Can I rent gear in Cusco instead of bringing it?

Yes. Most trekking agencies rent sleeping bags, boots, trekking poles, and jackets for $8-15 per item per day. Quality varies but works fine for most people. Book rentals when you book your trek.

How much can porters carry for me?

15 pounds (7kg) of personal gear per person on guided treks. This includes sleeping bag, extra clothes, and toiletries. Your daypack with water, snacks, and camera stays with you.

Do I need trekking poles?

Highly recommended. The trail has steep descents that are hard on knees, especially on day 3 to Wiñay Wayna. Collapsible poles pack easier for travel to Peru.

What if it rains during dry season?

It still rains occasionally May-September. Pack full rain gear regardless of season. Wet season (October-April) sees rain most afternoons and evenings.

Should I bring a headlamp or flashlight?

Headlamp is essential. Camp bathrooms have no lighting and you'll wake before sunrise on day 4 to reach Machu Picchu. Bring extra batteries.

What to pack for the Machu Picchu trek

Pack layers for temperature swings from 40°F to 70°F, waterproof gear for unexpected rain, and broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support. Focus on moisture-wicking materials and pack light since porters are limited to 15 pounds of personal gear on guided treks.

Choose your base layers. Pack 2-3 moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool base layers. Cotton kills in the mountains when wet. Bring both long and short sleeve options since temperatures vary dramatically between day and night.
Layer your insulation. Bring a fleece or down jacket for mornings and evenings when temperatures drop to 40°F. A lightweight down jacket packs smaller than fleece but costs more. Either works fine.
Waterproof everything. Pack a rain jacket and rain pants, even in dry season (May-September). Weather changes fast in the mountains. Include a rain cover for your daypack or use a dry bag for electronics.
Get your footwear right. Wear broken-in hiking boots with ankle support. The trail has loose stones and steep sections. Bring gaiters to keep rocks out of your boots. Pack one extra pair of wool socks and liner socks to prevent blisters.
Protect yourself from sun. Bring SPF 30+ sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. UV is intense at altitude. Lip balm with SPF prevents painful chapped lips.
Pack sleeping essentials. Most tour companies provide tents and sleeping mats. Bring a sleeping bag rated to 20°F for safety, though 32°F usually works. A pillow or inflatable pillow makes nights more comfortable.
Organize your daypack. Pack water (3 liters capacity), snacks, camera, phone, portable battery, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and altitude sickness medication. Weight limit for porter-carried duffel is 15 pounds on most tours.

Can I rent gear in Cusco instead of bringing it?: Yes. Most trekking agencies rent sleeping bags, boots, trekking poles, and jackets for $8-15 per item per day. Quality varies but works fine for most people. Book rentals when you book your trek.
How much can porters carry for me?: 15 pounds (7kg) of personal gear per person on guided treks. This includes sleeping bag, extra clothes, and toiletries. Your daypack with water, snacks, and camera stays with you.
Do I need trekking poles?: Highly recommended. The trail has steep descents that are hard on knees, especially on day 3 to Wiñay Wayna. Collapsible poles pack easier for travel to Peru.
What if it rains during dry season?: It still rains occasionally May-September. Pack full rain gear regardless of season. Wet season (October-April) sees rain most afternoons and evenings.
Should I bring a headlamp or flashlight?: Headlamp is essential. Camp bathrooms have no lighting and you'll wake before sunrise on day 4 to reach Machu Picchu. Bring extra batteries.