Are you planning to visit Machu Picchu and wondering what you can and cannot bring inside?
Before heading to the Inca citadel, it is important to check the current visitor regulations. Several items are prohibited in order to protect the archaeological site, maintain an orderly flow of visitors and reduce the impact of tourism on the monument.
Among the main prohibited items are backpacks larger than 40 × 35 × 20 cm, food, alcoholic beverages, trekking poles, umbrellas, tripods, selfie sticks, aerosols, musical instruments, speakers, sharp objects, weapons, baby strollers and drones, among others.
In this guide, we explain what you cannot bring to Machu Picchu, what alternatives you can use and what you should know before going through the entrance control.
What Is Prohibited at Machu Picchu in 2026?
The official Machupicchu visitor regulations currently include a list of prohibited items and behaviors.
The main restrictions include:
- Backpacks, bags or luggage larger than 40 × 35 × 20 cm.
- Food and eating utensils.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Illegal substances.
- Walking sticks and trekking poles.
- Umbrellas and parasols.
- Portable seats.
- Tripods.
- Monopods, selfie sticks and other camera or smartphone extension equipment.
- Animals, except guide dogs.
- Aerosols.
- Musical instruments.
- Megaphones and speakers.
- High heels and hard-soled shoes.
- Baby strollers.
- Sharp objects and weapons.
- Banners, posters and signs.
- Clothing intended for advertising purposes.
- Costumes.
- Drones and unauthorized aerial activity.
- Cigarettes and vaping devices.
Certain behaviors are also prohibited, including smoking, making excessive noise, running, jumping, touching archaeological structures, leaving the designated circuits and routes, or throwing waste.
1. Backpacks, Bags and Luggage
Backpacks larger than 40 × 35 × 20 cm
This is one of the most important restrictions to keep in mind.
Visitors are not allowed to enter Machu Picchu with backpacks, bags or luggage exceeding 40 × 35 × 20 centimeters.
That is approximately 16 × 14 × 8 inches.
If you are visiting the citadel, the easiest option is to use a small backpack that stays within these dimensions.
What kind of backpack should you bring?
A small backpack is usually enough for a regular visit.
Keep it as light as possible and only bring the essentials, such as:
- Water, subject to current entrance conditions.
- Sunscreen.
- Sunglasses.
- Your camera or smartphone.
- Identification document.
- Rain poncho.
- Other permitted personal items.
Tip: Avoid filling your backpack unnecessarily. A lighter backpack will make walking through the stone paths and stairs much more comfortable.
2. Food and Snacks
Food is not allowed
This is one of the rules that often causes confusion.
The current official regulations prohibit bringing food and eating utensils into Machu Picchu.
Therefore, you should not plan on bringing sandwiches, fruit, cookies, nuts or other snacks to eat inside the citadel.
Avoid bringing:
- Sandwiches.
- Fruit.
- Cookies.
- Nuts.
- Chocolate.
- Prepared meals.
- Containers or utensils intended for eating.
Can I eat inside Machu Picchu?
You should not plan your visit around having a picnic inside the archaeological site.
If you need to eat, it is better to do so before entering or after completing your visit.
3. Trekking Poles and Walking Sticks
Are trekking poles allowed?
The current official Machupicchu rules include walking sticks and poles among the prohibited items.
This means that you should not assume that a standard trekking pole is permitted simply because it has a rubber tip.
Older versions of the regulations included specific exceptions for certain visitors who required walking assistance. However, for a 2026 visit, if you need a walking aid for mobility reasons, it is best to check the current conditions with the authorities or your tour operator before your visit.
4. Umbrellas and Parasols
Umbrellas are not allowed
Umbrellas and parasols are included among the prohibited items.
This is particularly important because weather conditions around Machu Picchu can change quickly.
What should you bring instead?
A lightweight waterproof rain poncho is a much more practical alternative.
It takes up very little space in your backpack and allows you to keep both hands free while walking.
Tip: Even if the weather looks sunny when you leave, carrying rain protection is a good idea.
5. Selfie Sticks, Tripods and Camera Equipment
Selfie sticks are prohibited
You cannot enter Machu Picchu with selfie sticks or other camera and smartphone extension equipment.
The regulations also include items such as:
- Selfie sticks.
- Tripods.
- Monopods.
- Camera supports.
- Smartphone extensions.
- Other stabilization or extension equipment.
Can I bring a camera?
Yes.
Bringing a camera or smartphone for personal photography is not the same as carrying prohibited photography equipment or conducting a commercial production.
You can take personal photographs and videos while following the site’s rules.
However, avoid prohibited accessories and any activity that requires specific authorization.
6. Drones
Do not bring a drone to Machu Picchu
The official rules prohibit aerial activity involving drones, paragliders or other small aircraft within the site.
For this reason, you should not bring a drone expecting to use it during a normal tourist visit.
If you are planning a special professional or audiovisual production, do not assume that you can simply bring professional equipment into the site. Contact the relevant authorities in advance to determine whether authorization is required.
7. Tripods and Professional Filming Equipment
Tripods, supports and camera stabilization or extension equipment are included among the prohibited items.
There are also restrictions on photographs and filming for advertising purposes.
This is particularly important for:
- Content creators.
- Photographers.
- Production companies.
- Brands.
- Advertising agencies.
- Businesses creating promotional content.
A normal tourist visit and a commercial production are not necessarily subject to the same conditions.
If you are planning professional or commercial filming, check the applicable authorization requirements before your visit.
8. Alcohol and Illegal Substances
Alcohol is prohibited
You cannot enter Machu Picchu with alcoholic beverages or visit the site while under the influence of alcohol.
This includes:
- Beer.
- Wine.
- Liquor.
- Cocktails.
- Other alcoholic beverages.
Illegal substances are also prohibited.
Do not bring these items in your backpack, even if you do not intend to consume them inside the citadel.
9. Cigarettes and Vaping Devices
Smoking and vaping are prohibited
Smoking and vaping are not permitted inside Machu Picchu.
The regulations also prohibit making fires.
Therefore, avoid bringing:
- Cigarettes.
- Cigars.
- Vapes.
- Electronic cigarettes.
- Other smoking devices.
Apart from protecting the archaeological site, these restrictions help reduce fire and environmental risks.
10. Aerosols
Aerosols are included in the official list of prohibited items.
For this reason, avoid bringing aerosol products with you when visiting Machu Picchu.
If you normally use a personal-care product that comes in aerosol form, check its eligibility before going through the entrance control.
11. Weapons and Sharp Objects
Weapons and sharp or pointed objects are prohibited.
Do not bring items such as:
- Knives.
- Blades.
- Objects that could be used as weapons.
- Other sharp or pointed objects.
If you are traveling through Peru with these items for other activities, make sure they are safely stored somewhere outside your Machu Picchu visit.
12. Animals and Pets
Pets are not allowed
Animals are not permitted inside Machu Picchu, with the specific exception of guide dogs.
Do not bring:
- Dogs.
- Cats.
- Other pets.
You should also never feed wild animals or domestic animals in the area.
13. Baby Strollers
Baby strollers are not permitted inside the archaeological site.
If you are traveling with a baby, plan ahead for how you will carry or transport the child during your visit.
Previous versions of the regulations included conditions regarding baby carriers without metal structures. However, because entrance conditions can be checked by staff, it is advisable to confirm whether your specific baby carrier meets the current requirements before your visit.
14. High Heels and Hard-Sole Shoes
High heels and hard-soled shoes are prohibited.
Visitors should use appropriate sports footwear with a soft or rubber sole.
For Machu Picchu, we recommend:
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Sports shoes.
- Suitable hiking shoes.
Besides complying with the regulations, proper footwear will make walking over stone paths and stairs much more comfortable.
15. Musical Instruments, Speakers and Megaphones
You cannot bring:
- Musical instruments.
- Megaphones.
- Speakers.
Excessive or disruptive noise is also prohibited.
Avoid shouting, whistling, singing loudly or making noises that disturb other visitors.
Machu Picchu is a protected archaeological site, not a place for parties, performances or activities that disrupt the experience of other visitors.
16. Banners, Posters and Advertising Materials
The regulations prohibit banners, posters, signs and similar materials, as well as clothing intended for advertising purposes.
Costumes and certain promotional activities are also restricted.
This is particularly relevant if you are representing a company or planning to create promotional content inside Machu Picchu.
For commercial photography or filming, check the applicable authorization requirements in advance.
17. Costumes and Activities That Alter the Character of the Site
The regulations also prohibit certain activities that may affect the character of Machu Picchu.
These include activities such as:
- Fashion shows.
- Dancing.
- Social events.
- Obscene acts.
- Wearing costumes.
- Activities that could damage the monument, natural environment or facilities.
Visitors must also avoid creating crowds, running, jumping, lying down in inappropriate areas or otherwise disturbing the normal flow of visitors.
18. Do Not Touch or Climb the Archaeological Structures
Although this is not something you need to leave at home, it is one of the most important rules to remember during your visit.
Do not:
- Climb on walls.
- Lean against archaeological structures.
- Touch stonework.
- Move stones.
- Remove cultural elements.
- Disturb or remove plants or wildlife.
You must also remain within the designated circuits and routes.
19. Do Not Leave Trash Behind
Visitors are prohibited from throwing waste inside Machu Picchu.
For this reason, keep your belongings and any permitted waste with you until you reach an appropriate disposal area.
A simple rule to remember is:
Whatever you bring with you should leave with you, unless there is an authorized place to dispose of it.
20. What Happens If I Accidentally Bring a Prohibited Item?
There is a lot of outdated and conflicting information online about this subject.
It is not correct to assume that staff will always simply store your prohibited item in a locker and allow you to continue your visit.
The official regulations state that entering with prohibited items or engaging in prohibited activities may result in immediate removal from the site without a refund, in addition to any legal action that may apply.
The safest approach is therefore to check your backpack before leaving for Machu Picchu.
Do not wait until you reach the entrance control to discover that you are carrying a restricted item.
What to Bring to Machu Picchu
After looking at everything you cannot bring, the next question is:
What should you actually bring?
For a regular visit, keep your backpack simple and lightweight.
Recommended packing list
- Small backpack no larger than 40 × 35 × 20 cm.
- Comfortable footwear with an appropriate sole.
- Lightweight rain poncho.
- Sunscreen.
- Sunglasses.
- Hat or cap.
- Smartphone or camera.
- Official identification document.
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
- Water, following the current entrance instructions.
Remember that visitors must carry their entrance ticket and official identification document, and staff may check these during the visit.
Can I Bring Water to Machu Picchu?
This is another point where you will find conflicting information online.
The current official list specifically prohibits food and eating utensils, but it does not simply state that all water is prohibited.
Therefore, it is better not to claim that “only water and snacks are allowed,” because snacks and other food are not listed as permitted items under the current regulations.
If you plan to carry water, use an appropriate container and follow the instructions provided by staff at the entrance.
Do I Need to Bring My ID?
Yes.
You should carry your entrance ticket and official identification document when visiting Machu Picchu.
Staff may verify that the information on your identification document matches the information associated with your ticket.
Depending on your nationality and circumstances, accepted identification may include:
- Passport.
- Foreign resident card.
- Diplomatic identification.
- National identity documents applicable to certain CAN and MERCOSUR citizens.
Peruvian visitors should carry their original DNI.
What NOT to Bring to Machu Picchu: Quick Checklist
Before leaving for Machu Picchu, check your backpack.
❌ Do NOT bring
- Backpack larger than 40 × 35 × 20 cm
- Food or snacks
- Alcohol
- Trekking poles or walking sticks
- Umbrella
- Selfie stick
- Tripod
- Monopod
- Aerosols
- Cigarettes
- Vape
- Weapons
- Sharp or pointed objects
- Speakers
- Musical instruments
- Megaphones
- Banners or posters
- Drone
- Baby stroller
- Pets
✅ What you should bring
- Small backpack
- Rain poncho
- Comfortable footwear
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat or cap
- Smartphone or camera
- Entrance ticket
- Original identification document
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a selfie stick to Machu Picchu?
No. Selfie sticks and other camera or smartphone extension equipment are prohibited.
Can I bring a tripod?
No. Tripods and other prohibited support or stabilization equipment cannot be brought into the site.
Can I bring food to Machu Picchu?
No. The current regulations prohibit bringing food and eating utensils into the archaeological site.
Can I bring an umbrella?
No. Umbrellas and parasols are prohibited. A lightweight rain poncho is a more practical alternative.
Can I bring a trekking pole?
Trekking poles and walking sticks are listed among the prohibited items in the current visitor regulations. If you require a walking aid for mobility reasons, check the current conditions before your visit.
Can I bring a drone?
No. You should not bring a drone for aerial filming during a normal Machu Picchu visit. Drone flights and other unauthorized aerial activity are prohibited.
Can I bring a professional camera?
Yes, carrying a camera for personal photography is not itself prohibited. However, certain accessories such as tripods and extension equipment are prohibited, and commercial or advertising photography may require specific authorization.
Can I bring my dog to Machu Picchu?
No, except for the applicable exception for guide dogs.
Can I bring a baby stroller?
No. Baby strollers are prohibited inside the archaeological site.
Can I wear sandals at Machu Picchu?
The regulations focus on prohibiting high heels and hard-soled footwear. For safety and comfort, comfortable walking or hiking footwear with a suitable sole is recommended.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Machu Picchu is much easier when you prepare your backpack in advance.
The best approach is simple: bring only what you really need and avoid anything that could interfere with the conservation of the archaeological site, visitor circulation or the character of this historic place.
In 2026, some of the main restrictions include backpacks exceeding 40 × 35 × 20 cm, food, alcohol, walking sticks, umbrellas, tripods, selfie sticks, aerosols, weapons, sharp objects, speakers, musical instruments, baby strollers and drones, among other items.
The official regulations also state that entering with prohibited items may result in immediate removal from the site without a refund.
So before heading to Machu Picchu, check your backpack, keep it light and make sure you have your entrance ticket and original identification document.
If you are visiting Machu Picchu with Machupicchu Luna Tours, we can also help you understand what you need to bring according to your circuit, schedule and type of visit.
