Jess at Sea

So you’ve decided to explore Colca Canyon – one of the deepest canyons in the world, home to soaring condors, traditional villages, and trails that will make your calves question your life choices. Whether you’re doing a multi-day hike or joining a guided tour from Arequipa, packing right is key. The canyon’s weather swings harder than a Peruvian pan flute solo, and the high altitude can catch even seasoned hikers off-guard.

Here’s exactly what to bring so you’re comfy, prepared, and ready for every “wow” moment.

Check out these tours to Colca Canyon:
From Arequipa: Colca Canyon Full-Day Guided Tour
2-Day Tour Colca Canyon from Arequipa
From Arequipa Trek : 2-Days of Hiking in the Colca Canyon

Packing List for an Overnight Tour

Clothing: Layer Like a Pro

Colca Canyon’s climate changes fast – chilly mornings, blazing midday sun, and cold nights. The trick? Think onion, not fashion runway.

• Moisture-wicking base layer – Keeps sweat off your skin (merino wool or synthetic).
• Lightweight hiking pants/leggings – Quick-dry fabrics are your friend.
• T-shirts or long sleeves – Breathable for hot hours on the trail.
• Warm mid-layer – Fleece or a light down jacket for mornings and evenings.
• Waterproof/windproof jacket – Afternoon showers happen, even in the dry season.
• Hat & gloves – Mornings can be frosty, especially above 3,000 m. Also bring a cap or hat for the sun when it warms up during the day.
• Poncho – a cute outfit for the instagram shots is optional but fun!

Footwear: Your Feet Will Thank You

Colca Canyon’s trails are rocky, dusty, and steep. You’ll want shoes that grip like a llama on a mountainside.

• Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes – Already broken in to avoid blisters and you don’t mind getting dirty.
• Moisture-wicking socks – Wool or synthetic (pack a spare pair).
• Light sandals/flip flops – For post-hike hot springs or relaxing at your lodge.

Gear: Lightweight but Essential

• Daypack (20–30 L) – Big enough for layers, snacks, and water.
• Sunglasses – The Andean sun is no joke.
• Rain Poncho – just incase!

Must-Have Extras for the Altitude

At 3,000–4,000 m, Colca Canyon’s altitude can sneak up on you. These little helpers make a big difference:

• Coca leaves or coca tea – Traditional remedy for altitude adjustment (you can buy locally).
• Altitude sickness tablets – For extra peace of mind (some points on the trip reach over 4000m!)
• Lip balm with SPF – Dry air + strong sun = cracked lips.
• High-SPF sunscreen – Reapply often, even if it’s cloudy.

Snacks: Fuel for the Journey

Your tour will have lunch stops, but having your own stash of snacks is a game-changer.

• Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate for quick boosts.
• Water – the canyon gets very hot during the day!

Optional, But You’ll Be Glad You Packed Them

• Light travel towel – For hot springs or a quick wash
• Waterproof phone pouch – for pics in the hot springs
• Camera or smartphone – Colca Canyon is super instagrammable
• Portable charger – Some guesthouses have limited outlets.
• Tripod: great for taking self-timer pics.

Hiking Tour Must-Haves:

If you’re heading on the canyon trek, here are some extras you’ll need:

• Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder – You’ll need at least 2 liters for hiking days.
• Headlamp or flashlight – Some early starts are before sunrise, and village streets can be dark at night.
• Trekking poles – Lifesavers on steep descents (your knees will send you thank-you notes).
• Small first aid kit – Include blister plasters, band-aids, and painkillers.

Final Tips

• If you’re joining a guided tour, check what’s provided so you don’t double up.
• Pack light – for the hikers: you’ll be carrying everything! and for the tour bus takers: the vans are small, only pack a small overnight bag or backpack unless you are continuing on to Puno.
• Keep essentials accessible in your daypack. The condor viewing spot waits for no rummaging.

With the right gear, you’ll be able to focus on what matters: stunning landscapes, tiny mountain villages, and that magical moment when a giant Andean condor glides just overhead.

Planning a trip to Peru? Check out my 3-Week Peru Itinerary here!

Peru Helpful Links

Where to stay in Arequipa:
Luxury: Katari Hotel at Plaza de Armas
Mid-Range: Plaza Central
Budget: Viajero Arequipa Hostel

Top Tours from Arequipa
– 4-hour excursion: Sillar Route with Hiking in Culebrillas
– From Arequipa: Colca Canyon Full-Day Guided Tour with Meals
– 2-Day Tour Colca Canyon in Arequipa with end in Puno
– Tour to the Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve in Arequipa
– Arequipa: Chili River White Water Rafting with Hotel Pickup

How to Get Around Peru
Getting around Peru can be an adventure in itself, but it’s very doable with a little planning. For longer distances, domestic flights are a huge time-saver, while comfortable long-distance buses connect most major cities and tourist routes.

One of the easiest and most popular options for first-time visitors is Peru Hop, a hop-on, hop-off bus service designed specifically for travellers. It connects destinations like Lima, Paracas, Huacachina, Arequipa, and Cusco, with flexible stops, local guides, and hotel pick-ups included making it a stress-free way to see the country.

For shorter trips or exploring at your own pace, taxis, uber, and car rentals round out the options nicely.

Peru SIM Card: Airalo eSIM
Staying connected in Peru is a must for maps, transport apps, bookings, and Googling lomo saltado near me” (trust me). I used Airalo, an eSIM app that lets you download a Peru data plan before you even land.

There’s no need to swap physical SIM cards or hunt down a store at the airport. Just activate your eSIM and you’re online the moment you arrive – easy, affordable, and super convenient.

👉 Get your Peru eSIM with Airalo here

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