What I Wore in Peru: Every Outfit I Packed for Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu
Peru is definitely one of those places where you’re going to need to pack layers and follow my biggest tip: pick a color palette that works for multiple days and pack accordingly.
Lima is by the beach so it’s going to be hot there, especially during the day. I actually had to buy some additional clothes because I was so hot and did not pack appropriately (oops lol).
If you are going to Cusco and Machu Picchu, you will need to pack clothes for cooler weather (remember, layers) and also some good hiking boots. Your ankles will want them.
So let’s get into everything I wore while traveling around Peru including Lima, Cusco and Machu Picchu.
EXPLORING LIMA
Watch how I spent my day in Lima here
Lima is a lot of walking so you’re going to want to pack some good walking shoes. This is where I wish I would’ve packed lighter clothes because I was hot walking around in jeans and t-shirt. A pair of shorts or a tank would’ve been more the move.
But I wore these brown jeans a lot on my trip — brown in Peru will go with the scenery and pretty much everything so I highly recommend packing a pair of brown or black jeans.
I bought this top from Mango while I was there so I could not find it exactly online but I did find a similar and cuter option below.
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TO THE SAND DUNES (HUACACHINA)
The iconic sand dunes are a must when visiting Peru — I detail all the best things to do here in my blog.
White at the sand dunes is just a picture perfect outfit. I know it’s going to get dirty but that’s okay!! There’s no getting past getting sandy when you’re at the sand dunes.
Hold on to your head scarves though because mine flew off right after this never to be seen again lol.
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EXPLORING CUSCO
Think of Cusco like this: Inca history, terracotta, cobblestone, vibrant pops of color.
This colorful striped jacket I rented at Nuuly (pictured left) was literally the PERFECT jacket for Cusco. It was warm and went with the vibe so well. I loved it!! I sadly can not find it for purchase, only at Nuuly. But I have a code for first timer’s if you want to try Nuuly, you can use this link to get $30 off your first month.
I brought a plain white t-shirt to wear under everything and it’s an essential I pack every trip.
Notice the repeating of the white jeans and brown jeans in both pics. I did also bring a brown leather jacket to interchange it for something a little more neutral and weather resistant.
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HIKING RAINBOW MOUNTAIN
You may be thinking… white jeans? again? But hey, don’t they go with everything? That’s why I packed them!!
I researched Rainbow Mountain beforehand and saw the vibrant red mountains and the contrast of the colors. I wanted to stand out so I choose white pants with a blue hoodie. A few things about Rainbow Mountain:
wear good, hiking shoes or boots — here are mine
wear layers — you will get really hot and then really cold depending on the weather and time of day
you need sunscreen — you are at such high elevation, I wore a hat and STILL got sunburnt
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TO MACHU PICCHU
This is probably what you really came here for. There is a lot of inspiration on Pinterest but I just went with a very classic B&W moment.
I wanted to be comfortable and for the scenic view to be the star of the show. I just wore some comfy breathable cargo pants and a white top. It was a little humid and hot. I also think if you wanted to dress “cuter” you could but just remember that you have to walk up quite a bit of stairs so you will probably be sweaty.
And number #1 tip for good pictures, when in doubt, wear sunglasses :)
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READY TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TO PERU?
Then keep reading:
→ 12 Best Things to do in Lima, Peru
→ The Ultimate Peru Travel Guide
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