What to Bring to Machu Picchu: Complete Packing List & Prohibited Items 2027

Documents and tickets you must carry

• Passport or ID card: mandatory to enter the sanctuary. Your name on the entrance ticket must match your document exactly. Without it, access will be denied.
• Machu Picchu entrance ticket: printed or on your mobile device. Book in advance — tickets sell out fast in high season.
• Bus ticket to Machu Picchu (Consettur): unless you plan to walk up to the citadel.
• Student ID card (if applicable): for discounts. It must be current, valid, and from a recognized institution.

Bonus tip: don't forget to get your Machu Picchu commemorative passport stamp at the entrance — it's free and one of the best souvenirs of your trip.

Clothing: dress in layers

Machu Picchu sits in a cloud forest microclimate where the weather can change several times in one day. Dressing in layers is the golden rule:

• Light long-sleeve shirt as base layer.
• Warm fleece or sweater for early morning and cooler moments.
• Waterproof jacket — rain can appear even in the dry season.
• Comfortable trekking pants (avoid jeans; they get uncomfortable when wet).
• Trekking shoes or sturdy sneakers with good grip: stones are often wet and slippery.

Sun and weather protection

• High-SPF sunscreen: UV rays are intense at altitude, even when it's cloudy.
• Wide-brim hat or cap to protect your face and neck.
• Sunglasses with UV protection.
• Insect repellent: the humid microclimate attracts mosquitoes and sand flies, especially in the afternoon.
• Small foldable poncho or light umbrella for sudden rain.

Water, snacks and essentials

• Reusable water bottle: stay well hydrated — altitude accelerates dehydration.
• Light snacks: energy bars, dried fruit, or chocolate. Eat before entering (food is not officially allowed inside).
• Camera or smartphone with a fully charged battery and enough memory space.
• Power bank — there are no charging points inside the sanctuary.
• Small first-aid kit: band-aids, altitude-sickness pills, and any personal medication.
• Cash in Peruvian soles for the bus, small purchases, and tips.

Prohibited items inside Machu Picchu

To protect the archaeological site, the Ministry of Culture strictly prohibits the following items:

• Drones — not allowed under any circumstance.
• Large umbrellas — only small folding umbrellas are permitted.
• Tripods and professional photography equipment — require prior authorization.
• Trekking poles with metal tips — only rubber-tipped poles are accepted (mostly for elderly or disabled visitors).
• Large backpacks: maximum size 40 × 35 × 20 cm. Larger bags must be left at the storage lockers near the entrance.
• Food and drinks: only water in reusable bottles is allowed inside the citadel.