First time in Peru: essential tips
Peru rewards a little preparation. From the altitude of the Andes to the practicalities of cash, food and timing, a handful of things will make your first trip smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tips our local team shares with every first-time visitor.
1. Respect the altitude
This is the big one. Cusco sits at 3,400 m and altitude sickness is common if you rush. Take your first days slowly, hydrate, drink coca tea, avoid alcohol at first, and don't schedule strenuous high trips on arrival. Consider starting in the lower Sacred Valley. Read our altitude guide — getting this right protects your whole trip.
2. Time your trip well
The dry season (May–September) is best for the Andes and Machu Picchu — clear skies, though busier. The wet season (Nov–March) is greener, cheaper and quieter, with afternoon rain and the Inca Trail closed each February. See the best time to visit and weather by month.
3. Carry cash — and know the currency
Peru's currency is the sol (PEN). Cards work in cities, but cash is essential for markets, taxis, tips and rural areas. Withdraw soles from ATMs, carry small notes, and notify your bank before travelling. Full details in our money in Peru guide.
4. Stay safe and healthy
Peru is broadly safe for travelers; the main risks are petty theft and altitude. Keep valuables secure, use registered taxis, and drink bottled or purified water to avoid stomach upsets. Eat at busy, popular places. See our safety guide.
| Topic | Quick tip |
|---|---|
| Water | Drink bottled/purified, not tap |
| Food | Eat where it's busy; try the menú del día |
| Taxis | Use registered or app taxis, especially at night |
| Theft | Keep valuables out of sight in crowds |
5. Plan the fixed pieces early
Some things sell out: Machu Picchu tickets, trains and especially Inca Trail permits (gone months ahead). Book these first and build around them. Decide how many days you need and consider a ready-made route like our 2-week Peru itinerary.
6. Pack smart and learn a little Spanish
Pack for big temperature swings — warm days, cold nights, strong sun, possible rain (see the packing list). A few words of Spanish go a long way and are warmly received; English is limited outside tourist areas. Tipping is appreciated but modest. And don't try to see everything — Peru is big, so depth beats rushing.
Planning your first Peru trip?
Let our local team build an itinerary around your dates, pace and interests.
Frequently asked questions
Respect the altitude (acclimatize in Cusco before strenuous activity), carry cash in soles, drink only bottled or purified water, book Machu Picchu tickets and Inca Trail permits early, pack for big temperature swings, and learn a little Spanish.
Peru is broadly safe for travelers. The main concerns are petty theft and altitude rather than serious crime. Standard precautions — securing valuables, using registered taxis, and acclimatizing properly — keep most visitors trouble-free.
Yes. While cards work in cities, cash in soles is essential for markets, taxis, tips and rural areas. Withdraw from ATMs, carry small notes and notify your bank before you travel.
The dry season, May to September, offers the clearest weather for the Andes and Machu Picchu, though it is busiest. April and October are quieter shoulder months with good conditions.
