How to Prepare for your Trip to Peru? Best Travel Tips

Searching for guidance on preparing for a journey to Peru? Concerned about your upcoming travel endeavors? Discover invaluable insights and travel tips here to help you plan an unforgettable vacation!

1. Tips on choosing the right operator for your travel

A Company Committed to a Better World: While we won’t claim to be the best company globally, choosing Tierras Vivas means contributing to our vision of becoming a more responsible and impactful company for our world. Embark on an exhilarating adventure with us as we unveil the beauty and enchantment of Peru. Your contentment is our utmost priority, ensuring quality service and an unforgettable experience!

Numerous Happy Clients: Backed by years of expertise and a dedicated team of travel experience creators, advisors, skilled guides, drivers, chefs, support staff (porters), and collaborators in community-based rural tourism initiatives, we are devoted to crafting distinctive and personalized adventures tailored to your preferences. Genuine testimonials from satisfied clients attest to our unwavering commitment to excellence.

Experiences Beyond the Ordinary: Operating with responsibility and sustainability, we hold deep respect for Peru’s natural and cultural heritage. Our dedication is reinforced by national and international certifications, including ISO 9001 for Quality, ISO 14001 for Environment, ISO 45001 for Occupational Health and Safety, TourCert for Sustainable Tourism and Corporate Social Responsibility, SABP CALTUR for Quality in Tourism, SABP for Good Practices in Trekking, and other accolades earned through our diligent efforts.

2. Tips on Exchanging Money

Currency Exchange Tips for Your Peru Trip: To streamline your travel experience, consider handling currency matters before officially commencing your journey, either in your home country or upon arrival in Peru. While ATMs, banks, and currency converters are typically found in major tourist hubs, they may be scarce in remote areas and ancient sites. It’s prudent to have some cash on hand for meals, attractions, or unforeseen expenses, but avoid carrying large sums.

Major credit cards are widely accepted, making them convenient for regular use. However, be aware that the exchange rate might be slightly higher, so it’s advisable to inquire about it beforehand.

Ensure your Peruvian bills are in impeccable condition, free of tears or damage, as some stores or vendors may refuse them. Additionally, refer to our article on tipping in Peru for valuable insights.

Whether dealing in US dollars or local currency, opt for bills in good condition — void of tears, stains, or $100 bills from the series CBB2, which are not accepted.

3. Tips on Weather and Climate

Peru boasts three distinctive geographical zones, each characterized by its unique climate and seasonal variations:

The coastal region, stretching alongside the Pacific Ocean, forms a desert landscape. Key urban centers include Lima, Tumbes, and Ica, with notable tourist destinations such as the Palomino Islands, the Pachacamac Inca holy site, Tumbes’ beaches, and the iconic Nazca lines. From April to mid-September, the weather is cool (Autumn and Winter), with moderately low temperatures. From mid-September to late March, the climate turns hot (Spring and Summer), with temperatures soaring up to 86°F (30°C). Heading north, the climate tends to be consistently warmer throughout the year, and rainfall is infrequent.

The Andes mountain range experiences distinct weather patterns. The dry season spans from early April to late October, characterized by cold to very cold temperatures and minimal rainfall. The rainy season occurs from November to March, bringing heavy but brief downpours irregularly. Principal cities include Cusco, Puno, and Arequipa, featuring renowned attractions like Machu Picchu, the Inca Trails, Lake Titicaca, and the Colca Canyon.

Peru’s Amazonian jungle, a tropical haven, maintains high temperatures year-round, often reaching 104°F (40°C). However, heavy rainfall is a constant throughout the months. Major towns in this region include Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado, with exceptional destinations such as Manu National Park and the Tambopata Wildlife Reserve.

It is imperative to carry sunblock with a high SPF factor, a sun hat, and dark glasses at all times in Peru, regardless of the region you find yourself in.

4. Tips on Luggage and Packing

When preparing for your trip to Peru, it’s crucial to pack wisely, considering the size and weight restrictions imposed by both airlines and trains. While your international flight may have its weight limits, it’s advisable to align your luggage with the domestic Peru flight restrictions, which typically cap at 50 pounds (23 kg) per person. Keep in mind that the train journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu allows limited space for luggage, usually permitting one medium-sized bag and one carry-on per person.

Since there will be instances where you’ll need to handle your own luggage, opting for a lighter load will make your travels more manageable.

Additionally, anticipate spending entire days exploring various destinations. Therefore, it’s essential to prioritize a secure, comfortable, and practical backpack or bag to carry your necessities for activities such as hiking, shopping, sightseeing, and more.

For added security during your stay in Peru, it’s recommended to keep your luggage locked at all times and affix proper identification tags to each bag.

5. Tips on Clothing

The climate in Peru can vary widely depending on the time of year you choose to visit, ranging from heavy rain to dry heat. Additionally, the country’s dramatic altitude differences contribute to significant temperature variations within the same region and between day and night. Therefore, it’s advisable to be prepared for both warm and chilly weather. Packing a mix of t-shirts, long-sleeved tops, comfortable pants, heavier sweaters, and a suitable coat is recommended.

Dressing in layers is always a good strategy to adapt to the fluctuating temperatures throughout the day, especially if you plan on engaging in activities like hiking and sightseeing. Consider your level of physical activity and the potential temperature changes. If your accommodation offers amenities like a swimming pool, hot springs, or spa facilities, don’t forget to pack a swimsuit. Planning for diverse weather conditions will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience during your visit to Peru.

6. Tips on Shoes for the Trek

Numerous sacred ancient sites, such as Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, are situated in areas featuring diverse hiking terrain, ranging from mild to challenging. For your personal safety and an enjoyable trip experience, it is essential to equip yourself with proper trekking shoes. Opt for footwear that is not only comfortable but also has robust tread to navigate various surfaces. Closed shoes are highly recommended to ensure your feet remain warm, safe, and protected during your trek. However, you may also consider bringing a pair of sandals for city excursions, particularly if you plan to explore coastal regions in Peru.

7. Tips on Snacks

Opt for natural, whole food bars such as Vega, Lara, Raw Organic Food bars, Salba, and similar options containing a blend of fruits and nuts. Steer clear of granola, chocolate, and other sugar-laden bars that lack essential nutrients and may lead to blood sugar imbalances.

Consider Whole Meal Replacement Shakes for a convenient and nutrient-rich option. Brands like Vega, Living Fuel, Garden of Life, and similar products, available in single-serving or travel-sized packets, can be easily mixed with bottled water in a travel cup.

When packing dried fruits and nuts, choose sealed, travel-sized packages, especially if bringing them from your home country.

To ensure your well-being, particularly in high altitudes, avoid overeating during mealtimes and refrain from going to sleep with a full stomach. Maintaining a balanced and moderate approach to eating can contribute to feeling your best during your travels.

8. Tips on Toiletries and Personal Items

While many hotels now offer complimentary soap and shampoo, it’s advisable to pack travel-sized versions of your personal care items. Consider including the following essentials:

• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Soap
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Floss
• Deodorant
• Razor and shaving gear
• Comb and/or brush
• Feminine hygiene products

In certain seasons or locations, you may encounter mosquitoes and other insects attracted to scents or prone to biting. For personal safety and the comfort of fellow travelers, opt for unscented products and refrain from bringing perfumes.

Ensure you have a natural insect repellent on hand. Products containing tea tree oil, citronella, musk oil, or peppermint oil can be effective in warding off insects and contribute to a more comfortable travel experience.

9. Tips on Electricity Outlets in Peru

Peru operates on an electrical supply of 220 volts AC at 60Hz. Standard outlets accommodate both twin flat blade plugs (common in North America) and twin round pin plugs (typical in continental Europe). If your electronic devices are not compatible with the 220 volts at 60Hz standard in Peru, it’s essential to use a voltage converter or transformer during your travels.

10. Tips for Personal Preparation

While Peru boasts stunning beauty and enchantment, and our trip leaders and guides invest significant effort to ensure an outstanding experience, the ultimate determinant of your journey’s quality is you. Particularly on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Tours, there might be occasions when patience, resilience, and, as previously mentioned, an optimistic mindset become crucial in facing the occasional challenges of this adventure. Embracing these moments is part of a rewarding challenge that will become a tale to proudly share for the rest of your life!