Whether it’s your first time traversing the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway in the heart of the Amazon, or your hundredth exploration of the ancient Machu Picchu citadel, it’s important to prepare, preempt and think about what to pack properly when organising a trip to Peru; weather can quickly change, temperatures can fluctuate and storms can brew.

Firstly, it’s important to factor the variety of climates, whilst not packing too heavily. If there’s one thing to be learned from Paddington Bear and his Peruvian adventures, it’s to be a one-suitcase-wonder. There’ll be hills, heat, and a whole lot of walking, so packing as lightly as possible is advised.

Machu Picchu

Layering is important when visiting Machu Picchu, especially if you’re planning on hiking the Inca Trail. The high altitude means the sun is strong (suncream with a high factor should be thrown in), and therefore temperatures can soar during the day; at night, it can get pretty chilly, so a light fleece jacket is recommended. Some comfy walking shoes are essential, and ensure you bring a smaller, day backpack to pop your essentials in during the day. When travelling to Machu Picchu, be aware that the trains have a limit of one 5.0kg bag per traveller, so it’s important to prepare a smaller backpack, and a safe place to leave larger luggage – most hotels in Cusco are happy to assist!

Many of the products used in everyday travelling can be harmful to the environment, and the flora and fauna at our hotels. Therefore, a deet free insect repellent is preferable; just as effective, but a whole lot less harmful. At Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion and Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica, a natural repellent prepared with an extract of lemongrass is left for guests’ in their rooms. If the bottle runs out during your stay, just ask one of the team to refill it for you!

Make sure you pack your finest mac-in-a-pac, as the Cloud Forest environment makes things a little damp, and during rainy season, expect larger downfalls. The Andean Sauna at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is the ideal resting place for weary travellers; bring a bathing suit, so you can enjoy after a trek, trail or travelling.

The Amazon

Did you know, both of our Amazonian properties offer access to one of the world’s most remote tropical environments; 540 species of bird call the rainforest home, from Macaws and Tanagers, to Wrens and Toucans – some of our featured friends can only been seen through binoculars, so be sure to pack a good pair. A camera is also essential, and waterproof case or cover is advised.

Home to one of South America’s largest canopy bridges (1,129ft /344m-long), Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica offers birding enthusiasts the chance to witness wings from  7 wooden walkways and 8 platforms suspended 103 feet (30m)above the forest floor. All of that walking means some comfortable shoes are a must, and fast drying clothes that can be layered are a safe bet – the rainforest is generally hot, but it can get chilly in the evenings, and when it rains.

Inkaterra Guide Field Station, a new property opening in the heart of the Tambopata Reserve this June,  offers guests the opportunity to get stuck into conservation work first hand; as you’ll be ‘getting your hands dirty’, it’s important to pack plenty of cleansing wipes and antibac, with first aid kit and copious amounts of bug spray.

Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Again, the Andean highlands are known for their extremely varied weather conditions, and so packing lots of layers is essential. You’ll be travelling at high altitude, with rather minimal humidity, and the bright sunshine can make the air feel drastically warmer. Take note as to whether you’ll be visiting during wet, or dry season, and pack accordingly.  

Whilst staying at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of exhilarating excursions, from Twilight Walks, to climbing along the hill Huasi Challa and bird watching – a good camera, binoculars and some seriously comfy walking shoes are essential, and it’s worth packing some light waterproof clothing, should you visit during rainy season.

For strolling around the city, or dining at Inkaterra La Casona, a 16th Century Manor in the heart of Cusco, you might want to pack something a little ‘fancier’. Ditch the walking boots for some snazzy sandals, and the cargo trousers for some linen trousers.
To find out more about our properties, click here.
4/05/2017