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. Remember that the Inca Trail is only possible thanks to the help of our porters. Our ORANGE Machine is the hardest working staff in the mountains and for that same reason 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 same reason is the most regulated. This is in order 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 as a licensed tour operator follows religiously and there is one specific about the weight each client can bring.Here is when the 7 Kg rule comes in. Every client is only allowed to bring 7 kilos of extra weight besides the daypack each one carries. For that same reason we provide our duffel bags which are the perfect size to cover this 7 kilos need and also to be comfortable for our team to carry

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

Not all of the companies include this in their price and charge the 7Kgs as an extra. Leaving clients with the option of carrying everything on their backs which is not advisable due to the challenging of the trek. At Orange Nation Peru we include this on the price so you can have this whole topic solved and we also hire more porters in order for them to distribute the weight better and to make their jobs easier.

What should I pack in my duffel bag?

As mentioned above. You will only have access to your duffel bag atthe campsite. For that same reason we advise to pack the thing you will need along the trekking such as: Water, Sun Glasses, snacks, change of T-shirt, some medication, a jacket for the afternoon, etc. In your daypack and everything else such as: the rest of your clothes, change of shoes, medication, the rest of your snacks and he rest of your belongings in your duffel bag, also, the sleeping bag and air mattress must go on you duffle bag and are part of the 7 kilos.

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 may bring your own sleeping bag. However high quality ones can be rented from Orange Travel for US$20 per person per trek, that are guaranteed to be warm and clean. If you are planning to purchase a bag it is a good idea to purchase a four season (or -10) bag is recommended for the winter months. At other times you will probably be fine in a 3 season (or -4/-5) bag although this depends on how much you feel the cold and is given as a guideline only.

It is recommended to have an inflatable mattress for comfort but 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 walking poles for your trek. Orange Nation Peru has professional expandable 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.

Light umbrella, which can be used to protect from drizzle.

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 which can then be thrown in the main rubbish bag available at camp every evening.

There are showers available at the Lares hot springs visited which is visited on some alternative treks and the campsite on the third night of the Inca Trail. Bring travel size biodegradable shampoo or shower gel if you would like to use 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.

Thermal Underwear, if you are trekking in winter or you tend to feel the cold easily.

Dress in layers. You will hike through several different microclimates each day and you will need to be able to adapt your clothing to frequently changing weather patterns 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/or have spare batteries!

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

Flash Light is (Very Important) and spare batteries.

Sunscreen, sunglasses and sunhat

Insect repellant

Towels can be rented for 3 soles.

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.

Please visit the Inca Trail Trek or Alternative trek to Machu Picchu PROGRAM page for more information about each trek and if you are looking for the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, visit this page for information on securing Inca Trail Permits.