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Chris and I (and my sister and her boyfriend) are leaving for Peru to hike Machu Picchu today! I’ve had a lot of questions about the trip so wanted to put the answers all in one spot + I’m including a Machu Picchu packing list for women with the things I last-minute ordered from Amazon… Prime, for the win, always!
Why Machu Picchu? Are you guys avid hikers?
In short… no, we are not avid hikers. But we are all in relatively good shape and love to travel. Machu Picchu is one of the new 7 wonders of the world and definitely a bucket-list trip. It’s in Peru and it’s a 15th century Inca citadel.
How did you plan this trip?
My sister and I both have friends who have gone and gave rave reviews. We started by Googling tour companies and researching each trail, trek and other people’s itineraries. She and I both LOVE planning trips :).
What’s the weather like there?
Although we’re going in December, it’s summertime because Peru is in the Southern Hemisphere. So.. it’s their rainy season! Highs are in the low 80s and lows are in the low 60s, so nothing too extreme. Fingers crossed for very little rain!
How long does it take to get to Peru?
St. Louis has very few international direct flights, unfortunately. So we are flying STL>MIA and from there, flying from Miami to Lima. Then Lima to Cusco.
What’s your agenda?
We’re flying into Lima, spending the night there, and flying to Cusco in the morning. We are staying in Cusco for 2 days before our hike to acclimate to the altitude. The hike is 4 days long, 3 nights of camping. Then home :).
Where do you sleep?
In hotels while in Lima and Cusco, and in tents while on the trail. Should be fun ;).
Are you bringing your kids?
Listen, it’s hard enough to parent my 3 kids in the US with all of the comforts and luxuries of home – I’m not about taking them on a 40+ kilometer hiking trip up and down mountains. So, no. The kids will be safely at home with their grandparents :).
What are you packing for Machu Picchu?
Since we are going during Peru’s rainy season, we have to be prepped for almost anything… š I’ve poured over tons of packing lists for hiking Machu Picchu and, hopefully, have it all covered… since there won’t be a Target or REI around the corner! Note – not gonna be high fashion while hiking š – peep that cool sun hat!
Also worth noting that you have to pack lightly because either you or a porter has to carry your belongings, so there are weight limits in play and no room for excess items.
