Cusco, the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, is an adventure-filled destination that requires careful packing due to its high altitude and ever-changing weather. Our stay in Cusco was just two nights of a two-week long Peruvian adventure spanning from the steamy Amazon Rainforest to the cool Lima coast. I found packing for the varied climates to be quite a challenge, especially when contending with limited suitcase space.
Whether you're exploring the historic city streets, hiking the surrounding ruins, or acclimatizing for your journey to Machu Picchu, this Cusco Packing Guide and Travel Check List will help you pack everything you need for a comfortable and memorable trip!
The Ultimate Packing Guide for Cusco, Peru
Clothing Essentials for Visiting Cusco
Cusco’s weather can change drastically throughout the day, so layering is key. You’ll want to be prepared for chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and cooler evenings.
Breathable T-shirts: Lightweight and quick-dry shirts are ideal for daytime exploring. Consider moisture-wicking materials for added comfort.
Fleece or light jacket: Even during the dry season, early mornings and evenings can be quite cold due to the altitude. I wore my favorite denim jacket, as well as my trusty Patagonia Nano-Puff during my visit in mid-May, though I found that I was comfortable without them by mid-day.
Waterproof jacket: This is essential if you're visiting during the rainy season (November to March). A lightweight, packable one is best. I like this one from The North Face.
Long Pants: It’s rarely warm enough in Cusco for shorts. I preferred my favorite linen pants during my trip. If you’re trying to pack lighter, you could easily get away with wearing hiking pants around the city.
Leggings: These are great for layering or for travel days when you want something more comfortable. My favorite are lululemon Align leggings.
Warm hat and gloves: The altitude can make Cusco feel quite cold at night, so pack for warmth. While I didn’t bring these myself, I imagine they’d be helpful if you plan to be out and about in the evening. You could even make these part of your souvenir shopping and pick up alpaca wool winter accessories at one of the countless shops in town.
Comfortable walking shoes: Cusco’s cobblestone streets and hilly terrain demand sturdy footwear. Opt for hiking shoes or quality athletic shoes if you plan to explore nearby ruins or head into the Sacred Valley. I wore my Hoka Clifton 9’s during our visit and thought they were perfect for the occasion.
Sun hat: The sun is intense at high altitudes, even on cooler days. Keep your scalp save with an easy packable sunhat like this one from Amazon.
Essential Gear for Visiting Cusco
At 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level, Cusco’s altitude can surprise many travelers. Prepare for the thinner air and stronger UV rays.
Sunscreen: Make sure you bring a high SPF sunscreen, as the sun in Cusco is extremely strong due to the altitude. My favorites are SunBum for body and scalp, and SuperGoop for my face.
Sunglasses: Polarized sunglasses will help protect your eyes from the intense UV rays. If you don’t have 20/20 vision and hate contacts like me, I highly recommend considering upgrading to prescription sunglasses so you don’t miss the incredible views.
Lip balm with SPF: Keep your lips moisturized and protected from the sun. I love the SunBum SPF Chapstick.
Altitude sickness tablets and Medications: Consult your doctor before traveling, but many people find these helpful when adjusting to Cusco’s altitude. I unfortunately had some difficult side effects with my prescribed Diamox (more on that in this blog post). If you need to pivot away from Diamox, make sure to pack some extra Tylenol or Advil to alleviate headaches.
Coca leaves, candies, or tea: To clarify, these should not be packed as they are not legal in many countries (IYKYK). That said, you can pick up coca candies, leaves, or tea at just about any pharmacy or market in Peru. I liked the candies the best as the flavor offers a unique cross between minty and fruity.
Outdoor Essentials for Cusco
If you plan to hike around Cusco or head to nearby attractions like Sacsayhuamán or Rainbow Mountain, you'll need some additional gear. I didn’t have the opportunity to hike myself, but here are some helpful tips for hiking at high altitudes:
Daypack: A small backpack is essential for carrying your water, snacks, and other essentials while exploring.
Water bottle with filter: Hydration is crucial at high altitudes, so carry a reusable water bottle with a filter to ensure you’re drinking safe water.
Trekking poles: These can be helpful if you’re planning any hikes, especially on steep or uneven terrain.
Headlamp: Useful for early morning hikes or if you plan to visit any sites at dawn.-
Portable phone charger: You'll likely be snapping lots of photos, so having a portable charger can be a lifesaver.
You can check out my blog post on hiking essentials for more inspo!
Don't Forget These on Your Cusco Trip
Cusco is a major tourist hub, so it’s important to have your paperwork and other essentials ready for smooth travels.
Passport: You’ll need it for hotels, tours, and train tickets to Machu Picchu.
Copies of important documents: It’s always a good idea to have physical and digital copies of your passport and insurance information.
Local currency (Peruvian Soles): While credit cards are widely accepted in Cusco, small markets, street vendors, and taxis often prefer cash.
Cusco Outfit Lookbook and Inspiration:
The Complete Cusco Packing List
Final Thoughts
Packing for Cusco requires some preparation, but with the right gear, you'll be ready for whatever adventures come your way. Remember to dress in layers, protect yourself from the sun, and stay hydrated to enjoy your time at this incredible destination. Whether you’re exploring ancient Incan sites or strolling through the colorful streets, Cusco will surely leave you with unforgettable memories.
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