OVERVIEW
The Inca Jungle route passes through four distinct climate zones across four days, beginning in cold Andean conditions above 4,000 meters and finishing in the subtropical warmth of Aguas Calientes at 2,040 meters. Packing for this range of conditions in a bag that you can actually carry is a skill that this page will help you develop. The goal is to have everything you need and nothing you do not. Every unnecessary kilogram in your pack is a kilogram your knees will negotiate on the descent of Day 3.
- WHAT TO CARRY IN YOUR DAYPACK EVERY DAY
Original passport. The same passport number used for booking. No exceptions and no alternatives.
Reusable water bottle or hydration system with a minimum capacity of 2 liters, ideally 3. No single-use plastic bottles are permitted on the Machu Picchu site and we ask that travelers avoid them throughout the entire route.
Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support and waterproof lining. This is the most important item on the entire list. A boot that fits well, supports the ankle, and keeps your feet dry on a muddy cloud forest trail will determine the quality of your experience on Days 2 and 3 more than anything else you pack. Do not use new boots on this trek. Break them in thoroughly before departure.
Sun hat with a brim wide enough to protect your face and neck. The Andean sun at altitude is significantly more intense than at sea level due to the thinner atmosphere, and the cloud forest sections of the route offer little shade.
High-factor sunscreen. SPF 50 or higher. Apply before the bike descent on Day 1 and reapply throughout the day.
Insect repellent. Essential from Day 2 onward as you enter the cloud forest and valley environments. DEET-based repellents are most effective against the mosquito species present in this region.
Windproof and waterproof jacket. This single garment earns its place in your pack on Day 1 at the top of the bike descent and pays its rent again on any day that brings rain.
Fleece or thermal mid-layer for cold mornings at altitude and cool evenings at camp on the Salkantay extension.
Gloves for the bike descent. The cold air at Abra Málaga and the wind chill of 65 kilometers of downhill cycling make lightweight cycling or running gloves an essential item for the first hour of Day 1.
Snacks for between meals. Energy bars, mixed nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate are all compact, calorie-dense options that sustain energy during the longer hiking sections without adding significant weight to your pack.
Headlamp with fresh batteries. Required for the early morning bus to Machu Picchu on the final day and useful on any evening when you return to accommodation after dark.
Camera or phone in a waterproof case or dry bag. Assume it will rain. Assume you will want to photograph what you see. Plan accordingly.
Personal medications including any prescription drugs you take regularly and any altitude medication discussed with your doctor before travel.
Small personal first aid kit including blister pads, adhesive bandages, pain relief medication, and any anti-nausea medication relevant to your personal history.
Hand sanitizer and toilet paper. Available on the route but worth carrying in your daypack for access between accommodation stops.
Extra cash in Peruvian soles for meals in Aguas Calientes, the hot springs entrance fee, and any personal purchases along the route.
- WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR MAIN BAG
Your main bag travels in the support vehicle and meets you at each night’s accommodation. It does not need to be carried on the trail.
Two to three t-shirts or lightweight long-sleeve base layers. Quick-dry fabric is significantly more practical than cotton, which retains moisture and takes hours to dry in cloud forest humidity.
Two pairs of hiking pants or convertible trousers. Lightweight, quick-dry fabric. Avoid denim entirely.
Four sets of undergarments. Merino wool or synthetic fabric performs better than cotton at altitude and in humid conditions.
Three to four pairs of hiking socks. Merino wool socks prevent blisters more effectively than cotton and manage moisture and temperature better across the range of conditions on this route.
Bathing suit for the Cocalmayo Hot Springs on Day 2.
Warm jacket for cold evenings at altitude. Down or synthetic fill. Compressible enough to fit in your main bag without taking up excessive space.
Thermal base layers for cold nights if you are completing the combined Salkantay extension.
Quick-dry travel towel. Compact and lightweight. Accommodation on the route provides small towels but a larger personal towel is more comfortable.
Sandals or lightweight shoes for evenings at accommodation and in Aguas Calientes.
Portable battery charger. There is no electricity available at accommodation on the trail sections. Your phone, camera, and headlamp all need power and a compact battery bank covers several days of charging with a single charge.
Small biodegradable soap for washing at accommodation with hot water facilities.
Large waterproof bags or dry sacks for organizing and waterproofing your main bag contents.
- WHAT NOT TO BRING
Large backpacks over 40 liters are not permitted inside Machu Picchu. If your pack exceeds this size you will need to leave it at the entrance in the storage area before entering.
Tripods and selfie sticks are not permitted inside Machu Picchu.
Single-use plastic bottles are not permitted on the Machu Picchu site. Bring a reusable bottle.
Unnecessary valuables including expensive jewelry, large amounts of cash, or electronics beyond what you will actually use. The route is safe but there is no need to carry things you will not use and could not easily replace.
Heavy books or excessive reading material. Download what you want to read before departure.
