First time in Peru: 12 essential tips before you go

Peru rewards a little preparation. The altitude of the Andes, the rhythm of the seasons and a few practical details — cash, water, bookings — can make the difference between a rushed trip and a wonderful one. These are the tips our Cusco team shares with every first-time visitor.

1. Respect the altitude

This is the most important tip. Cusco sits at about 3,400 m, and flying in from sea level is a big jump. Take your first day easy, drink plenty of water, try coca tea, avoid alcohol at first and leave high excursions such as Rainbow Mountain for later in your trip. Starting in the lower Sacred Valley helps. Read our altitude sickness guide before you fly.

2. Choose your season wisely

The dry season (May to September) brings clear skies in the Andes but more visitors. The rainy season (December to March) is greener, quieter and usually cheaper, with afternoon showers; the Inca Trail closes every February for maintenance. April, October and November are good compromises. See Cusco weather by month and the best time to visit Machu Picchu.

3. Book the fixed pieces first

Some things sell out: Machu Picchu tickets (timed entry and fixed circuits), trains in high season and, above all, Inca Trail permits, which can go months ahead. Book these first and build the rest of your trip around them. Our guide to Machu Picchu tickets and circuits explains how it works.

4. Do not try to see everything

Peru is huge and distances are long. A first trip focused on Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu needs at least 5 days; 8 days is ideal; two weeks lets you add Lake Titicaca or the Amazon. See how many days you need in Peru.

5. Carry soles in small notes

The currency is the sol (S/). Cards work in hotels and many restaurants, but markets, taxis, small eateries and tips run on cash. Use ATMs inside banks and keep small notes. More in money in Peru.

6. Drink bottled or filtered water

Do not drink tap water. Use bottled, boiled or filtered water, eat in busy places and go easy on street food in your first days. A refillable bottle with a filter is a good investment.

7. Stay alert, not anxious

Peru is broadly safe for travellers. The usual risks are petty theft in crowds and unofficial taxis at night. Keep valuables out of sight and use app taxis after dark. Read is Peru safe for tourists?

8. Pack for four seasons in one day

In the Andes, mornings are cold, middays are hot under a strong sun and nights drop close to freezing in the dry season. Pack layers, a warm jacket, a rain jacket, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes. Our Cusco packing list has the details.

9. Keep your passport handy

You need your original passport to enter Machu Picchu and to board the trains, and it must match the name on your tickets. Carry a copy for everyday use and keep the original in your hotel safe on other days.

10. Learn a few words of Spanish

English is common in hotels and tours but limited elsewhere. A simple buenos días, por favor and gracias goes a long way and is always appreciated.

11. Tip modestly

Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory. Around 10% in restaurants when service is not included is normal, and on tours and treks a tip for the guide, driver, cook and porters is a welcome thank-you.

12. Eat adventurously

Peru is one of the world’s great food destinations: ceviche on the coast, and in the Andes, quinoa soup, alpaca, trout and roast guinea pig. Try the lunchtime menú del día for great value. See our Cusco food guide.

Frequently asked questions