The Common Article Of Clothing Tourists Should Avoid Wearing At Machu Picchu

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When planning a trip to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the breathtaking views and mysterious history. However, one crucial aspect that often goes overlooked is the choice of clothing. Machu Picchu is home to a multitude of biting insects that can turn an incredible trip into a nightmare of itchy, red welts. While the subtropical climate of the area may tempt you to wear minimal clothing, it’s important to opt for protective attire. Wearing shorts and short-sleeve tops exposes you to the risk of severe insect bites and insect-borne diseases. Instead, choose lightweight, breathable pants and long-sleeve tops in lighter hues to protect yourself from these bloodthirsty pests. So, when packing for Machu Picchu, dress to protect and hike comfortably, not to impress.

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Clothing to Avoid

Shorts

When visiting Machu Picchu, it may be tempting to wear shorts due to the warm and humid climate. However, wearing shorts exposes you to the risk of severe insect bites and insect-borne diseases. These biting insects, including mosquitoes, sandflies, ticks, and chiggers, thrive in the humid and lush environment of Machu Picchu. It’s important to choose clothing that covers your legs to protect yourself from their relentless bites.

Short-sleeve tops

Similar to shorts, wearing short-sleeve tops leaves your arms and upper body vulnerable to insect bites. The local bug population in Machu Picchu is known to cause discomfort and leave itchy, red welts that can last for weeks. To avoid this, it’s recommended to opt for long-sleeve tops that can provide protection against these pesky insects.

Minimalist clothing

While the subtropical climate of Machu Picchu may make you think that less clothing is better, minimalist clothing such as tank tops and short skirts or dresses should be avoided. These clothing choices expose more of your skin, making you a prime target for the blood-thirsty insects that inhabit the area. Instead, opt for clothing that covers as much skin as possible to minimize your risk of insect bites and insect-borne diseases.

Risk of Insect Bites and Diseases

Severe insect bites

Visitors to Machu Picchu have reported instances of severe insect bites, with giant, swollen, red patches on their skin. These bites can cause discomfort and ruin your experience at this incredible ancient site. The biting insects in Machu Picchu, especially mosquitoes, can be relentless in their pursuit of a meal. Protecting yourself against these bites is essential to ensure a pleasant and memorable trip.

Insect-borne diseases

In addition to insect bites, there is a risk of contracting insect-borne diseases when visiting Machu Picchu. Diseases such as malaria, dengue, Chagas disease, yellow fever, Oropouche fever, Chikungunya, Leishmaniasis, and Zika are prevalent in certain areas of Peru, including Machu Picchu. It is important to stay informed about current health issues and take necessary precautions, such as vaccination and medication, to protect yourself against these diseases.

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Protection Methods

Rubbing shampoo on legs

One unconventional but reportedly effective method of protection against insect bites is rubbing shampoo on your legs and leaving it on. This creates a “second skin” that acts as a barrier against the biting insects. The locals in Machu Picchu, who are accustomed to dealing with these pests daily, have found success with this method. It may be worth trying as an additional layer of protection during your visit.

Using repellents with high DEET concentration

Regular insect repellents may not be effective in deterring the biting insects in Machu Picchu. Instead, it is recommended to use repellents with a high concentration of DEET. Look for repellents with a minimum of 25% concentration of DEET and choose one with an efficacy duration that matches the length of your visit. Applying the repellent generously and frequently, especially on exposed skin and clothing edges, can provide a higher degree of protection.

Choosing insect-repellent clothing

An additional layer of protection against insect bites can be provided by choosing clothing that is pre-treated with insect repellent. Look for garments that are permethrin-treated, as this can offer an extra level of defense against the biting insects in Machu Picchu. These insect-repellent clothing options can cover as much skin as possible while still allowing some ventilation to accommodate the warm and humid climate of the area.

Covering as much skin as possible

To minimize your risk of insect bites, it is important to cover as much skin as possible. Opt for lightweight and breathable pants instead of shorts, and choose long-sleeve tops over short-sleeve ones. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, so selecting clothing in lighter hues can also help deter them. Ensure that there are no gaps between your pants and socks or between sleeves and gloves, if you choose to wear them, to prevent insects from finding their way to your skin.

Wearing hiking boots

Hiking boots can be a good choice of footwear when visiting Machu Picchu, especially considering the preference of biting insects for feet and ankles. These body parts generate more heat and moisture, making them particularly attractive to mosquitoes. Wearing hiking boots can provide protection for your feet and ankles and minimize the risk of insect bites in these areas.

Recommended Clothing Choices

Lightweight, breathable pants

Instead of shorts, opt for lightweight and breathable pants that cover your legs. This choice of clothing provides protection against insect bites and minimizes your risk of insect-borne diseases. Additionally, pants can also protect you from the high solar radiation in the area, helping to prevent sunburn during your visit.

Long-sleeve tops

To protect your arms and upper body from insect bites, choose long-sleeve tops over short-sleeve ones. Long-sleeve tops provide an extra layer of defense and minimize your exposure to the biting insects in Machu Picchu.

Lighter hues

Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, so it is advisable to choose clothing in lighter hues. Light-colored clothing may help deter these insects and reduce your risk of bites.

Garments with ventilation

While it is important to cover as much skin as possible, it is also essential to choose clothing with ventilation. The warm and humid climate of Machu Picchu can make wearing long-sleeve tops and pants uncomfortable if they don’t allow any airflow. Look for garments that offer some ventilation while still providing adequate coverage and protection.

In conclusion, when planning a trip to Machu Picchu, it is crucial to consider your choice of clothing to protect yourself against insect bites and insect-borne diseases. Avoid wearing shorts, short-sleeve tops, and minimalist clothing, as these expose more of your skin and make you a prime target for the biting insects in the area. Instead, choose lightweight and breathable pants, long-sleeve tops, and garments in lighter hues. Consider using insect-repellent clothing and applying repellents with high DEET concentration. Cover as much skin as possible and wear hiking boots to protect your feet and ankles. By following these recommendations, you can ensure a more enjoyable and bug-free experience at the magnificent ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.

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