Packing your bag

You are getting ready for your trip, and still hesitating between taking your poncho or your fleece? Here’s a short list of things to take with you:

• It’s better to take a trekking backpack (especially for programs that include treks). They’re easier to carry for horses or porters;
• Take a small backpack to carry during the day;
• Breathable and fast drying underwear;
• City clothes (optional);
• Light and warm clothes: temperatures can radically change depending on the altitude, climate and time of the day;
• Polar fleece, wind-stopper, raincoat; if you’ll be horseback riding it’s better to avoid ponchos and other large coats that may scare off horses;
• Comfortable trekking pants for hikes and horseback riding;
• High socks and thermo-pants in case it gets cold, especially if you’re travelling in May or September;
• High, comfortable and waterproof hiking shoes; it’s better to avoid brining new shoes that may cause blisters;
• A winter hat and scarf in case of cold temperatures;
• Gloves, especially if you’ll be horseback riding;
• Sun hat or bandana to protect yourself from the sun and from dust;
• Sunglasses category 3 minimum;
• A sleeping bag liner;
• Shampoo, soap and a towel;
• Hand wash gel and wipes;
• A pen and a notebook;
• Extra batteries for your camera or a solar charger;
• Dust-protection for your camera;
• A small knife, lighter, thread and a needle can always come in handy;
• Garbage or plastic bags to put inside your bag and protect your belongings from hard rain;
• Headlamp;
• Water bottle.

For horseback riding expeditions, you may want to add:

• Horseback riding boots;
• Technical pants;
• Sheep skin to put on your saddle.