What to Pack for the Amazon & Machu Picchu

The following packing list contains general recommendations for a trip to the Peruvian Amazon and Machu Picchu. If you are currently booked on an Amazon and Machu Picchu adventure with Natural Habitat Adventures, please consult your pre-departure materials for the most comprehensive and up-to-date packing list for your trip. You will receive these pre-departure materials 60–90 days before your departure.

Simplify your packing—shop at Nat Hab’s online Gear Store for some of the key items recommended for your adventure. Look for this icon in the list below, then go to the Nat Hab Gear Store to start shopping.

Adventure-specific Guidelines

• You will be in a mountainous, cool environment, yet close to the sun, as well as in the warm and humid Amazon Basin. Weather can be hot and cool (and wet!) during your adventure, so please pack appropriately.
• We highly recommend bringing clothes made of synthetic, quick-drying material, especially during the rainy season.
• Boots will be provided for your use while in the Amazon as you may encounter wet and muddy conditions.
  
  

Clothing

• Lightweight neck gaiter (included in your pre-departure package)
  —Provides sun, wind and/or dust protection.
• Face masks
  —High-quality masks such as N95, KN95, or 3-ply surgical masks offer the best protection.
• Waterproof rain jacket with hood
  —This should be waterproof (not just water-resistant). We recommend one that is also made of breathable material.
  —Because full waterproof clothing can be uncomfortable, as it often makes you sweat in the tropics, a poncho is a good alternative to a rain jacket. The Delfin II offers ponchos on its skiffs.
• Lightweight, water-repellent pants
  —These are helpful if traveling during the rainy season. Again, make sure the material is breathable.
• Lightweight hiking shoes/boots (broken in to prevent blisters)
• Tennis shoes/sport sandals
  —Bring an extra pair of comfortable walking shoes appropriate for wearing around town or on the boat.
• Socks
  —Bring several pairs made of wool or other moisture-wicking material. Cotton socks are not recommended for hikes.
  —Crew-length or higher socks are great because you can tuck pants into socks on hikes.
• Fleece jacket
  —For Cusco and the cool/garua season in the Amazon
• 3–4 pairs of comfortable lightweight pants
  —For Cusco and for walks in the rain forest. 
  
• 1 pair of nylon, zip-off pants
  —For cooler mornings and warmer afternoons.
• 1 pair of shorts
• Lightweight jacket
• 3–4 lightweight, light-colored (not yellow, as it attracts bees/wasps), long-sleeved shirts
  —For walks in the rain forest and time spent in Cusco.
• 3–5 short-sleeved shirts  
• Swimsuit
• Underwear
• 1-2 sets of nicer clothes (optional)
  —While the dress code on most of the trip is very casual, some travelers may prefer bringing a couple outfits of smart casual clothing for dinners at restaurants in the Sacred Valley or for the final dinner while on board the Delfin II, though this is completely optional.
  
  

Additional Items

• Cash
  —For gratuities (you may want to bring envelopes for discreet presentation).
  —For personal spending (souvenirs, Internet use, or food and beverages not included in your trip fee).
• Water bottle
• Small, water-resistant daypack
  —To carry gear during outings.
• Sun hat (with brim for protection)
• Small flashlight or headlamp (with spare batteries)
• Binoculars
  —We recommend investing in a high-quality pair, as they will definitely enhance your wildlife-viewing experience in the Amazon. Waterproof binoculars work well but are not required.
  —The Delfin II has a few pairs of binoculars onboard, which you can use if you do not have your own set.
• Bandana or neck buff (for walks in the rain forest)
• Instant cooling scarf (such as EnduraCool)
  —Can be soaked in water and used to stay cool on hot days.
• Electrolyte/flavor crystal packets (optional)
  —Can be added to water to replace fluids in case of intestinal illness and/or enhance the taste to encourage hydration.
• Outlet adapter and/or power converter
• Compact umbrella (optional)
• Sunglasses (with UV filter)
• Earplugs
• Toiletries in reusable bottles to prevent waste
  —Biodegradable products are preferred
• Insect repellent
  —Repellents containing DEET are the most effective against mosquitoes, but please be aware that DEET is a very strong ingredient, and it can damage plastics, clothing and equipment.
• Sunscreen and lip balm (at least SPF 30)
• Hand sanitizer (included in your pre-departure package) 
• Small medical kit
• Prescription glasses/contact lenses
• Dry bags or reusable waterproof bags
  —Bring several sizes. These are helpful to have on hand for wet or dirty clothing and to protect camera equipment.
• Spanish/English dictionary
• Collapsible walking stick or hiking poles (optional)
  —If you are bringing poles, make sure they fit in your checked baggage, as you will not be allowed to carry them on the plane.
• Hairdryer (optional)
  —Hairdryers are generally available in guest rooms at all of the accommodations used during the adventure, including in the Amazon.

Know Before You Go