Photo | Eva Solberg
by Renae Virata
Travelista Eva couldn’t wait for her recent visit to Machu Picchu, the 15th century Inca site located almost 8,000 feet (more than 1 mile!) above sea level. Once she and her crew set foot on the romantically cobble-stoned roads of nearby Cusco, they knew it would be an experience they would never forget.
“I wanted to be outside, embracing the culture,” says Eva. “The people [of the village] went about their day as we explored the town. You don’t often see that in a lot of Latin American countries…most have lost that authentic, old world culture. “
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What else should you wear for your trip to Lima? Fill out our My Stylist form to find out!
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Here are Eva’s tips for a comfortable Machu Picchu wardrobe…with a little more flair.
What to Wear to Machu Picchu
- Simple yoga pants, a tank, and a wind and sand-resistant shemagh. This desert scarf is multi-purpose and acts as a bonus accessory: It covers your shoulders and neck from the sun, wind and sand while dressing up your outfit. REI has a version from Buff Original Buff in a ton of prints and color to suit any style.
Click for more details. Buff Original Buff.
Eva in her (artfully draped) shemagh. Photo | Eva Solberg.
- A strong, waterproof hiking shoe. It’s important to have ankle support as you climb rocky-like steps to reach the pinnacle. And watch out for the mud! Sturdy shoes that will keep your feet dry and dirt free is a key to helping you stay safe and comfy. How cute are these from REI?
Fabulous and only $140!
Traditional with a twist at $220.
Can never go wrong with Merrell's. Just $95
- A staple that any outdoor activity requires is the good ol’ bandana. Wipe away sweat, cover your neck from the sun, pull your hair back…or just add as a simple arm/wrist/neck accessory.
- Hats aren’t just for providing mobile shade for your face…it’s an obvious solution to a bad hair day (you will be taking pics, after all!). Try something a little more unique than a baseball cap to add a little panache. REI has a great array of hats, too, depending on your style.
Styled cap.
Sombrero.
Outback hat.
- The altitude is a lot higher in Machu Picchu, so expect occasional showers. “It may rain for 20 minutes or less,” explains Eva, “so it’s important to bring a simple rain poncho. It’s easier to store and wear [than a regular rain jacket].”
Other Tips from Eva
- Alpaca wool: “You can find alpaca-made stuff really cheap,” Eva advises. But make sure you save some dough and do your local shopping in nearby Cusco instead of the more expensive area around Machu Picchu. What sartorial treasures will you find? Peruvian jackets, beanies, leg warmers – even massages and food cost less. .925 silver is really inexpensive ($10 – $20), of good quality – and price-negotiable. Try your hand at bargaining and see what deals you can score!
Photo | Eva Solberg
- Old-school nightlife – Lima-style: As you sip away at your Pisco sour (the traditional mixed drink of Peru), you can look just right with your new alpaca jacket and your favorite jeans at any one of the streets lined with casual bars. But for those of you who want to get a little more dolled up, Lima also has a number of fancier venues. Oh, and happy hours (read: happy our prices) stretch way longer into the night than you’re probably used to back home.
- Fight the height: It might sound a little suspicious, but believe me; I wouldn’t post it here if it were! Coco leaves steeped in very hot water, like tea, will help with altitude sickness and can be found everywhere.
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