans
Footwear variety: Brown hiking boots, gray/blue sneakers, and khaki trekking sandals

Luggage for Machu Picchu and the Andean Region

If you are going to visit Cusco, the Sacred Valley or Machu Picchu, consider:

  • Hat and waterproof gloves (it can get very cold at night)
  • Thermal clothing
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF (the sun is very strong at high altitude)
  • Trekking poles (if you go on long hikes)
  • Pills for altitude sickness (soroche)

Luggage for the Peruvian Jungle (Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado)

The climate is hot and humid, so consider bringing:

  • Lightweight, quick-drying clothing
  • Insect repellent with DEET
  • Light raincoat or poncho
  • Headlamp or handheld flashlight
  • Basic medications (diarrhea, fever, allergies)

Luggage for the Coast (Lima, Paracas, Máncora)

The climate varies from mild to hot, and this is where you will find Peru's beaches. Pack:

  • Swimsuit
  • Suncreen
  • Quick-drying towel
  • Sunglasses and hat
  • Sandals
Essential hiking gear: gloves, hat, trekking poles, thermal clothing, sunscreen, and altitude sickness pills
Essential hiking gear: beige pants, yellow waterproof jacket, DEET repellent, flashlight, and first aid kit
Blue one-piece swimsuit with leaf print, sandals, towel, and hat, on the sand at the beach

Extras that will improve your trip

  • Camera or a smartphone with a good camera
  • Power bank or external battery
  • Printed or digital guide (such as Lonely Planet Peru)
  • Energy snacks (very useful on excursions)
  • Travel pillow and eye mask for long journeys

What NOT to Bring to Peru

  • Formal clothing
  • Valuable jewelry or expensive watches
  • Large suitcases that are difficult to carry. A medium backpack is better

Final Tips for Packing Your Suitcase for Peru

  1. Pack light: Packing light will give you more freedom.
  2. Make your list by destination: You won’t need the same things for Lima as you do for Cusco or Iquitos.
  3. Check the weather before you leave: Use apps like Weather.com to adjust your packing.