Weather and Packing

Weather - Peru
Due to its high elevation of 11,000 ft., Cusco is cool during the day (60's to 70's F) and cold at night (30's to 40's). It is important to bring cloths you can layer, including warm clothes for the evening. The rainy season is from October to April. You should always be ready for some rain on the Inca Trail.

Packing - Peru

• Lightweight layer-able clothing, including a fleece or warm sweater. You should be prepared to strip down or layer up at any time! One of the unique qualities of the weather in the Andes is its variability. (Note: you can always buy excellent, warm wool or alpaca sweaters in Peru, but sizes typically don't extend beyond large).
• A water resistant jacket - always be prepared for some rain, especially on the Inca Trail. Don't worry, there are always plastic ponchos available for a couple of dollars anywhere for those without waterproof gear.
• Warm clothes to sleep in - it gets cold at night in the mountains around Cusco & most homes don't use heaters. (The hotels will provide space heaters if requested, if they are available at the time we visit)
• Comfortable walking or hiking shoes with a sturdy sole (Note: tough to find shoes larger than US size 10 in Peru).
• A hat which protects from both sun exposure and rain is ideal.
• Small knapsack or day-pack.
• Tampons are available, but expensive in Peru.
• Camera and film - available but more expensive there
• Money belt
• Swimsuit - we will have the opportunity to bath in a thermal spring at Aguas Calientes one evening.
• Insect repellent (with DEET) this may be helpful on the Inca Trail, but will not be necessary during most of the trip (unless you are taking the jungle extension, in which case it is extremely important!).
• Sun screen lotion - the thin air at altitude amplifies the effects of
  the sun. Use sun screen!
• Sunglasses
• Small alarm clock
• Vitamins
• Medical supplies (antiseptic, aspirin, Imodium/Lomotil, antacid)
• A Spanish phrase book is not required, but helpful/recommended for those that want to explore more on their own.