What to Wear in Machu Picchu

Before you decide to pack your bags to Peru, make sure you know what to wear in Machu Picchu as that will be one of the first places you will visit during your sight-seeing. Machu Picchu, as you might already know, is one of the most important destinations to visit in Peru. This Incan citadel is situated on a ridge on top of a mountain.

At an altitude of almost 8,000 feet above sea level, you can expect it to get quite chilly. Let us take a look at the 10-most important things to put in your bag, specifically for that long-awaited Machu Picchu trip. Here is what to wear in Machu Picchu:

1. Warm Clothing

It gets really cold up in the mountains. At 8,000 feet above mean sea level, even summers can be quite chilly. Make sure you carry thick pairs of jeans, sweaters, and woolen underwear. It also makes sense to throw in a jacket if your bag can accommodate it.

2. Raincoats

While it doesn’t always rain in Machu Picchu, it can sometimes begin to drizzle, as is the case in most mountainous areas. Do carry a raincoat if you are going to visit Machu Picchu during the rainy months between October and April.

3. Comfortable Shoes

You will be walking a lot when you reach the historic sites at Machu Picchu. As this is a mountainous region, it can get quite slippery. Focus on fashion but do not forget that they need to keep your feet warm and comfortable, while walking on cold and mountains paths. This is one is very important when it comes down to what to wear in Machu Picchu. All the more important if trekking to Machu Picchu.

4. Sunglasses

Though Machu Picchu sounds like a cold place, it can also be awfully sunny and windy. If you have ever been to mountainous regions, you will know that a good pair of sunglasses is very important.

5. Sunscreen

It can’t be stressed enough that sunscreens are very important while you are high up o the Andes. The sun rays are very harsh, and as you go higher up on the mountains, the air gets thinner, and the UV rays stronger. Pack in a good sunscreen cream, with at least SPF 30.

6. Chocolates

Many people find it difficult to acclimatize to high altitudes and feel that they are getting tired very soon. Chocolates and candies help to regulate blood sugar levels, especially if they are falling below normal. Lime candies found in Cusco are another essential of what to wear in Machu Picchu, or pack that is.

7. Your Medicines

Speak to your doctor before you leave your country, and pack in medicines that you may need for a high altitude trip.

8. Portable Charger/Power Bank

It is always important to carry a spare power bank or portable charger, as you don’t want to run out of battery while roaming around Machu Picchu.

9. Books and magazines

The train journey to Machu Picchu is picturesque and you will certainly not need a book or a magazine to read. However, if you are the kind who wants a book in hand, there is plenty of time to relax in Aguas Calientes.

10. A Good Camera

This needn’t be said as most people carry smartphones with good cameras. However, if you want to remember your trip to Machu Picchu all your life, carry a professional camera and take enviable pictures to cherish your memories forever.

What to wear in Machu Picchu Conclusion

This concludes our list of what to wear in Machu Picchu. Due to it’s location and high altitude, the weather at the ruins is unpredictable. Layered clothing is recommended. We hope these tips make your visit unforgettable. For those that have already been, did we miss anything? let us know in the comments.