Can I rent gear in Cusco instead of packing it?

Yes. Cusco has many gear rental shops charging $15-25 per day for basic packages (boots, backpack, sleeping bag, jacket). Quality varies - inspect everything before paying. Popular shops book up during peak season.

How much water should I carry?

Carry 3-4 liters total capacity. Bring water purification tablets - you can refill from streams but must treat the water. Most treks have water stops but don't count on them during dry season.

What if my luggage gets lost flying to Peru?

Pack trek essentials in your carry-on: boots, rain jacket, medications, and one set of hiking clothes. You can buy or rent everything else in Cusco if needed.

Do I need special permits beyond the trek booking?

No additional permits required. Your trek operator handles Inca Trail permits (if doing that route). You just need your passport and trek confirmation. Book 3-6 months ahead for Inca Trail.

How to Pack for a Machu Picchu Trek

Pack layers for extreme weather changes, waterproof gear for rain, and broken-in hiking boots. Focus on lightweight, moisture-wicking materials and bring altitude sickness medication. Most treks require a 40-50L backpack with essentials for 3-4 days of high-altitude hiking.

Choose the right backpack. Get a 40-50L hiking backpack with a rain cover. Day hikers can use 25-30L. Test the fit with weight before your trip - you'll carry 15-20 pounds including water and snacks.
Pack for extreme weather swings. Bring layers for temperatures from 32°F at night to 75°F during the day. Pack a warm jacket, fleece, moisture-wicking base layers, and a waterproof shell. The weather changes fast at 13,000+ feet.
Get proper footwear. Wear broken-in waterproof hiking boots with ankle support. Bring hiking socks (wool or synthetic) and backup pairs. The stone steps get slippery when wet, and you'll walk 15+ miles over uneven terrain.
Prepare for rain and mud. Pack a quality rain jacket and rain pants. Bring waterproof pack covers and dry bags for electronics. It rains 200+ days per year, even in dry season. Assume you'll get soaked.
Bring altitude essentials. Pack altitude sickness medication (acetazolamide if prescribed), electrolyte tablets, and extra water capacity (3-4 liters total). The trek starts at 8,000 feet and goes above 13,000 feet.
Add trek-specific items. Bring trekking poles for the steep descents, a headlamp with extra batteries, and cash for porter tips (20-30 soles per day per porter). Pack your passport - you need it to enter Machu Picchu.

Can I rent gear in Cusco instead of packing it?: Yes. Cusco has many gear rental shops charging $15-25 per day for basic packages (boots, backpack, sleeping bag, jacket). Quality varies - inspect everything before paying. Popular shops book up during peak season.
How much water should I carry?: Carry 3-4 liters total capacity. Bring water purification tablets - you can refill from streams but must treat the water. Most treks have water stops but don't count on them during dry season.
What if my luggage gets lost flying to Peru?: Pack trek essentials in your carry-on: boots, rain jacket, medications, and one set of hiking clothes. You can buy or rent everything else in Cusco if needed.
Do I need special permits beyond the trek booking?: No additional permits required. Your trek operator handles Inca Trail permits (if doing that route). You just need your passport and trek confirmation. Book 3-6 months ahead for Inca Trail.