What to Wear in Peru

General Style Tips

  • When you're traveling around in Peru, it's best to dress in layers that can be shed as the day really heats up.
  • light wool is a good choice to wear against your skin as it naturally helps to regulate your body temperature. It keeps you warm in the cold, wicks away moisture when it's hot, and doesn't retain odours – even after prolonged wear.
  • Ensure you bring a versatile travel jacket. We love the SCOTTeVEST travel jacket because it has over 23 pockets, removable sleeves and RFID protection.
  • At the high altitudes of Cuzco, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, the temperature can plummet at night so a fleece is key.
  • Leave your valuables at home, you really won't need them.
  • If you plan on visiting an upscale restaurant in Lima or any other large city, then pack a smarter outfit – it's not essential but you will fit in and feel more comfortable.

 

What Shoes To Pack

  • Good quality, well worn-in rubber-soled walking shoes are essential.

Clothing Tips for Women

  • A pashmina is a versatile piece that will dress up any outfit, and a few pieces of costume jewelry can add a bit of sparkle if you need it.
  • If visiting any religious sites be sure to cover your shoulders and bare legs – your pashmina can come in handy for this too.

Clothing Tips for Men

  • For versatile and stylish casual wear, try the Madda Fella range of shirts, shorts and polos.
  • For great versatile travel jackets with multiple pockets including RFID security options, we love the SCOTTeVEST range.

Pack for the Weather

  • On the coast in winter (June, July, August and September) it can be cool. At the same time in the mountains it can be warm and sunny during the day but very cold at night. Dressing in layers will help you cope with the temperature changes.
  • In December, January, February, March and April you will experience heavy rain in the mountains and jungle so a waterproof raincoat is a must. The opposite is true on the coast.
  • We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android

Regions of Peru

  • Some areas like Nazca are very dry indeed, so you will need lots of moisturisers and lip balm.
  • Machu Picchu is in cloud forest so the humidity is greater. A lightweight waterproof is a good idea, especially if you are going to get up early to see the sun rise.
  • Cusco will undoubtedly mean lots of walking to take in the sights, and comfortable shoes are a must (we love Hotter shoes). Because of its altitude it will be cooler at night, so you will need your fleece. Up this high you will be rewarded with views of the Milky Way that you feel you can reach out and touch.

Other Things To Pack

  • Once you are outside of large cities like Lima, you really have to be sure you take everything you need including sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection), insect/mosquito repellent, adapter plugs and converters for electrical appliances.
  • As laundry facilities may be few and far between on your travels, take a small supply of detergent for hand laundry.
  • A microfiber travel towel is another great item to pack – these are designed specifically for trekking: they fold really small so you can accommodate a larger size and they dry really quickly too.
  • Don’t drink or even brush your teeth in tap water. Consider taking a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle.
  • A bag or soft-sided rucksack is a more practical option than hard cases when traveling around the country, and using packing cubes can help to keep your belongings tidy whilst compressing the volume too.
  • Combine your bag with a fold away day sack that will carry your essentials on day trips.
  • Look after your mobile phone with a phone bunjee – it protects against loss, theft and damage and is especially useful in busy cities or when trekking.
  • To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug, and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for the local voltage (220V).
  • Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Good buys include alpaca clothes, wooden games and ceramics. Or look out for Pisco, a traditional Peruvian grape vodka (buy this in local shops, it's much cheaper than at the airport). Just remember any liquids will need to be packed in your checked-in luggage.