If you’re planning a trip through this South American gem, you must know all the do’s and don’ts to prepare the perfect Peru packing list. Luckily for you, we have come up with this section that will help you organize your luggage according to the weather conditions in the country and the regions you’d like to visit. Keep reading and find more about it!
Peru definitely has its charm and everyone is willing to see at least a small part of everything it comprehends. For that reason, we know how tricky it can be to prepare a packing list without missing any details at all.
Either you’re visiting the Pacific coast or the Andean highlands, there are certain things that you can’t leave behind. Remember that overpacking shouldn’t be an option, the better you prepare for your trip, the less stress you’ll encounter.
Here’s the tricky part, if you’re traveling during the rainy season in Peru, keep in mind that the weather conditions may vary according to the regions you’re visiting.
For example, temperature rises during this period and if you’re visiting the coast, it will feel like summertime. But, if you’re traveling to the Andean highlands or the jungle, expect heavy downpours of rain and parcial sunny days.
The rainy season in Peru starts from November until April. According to your travel destinations, here are some recommendations so you don’t leave anything behind while packing for Peru:
1. Pacific Coast
Temperature rises during this time of the year and there are small chances of rain during this period. If you’re visiting Lima, Paracas, Huacachina or Nazca, this will feel like an endless summerland. Make sure to bring this with you:
- Sunscreen. This must be your new best friend throughout the trip, make sure to apply it every 40-50 minutes.
- Bathing suits and flip flops. These are essential if you’re going to the beach.
- Light tops, shorts, and summer dresses. Temperatures in this region can reach up to 30°C.
- Sunhat and Sunglasses. Protect yourself from the sun at all costs.
- Comfortable shoes. Sneaker shoes are essential for walking long distances.
2. Andean Highlands
This region is the most affected by the rainy season. The weather conditions in this area of the country are very unpredictable. As you rise in altitude, temperatures can go up to 16 - 18°C. Here’s what you should bring:
- Rain jacket and umbrella. Even if it is a sunny day, keep these in your day backpack at all times.
- Windbreaker jacket. It tends to be very windy during this time of the year.
- Light and warm sweaters. Although it’s usually warm throughout the daytime, it gets chilly when it rains and cold during the night.
- Hiking boots. Designed to fight a meaty puddly and a MUST for those who are planning to do some trekking activities.
- Insect repellent. Trust us, you’ll thank us later.
If you’re planning a full day of activities, check the weather reports and prepare your backpack according to that. It’s worth noting that the weather changes drastically from an hour to another during this time of the year. Therefore, we advise you to be prepared in layers of light clothes.
3. Amazon Rainforest
The Peruvian jungle has predominant rainy tropical weather, but during this time of the year the rain intensifies and temperatures can reach up to 26°C.
- A Raincoat, poncho and umbrella. Better be prepared than sorry, heavy downpours of rain are expected throughout this region.
- Loose t-shirts. The weather in the Amazon rainforest tends to be very humid and warm.
- Long pants. Recommendable to avoid mosquito bites and to protect your skin while walking through the rainforest.
- Hiking boots. If you’re hiking through the rainforest, these are going to be your new best friends.
- Insect repellent and after-bite. There are tons of mosquitos and bugs in the Amazon Jungle. Although you may use bug spray, you could still end up with some sneaky mosquito bites.
- A dry bag. Very useful during this time of the year to keep your things dry while walking through the rain.
It’s worth mentioning that there are some things that you can buy or rent upon arrival, for example, if you’re planning to do trekking activities but don’t have time to buy trekking gear, there are some shops that rent trekking shoes, hiking sticks, sleeping bags, and more.
Essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, ponchos, umbrellas, and others can be purchased in any drugstore or shops around the country. While packing your bags, be flexible, you don’t have to take everything with you since there are things that are easily accessible in Peru.
It starts from May until October, it’s considered to be the coldest season of the year as well as the high tourist season. As aforementioned, the weather in Peru can be quite tricky since it varies according to its different regions. For example, temperatures are lower as you rise in altitude, and chances of rain are slim to none.
1. Pacific Coast
The weather condition doesn’t change much for this region except for Lima and Paracas that tend to be extra humid and a bit colder during this time of the year. Temperatures can reach up to 22°C. Here are some recommendations if you’re planning to visit the Central Coast:
- Light jackets and sweaters. If planning to visit Lima during this time of the year, consider protecting yourself from the cold breeze and humidity of the pacific coast.
- Comfortable shoes. Consider wearing anti-slip sneakers. Due to the increase of humidity, streets tend to be wet and slippery.
If you’re visiting the Northern and Southern Coast, the chances of rain are almost nil during this period. Therefore, consider bringing summer clothes and protect yourself from the sun during your stay.
2. Andean Highlands
As we mentioned earlier, temperatures are lower during this season, especially if you’re over 3,000 meters above sea level. For example, in Cusco, the lowest temperature can reach -4°C during the night and 10°C through daytime. Consider bringing any of these options if you’re visiting this region:
- Warm clothes. Although rain isn’t expected during this period and days are mostly sunny, make sure to keep you warm throughout your stay.
- Scarves, hats, and gloves. Keep in mind that you don’t need to bring anything from home since you can easily purchase these items in any local market.
- Lip Balm. The dry and cold weather will leave your lips dry.
If you’re adding some trekking activities to your itinerary with overnight camping stays, make sure to pack accordingly for your adventure. Trekking shoes, mosquitos repellent, and warm jackets are a must. Keep in mind that you can rent some trekking gear once you’re in Peru.
3. Amazon Rainforest
Although the Peruvian Jungle has predominant rainy tropical weather throughout the year, the rains decrease during this season. But this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be prepared, so make sure to bring a raincoat, an umbrella, hiking boots, a dry bag, and most important, mosquito repellent.
Make sure to check our blog about the best time to visit Peru and make the most of your experience through our country!
Regardless you’re visiting just one region in particular, there are certain things that you should take with you to this trip. Therefore, here are some general recommendations to optimize your packing list:
- Plug Adapter. If you’re bringing electrical devices to Peru, make sure to buy a plug adapter since plugs may be different from your home country.
- Voltage Converter. The power voltage in Peru is 220v. If you bring a 110v device you will need a voltage converter. In case this device isn’t extremely important, we advise you to leave it at home.
- Sunscreen. Even if you’re visiting during the rainy season, this is a MUST, protect your skin at all costs.
- Camera. Don’t miss the chance of immortalizing your adventure through our country.
- Diamox or Soroche pills. Used to fight any altitude sickness symptoms.
We are aware of the challenge ahead, now it’s your turn to make the best packing list! Once you’re ready, we assume you’d like to know about the best things to do in Peru. Get ready for your adventure and learn everything you need to know while you’re here.
