Packing Check List for Hiking to Machu Picchu

When hiking the Inca Trail we need to be very careful with the amount of weight we are taking for every group. The Inca Trail is only possible thanks to the help of our porters.

ORANGE Nation has some of the hardest working staff in the mountains and we need to take care of them as much as we can. The Inca Trail is the most famous trek in Peru and for that reason, it is also the most regulated.

The strict regulations are to preserve the park and also to protect the staff working to make this trek possible. There are a lot of rules that Orange Nation Peru follows religiously (as should every licensed tour operator) and there are specific rules about the weight each client can bring.

Every client is only allowed to bring 7 kilos of extra weight besides the daypack you carry yourself (you are welcome to carry as much stuff as you like by yourself). We provide duffel bags which typically fit the 7kg mentioned, and are comfortable for the team to carry

What does 7Kg duffel bag included in the price mean?

Not all companies that operate the Inca Trail include the 7kg luggage, some charge extra. This is either a hidden fee, or it forces the client to carry all of their things for the trek. This is not advisable as, due to the challenging nature of the trek, it can compromise the enjoyment, and the chances of succeeding.

At Orange Nation Peru we include this in the price so you don’t need to worry about this decision. We also hire more than the recommended number of porters so that they can distribute the weight better, making their jobs easier.

What should I pack in my duffel bag?

You will only have access to your duffel bag at the campsite.

Your duffel bag should contain:

your clothes,
a change of shoes,
any medication,
a stockpile of snacks for the coming days and
anything else you wish to bring.
Your sleeping bag and air mattress must go in you duffle bag and are included in the 7 kilos.

Your daypack should contain:

Water
Sun glasses
Sunblock
Snacks
Change of T-shirt
Light Jacket
Camera
Medication you might need throughout the day

Please Note: This packing list is only for 4, 5, & 7 Day Treks.

You MUST take your original passport, a photocopy is not sufficient. (Keep it in a plastic bag in case of rain).

You will need a good warm sleeping bag for the Inca Trail trek. If you prefer, you can bring your own sleeping bag.

If you don’t have space in your luggage, then high quality options are available to rent from Orange Travel for US$20 per person per trek. These sleeping bags are guaranteed to be warm and clean.

If you are planning to purchase a bag for the occasion it is a good idea to choose a four season. A -10 bag is recommended for the winter months. During the warmer seasons you will probably be fine in a 3 season (or -4/-5) bag. This of course depends on how much you feel the cold, and is given as a guideline only.

It is recommended to pack an inflatable mattress for comfort, but it is not required. Orange Nation Peru foam mattresses are included in the package price. If you would like to rent an inflatable high quality Therma-rest-mattress, we have them available to rent for $20 per person per trek.

It is highly recommended that you have a pair of walking poles for your trek. Orange Nation Peru has professional adjustable poles available to rent for $15 a pair, per person per trek.

Good quality, comfortable footwear is essential. Whatever you wear on your feet, the most important thing is comfort. It is vital to ensure your boots are well worn in and lightweight. Ankle support and waterproofing is recommended but if you already have something comfortable with good grip then don’t go rushing out to buy new boots – you are better off with your well-worn in pair!

A rain poncho is recommended. Some trekkers also like to bring waterproof trousers, however a poncho will usually be sufficient if it covers your bag, body and most of your legs.

To keep your belongings and clothes dry, you should wrap everything in waterproof bags. In order to reduce use of plastic, please look for waterproof stuff sacks made from ripstop tarpaulin or goretex.

Most important! Also small plastic bags for rubbish (including used paper) which can then be thrown in the main rubbish bag available at camp every evening.

There are showers available on the third night of the Inca Trail, and on alternative treks there are showers available at the Lares hot springs. Bring travel size biodegradable shampoo or shower gel if you would like to use them, and wet wipes for the rest of the trek.

Bring one large (1.5 liter) or two or three small water bottles that can be refilled on the trail with boiled water, which will be supplied at each mealtime. Please bring only reusable bottles, not disposable ones.

Fleece, long pants, woolen hat, gloves.

If you are trekking in winter or you tend to feel the cold easily thermal underwear will help you endlessly.

Dress in layers. You will hike through several different microclimates every day and you will need to be able to adapt your clothing frequently as the weather changes quickly and dramatically in each microclimate. e.g. zip off trousers, fleece, T-shirts.

Band aids, moleskin, Imodium, Panadol, rehydration salts, and any other medication prescribed by your doctor.

Please note: there are no electrical outlets on the Inca Trail so make sure you fully charge up any devices and battery packs, or have spare batteries!

Chocolates, dried fruit, chips, crackers, granola bars, energy bars etc. Additional snacks are provided during the trek, but you may like to bring one or two extras, just in case.

A flash light is very important, please also bring spare batteries.

Sunblock, sunglasses, and sunhat

Insect repellant with DEET. The higher the better!

Towels can be rented for 3 soles. This is an optional activity!

If you wish to have a shower at any hot springs that you visit on alternative treks or on the third night of the Inca Trail.

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Our Reviews

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Travelers' Choice
2025

5.0

Jaffet hasan c

The guys were very efficient throughout the trip and attentive when we arrived at the campsite. The kitchen service was super delicious , the food quality and healthy, dishes suitable for people (vegans) and a buffet that has nothing to envy others.
Their kindness and efficiency are greatly appreciated for this journey to the Inca Way.

Written June 22, 2025

Friends

Glen

We had a great experience doing the 4d3n Inca Trail. Our porters were so hard working and made sure our tents and equipment were always ready for us. The chef Mario was outstanding and prepared restaurant quality vegetarian food everyday. Our guide Carlos made the trip exceptional, always making sure we were informed and making sure we were all enjoying the trail. He went above and beyond to encourage me when I was unwell. He made the trip the best ever. A beautiful and wonderful trek.

Written July 14, 2025

Family

Kendall C

Hiking the Short Inca Trail was hands-down one of the highlights of my entire trip to Peru. This trek is the perfect option if you want a taste of the iconic Inca Trail without committing to the full 4-day hike.

From the moment we started the hike at KM 104 Carlos our guide was amazing and patient. we were surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, lush cloud forests, and fascinating Inca ruins. The trail itself is moderately challenging—expect a steady incline, stone steps, and a bit of cardio—but it’s absolutely doable for anyone with a decent fitness level. The sense of accomplishment when you reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu is

Written July 8, 2025

Couples

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