Congratulations—you’ve chosen to embark on the adventure of a lifetime to the incredible Choquequirao archaeological site! 🌄 Whether it’s the challenging trails, breathtaking views, or the thrill of exploring an ancient Inca city, this trek promises an unforgettable experience.
But before you set off, preparation is key. Having the right gear can make the difference between a tough struggle and an enjoyable, comfortable journey. Not sure exactly what to bring? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
Below, you’ll find our Ultimate Choquequirao packing list — Choquequirao Trek Packing List, complete with explanations of why each item is important for your safety and comfort on the trail. We’ve also included some tried-and-tested gear recommendations that we personally use and love, chosen for their reliability, comfort, and value for money.
Keep reading to discover everything you’ll need for a smooth, safe, and truly epic Choquequirao adventure.
If you’re ready to experience Choquequirao without the stress of planning every detail, consider booking a guided trek. Tunqui Expeditions offers carefully designed Choquequirao packages that include expert guides, meals, and all the logistics you’ll need for a safe and unforgettable adventure. Traveling with a local team not only ensures comfort but also supports sustainable tourism in the region.
This ultimate Choquequirao packing list has been thoughtfully designed to guarantee that your trek is safe, comfortable, and truly unforgettable. With these recommendations, you’ll bring exactly what you need—no unnecessary weight, no missing essentials. From clothing and trekking gear to personal items and accessories, every detail has been considered so you can focus entirely on the incredible adventure ahead.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we believe that preparation is the foundation of an extraordinary journey. With the right gear, a positive mindset, and the guidance of our expert team, your trek to Choquequirao will go far beyond reaching the archaeological wonder itself. You’ll discover breathtaking landscapes, immerse yourself in Andean culture, and enjoy every step of this hidden gem with confidence and peace of mind.
Pack wisely, embrace the challenge, and let Tunqui Expeditions lead you on the legendary Choquequirao Trek—an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. Discover our Choquequirao trekking packages here.
Your original passport is one of the most important items to carry on the Choquequirao Trek. While it isn’t required at an official checkpoint like the Inca Trail, you’ll need it to enter Peru, for hotel check-ins, and for any train or bus journeys before or after your trek. Additionally, having your passport on hand is always recommended for smooth travel logistics in the Andes. Make sure all your tickets and reservations match your passport details to avoid unnecessary complications during your adventure.
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Choquequirao Trek is more remote and rugged, with fewer amenities along the route. This means having the right daypack is crucial for your comfort and safety. Even though porters and mules will help carry your main belongings, you’ll still need a lightweight backpack (around 30–35 liters) for daily essentials.
Inside your backpack, you should always keep:
When choosing a backpack, look for one with padded shoulder straps, good ventilation, and side mesh pockets for easy access to your water bottle. Trekkers often recommend the Osprey Talon or similar models designed for multi-day hikes. And don’t forget a rain cover—Andean weather can be unpredictable at any time of year.
When you trek with Tunqui Expeditions, you’ll be given a specially provided duffle bag during your pre-trek briefing. This bag is where you’ll pack your clothes and extra gear, with a weight limit of 7 kg / 15.4 lbs.
Your duffle bag will be carried by our professional team of porters and mules, along with food and camping equipment. Since you won’t have access to it until arriving at camp each evening, make sure your backpack contains all the items you’ll need during the day.
In general, a 30-liter daypack is perfect for carrying your essentials while trekking, while your duffle bag will safely transport the rest of your gear to camp. This balance keeps your load light and your journey comfortable.
When preparing your Choquequirao trek packing list, it’s easy to overlook underwear, but it’s one of the most essential clothing items. The Choquequirao route is long and demanding, so comfort should always be a top priority. Pack at least 4–6 pairs of breathable trekking underwear made from moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabrics to stay fresh during the hike.
The best hiking underwear for the Choquequirao trek includes merino wool or technical sports fabrics that prevent chafing and manage sweat. Top brands like Icebreaker, Adidas Performance, and Under Armour offer reliable trekking underwear ideal for multi-day hikes in the Andes.
The Choquequirao trek Peru includes steep climbs and chilly nights in remote campsites, making a good base layer one of the most important items in your Choquequirao packing list. Base layers regulate your temperature, keeping you warm without trapping moisture.
Opt for high-quality thermal tops and bottoms made of merino wool or technical synthetics. We recommend packing two tops and one bottom base layer, ensuring warmth during cold evenings while keeping your gear lightweight.
When it comes to Choquequirao trekking essentials, packing 4–5 trekking shirts will keep you comfortable across varying climates—from warm valleys to high, windy passes. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture. Instead, choose quick-drying, breathable fabrics.
Trusted options include Icebreaker merino wool shirts, Columbia trekking shirts, and Hanes lightweight hiking shirts. These will keep you dry, fresh, and ready to enjoy every step of your Choquequirao adventure.
Weather in the Andes is notoriously unpredictable, so a waterproof hard shell jacket is an absolute must. For your Choquequirao trek preparation, pack a jacket that’s breathable yet fully waterproof, such as the North Face Resolve Jacket.
In addition, bring a compact rain poncho to cover both you and your backpack during sudden downpours. Reliable rain gear ensures you stay protected and comfortable throughout your Choquequirao trek tour.
Nights on the Choquequirao trek can get extremely cold, especially at camps above 3,000 meters. That’s why an insulated jacket is one of the most important items on your Choquequirao trek essentials list.
We recommend options like the Patagonia Down Jacket, North Face Nuptse, or Arc’Teryx Atom, all designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the Andes. A quality insulated jacket ensures you’ll stay warm and enjoy the adventure rather than shivering through the night.
A fleece jacket is a perfect mid-layer for your Choquequirao hike. Lightweight yet warm, fleece helps trap heat while allowing moisture to escape. It’s ideal for chilly mornings and evenings before layering up with your insulated jacket.
Brands like Patagonia, The North Face, and Helly Hansen produce reliable fleeces that combine durability with comfort. Including one in your Choquequirao trekking gear list is highly recommended.
The Choquequirao trek is known for its varied climates—from warm valleys to cold mountain ridges—so flexibility in clothing is key. Convertible trekking pants are excellent, allowing you to switch between long pants and shorts as conditions change.
Trusted brands like Columbia and Craghoppers make breathable, quick-dry trekking pants perfect for multi-day hikes. We suggest packing two pairs of trekking pants and one pair of hiking shorts for a balanced setup.
After long days of hiking, cozy pajama pants are essential for comfortable nights in camp. Pack warm sleepwear for trekking in Peru, such as fleece sweatpants or soft pajama bottoms, to recover properly and be ready for the next day’s challenge.
Morning starts and higher altitudes on the Choquequirao trek can be cold, so packing inner gloves is a smart choice. Lightweight, quick-dry fleece or thermal gloves provide flexibility and warmth. Options like the Pearl Izumi Thermal Lite Gloves are excellent.
To protect against rain, wind, and freezing temperatures, you’ll need durable outer gloves. Look for waterproof gloves made with Gore-Tex technology, such as those from Black Diamond, The North Face, or Outdoor Research.
Together, inner and outer gloves create a reliable layering system, ensuring your hands stay protected throughout your Choquequirao trekking tour.
The Choquequirao trek in Peru takes you across exposed trails where the Andean sun can be extremely intense. That’s why a sun hat is one of the most important items in your Choquequirao packing list. A proper hiking hat will protect your face and neck from strong UV rays, helping you avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion during long days on the trail.
For maximum comfort, choose a lightweight, breathable trekking hat with UV protection. Wide-brimmed models or hats with a detachable neck cover are ideal for the Choquequirao hike, where shade is limited during some stretches of the trail. A foldable design is also convenient for easy storage in your daypack.
Adding a sun hat to your Choquequirao trek essentials is a simple step that ensures safety and comfort while enjoying the stunning landscapes of this hidden Inca city.
Nights on the Choquequirao trek can be surprisingly cold, especially at higher campsites above 3,000 meters. To stay warm, pack a fleece beanie or headband. These lightweight accessories provide excellent insulation without taking up much space in your backpack.
A fleece beanie is perfect for cozying up at camp or tackling chilly morning climbs, while a headband protects your ears from the cold without overheating. Both are practical for layering and should be included in your Choquequirao trek packing list.
Reliable outdoor brands like The North Face, Berghaus, and Patagonia offer high-quality trekking headwear designed for cold conditions in the Andes.
At higher altitudes, mornings and evenings on the Choquequirao trekking tour can be sharp and windy. A neck gaiter or balaclava adds versatile protection against the cold, keeping your neck, face, and even ears shielded.
A Buff-style neck gaiter is especially popular among trekkers because it can be worn in multiple ways: as a neck cover, headband, beanie, or even a wristband. Its adaptability makes it one of the best trekking essentials for Peru.
For the coldest nights, a balaclava provides full coverage, ensuring maximum warmth and protection from wind. Including one of these accessories in your Choquequirao trek gear will make your journey far more comfortable, no matter what the Andean weather brings.
Your hiking boots are arguably the most critical item on your entire Choquequirao trek packing list. This trek is long, steep, and remote, so choosing the right footwear is essential for both comfort and safety. Ill-fitting boots—or breaking in brand-new ones during the hike—can cause painful blisters, sore feet, or even injuries that could spoil your adventure.
To find the right fit, try this test: place your foot inside the boot without tying the laces, slide your toes forward, and check the space behind your heel. You should be able to fit one index finger between your heel and the boot. If there’s more space, the boot is too large; if you can’t fit a finger, it’s too tight.
For the rugged terrain of the Choquequirao trek in Peru, we recommend durable, supportive boots from trusted brands such as Salomon (Quest series), Scarpa, Berghaus (Explorer range), Hi-Tec, and Karrimor. These models are designed for multi-day treks in the Andes, offering stability, grip, and long-lasting comfort.
Investing in the right boots ensures you’ll enjoy the breathtaking views and rich history of Choquequirao without being distracted by sore feet.
After long, demanding days on the Choquequirao hike, nothing feels better than switching into lightweight, breathable footwear. That’s why trekking shoes or sandals are an important part of your Choquequirao trek essentials.
At camp, your feet will need to rest and recover. Trekking shoes or sneakers provide comfort and support, while sandals paired with warm socks are perfect for relaxing in the cool Andean evenings.
Recommended options include Merrell trekking shoes for their comfort and durability, or sturdy sandals designed for outdoor use. Having a second pair of camp shoes will make your downtime at Choquequirao far more enjoyable.
Good socks are just as important as good boots on the Choquequirao trek. We recommend packing 5–6 pairs of hiking socks along with 4–5 pairs of high-wicking sock liners. This layering system helps reduce friction, manage moisture, and prevent painful blisters during long days of hiking.
The best trekking socks for Peru are moisture-wicking, breathable, and quick-drying. Popular choices include Smartwool, Bridgedale, Point6, and Coolmax hiking socks. Avoid cotton socks, as they trap sweat and increase the risk of blisters.
Choosing high-performance hiking socks ensures your feet stay dry, cushioned, and ready to take on the challenge of Choquequirao trekking tours.
The Choquequirao trek includes high-altitude camps where temperatures drop significantly at night. To stay warm, pack 1–2 pairs of thermal socks in addition to your regular trekking socks.
Brands like Smartwool, Bridgedale, and Wigwam produce excellent thermal socks that combine insulation, cushioning, and durability. These will keep your feet cozy and protected on the coldest Andean nights, helping you sleep well and recover for the next day’s hike.
Finally, a pair of hiking gaiters is a smart addition to your Choquequirao trek packing list. Gaiters act as a barrier, preventing mud, dust, water, or small stones from getting inside your boots.
This is particularly useful on the Choquequirao trekking route, where the trail includes dusty sections, stream crossings, and unpredictable weather. Lightweight, waterproof gaiters are easy to pack and provide reliable protection for your boots and socks, keeping your feet dry and comfortable throughout the trek.
A sleeping bag for the Choquequirao trek is one of the most important items on your Choquequirao packing list. Nights in the Andes can be extremely cold—especially at remote campsites above 3,000 meters—so having the right sleeping gear is essential for comfort, warmth, and proper recovery after long hiking days.
The best sleeping bags for trekking in Peru are filled with duck or goose down, offering superior insulation while remaining lightweight and packable. For travelers on a budget, high-quality synthetic sleeping bags are also a great option—just make sure they are rated to at least -10°C (14°F) to handle the cold nights on the Choquequirao trek Peru.
For maximum comfort, choose a mummy-shaped sleeping bag with an insulated hood and drawcord to trap body heat. Features like two-way zippers are also useful for regulating temperature during slightly warmer nights.
Recommended models include the North Face Snow Leopard, Marmot Trestles, Mountain Hardwear Phantom, and Coleman trekking sleeping bags, all designed for reliable performance in cold Andean conditions.
Packing the right sleeping bag ensures you’ll stay warm, sleep well, and wake up fully recharged to continue your Choquequirao adventure the next day.
The Choquequirao trek Peru is one of the most challenging hikes in the Andes, with steep ascents, long descents, and rugged terrain. A reliable pair of trekking poles can reduce the impact on your knees and ankles by up to 20%, making your journey safer and more comfortable.
Look for lightweight, adjustable trekking poles that can adapt to different terrains and pack easily when not in use. Popular and durable options include Black Diamond trekking poles and Leki walking poles, trusted worldwide by trekkers for their comfort and performance.
Adding trekking poles to your Choquequirao packing list will give you extra stability and efficiency, allowing you to focus on the stunning views and the magic of this hidden Inca city.
On the Choquequirao hike, you’ll be exposed to intense Andean sunlight for hours each day. Strong UV rays at high altitude, combined with reflection from rocks and dust, make sunglasses a must-have accessory.
Choose UV-protection hiking sunglasses that block at least 80% of harmful rays to prevent eye strain and sun damage. High-quality lenses not only reduce glare but also improve visibility, enhancing your overall trekking experience.
We recommend Julbo mountain sunglasses, specifically designed for trekking and mountaineering. Reliable sunglasses are an essential part of your Choquequirao trek essentials for both safety and comfort.
While you won’t be hiking at night, the Choquequirao trek includes remote campsites with little to no electricity. A headlamp makes it easier to use the bathroom, organize your gear, or simply enjoy a book before bed.
Headlamps are far more practical than flashlights because they leave your hands free. One of the best options is the Petzl Tikka headlamp, known for its durability, brightness, and comfort.
Don’t forget to pack extra batteries or a rechargeable headlamp—an important detail for your Choquequirao trek packing list that ensures peace of mind after long hiking days.
Hydration is critical during the Choquequirao trek, where you’ll be hiking long distances at altitude. Plan to drink at least 2–3 liters of water per day to avoid dehydration, fatigue, and headaches.
You can carry water in durable trekking bottles, like CamelBak models, or opt for a hydration bladder, which allows you to sip hands-free without stopping. The Platypus 2L hydration bladder is a lightweight, convenient choice.
Including a hydration system in your Choquequirao packing list will keep your body strong and your energy levels high throughout the trek.
The Choquequirao trek tour offers breathtaking scenery—towering Andean peaks, lush valleys, and, of course, the awe-inspiring Choquequirao ruins. A lightweight trekking camera is essential to capture these once-in-a-lifetime moments.
Compact DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, or even a GoPro are great options, balancing image quality with portability. The Panasonic Lumix is a popular choice for travelers who want sharp images without heavy gear.
Bringing a camera ensures you’ll relive your Choquequirao adventure long after you’ve returned home.
While not strictly essential, a travel journal can enrich your Choquequirao trekking experience. Writing down your thoughts, challenges, and highlights each evening will help preserve your memories more vividly.
A compact notebook and lightweight pen are easy to carry and will allow you to capture the unique spirit of the Choquequirao trek Peru. Later, your journal can serve as a keepsake, inspire blog posts, or simply remind you of the beauty and effort of this extraordinary journey.
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 Choquequirao trek, 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 Choquequirao trek 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.
