Introduction
Planning a trip to Peru? You’re in for an absolute treat. This South American gem offers everything from ancient Incan ruins to mouth-watering cuisine that’ll have you questioning everything you thought you knew about potatoes. But here’s the thing – Peru isn’t your typical beach vacation destination. It requires some serious preparation.
I’ve seen too many travelers arrive unprepared and spend half their trip dealing with altitude sickness or scrambling for last-minute Machu Picchu tickets. Don’t be that person. Whether you’re dreaming of trekking the Inca Trail or exploring the vibrant streets of Lima, these traveling to Peru tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your Peruvian adventure.
Ready to dive in? Let’s get you properly prepared for what might just become your favorite travel experience ever.
Understanding Peru’s Altitude: Your Biggest Challenge
Let me be brutally honest – altitude sickness will likely be your biggest enemy in Peru. Cusco sits at 11,152 feet above sea level, and many popular destinations are even higher. Rainbow Mountain? That’s 17,100 feet. Your body needs time to adjust, period.
Here’s what actually works: arrive in Lima first (sea level), then gradually work your way up. Spend at least two days in Cusco before attempting any high-altitude activities. I can’t stress this enough – book those extra hotel nights. Your lungs will thank you later.
Pack coca leaves or coca tea. Locals have used this natural remedy for centuries, and it genuinely helps. Most hotels in Cusco offer coca tea in their lobbies for free. Drink it, even if it tastes like grass clippings.
Stay hydrated but avoid alcohol for the first 48 hours. I know, I know – you want to celebrate being in Peru with a pisco sour. Save it for when you’re acclimatized. Trust me on this one.
If you’re really struggling, don’t be a hero. Diamox (acetazolamide) can help, but consult your doctor before traveling. Some people swear by it, others experience side effects. Know your options before you’re desperately googling “altitude sickness cure” at 3 AM in Cusco.
Machu Picchu Planning: Book Everything Yesterday
If I had a dollar for every person who asked me “Can I just buy Machu Picchu tickets when I get there?” I’d be writing this from my private villa in the Sacred Valley. Short answer: absolutely not.
Machu Picchu tickets sell out months in advance, especially during peak season (May-September). The Peruvian government limits daily visitors to 2,500 people. That’s it. No exceptions, no last-minute availability, no “but I flew all the way from Australia” sob stories.
Book your tickets the moment they’re released online – typically 4-5 months in advance. The official website is often clunky and crashes during high-demand periods. Have patience, persistence, and maybe a strong coffee.
Want to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain? These require separate tickets and sell out even faster. Only 400 people per day can climb Huayna Picchu, split into two time slots. Book these immediately if hiking’s your thing.
Consider hiring a guide once you’re there, even if you didn’t book one in advance. They’re not mandatory, but their knowledge transforms the experience from “wow, old rocks” to “holy cow, this civilization was incredible.” Expect to pay $15-25 for a group tour or $50-80 for a private guide.
Money Matters: Cash is Still King in Peru
Peru’s relationship with credit cards is… complicated. Sure, fancy restaurants in Lima accept them, but that family-run ceviche joint in Cusco? Cash only, my friend.
The Peruvian sol is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. However, you’ll get better exchange rates paying in soles. Bring crisp, new dollar bills – Peruvians are picky about damaged currency. That slightly torn $20 bill? Good luck using it.
ATMs are everywhere in major cities, but fees can be brutal. I’m talking $5-8 per transaction. Use bank ATMs (Interbank, BCP, Scotiabank) rather than standalone machines to avoid skimming scams.
Small denominations are your best friend. Nobody can break a 100-sole note when you’re buying a $2 empanada. Stock up on 10 and 20-sole bills whenever possible.
Here’s a money-saving tip that locals use: many places offer “precio peruano” (Peruvian price) if you pay in soles rather than dollars. It’s not advertised, but it’s worth asking about, especially for tours and souvenirs.
Weather and Packing: Prepare for Everything
Peru’s weather is basically a geography lesson come to life. Desert coast, mountain highlands, jungle lowlands – sometimes all in the same day if you’re moving between regions.
The “dry season” (May-September) isn’t as clear-cut as guidebooks suggest. Sure, it rains less, but mountain weather is unpredictable. I’ve experienced hail, blazing sun, and freezing temperatures within three hours at Machu Picchu.
Pack in layers – this cannot be overstated. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating mid-layers, and top with a waterproof outer shell. That cute summer dress? Save it for Lima’s coastal areas.
Bring a quality rain poncho, not just a jacket. Umbrellas are useless in mountain winds, and you’ll look like a tourist struggling with inside-out umbrella remains.
Sun protection is crucial at altitude. The thin air provides less protection from UV rays. SPF 30 minimum, reapply frequently, and don’t forget lip balm with SPF. Altitude sunburn is real and painful.
Food Adventures: Embrace the Culinary Revolution
Peru’s food scene is having a moment – and it’s been having that moment for the past decade. This isn’t just about guinea pork (cuy) and weird potatoes (though there are over 3,000 varieties).
Lima is the gastronomic capital of South America. Period. But don’t limit yourself to high-end restaurants. Some of my best meals came from $3 lunch menus in neighborhood spots.
About that infamous guinea pig: yes, it’s a thing, but it’s not everywhere. Most restaurants serving cuy advertise it heavily – you won’t accidentally order it. It tastes like… well, like rabbit crossed with chicken. Cultural experience? Absolutely. Culinary revolution? Debatable.
Street food is generally safe if you follow basic rules: eat where locals eat, choose busy stalls with high turnover, and trust your gut (literally). If something smells off, skip it.
Vegetarians and vegans aren’t forgotten in Peru. Quinoa originated here, and there’s incredible variety beyond meat-heavy dishes. Just learn the phrase “soy vegetariano/a” and don’t be surprised when servers double-check – it’s still relatively uncommon outside major cities.
Transportation: Patience is a Virtue
Getting around Peru requires adjusting your expectations about time and comfort. That “3-hour” bus ride to Cusco? Plan for 4-5 hours. Mountain roads are winding, weather affects schedules, and “Peruvian time” is a real thing.
Domestic flights save time but cost significantly more. Lima to Cusco flights run $80-200 depending on season and how far in advance you book. Yes, it’s expensive by Peruvian standards, but it saves you 20+ hours of bus travel.
For shorter distances, collectivos (shared vans) are cheap and efficient. They leave when full, which could be 10 minutes or 2 hours. Bring entertainment and patience.
Uber operates in Lima and works well for airport transfers and city exploration. In Cusco, regular taxis are more common. Always agree on the price before getting in – most don’t use meters.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect Goes Both Ways
Peruvians are incredibly welcoming, but cultural awareness goes a long way. Learning basic Spanish phrases shows effort and opens doors. “Gracias,” “por favor,” and “disculpe” will get you far.
Photography etiquette matters, especially in rural areas and markets. Ask permission before photographing people, particularly indigenous communities. Some may request a small tip (propina) – it’s not a scam, it’s their livelihood.
Bargaining is expected in markets but not everywhere. Hotels, restaurants, and tour operators have fixed prices. Souvenir markets? Bargain away, but don’t be aggressive about it. Start around 50-60% of the asking price and negotiate from there.
Tipping isn’t as common as in North America, but it’s appreciated in tourist areas. 10% at restaurants if service was good, round up for taxis, and tip guides based on group size and service quality.
Safety First: Common Sense Goes Far
Peru is generally safe for tourists, but like anywhere, common sense applies. Don’t flash expensive jewelry, keep passports secured, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
Petty theft is the biggest concern, especially pickpocketing in crowded markets and tourist areas. Use a money belt, keep valuables in hotel safes, and carry minimal cash when exploring.
Taxi safety: use official companies or apps when possible. If hailing street taxis, check that door handles work from inside and driver identification is visible. Trust your instincts.
Health Preparations: Better Safe Than Sorry
Consult a travel medicine doctor 4-6 weeks before departure. Yellow fever vaccination is required if you’re visiting jungle regions like the Amazon. It’s not just recommended – you literally can’t enter certain areas without proof of vaccination.
Traveler’s diarrhea happens to almost everyone. Pack anti-diarrheal medication, electrolyte packets, and probiotics. It’s not glamorous, but it’s reality.
Consider travel insurance, especially if you’re doing adventure activities. Medical evacuation from remote areas is expensive, and standard health insurance often doesn’t cover international emergencies.
Making the Most of Your Time
Peru rewards slow travel. Don’t try to see everything in one week – you’ll spend more time traveling than experiencing. Pick 2-3 regions maximum and explore them properly.
Book domestic flights early if your schedule is tight. Last-minute availability is limited, especially during peak season. Having backup plans for weather delays isn’t paranoid – it’s practical.
Connect with other travelers but don’t follow the crowd blindly. Some of Peru’s best experiences happen off the beaten path, but they require more planning and local knowledge.
FAQ
Q: How long should I stay in Peru to see the highlights? A: Minimum 10 days for Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu with proper acclimatization time. Two weeks allows for Sacred Valley exploration or Amazon additions. Three weeks lets you really explore without rushing.
Q: Is it safe to drink tap water in Peru? A: Stick to bottled water, even in major cities. Most accommodations provide complimentary water bottles. Brush teeth with bottled water too – your stomach will thank you later.
Q: Can I use my phone in Peru? A: International roaming is expensive. Buy a local SIM card (around $5-10) or rely on Wi-Fi, which is widely available in hotels and restaurants in tourist areas.
Q: What’s the best time to visit Peru? A: May through September offers dry weather perfect for trekking, but expect crowds and higher prices. April and October are shoulder seasons with decent weather and fewer tourists. Avoid January-March if planning mountain activities – it’s rainy season.
Q: Do I need to speak Spanish to travel in Peru? A: Basic Spanish helps enormously, especially outside major tourist areas. Many tour guides speak English, but market vendors, taxi drivers, and restaurant staff often don’t. Download Google Translate offline for emergencies.
Conclusion
Peru isn’t just a destination – it’s an experience that’ll change how you see ancient civilizations, modern culture, and your own travel capabilities. Yes, it requires more preparation than your typical vacation, but that’s exactly what makes it so rewarding.
These traveling to Peru tips aren’t meant to scare you off – they’re your secret weapons for avoiding common mistakes and maximizing your adventure. From conquering altitude sickness to scoring those elusive Machu Picchu tickets, proper planning transforms potential headaches into incredible memories.
Remember, every “inconvenience” in Peru comes with a story. That delayed bus ride through mountain passes? You’ll meet fellow travelers and see landscapes that’ll take your breath away (literally, at that altitude). The language barrier at a local market? It’ll lead to the best meal you’ve ever had.
So pack those layers, book those tickets early, and prepare for a country that’ll exceed every expectation. Peru is waiting for you – and trust me, it’s going to be absolutely incredible.
Ready to start planning your Peruvian adventure? Your future self will thank you for doing the preparation now. Safe travels!
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