Peru suggested packing list for travel

Believe it or not all you need to travel to Peru and the Amazon is a passport, some travellers checks and light backpack.

We resume our recommended Peru packing list in a few words "Less is More". The lighter you travel toPeru and the Amazon rainforest the more you can enjoy your trip without having to worry about the weight of excess luggage.

InPeru and other South American countries there are many arts and craftwork that can be brought back home and it is always great to return with much souvenirs. So it is recommended to pack light and bring the basics as listed below:

• ATM/ Debit card : In every major and most minor cities in Peru and South America, I've found ATM machines that accept my debit card. Arrange for a fee waiver before leaving and save receipts in case there are errors.
  
• Teva Sandals: Durable and comfortable boots, and hiking socks. Hiking boots are flexible and can be worn to a show and tough enough for walking through mud. Your feet will thank you when you wear the sandals.
  
• Money belt for important documents, passport, and money: It is best to use a waist belt.
  
• Camera: All types of film can be purchased in most major cities.
  
• Convertible pants : Light, fast drying, and the legs zip off to form shorts.
  
• Travel vest: hasmany pockets for money, passport, even a small camera.
  
• Fleece sweater and light rain jacket .
  
• Hat to block the sun: The Peruvian sun is strong. Consider buying a straw hat when you arrive. It makes a great memory.
  
• Towel or a Shammy: Shammies dry faster.
  
• Deodorant : When you can't shower, you can always roll on the Speed Stick!
  
• Headlamp: It's better than a flashlight because it frees up your hands.
  
• Extra pair of eye glasses, contact lenses and medications: Peruvian pharmacies sell many of the most common medications without a prescription (including malaria pills).
  
• Miscellaneous: small pocket dictionary, journal, guide book, and a small backpack.

Try not to bring unneccessary gear, most of what you need can be rented locally including climbing gear.

INCA TRAIL PRE-DEPARTURE INFO

YOU SHOULD BRING -Personal sleeping bag and mattress -Back pack, trekking shoes -Water bottle, flash light, hat -Personal clothing for trek -Insect repellent - Water treating tablets/liquids

Essential are walking boots (and I mean boots, no track or basketball substitutes as the trail sometimes is slippery and your feet and legs will be tired), warm and weatherproof cloth (like 2 synthetic underwear/shirt, a skiingshirt, a sweater and a Goretex-Jacket), thin and thick socks (I always wear a thin sock and then over it a hicking sock, both cotton and both preworn, not fresh from the store or the washing) and a cap or hat. You won't necessarily need lipstick, but sunprotection and something against mosquitos you become handy. A good, comfortable backpack with hipbelt and rainproof cover. Good sleeping bag. Water treating tablets/liquids. Some first aid stuff, toilet paper, a flashlight, Leatherman or Swiss Army knife. Camera (UVA/UVB filter for lens), spotting glasses? Films 400ASA speed. Everything you don't need should be left behind. Many hostels and hotels in Cuzco will let you leave stuff with them.

AMAZON JUNGLE PRE-DEPARTURE INFO

Climate. Temperatures range between 30 to 37o C during the dry season (May to October) and 28 to 33 o C in the rainy season (November to March). Cold spells called "Friajes" cosme from the South Pole and are frequent from June to August. Friajes will lower the temperature to 9º C for 2 or 3 days.

Sickness prevention. Similar to requirements to visit any tropical region, you must receive a Yellow-fever vaccination before visiting the Madre de Dios region. Keep your card available upon your arrival to the Puerto Maldonado airport because you will be required to show it to the Health Ministry representatives.

Personal clothing and equipment. Depending how long you plan to stay, you will need light, drip-dry cotton clothing (one set per day), 2 long-sleeved shirts and pants, hiking boots, a raincoat, sunglasses, hat, swimsuit and a sweatshirt or lightweight jacket. Bringing insect repellent, high factor sunscreen, personal medication, water bottle, binoculars, flashlight and spare bulbs and batteries, pocket knife, and a camera with plenty of film (our programs are specially dedicated to photographers) will increase the enjoyment of your visit.
WHAT TO BRING
We recommend:
· Good binoculars
· Camera gear (ASA 50, 100 and 200 recommended)
· Two or three pairs of long cotton pants
· Four pairs of absorbent cotton socks
· Rain suit or long poncho (100% waterproof - test before you leave home)
· Three or four long-sleeved cotton shirts
· Two or three T-shirts
· Sunscreen lotion (high factor)
· Swimsuit
· A bottle or canteen to carry water on outings
· A hat that will not come off in windy boatrides
· One pair of shorts
· Sunglasses
· Two pairs of sneakers or hiking boats (with good gripping soles)
· Insect repellent (Skin-So-Soft for river, and 20% or more Deet for forest)
· A photocopy of your passport
· A large, bright flashlight
· Personal toiletries and medication