How to Prepare for a Trip to Peru:  Essential Tips and Information

Although I’ve traveled to 4 continents and over 20 countries, taking a trip to Peru was a little different.  So, I want to share with you what I’ve learned on how to prepare for a trip to Peru so that you’ll have everything you need to know to have a fantastic time.

While my time in Peru was amazing, there are some things I wish I’d known before visiting.  I’ve compiled my top 35 tips and things you should be aware of so that you feel ready and confident about traveling to this wonderful country.

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35 Tips on How to Prepare for a Trip to Peru and Things You Should Know

1.  Don’t Assume a Trip to Peru is Impossible

As my disability progressed and my mobility worsened, I didn’t know if I’d ever make it to Peru and Machu Picchu.  At one point, I assumed it just wouldn’t be possible.

But one day, I decided to challenge myself and look into ways of visiting my bucket list destinations as someone with mobility problems.  That’s when I saw that other people in wheelchairs had successfully visited Machu Picchu and I became determined to do the same and I have now accomplished this goal.

Whether you’re like me and have mobility problems, are worried about finances, or have other concerns, don’t assume that a trip to Peru is impossible because then it will be.  Instead, you can tell yourself that maybe now isn’t the right time and then make a plan with specific goals on how you will travel to Peru.

Do research, set a budget, and identify ways to save, or prioritize where you can set time aside for the trip.  Travel IS POSSIBLE even if it looks different than what you see on social media or the internet.

2. Choose the Right Tour Provider for You

Related to the first tip I mentioned, it’s important to choose the right tour provider for your individual needs.  There are lots of reputable tour operators to choose from and at first glance, the choices may seem overwhelming.

Identify specific concerns and needs you will have and then compare how each of these operators can address these issues.  Not all tour companies can handle every need so this will naturally help you start narrowing down your choices.

Due to my disability, I ended up choosing an accessible travel company that specializes in Peru.  They only work with people with disabilities and understand their needs.  They are also huge advocates for making Peru more accessible to all.

If you have mobility problems and want to visit Peru, check out Accessible Travel Peru.

3. Check Your Passport Expiration Date

Before you dive into planning your dream trip to Peru, make sure to check your passport expiration date.  You don’t want to be on your way to the airport only to find out that your passport expired last month or that there isn’t enough time left until it expires for you to be allowed into the country.

Typically, your passport will need to be valid for 3-6 months beyond your travel dates to be allowed into a foreign country.  Although this time frame can change, currently Peru requires your passport to be valid for six months after your intended travel.

Avoid any potential problems by checking your passport before you set your travel dates.

4. Determine If You Need a Visa

Travelers from certain countries may need a VISA to enter Peru.  Make sure you check to see if this applies to you and leave enough time for you to go through the VISA process.

Currently, Americans do not need a Visa for Peru.

5. Talk to Your Doctor About the Altitude

The altitude in Peru can vary drastically.  For example, Lima is right at sea level, while Cusco is around 11,000 feet high.  If you are concerned about how altitude changes may affect you, consult with your doctor before planning your trip for recommendations and guidance.

As someone who is on a ventilator full-time, when I initially started traveling, I spoke with my pulmonologist to see what would be safe for my specific situation.  Luckily, by following her advice, I haven’t had any problems.

Although my situation of traveling with respiratory equipment is somewhat unique, it’s always better to be safe than sorry and get your doctor’s thoughts and recommendations when traveling to higher altitude areas.

6. Consult with a Travel Clinic

When I initially planned my trip to Peru, I had no idea that Malaria, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever were present in some areas of the country.  Luckily, I mentioned my travel plans to my doctor who then advised me on what medication and vaccines he recommended to keep me safe.

If your physician isn’t knowledgeable about foreign travel, make plans to visit a travel clinic to get guidance based on your itinerary regarding prophylactic medication or advice on how to keep healthy during your trip.

7. Get Travel Insurance

Insurance is a travel essential in my book. You never know when things will happen and you may need to cancel your trip or get emergency medical care during travel (which can add up very quickly).

Likewise, make sure to compare policies and get travel insurance that will provide medical coverage in addition to trip cancellation and other protections.  Not all policies cover pre-existing conditions so read the fine print on what your travel insurance includes and excludes.

I like using Insure My Trip because I can filter policies that meet my criteria such as pre-existing condition coverage, budget, and more.

✔️ Compare policies and prices by clicking here.

8. Confirm You Can Bring Your Medication with You

If you are on special medication like a controlled substance, check to see that it will be allowed within the country.  I was traveling with a woman who is on Oxycodone for pain and she discovered that you are not allowed to bring that medication into Peru, even with a prescription.

Luckily, she had done her research and knew that in advance so she didn’t get in trouble (yes there was a drug dog at the airport checking).  She also had the opportunity to explore other options and make arrangements to manage her pain in other ways.

Ignorance is often not a valid excuse for having forbidden items on you.  So do your research before your trip to see if there may be any conflicts with the current medication you are on. 

If you are allowed to bring your medication with you, make sure that it is in the original bottles.

9. Make Sure Your Baggage Meets Airline Requirements

International airlines and airlines within Peru may have different baggage rules and requirements.  Additionally, this can vary based on the type of ticket you purchase.  Make sure to read up on the guidelines so you don’t run into any problems with the size and/or weight of your suitcase.  Usually, these rules are listed on the airline’s website.

10. Prebook Tickets to Machu Picchu

Due to the popularity of Machu Picchu, restrictions have not been put in place limiting the number of visitors each day to this iconic site.  This is to help protect and preserve the area for future generations.

As a result, accessing Machu Picchu has become more difficult and if you plan to visit it on your own, you will need to plan ahead and prebook your tickets.  On the other hand, if you are traveling with a tour provider, they often do this for you.

Tickets can be reserved through the official site.

11. Be on the Lookout for Cheap Airfare

Don’t overpay on your airfare to Peru.  Compare prices and find the best deals using websites like Skyscanner. 

What I love about Skyscanner is that if you have flexible travel dates, you can enter your destination and get results by the cheapest months to visit.  If you are a budget traveler, or just like scoring the best deal on cheap flights, this is a fantastic option.

✔️ Check current flight prices to Peru by clicking here.

12. Practice Your Spanish

Peru is a Spanish-speaking country.  Unlike some other countries I’ve visited, English is not widely spoken here, even at the airports.  So, it’s helpful if you know some basic Spanish.

Although I took Spanish in high school, it really was tough remembering everything and trying to communicate.  Brush up (or learn for the first time) on your Spanish speaking skills by using Babbel.  They offer a variety of options and price plans to help get you prepared for your trip.

✔️ Check out the plans Babbel offers by clicking here.

13. Don’t Over Pack Your Itinerary

When creating your itinerary, as tempting as it is, don’t try to do everything in a short amount of time.  Trust me, I get it, I struggle with this as well.  However, there are a couple of reasons why you won’t want to try to do too much in Peru.

First, your body will need time to adjust to the altitude.  Help prevent overexerting yourself (and possibly getting sick) by allowing some downtime to rest and acclimate to the higher elevations.

Second, there are so many incredible things to see in Peru and if you just show up to take a picture and move on to the next item, you really don’t allow yourself the time to truly experience what you’re seeing.  Each sight you’ll see has a special history and significance so take time to learn more about it and its place within the local culture.  Doing this is sure to add more meaning to your trip and experience.

Lastly, it’s impossible to see everything in Peru in a short amount of time.  Understanding that it will most likely require multiple (and wonderful) trips to Peru to experience its highlights will help set realistic expectations and allow you to appreciate what you will see during your trip.

I spent 8 days in Peru and while I saw some of the most iconic sights, it did feel a bit rushed.  If I were to do it again, I would add a couple of days to rest in between or allow me to travel at a slower pace.

Despite this, I did love my trip and I’m already planning my next trip to Peru to see more of the beautiful country.

14. Pack Appropriately

One thing that can ruin a trip quickly is not being prepared or packing the right things.  For Peru, plan to pack layers that will help you adjust to the varying temperatures at different elevations.  Comfortable and sturdy shoes are also a must-have item, especially if you plan to hike.  Rain gear is also important.

However, like any trip, your packing list may vary depending on when you travel to Peru and the activities you have planned while there.

I go over my suggested Peru packing list in more detail in another post, so make sure to check it out.

15. Bring a Day Bag

No matter what your travel style is (busy vs slower pace), no one comes to Peru to sit in the hotel.  There are so many wonderful things to see that you’re most likely going to be gone for a full day.  That’s why having a good day bag is critical.

You’ll be able to carry all the essentials (like snacks, rain gear, and bottled water) easily so it’s available when you need it.  My day bag also included a couple of extra layers and some camera gear.

You’ll want your bag to be lightweight and comfortable to wear.  Backpacks with a chest strap often make for good options.

16. Have the Right Adapter

There are two different types of outlets found in Peru.  The first is type B which is the same as what is used in the United States.  The second is a type C which has two round prongs like those found in Europe.

Additionally, the electrical currency in Peru is 220 volts and 50 hertz.  So if your devices aren’t compatible with this, you will also need to bring a converter.

I love this international adapter plug as it can be used in most countries.

17. Leave the Selfie Stick at Home

Selfie sticks and tripods are not allowed at Machu Picchu for safety reasons.  Due to the narrow and uneven passages, authorities do not want someone getting accidentally hit, tripped, or injured due to a lack of awareness of what or who is around them.

Don’t worry though, whether you’re traveling with a group or on your own, there is almost always someone around willing to help and snap a picture for you.

18. Don’t Forget to Bring Snacks

As I mentioned before, you’re bound to be busy and out and about.  Sometimes, there aren’t always restaurants around, so make sure you bring plenty of your favorite snacks with you.  These will help keep your body fueled and ready for adventure.

It is recommended to avoid sugary snacks which will affect your blood sugar.  Instead, opt for treats that are high in protein to keep your body energized and help it cope with the potential stress put on it by the higher elevations.

19. Know Your Limits and Listen to Your Body

Before planning your trip to Peru, be very honest with yourself about your limits and abilities.  While it is possible to visit Peru with mobility problems or if you’re not in the best shape, you still need to be aware of what your capabilities are.

For example, if you fatigue easily or have bad knees, it’s probably unrealistic for you to plan to do a multi-day hike along a strenuous trail.  However, there may be shorter hikes on easier pathways that are within your capabilities.

Likewise, listen to your body.  If it’s tired or not reacting in a normal way, stop what you are doing and if necessary, seek medical assistance.

20. Driving in Peru is Crazy

Fair warning, the driving in Peru is chaotic and crazy.  Seriously, it reminds me of the driving in Italy (if you know, you know). 

I don’t remember seeing any speed limits and stop signs were mostly suggestions when they were present (they were few and far between).  Instead, to manage speed, there are speed bumps pretty much everywhere.  And if you (or your driver) gets distracted and hit one, everyone in the vehicle will go flying (speaking from personal experience here).

That’s not even mentioning the traffic.  Bumper to bumper with cars trying to squeeze in front of you.  I’m honestly surprised there aren’t more accidents.

Do yourself a favor and do not try to drive in Peru.  This is one of the few cases where hiring a local driver can save you a ton of stress and energy.

21. Be Aware of Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

Similar to knowing your body, it’s also important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of altitude sickness and take action quickly.  Altitude sickness can happen at any time during your trip at higher elevations and you’re not just at risk when you first arrive.

My friend and travel partner had no problem for 99% of the trip, but on the last day in Puno, she over-exerted herself and started not feeling well.  She became very tired, had an increased heart rate, and eventually her oxygen levels started to drop.

I quickly understood what was happening and forced her to get oxygen therapy offered by our hotel.  While there was a small cost involved, her health was much more important.  Luckily, afterward, she started feeling better.

Altitude sickness is very real and can become dangerous.  If you start noticing symptoms, take action immediately.  This can involve oxygen therapy and moving to a lower altitude (if possible).

22. Always Carry Your Passport with You

While many people often leave their passports in the hotel safe when traveling, in Peru you’ll want to have it with you at all times as you may be asked to see it. Additionally, places like Machu Picchu connect your entrance ticket to your passport and you will need to show both to enter.

Of course, I always recommend having a copy of your passport as a backup in case you misplace or lose the original. This copy can be left in the hotel safe or in a different bag than your original passport. However, the original will need to be carried with you when you go out for the day.

23. Credit Cards are Accepted but Have Cash

Most restaurants will accept credit cards but for smaller shops and roadside vendors, cash will be needed. Larger shops will have the ability to accept credit cards as well.

Determining how much local currency to carry is a personal decision and may be dependent on what you intend to purchase. Personally, I wouldn’t carry more than 100 Soles as having larger amounts of cash can make you a target for pickpockets.

24. Watch Out for Counterfeit Cash

There is a problem with counterfeit cash in Peru, so learn to spot the real from the fake money. The most common way to spot a fake is by the watermark on the cash. On counterfeit bills, it may appear blurry or just printed on vs multidimensional.

Unfortunately, even getting cash at ATMs doesn’t prevent you from being given fake bills. This was a lesson that I learned during my trip. We used the ATM recommended by our guide and when we went to tip him, he mentioned that the bills were fake.

Apparently, this is such a common occurrence that if you bring the bills to the bank and explain what happened, they will exchange them for real ones.

25. Don’t Drink the Water

You know the water is bad when even the locals opt for bottled water.  This is definitely the case in Peru.  The water is not drinkable and contains things that will make you sick.

Unless you’re using a water filtration system like a life straw, do yourself a favor and splurge on bottled water.  Likewise, be wary of ice and anything that is washed in water (like fruit and fruit juice).  Two of the members of my group got VERY sick after drinking fresh squeezed orange juice that had some local water in it.

26. Stay Hydrated

At higher altitudes, you’re body will dehydrate faster, so it’s important that you drink plenty of water. Bottled water is often available at roadside markets and in popular tourist areas, so there is no excuse not to stay hydrated.

This will help your body cope with the higher elevations and according to the National Institute of Health, may help to prevent altitude sickness.

27. Try the Local Cuisine

One of the most popular ways to experience a new destination is to try its local cuisine. Peru is known for its potatoes, seafood (like Ceviche), and quinoa, as well as some more exotic dishes such as alpaca and guinea pig.

While I admit that there was a mental block for me to try the guinea pig (after all they are seen as pets in the US), I did push past this and tried it. The closest thing I can compare it to is dark-meat chicken. It really wasn’t bad once you got it past your eyes.

I recommend that you try some of the fantastic (and fresh) food that Peru has to offer.

28. Don’t Just Visit Machu Picchu

Don’t get me wrong, Machu Picchu is worth visiting and is beautiful, however, there is so much more to Peru than this one attraction.  Make sure to take time to visit other lesser-known Incan sites, museums, and cities.

Some of my favorite memories of Peru were when I got to meet local families and learn about their way of life.  It was so interesting to learn about agriculture and how wool is turned into yarn, died, and woven into gorgeous textiles.

Furthermore, depending on where you visit in Peru, there is so much diversity and things it has to offer.  From the Amazon to the desert with the Nazca Lines, to incredible painted mountains and canyons, Peru has something for everyone.

29. Plan for Flight Delays

Every single one of my flights to/from and within Peru was delayed.  Maybe I was just unlucky, but it’s hard to call 4 delayed flights a coincidence.

As a result, I highly recommend that you account for possible flight delays in your itinerary.  Don’t have it so full that a 1-3 hour delay will have a drastic impact on your plans.

Furthermore, this is where knowing some Spanish comes in really handy as most airport workers I encountered did not know English or spoke very little.  Announcements at the airport were also mostly in Spanish with a couple of English translations available here and there. 

Knowing some basic Spanish will help you communicate better and have a clearer understanding of what’s going on and what you can expect.

30. The Sun Will Be Intense

If you aren’t used to being at higher elevations, one of the important things to know is that the sun will be more intense.  This means that you will be quicker to get sunburned (even if you don’t normally burn) and that 70 degrees may feel hotter than at lower altitudes.

Be prepared by having sunscreen to help protect your skin and monitor for things like heat stroke. 

31. Don’t Worry About Finding Food to Eat

I’ll admit I’m not the most adventurous person when it comes to food.  In fact, most would call me a fairly picky eater.  So, I was a little worried about finding food that would suit my taste buds while in Peru.

However, my concerns weren’t warranted.  There are so many food options.  One of the members of the wheelchair-accessible small group tour I organized was even Vegan and she found items that suited her diet.

While you will definitely find food that is more exotic (guinea pig and alpaca), there are plenty of food choices that you will be more accustomed to.  Peru is known for using fresh ingredients and locally grown food such as potatoes, quinoa, corn, and legumes.

32. There Will Be Healthy Street Dogs

One of the first things you will notice when visiting places like Cusco and Puno is the abundance of dogs wandering the streets.  While this may be upsetting for animal lovers, upon closer inspection, you’ll find that these dogs are actually well cared for.

In fact, I was told that most of them have homes and owners who love them.  However, they are allowed to roam free during the day to socialize with their friends and not be cooped up in the house.  Since many homes do not have yards, this allows the dogs to have a sense of freedom.

Just make sure to watch out for them while driving.

33. Understand the Tipping Policies

Unlike in the United States, tipping really isn’t a thing in Peru.  While it is custom to tip a private guide or driver, in other places it is not common.  In restaurants, if a service charge isn’t already added to your bill, you may just round up to the nearest Sole.

34. Expect to Pay to Use Public Restrooms

Similar to Europe, it is common in Peru for you to have to pay a couple of Soles to use public restrooms.  Be prepared for this by always having some change on you to pay the attendant.

35. Ask Before Taking Photos

Photographers will undoubtedly be tempted to photograph local people wearing traditional clothing.  However, it’s important to be respectful and always ask for permission first.  Sometimes, they ask for some Soles in exchange for a picture but other times, they are willing to pose free of charge.

On the other hand, there may also be people who wish to not have their picture taken at all.

Peru FAQs

➡️ What Do I Need to Do Before Going to Peru?

While I hope this post has given you some ideas on what to do before going to Peru, I’ll take a moment to highlight some of the important things here.  First, find cheap airfare for your trip.  You don’t want to overpay when it’s possible to find a great deal.  I use Skyscanner to help find the best prices.

Second, talk with your doctor or travel clinic to get recommendations regarding vaccines and other suggested precautions based on your specific medical history.

Third, prebook your tickets to Machu Picchu. The number of people allowed to visit this famous site has been restricted to a certain number each day and tickets sell out quickly.  Don’t miss out on this bucket list destination because you didn’t prebook your tickets.

Another thing you should do before going to Peru is pack appropriately.  You don’t want to forget essential items or not be prepared for varying weather.  My Peru packing list will help ensure you have everything you need.

Lastly, ensure you’re in the best health possible so you can enjoy your trip.  Whether you’re hiking or not, exercising, eating healthy (non-processed) foods, and taking daily vitamins can help your body prepare for what will likely be a busy trip.

➡️ Are Vaccines Required for Travel to Peru?

Although you won’t be asked for proof of vaccination before entering Peru, it’s a good idea to be up to date with your regular vaccines before traveling.  Additionally, depending on where you are traveling within Peru (for example the Amazon) it may be a good idea to get a Yellow Fever Vaccination.

Always talk to your doctor or local travel clinic to get specific recommendations on any medication or vaccinations you should take before traveling.  This applies to Peru as well.

➡️ Do I Need Malaria Pills for Machu Picchu?

There are areas within Peru that have Malaria present.  Whether you choose to take precautions against this disease is a personal decision.  Medication for these areas is often not required but advised.

Machu Picchu is near the jungle and does have mosquitos as well as other biting insects present.  My doctor advised me to take anti-malaria medication due to my medical history.  I recommend speaking to your personal physician to see what he/she suggests.

➡️ What is the Best Currency to Take to Peru?

Peru uses the Peruvian Sole as its currency.  While hotels and restaurants often accept credit cards, it’s also important to have local cash on you as well for smaller shops, roadside vendors, and small purchases like bottled water.

Deciding how much local currency to have is a personal decision and will be based on how much you typically spend on things like souvenirs.  Additionally, it’s not advised to have large amounts of cash on you as this makes you a target for thieves.

At the time of writing this post, the current exchange rate is $1 Peruvian Sole = $0.27 USD.

➡️ When Should I Visit Peru?

I visited Peru in late March/early April and thought it was a wonderful time to visit.  This is when the weather is transitioning from the rainy to the dry season.  As a result, there is beautiful green scenery and fewer crowds to contend with.

On the other hand, May through October is considered the dry season with fewer chances of rain.  However, it is also the most popular time to visit so there will be a lot more people traveling during this time as well.

➡️ Is Peru Worth Visiting?

While Peru isn’t the most accessible country (I’m a wheelchair user), it is 100% worth visiting.  I loved my time in Peru learning about the local culture, Incan history, and seeing iconic sights like Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca. 

When you visit Peru, you’re sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.

➡️ How Much Time Should I Spend in Peru?

I spent a busy 8 days which allowed me to see some highlights and iconic sights such as Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca.  While my 8 days in Peru itinerary was doable, it also felt a little rushed. 

Instead, if you’re able, I recommend spending at least 10 days in Peru.  However, more time is even better and you’ll have a more relaxed itinerary with 2 weeks in Peru.

Recap on How to Prepare for a Trip to Peru

Most successful trips require planning. I hope that my 35 travel tips have helped you understand how to prepare for a trip to Peru. It’s a beautiful country that is worth the effort, and I’m confident you’ll have a fantastic time.