What to Pack for Aguas Calientes. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials

Layering for Climate

Pack layers for varying temperatures. Mornings are cool, days warm, and evenings chilly. Moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal.

Layering Essentials

Base Layer: Moisture-wicking short or Long-sleeved shirts (merino wool).
Mid-Layer: A Fleece jacket or warm sweater for insulation.
Outer Layer: A Waterproof and windproof jacket for rain and cooler evenings.

Bottoms & Warmth

Comfortable bottoms are important for activity. Prepare for chilly mornings and evenings with accessories.

Pants & Accessories

Bottoms: Comfortable Hiking pants or Convertible pants. Avoid jeans for hiking.
Warmth: Pack light Gloves, a Warm hat (beanie), and a Scarf.
Cultural Dress: Modest attire (shoulders/knees covered) appreciated when visiting churches or local communities.

Footwear for Terrain

Hiking Boots

Broken-in, Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are ideal for Machu Picchu's uneven trails.

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

Casual Walking Shoes

Bring Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers for exploring Aguas Calientes town.

Everyday comfort for town exploration.

Sandals/Flip-flops

Useful for relaxation, use in your accommodation, or for the hot springs.

Essential for thermal baths.

Essential Documents & Copies

Papers

Keep all necessary documents organized and accessible. Bring tangible copies and electronic copies.

Original Passport and visa documentation (if relevant).
Travel insurance policy information (printout and digital).
Vaccination records and health documentation.
Printed and digital copies of reservations (train, The Lost city of the incas, hotel, tours).

Emergency contact information (family, friends, embassy).
Concession Cards (e.g., ISIC card).
International driving permit: Not applicable for Aguas Calientes.
Digital backups: Upload to a cloud service for safety.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Peru uses 220V, 60Hz. Plug types A, B, and C are common. A universal travel adapter with surge protection is recommended.

Connectivity Essentials

Power adapter: Universal travel adapter.
Mobile Phone: Most modern smartphones are unlocked. Purchase local SIM cards (Claro, Movistar, Bitel).
VPN Services: NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing.

Camera & Power

Preserve your memories with suitable camera equipment. Keep devices charged, especially during long exploration days.

Photography & Power Essentials

Camera Gear: Versatile camera (Mirrorless or DSLR), extra batteries, memory cards.
Portable chargers: For keeping devices charged when outlets are unavailable.
Backup Solutions: Cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) for pictures and papers.

Apps and Security

Recommended Apps

Download offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me), Google Translate (offline Spanish pack), XE Currency, PeruRail/Inca Rail apps.

Secure Your Gear

Use Padlocks for hostel lockers. A Money belt secures passport and cash. An RFID-blocking wallet for credit cards.

Affiliate Tech Retailers

B&H Photo for camera and electronics. Airalo for eSIMs and international data.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid

A well-stocked Personal first aid kit is recommended for minor ailments and emergencies.

First Aid Kit Contents

Pain relievers (Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen), Band-Aids/Blister treatment (Compeed).
Anti-diarrhea medication (Loperamide/Imodium), antacids, oral rehydration salts.
Prescription medications in original packaging, copy of prescription, doctor's note.

Protection & Hygiene

Protect yourself from insects and sun. Ensure access to safe drinking water and personal hygiene items.

Preventative Measures

Insect repellent with DEET or Picaridin (Permethrin for clothing, Picaridin for skin).
Sun protection: High-SPF Sunscreen, Wide-brimmed hat, Sunglasses.
Water purification: Sawyer Squeeze Filter or LifeStraw.

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Readiness

Consult your doctor about prescription Diamox.
Natural remedies: Coca leaves and coca tea are widely available.
Personal hygiene: Pack Travel-sized toiletries.

Motion Sickness Solutions

Bring Dramamine or similar medication for winding roads.
Over-the-counter medication for colds, flu, and allergies.
Stay hydrated, especially at altitude.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

A daypack for essentials during your Machu Picchu visit. Hiking poles are useful for uneven terrain and descents.

Daypack (20-30L capacity).
Hiking poles for support.
Water bladder or water bottles.
Comfortable hiking socks.

Hot Springs Attire

Pack swimwear and a quick-drying towel for a calming soak in the spa baths after your exploration.

Swimsuit.
Small, Quick-drying towel.
Flip-flops or sandals.
Plastic bag for wet items.

Rent vs. Bring

Decide whether to rent or bring certain items based on quality and availability at your destination.

Hiking poles: Can rent locally, but quality varies.
Rain ponchos: Cheap plastic ones available, but a quality Waterproof jacket is better.
Specialty items unique to Aguas Calientes: No specific items beyond general hiking and hot springs gear.
High-quality gear: Consider bringing your own.

Accommodation Items

Comfort Items for Travel

Neck pillow and Eye mask for train journeys (MLVOC Travel Pillow recommended).
Security items: Padlocks for hostel lockers.
Money belt (Alpha Keeper RFID Blocking Money Belt).
RFID-blocking wallet/sleeves for credit cards.

Reusable & Region-Specific

Reusable water bottle (Nalgene) to reduce plastic waste.
Reusable shopping bag for markets and souvenirs.
Reusable utensils for street food or snacks.
Small, Waterproof daypack cover (Osprey) protects your bag from sudden rain.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

General Comfort Items

Ensure comfort on long journeys and everyday exploration.

Comfort & Convenience

Neck pillow and Eye mask.
Padlocks for luggage.
Money belt for valuables.
RFID-blocking wallet.

Essential Reusable Items

Reduce environmental impact and spend less with reusable items.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Sustainable Travel Items

Portable Water Filter

Reduces plastic bottle waste.

Solar Charger

Powers devices sustainably.

Solid Toiletries

Minimizes liquid waste.

Eco-Friendly Sunscreen

Protects environment and skin.

Destination-Specific Items

Unique to Aguas Calientes

A small, Waterproof daypack cover.
Sturdy Hiking shoes for varied terrain.
Travel-sized toiletries, hard to find local favorites.

Difficult to Purchase Locally

High-quality hiking gear.
Specific prescription medications.
Certain sunscreens and effective Insect repellents.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light: Trains to Aguas Calientes have luggage restrictions. Consider leaving larger bags in Cusco or Ollantaytambo.

Roll clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles.

What to Pack for Aguas Calientes