What to pack for Peru

A Peru trip could see you hanging out with capybaras in the Amazon one day, and hiking in the Andes the next

With that in mind, you'll need clothing to suit a range of climates and altitudes. You should also consider whether your trip falls in the dry season (May to October) or the rainy season (November to April).

Sturdy footwear is essential for walking cobblestone streets and uneven steps in Cusco and at Machu Picchu. If you're trekking, bring hiking boots as well – and make sure they're well broken in.

Clothing-wise, you can't go wrong with breathable attire that layers easily. Nights can get very cold in higher altitude places – especially in winter (May to October – so be sure to pack a warm/down jacket and thermal base layers. A light rain jacket is useful year-round, as showers (and downpours) are still possible even in the dry season.

You might also want a couple of dressier outfits if you plan on hanging out in bars and restaurants in Lima. Casual, comfy attire like t-shirts, jeans, shorts or skirts will do. As in most big cities, it's best to leave expensive jewellery at home as this can attract attention.

Peru packing list

  • Breathable clothing or athletic wear
  • A couple of smart-casual outfits
  • Hiking boots or walking shoes
  • Sandals
  • Moisture-wicking socks
  • Fleece, sweater or hoodie
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Down jacket, gloves, scarf and beanie (for higher altitudes)
  • Sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Dry bag (for rainy season and Amazon trips)
  • Small day bag
  • Insect repellent

Ultimate packing list

Our packing list covers essential documents, luggage, personal items and clothing you may need to get you trip-ready.

Seasonal clothing

Two travellers walking through an eco lodge in the Peruvian Amazon
Summer/rainy season

November to April is humid and wet in the Amazon, warm and rainy in the Andes, and hot and dry along the coast. Adventures are still very doable if you're prepared. Essentials include quick-drying clothes (sportswear is ideal), waterproof hiking shoes, a raincoat and a dry bag. Nights in the Andes can still be chilly, so bring a fleece.

A group of travellers smiling while sightseeing in Cusco in the winter
Winter/dry season

May to October sees sunny days and cold nights in the Andean highlands, cooler, drier conditions in the Amazon, and overcast weather along the coast (including Lima). If you're trekking the Inca, Quarry or Salkantay trails or spending time on Lake Titicaca, you'll want a polar fleece, down jacket, gloves and beanie. Days can be mild and sunny though, so layering is the way.

A traveller smelling flowers at a vibrant flower stall in a market in Cusco, Peru
Shoulder season

April, May, October and November are transition months. Nights and early mornings can be cool but it tends to heat up later in the day, so long-sleeved shirts and a warm mid-layer work well. A rain jacket is also a must, as showers are unpredictable at this time of year.

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A group of women from the Huilloc community laughing with each other
Best time to visit

With everything from mountains to rainforests, there isn't really a bad time to visit. Find out the best months for sunshine, smaller crowds, wildlife and more.

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A delicious spread of Peruvian food at Nunca Raymi restaurant in Cusco, Peru
What to eat

One of the best ways to experience Peru and connect with the locals is by eating! Here are some classic dishes to sink your teeth into.

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An Intrepid leader and two travellers clinking their smoothie glasses in a market in Cusco, Peru
What to drink

From purple corn soft drinks to a zesty shot of leche de tigre (tiger’s milk), here are the beverages you shouldn’t miss in Peru.

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