Organizing a trip to Peru requires understanding that the country functions as three distinct destinations in one. The difference between a great experience and a series of logistical setbacks lies in knowing the destination details, travel times, and current requirements.
1. Seasons and Weather
In Peru, we don’t speak of summer or winter in the traditional sense, but rather the rainy season and the dry season.
- May to September: This is the period with the least rain in the Andean region (Cusco, Puno, Huaraz). It is the ideal time if you plan to go hiking or visit Machu Picchu with clear skies.
- December to March: This is the rainy season in the highlands. While the landscapes are greener, you must consider that flights may suffer weather delays and the Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance.
- The Coast (Lima/Paracas): Remains clear with high temperatures from January to March, while the rest of the year is usually cloudy.
2. Documentation and Health
To enter Peru as a tourist, your passport must have a minimum validity of 6 months at the time of arrival. Most countries in the region and the European Union do not require a prior visa.
Regarding health, there are no mandatory vaccines to enter the country. However, if your itinerary includes the jungle (Madre de Dios or Loreto), the yellow fever vaccine is a standard technical recommendation and should be administered at least 10 days before the trip.
3. Managing Altitude Sickness (Soroche)
This is where most itineraries fail. Cusco is located at over 3,300 meters (10,800 feet) above sea level. It’s not just “tiredness”; it’s a physical reaction to lower oxygen pressure.
- The Golden Rule: Do not schedule demanding physical activities for the first 24 hours.
- Operational Recommendation: Start your trip in the Sacred Valley (which is lower in altitude than Cusco) or rest for the entire first day. Water consumption is vital, as altitude dehydrates you quickly, and meals should be light to avoid straining the digestive system, which works slower in these conditions.
4. Machu Picchu Tickets: The New System
Since a couple of years ago, the entry system to the citadel has changed. There are now specific circuits and strict entry times.
- Advance Booking: Reservations should be made 3 to 4 months in advance, especially if you are looking for the circuit that includes the classic photos or the hike up Wayna Picchu mountain.
- Regulations: Each ticket has a marked entry time with only a 30-minute grace period. If you miss your slot, the ticket is non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled.
5. Logistics, Transportation, and Currency
- Trains: There are two main companies (PeruRail and IncaRail) connecting to Aguas Calientes. There are different service categories, from trains with panoramic roofs to luxury services.
- Currency: The official currency is the Sol. While you can pay with cards or dollars in large hotels, you will need cash in Soles for local markets, tips, and small transportation. Any dollars you intend to exchange must be in perfect condition; torn or marked bills are usually rejected at exchange houses.
- Connectivity: It is recommended to buy a local SIM card in major cities. Wi-Fi in hotels is usually stable, but signal is limited in rural areas or during road trips.
6. Base Itinerary Recommendation
For a first 10-day visit, a functional and efficient route is:
- Lima (2 days): Historical center and gastronomy.
- Cusco (1 day): Rest and light acclimatization.
- Sacred Valley (2 days): Visit archaeological complexes and stay overnight in the area to continue easing altitude pressure.
- Machu Picchu (1 day): Full tour and return to Cusco.
- Puno or Rainbow Mountain (2 days): High-altitude activities once the body has adapted.
Do you need help with your entry reservations or transportation logistics in Cusco?
At Peru Life & Experience Tours, we manage every detail of your itinerary to avoid errors in train and ticket bookings. You can contact us directly to validate availability for the 2026 season.
