Getting ready for the adventure of a lifetime? The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic treks in the world, but before you set foot on the trail, it’s crucial to prepare with the right gear. Having a well-organized Inca Trail packing list will make the difference between a comfortable, enjoyable hike and a challenging experience.
Whether you’re doing the classic 4-day Inca Trail trek or a shorter route, the key is to pack light while still bringing all the hiking essentials. That’s why we’ve created this ultimate Inca Trail gear list—tested and recommended by experienced trekkers.
This ultimate Inca Trail packing list has been carefully crafted to ensure your journey is safe, comfortable, and unforgettable. By following these recommendations, you’ll be carrying everything you truly need—nothing more, nothing less. From clothing and footwear to personal care items, camping gear, and accessories, every detail has been considered so you can focus entirely on the adventure ahead.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we believe that preparation is the key to enjoying the Inca Trail at its fullest. With the right gear, a positive spirit, and our professional guidance, your trek will not only take you to the breathtaking citadel of Machu Picchu but also allow you to enjoy every step of the trail with confidence and peace of mind.
Pack smart, walk with confidence, and join one of our legendary Inca Trail trekking packages for an unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.
The most important item on your Inca Trail packing list is without a doubt your original passport. Not only do you need it to enter Peru, but it is also required at the official government checkpoint at the start of the trail. This checkpoint controls the strict daily limits on how many visitors can begin the trek, and every traveler must present valid travel documents for the Inca Trail before setting foot on the path.
Your passport will also be essential at the end of your adventure when you arrive at Machu Picchu. Without it, you won’t be allowed to enter the site. To avoid complications, make sure that your entrance tickets to Machu Picchu exactly match your passport details. This simple step ensures a smooth experience and prevents unnecessary issues during your once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Even though porters will carry your main duffle bag with most of your belongings, you’ll still need a lightweight backpack for the Inca Trail to keep your daily essentials close at hand. Think of it as your personal daypack where you’ll store snacks for the Inca Trail, a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, a camera, and other must-have items you’ll need while hiking.
When selecting the best backpack for the Inca Trail, look for one with compression straps to reduce pressure on your back and breathable shoulder padding for comfort. Side mesh pockets are also essential for quick access to your water bottle without having to stop. Many trekkers recommend the Osprey Talon, which is lightweight, durable, and designed for long hikes.
Don’t forget to pack a rain cover for your backpack. The Andes are known for unpredictable weather, and a sudden downpour can happen at any moment. If you opt for an Osprey pack, make sure you get the matching Osprey Raincover that fits your backpack size perfectly for maximum protection.
As part of your trek with Tunqui Expeditions, you’ll receive a specially provided Inca Trail duffle bag during the pre-trek briefing the night before your departure. This bag is where you’ll pack your clothes and other gear for the hike, with a maximum weight allowance of 7 kg / 15.4 lbs.
Our professional porters will carry your duffle bag along the Inca Trail, together with the group’s food and camping equipment. Keep in mind that you won’t have access to the items inside your duffle bag until you reach the campsite each evening, as porters always hike ahead to prepare everything before the group arrives.
During the day, you’ll rely on your personal backpack to carry essentials such as a warm jacket, raincoat, snacks, water, sunscreen, and your camera. A 30-liter lightweight backpack for the Inca Trail is usually sufficient to hold everything you’ll need at hand while trekking.
When it comes to Inca Trail clothing essentials, underwear is one of the most overlooked yet most important items. You’ll be trekking long distances each day, so comfort should be your top priority. We recommend packing at least 4–6 pairs of breathable sports underwear to keep you fresh and dry during the hike.
The best hiking underwear for the Inca Trail is made from moisture-wicking and quick-dry fabrics that help manage sweat and prevent chafing. Popular choices include Icebreaker merino wool underwear, Adidas sports performance underwear, and Under Armour trekking underwear—all designed for intense activity and reliable comfort.
Choosing the right breathable underwear for trekking will make a huge difference in your overall comfort and help you enjoy the trail without distractions.
A good base layer for the Inca Trail is one of the most important pieces of clothing you can pack, especially for the colder sections of the trek such as Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the route. Also called the next-to-skin layer or first layer, this clothing sits directly against your body and helps regulate your temperature in harsh conditions.
The best thermal base layers for trekking fit snugly to reduce airflow while still allowing your skin to breathe. Look for high-wicking fabrics like merino wool or technical synthetics, which pull moisture away from your skin and keep you dry even after hours of hiking.
For a comfortable and reliable setup, we recommend packing two tops and one bottom base layer. This ensures you’ll stay warm during cold nights and early morning climbs while keeping your backpack light.
When preparing your Inca Trail clothing essentials, packing the right shirts is key to staying comfortable throughout the trek. We recommend bringing 4–5 trekking shirts for the Inca Trail, ideally a mix of short and long sleeves to adapt to the changing climates along the route.
The best hiking shirts for the Inca Trail are lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. Cotton shirts should be avoided, as they trap moisture, making you feel damp and uncomfortable during long hikes. Instead, opt for moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you cool during hot days and dry during humid or rainy conditions.
Reliable options include Hanes lightweight trekking shirts for affordability and comfort, as well as Icebreaker merino wool shirts and Columbia performance hiking shirts for top durability and quality. Choosing the right lightweight shirts for trekking will make a big difference in how fresh and comfortable you feel on the trail.
Weather in the Andes can change in an instant, and sudden showers are especially common during the rainy season (October to March). That’s why a hard shell jacket for the Inca Trail is an absolute must on your packing list. A high-quality model, such as the North Face Resolve Jacket, offers excellent waterproof protection while remaining breathable, keeping you dry and comfortable during long hikes.
In addition to a jacket, it’s smart to carry a compact rain poncho for the Inca Trail. Lightweight and easy to throw on, a poncho is perfect for unexpected light downpours and provides quick coverage for both you and your backpack.
Having reliable rain gear for trekking in Peru ensures that sudden weather changes won’t interrupt your adventure, helping you stay protected and enjoy every step of the journey toward Machu Picchu.
The insulated jacket is one of the most important pieces of your Inca Trail clothing essentials, especially for the higher sections of the trek such as Dead Woman’s Pass, where temperatures drop significantly. As your third layer (outer layer), your jacket should be windproof, waterproof, and warm, keeping you comfortable even in the coldest parts of the Andes.
We strongly recommend investing in a high-quality insulated jacket for the Inca Trail, since this is one of the key items that will guarantee warmth and comfort throughout your journey. A classic choice is the North Face Nuptse Jacket, well-known for its durability and superior insulation.
If you’re looking for alternatives, excellent options include the Patagonia Down Jacket, the Arc’Teryx Atom, or the Mountain Hardwear Down Jackets—all reliable, lightweight, and designed for high-performance trekking. Synthetic insulated jackets are also practical, offering warmth while being more affordable and quick-drying.
Having the best jacket for trekking in Peru will make all the difference between shivering through the nights and fully enjoying your once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
For your second layer of clothing on the Inca Trail, a fleece jacket is the perfect choice. Lightweight, breathable, and warm, fleece is designed to trap heat while allowing moisture to escape, making it one of the most effective insulating layers for trekking in Peru.
We recommend the Polartec 200 Fleece Jacket, known for its excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and durability. This type of fleece provides just the right amount of insulation for chilly mornings and evenings on the trail while still packing down small enough to fit easily into your backpack.
Other reliable options include fleeces from Helly Hansen, The North Face, and Patagonia, all of which produce high-performance gear tailored for outdoor adventures. Choosing the best fleece jacket for the Inca Trail ensures you’ll stay warm and comfortable without adding unnecessary bulk to your gear.
When packing your essential clothing for the Inca Trail, don’t forget to bring trekking pants and hiking shorts. The variety of climates and altitudes along the trail means you’ll need flexible clothing to stay comfortable in both the warm valleys and cold mountain passes.
An excellent option is convertible trekking pants, such as those designed by Craghoppers. These pants can be quickly converted into shorts, saving you space in your backpack and money, as you won’t have to buy separate garments. Plus, they’re lightweight, durable, and designed for long-distance hiking.
Other trusted brands for trekking pants on the Inca Trail are Columbia and O’Neills, both known for their breathable, quick-drying fabrics that meet the demands of multi-day hikes.
For a balanced setup, we recommend bringing two pairs of trekking pants and one pair of hiking shorts. This combination ensures you are prepared for the diverse weather conditions of the Andes, while keeping your luggage light and practical.
After a long day of trekking, nothing feels better than changing into warm, cozy clothes at camp. Adding pajama pants to your Inca Trail packing list is a simple but essential step to ensure restful nights and recovery for the next day’s hike.
Choose comfortable sleepwear for the Inca Trail, such as soft pajama pants or fleece sweatpants, that provide warmth during the often cold Andean nights. These will help you relax at camp and sleep more comfortably in your tent, especially at higher altitudes where temperatures drop significantly.
Packing a pair of warm pajama pants for trekking in Peru is a small detail that can make a big difference in how refreshed and ready you feel each morning on the trail.
Your hands also need proper layering when trekking through the Andes. Inner gloves for the Inca Trail act as your hands’ next-to-skin layer, keeping them warm while allowing flexibility and breathability. These gloves are especially useful during early morning hikes and at higher altitudes, where the air is colder.
Look for lightweight, quick-drying inner gloves, ideally made from fleece or other thermal fabrics that wick moisture while retaining warmth. A great option is the Pearl Izumi Thermal Lite Gloves, which can also be worn on their own in moderately cold weather. Another reliable brand for trekking gloves in Peru is Karrimor, known for durable and comfortable outdoor gear.
Packing a pair of thermal inner gloves ensures your hands stay protected and comfortable, making them a smart addition to your Inca Trail clothing essentials.
Just like your insulated jacket protects your body, outer gloves for the Inca Trail serve as the protective layer for your hands. This layer is designed to keep you warm while shielding against wind, rain, and snow, making it a crucial part of your Inca Trail clothing essentials.
The best waterproof gloves for trekking in Peru should be warm, durable, and fully weather-resistant. Look for models made with Gore-Tex technology, which offers excellent protection without sacrificing breathability. Recommended options include Dakine Gore-Tex Gloves, or high-quality alternatives from The North Face, Outdoor Research, and Black Diamond.
By combining inner gloves with a reliable pair of outer gloves, you’ll have a versatile layering system that ensures your hands stay warm and dry throughout the trek—no matter how unpredictable the Andean weather becomes.
At the high altitudes of the Andes, the sun’s UV rays are much stronger, making a sun hat for the Inca Trail an essential part of your headwear essentials. A proper hiking hat for Peru will protect both your face and neck from the intense mountain sun, helping you avoid painful sunburns and heat exhaustion during your trek.
For maximum comfort and convenience, choose a UV protection hat for trekking that is lightweight, breathable, and easy to fold so it can be packed away in your backpack when not in use. A hat with a wide brim or an additional neck cover offers the best all-around protection, especially during long exposed sections of the trail.
Adding a sun hat to your Inca Trail packing list is a simple but crucial step to stay safe and comfortable while enjoying your journey to Machu Picchu.
Temperatures on the Inca Trail can drop significantly in the evenings and early mornings, especially at higher altitudes. To stay warm and comfortable, adding a beanie or headband for trekking in Peru is highly recommended.
A fleece beanie for the Inca Trail provides excellent insulation while remaining lightweight and easy to pack. Alternatively, a fleece headband can keep your ears protected from the cold without overheating. Both options are practical for layering and essential for resting comfortably at camp or tackling early morning climbs.
Reliable brands such as Berghaus and The North Face produce high-quality cold-weather headwear designed specifically for outdoor adventures. Packing a warm beanie for the Inca Trail will make a big difference in how cozy you feel during chilly Andean nights.
If you’re someone who feels the cold easily, a neck gaiter or balaclava for the Inca Trail is a must-have accessory. At high altitudes, the air can be sharp and chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings, so protecting your neck and face will make your trek much more comfortable.
A buff for hiking is one of the most versatile options. It can be worn not only as a neck gaiter, but also as a headband, beanie, or even a wristband, depending on your needs throughout the trek. Its lightweight design and adaptability make it a favorite among seasoned trekkers.
For colder sections of the Andes, a balaclava for trekking in Peru offers full coverage, keeping your face warm and shielded from cold winds. Packing one of these cold weather accessories for the Inca Trail ensures you’re ready for whatever conditions the mountains throw at you.
Your boots are arguably the most critical item on your entire Inca Trail packing list. Since your feet are what carry you through every step of the trek, choosing the right hiking boots for the Inca Trail is essential for comfort, safety, and performance.
Wearing boots that don’t fit properly—or worse, breaking in brand-new ones on the trail—can result in painful blisters, sore feet, or even damaged toenails. To find the perfect fit, try this simple test: place your foot inside the boot without tying the laces, then slide your toes to the front. You should be able to fit one index finger between your heel and the back of the boot. If there’s too much space, the boot is too big; if you can’t get your finger in, it’s too small.
When it comes to the best trekking boots for Peru, we recommend trusted outdoor brands such as Scarpa, Salomon (especially the Quest range), Berghaus (Explorer range), Hi-Tec, and Karrimor. These boots are durable, supportive, and designed to handle the rugged terrain of the Andes.
Investing in the right pair of comfortable boots for trekking the Inca Trail will make all the difference, helping you focus on the stunning views and incredible experience instead of sore feet.
After a long day of hiking steep steps and rugged trails, nothing feels better than switching into comfortable footwear for the Inca Trail. That’s why trekking shoes or sandals are an essential addition to your footwear packing list.
When you arrive at camp, your feet will thank you for the chance to rest in something lighter and more breathable than heavy boots. Trekking shoes or lightweight sneakers are a great option, offering support while still letting your feet recover. Meanwhile, trekking sandals for the Inca Trail are perfect for relaxing evenings, and when paired with warm socks, they provide both comfort and warmth in the cool Andean nights.
For quality and durability, we recommend Merrell trekking shoes, which are designed for outdoor adventures, or sturdy trekking sandals, which combine convenience with all-day comfort.
Bringing an extra pair of camp shoes or sandals for trekking in Peru ensures your feet get the relief they need so you’re ready to hit the trail again the next day.
Good socks are just as important as good boots. To stay comfortable on your trek, we recommend packing 5–6 pairs of hiking socks for the Inca Trail, along with 4–5 pairs of high-wicking sock liners. This combination helps reduce friction, manage moisture, and prevent painful blisters during long days on the trail.
The best trekking socks for Peru are breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying. Coolmax hiking socks are an excellent choice, offering outstanding ventilation and sweat management. Other highly trusted brands include Smartwool, Bridgedale, and Point6, all of which produce durable, high-performance socks specifically designed for multi-day hikes.
Avoid cotton socks at all costs—cotton traps sweat and moisture, which can quickly lead to blisters, discomfort, and sore feet. Instead, choose technical socks for trekking that will keep your feet dry, cushioned, and ready for the challenges of the trail.
Packing the best socks for the Inca Trail may seem like a small detail, but it’s one of the smartest choices you can make for a smooth and enjoyable trek.
While regular hiking socks are essential, you’ll also want to pack 1–2 pairs of thermal socks for the Inca Trail to keep your feet warm during the coldest sections of the trek, especially at higher altitudes like Dead Woman’s Pass. These specialized socks provide added insulation, making them a crucial part of your cold-weather trekking gear.
The best thermal trekking socks combine warmth, cushioning, and comfort. We recommend Smartwool thermal socks, which are exceptionally warm, offer excellent foot cushioning, and feature flat seams to reduce friction and prevent blisters.
Other reliable brands include Wigwam and Bridgedale, both known for producing durable warm hiking socks for Peru’s mountains.
By including a pair or two of thermal socks in your Inca Trail clothing essentials, you’ll ensure your feet stay cozy and protected, even on the chilliest nights in the Andes.
A pair of gaiters for the Inca Trail is a simple but highly effective addition to your footwear essentials. Made from durable, waterproof material, gaiters extend from the top of your hiking boots to just below your knees, creating a protective barrier against the elements.
The best hiking gaiters stop water, dust, mud, snow, ice, and even small stones from entering your boots, keeping your feet dry and comfortable throughout the trek. This is especially important when crossing streams, trekking in rainy conditions, or walking along dusty mountain paths.
Because the weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, waterproof gaiters for trekking in Peru are useful in any season of the year. Lightweight and easy to pack, they are a smart investment to ensure your boots and socks stay clean and dry, allowing you to focus on the trail ahead.
A sleeping bag for the Inca Trail is one of the most important items on your packing list. Nights in the Andes can be extremely cold, especially at higher campsites, so having a warm sleeping bag for trekking in Peru is essential for comfort and recovery after long hiking days.
The best sleeping bags for the Andes are filled with duck or goose down, which provide excellent insulation while remaining lightweight. However, these models tend to be more expensive. If you’re on a budget, a high-quality synthetic sleeping bag will also work—just make sure it’s rated to at least -10°C (14°F) to handle the cold nights.
Look for a mummy-shaped sleeping bag with an insulated hood and drawcord for a snug fit that traps body heat. Features like two-way zippers also help regulate temperature and improve insulation.
Recommended models include the North Face Snow Leopard, Marmot Trestles, Mountain Hardwear Phantom Highlander, and Coleman sleeping bags, all designed for reliable performance in cold trekking conditions.
Packing the right sleeping bag for the Inca Trail will ensure you stay warm, sleep well, and wake up ready for the next adventure.
A reliable pair of trekking poles for the Inca Trail can make a huge difference in your hiking experience. By reducing the impact on your knees and ankles by up to 20%, poles provide extra stability and help absorb shock—especially useful on the steep downhill sections of the trail.
For the best results, choose lightweight trekking poles (around 350 grams per pair) that are adjustable. This makes them easy to adapt to different terrains and convenient to store when not in use.
Among the most trusted brands for hiking poles in Peru, Black Diamond trekking poles and Leki walking poles stand out for their durability, comfort, and performance on challenging trails.
Adding trekking poles to your Inca Trail packing list will not only protect your joints but also make your journey more efficient and enjoyable.
At the high altitudes of the Andes, UV rays are far stronger than at sea level, and sunlight often reflects off snowy peaks and rocky surfaces. For this reason, a good pair of sunglasses for the Inca Trail is an absolute must on your packing list.
Look for UV protection hiking glasses that block at least 80% of light to protect your eyes from harmful rays and reduce glare. High-quality lenses not only prevent eye strain but also improve visibility, making your trek safer and more comfortable.
For performance and reliability, we highly recommend Julbo mountain sunglasses, designed specifically for trekking and mountaineering. These are durable, comfortable, and built to handle the intensity of high-altitude trekking in Peru.
Bringing the best sunglasses for the Inca Trail ensures your eyes stay protected so you can fully enjoy the breathtaking views on your way to Machu Picchu.
While you won’t be trekking at night, having a headlamp for the Inca Trail is extremely useful at camp. Many campsites are dimly lit or lack electricity altogether, so a reliable light source makes activities like using the bathroom at night, organizing your gear, or reading before bed much easier and safer.
A headlamp is more practical than a flashlight since it keeps your hands free, making it the best choice for camping and trekking. One of the most trusted models is the Petzl Tikka headlamp, known for its durability, brightness, and comfort.
Don’t forget to bring extra batteries or a rechargeable option to ensure you always have light when you need it most.
Including a headlamp or flashlight in your Inca Trail accessories will give you peace of mind and convenience during your nights in the Andes.
At high altitude, your body loses fluids more quickly, and dehydration on the Inca Trail is a common issue. To stay healthy and energized, you’ll need to drink at least 2–3 liters of water per day. Without proper hydration, you risk dizziness, headaches, heat stroke, or even having to cut your trek short.
You can carry water in a standard hiking water bottle—a practical option is bringing two 1L CamelBak bottles, which are durable and easy to refill.
Alternatively, if your daypack is compatible, a hydration bladder for trekking in Peru is an excellent choice. The 2L Platypus Hydration Bladder is one of the best on the market, allowing you to sip water hands-free while hiking, without needing to stop and unpack your bottle.
Whether you prefer bottles or a bladder, having a reliable hydration system for the Inca Trail is essential to keeping your energy levels high and your body performing at its best.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is filled with breathtaking scenery, from dramatic Andean peaks to ancient Inca ruins. To preserve these unforgettable moments, bringing a camera for the Inca Trail is a must. You’ll want to capture not just the landscapes, but also the spirit of your journey along one of the world’s most iconic treks.
When choosing the best camera for trekking in Peru, look for a model that is both lightweight and capable of delivering high-quality images. A compact Digital SLR or mirrorless camera strikes the perfect balance between performance and portability. For example, the Panasonic Lumix is a reliable option that offers sharp images without weighing you down.
If you’re more interested in video or action shots, a GoPro for the Inca Trail is an excellent choice. Small, rugged, and versatile, it allows you to film your trek in stunning HD while keeping your hands free.
Whatever option you choose, investing in a lightweight trekking camera will help you relive your adventure for years to come.
While not an absolute necessity on your Inca Trail packing list, bringing a notebook or travel journal can add immense value to your journey. The trek to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable adventure, and taking a few minutes each day to write down your thoughts, experiences, and emotions will help you relive it more vividly in the future.
A compact notebook for trekking in Peru and a lightweight pen are easy to pack and can serve as a personal diary where you capture the breathtaking scenery, the challenges of the hike, and the small but meaningful moments along the trail.
Many hikers find that keeping an Inca Trail journal not only preserves memories but also deepens their connection to the experience. Later, your notes can inspire blog posts, photo captions, or simply serve as a treasured keepsake of your time in the Andes.
Beyond your main gear and clothing, there are a number of personal items and medical supplies that will make your trek safer, cleaner, and far more comfortable. These small details are easy to overlook, but they can make a big difference on the trail.
Health should be a top priority on the trail, especially when dealing with high altitude trekking in Peru. These items are strongly recommended:
We’ve already mentioned how important it is to take a lightweight backpack for the Inca Trail, but knowing what to carry in your daypack is just as crucial. Since your duffle bag will be with the porters, your daypack should contain only the essentials you’ll need during the day.
Here’s a simple Inca Trail daypack checklist to help you prepare:
By keeping your backpack essentials for trekking in Peru light yet complete, you’ll ensure comfort, safety, and convenience throughout each hiking day.
