Whether you’re planning to hike the Inca Trail or explore the Amazon jungle, there’s a good chance that your trip to Peru will include a stop in the capital city of Lima. This unique city known for culinary delights, stunning squares, and interesting art offers a variety of adventures to enjoy.
Packing for Peru poses a challenge of including outfits for various activities; exploring jungles, hiking at high altitudes, and enjoying the city center. Conscious of suitcase space, I created this packing guide for Lima, focusing on versatile capsule wardrobe pieces to maximize wearability. Here's a comprehensive packing list for three days in Lima, Peru, along with a few tips to optimize your stay!
Packing List: The Ultimate Guide for Lima Peru
Adventure-Worthy Outfits to Pack for Lima:
Long Dresses or Skirt Sets – Maxi dresses and skirts were my Lima uniform. There’s something so easy about having a single piece of clothing to pull out of a suitcase and put on. The long length offered some breathability when the sun makes a rare appearance and warmth during the chilly mornings and evenings. Check out a few examples HERE and HERE.
Linen Pants – It’s the return of what my partner calls my “adventure pants.” With a stretchy waistband, breathable material, and a comfy feel, I practically live in these pants while traveling. Even better is that they work to mix and match across a variety of outfits. My favorites are HERE.
Breathable T-Shirt or Blouse – Keeping with the capsule theme, I love having a few neutral-colored tanks and t’s to swap in and out with long skirts and linen pants.
Hokas – It’s official; I’m a certified Hoka stan! I wore my Hokas the whole time I was in Lima and never once developed a blister or felt tired from standing on my feet. I have beige Clifton 9’s which pair well with a variety of colors while hiding a little bit of the dirt collected from the streets.
Denim Jacket – I found Lima similar in climate to San Francisco, which meant I never hit the streets without a light jacket. Since purchasing this denim jacket last fall, I’ve practically lived in it! All that to say it makes a guest appearance in most of my photos from Lima.
Slip-On Sandals – There’s something about slipping into some sandals for a trip to the hotel bar after a long day of walking that I simply can’t describe. I like these sandals which are easy to dress up or dress down, and pack super well.
Pajamas – You’ll never catch me traveling without a cute pajama set. My favorite are from Target. These pack down super small; perfect for catching some ZZZ’s.
Crew-Length Walking Socks – Gen Z canceled no-show socks and for once I can get behind it! I love crew-length socks to keep blisters at bay. Plan to pack a few pairs into your suitcase!
Reconsider These Items on Your Amazon Rainforest Packing List
Shorts – Despite the proximity to the equator, I wouldn’t call Lima a “hot” city. In fact, the climate stays pretty temperate thanks to the cool sea breezes and marine layer pulling in from the Pacific Ocean. Skip the shorts and opt for some warmer options.
Heels – Lima’s streets include cobblestone squares, cliffside stairs, and general hilliness. Leave the heels behind for this trip and thank me for the extra space in your suitcase later.
Athleisure – Hot take here, but with Lima’s Michaelian Star culinary scene, I think wearing outfits worthy of a white tablecloth meal is essential. Leave the athleisure for Cusco and use your time in Lima to dress it up a bit.
Jeans – My vendetta against jeans continues. There’s no reason to take up suitcase space with jeans when linen pants, joggers, and maxi dresses/skirts exist. I will die on this hill and I’m sorry if you disagree with me.
Gear to Pack for Lima Peru
Cross Body or Fanny Pack – Would it be an EmmExplorer blog without mentioning my adoration for my lululemon belt bag? This thing is perfect for daytime essentials and offers a layer of pick-pocketing deterrent that I also love.
Sunscreen – If you've read my blog before, you know I'm a ride-or-die fan of Sun Bum. South American sun is no joke, so be sure to toss a bottle in a checked bag.
Passport Pouch – I felt like I constantly provided my passport for entry into certain locations, or to hop on flights. A standard passport neck pouch perfectly concealed my important documents and stored some extra change.
First Aid Kit - As always with adventure, it's important to prepare for anything. I love this weekend first aid kit, and I also throw in a few blister protectors as well.
Medications – If you’re traveling to Cusco, Machu Picchu, or the Amazon, you may need to begin taking altitude medications or malaria pills. Consult the CDC webpage and consider visiting a doctor before traveling to determine what you need for your trip. You can learn more about my experience at the travel clinic in my blog post.
USD in Small Denominations or Soles – I brought around $150 in $1s to Peru and found most locations accepted the bills for tips and purchases. Be sure to stop at an ATM to pick up some Soles if you plan to purchase street food or take taxis, as USD is not as widely accepted for purchases by those kinds of services.
Lima Packing LookBook
Check out some outfit inspiration for your Lima Packing List
Lima Packing Checklist
