What to pack for 10 days in the Sacred Valley at the end of August
 

My husband and I are traveling to the Sacred Valley at the end of this month (August) and will be there through the beginning of September. Any recommendations for packing would be appreciated. We plan to do lots of hiking and possibly some trail running. Seems that it is semi-warm during the day and cold at night. We live in Colorado so are used to the weather in the Rocky Mountains, wondering if the Sacred Valley is similar to the mountains here.

Is it appropriate to wear shorts when running or will we be cold?
Is it too cool for flip flops?
Not sure if a light down jacket is necessary?
Should we bring rain gear?

Thanks in advance for any feedback!

I don't recommend flipflops. The trails and streets are uneven and not as clean as you are used to.

Yes to the rain gear. Something warm for at night..down if you have a water proof layer or polyfleece.

I would say long pants rather than shorts for insect and sun protection.

I forgot to say if you have old waterproof winter jackets that you no long wear these are usually appreciated as donations.

Take your gear, no one knows the weather in the mountains. August is cold specially at night, during day definitely long pants to avoid mosquito's bites.

If staying in basic accommodation it can get very cold at night as few places have effective heating. We found thermal underwear a useful aid for a good nights sleep.

mlgb makes a good point re old clothes - take any into Hearts Cafe in Ollantaytambo and they will ensure it goes to a good home.

http://www.heartscafe.org/
http://www.livingheartperu.org/

We just returned today!! I still need to write up my trip report but wanted to chime in. Days were HOT and nights were COLD!! We only had issues with mosquitos in AC and MP, not in Ollantaytambo and Cuzco - so bring a few pair of shorts. Also bring fleece sweatshirts and always have one in your pack. The weather does change quickly. We also brought ALOT of socks, they get really dirty and you may need more than one pair per day. We didnt have any rain, but carried ponchos just in case. We also took our warm jackets for the evenings.
We found thermals to be too hot for the trip and wore long sleeve t-shirts and sweatpants to sleep - even at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu.
HTH!