Do I need altitude sickness medication?

Yes, especially if going directly from sea level to Cusco. Get acetazolamide (Diamox) prescribed by your doctor. Take it 1-2 days before ascending and continue for 2-3 days at altitude. Drink lots of water and avoid alcohol first few days.

Can I buy Machu Picchu tickets at the gate?

No. All Machu Picchu tickets must be purchased online in advance through the official government website. No tickets sold at entrance. Peak season sells out months ahead, so book as early as possible.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

No, stick to bottled or filtered water throughout Peru. Ice in tourist restaurants in major cities is usually safe, but avoid it in rural areas. Brush teeth with bottled water to be extra cautious.

How much cash should I bring?

Bring $300-500 USD cash for your trip. ATMs widely available in cities but scarce in remote areas. Many places don't accept cards. Exchange money at official cambios (exchange houses) for better rates than airports.

Do I need a tour guide for Machu Picchu?

Guides aren't required but highly recommended for first-time visitors. Official guides available at entrance for 200-400 soles ($55-110) for groups up to 16 people. They provide historical context you can't get from just walking around.

How to Plan Your First Trip to Peru

Plan 10-14 days minimum for your first Peru trip to cover Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu. Book Machu Picchu permits 2-4 months ahead, arrive in Cusco 2-3 days before trekking to acclimatize, and plan around dry season (May-September) for best weather.

Book Machu Picchu permits first. Secure your Machu Picchu entrance tickets and Huayna Picchu climb permits through the official government website (machupicchu.gob.pe) 2-4 months before travel. Only 2,500 daily visitors allowed. If doing the Inca Trail, book 6 months ahead through a licensed operator.
Plan your route around altitude. Start in Lima (sea level), then fly to Cusco (11,200 feet). Spend 2-3 days in Cusco or Sacred Valley before Machu Picchu to acclimatize. Consider adding Arequipa (7,660 feet) as a mid-altitude stop if coming from other high-altitude destinations.
Book internal flights early. Reserve Lima-Cusco flights through LATAM, Sky Airline, or Viva Air. Flights run $80-150 each way. Morning flights to Cusco are better for altitude adjustment. Book at least 6 weeks ahead for better prices.
Choose your Machu Picchu approach. Day trip from Cusco: Take train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, then bus up. Costs $200-400 total. Multi-day trek: Classic Inca Trail (4 days, $600-800) or alternatives like Salkantay (3-5 days, $300-500). Book treks through reputable operators.
Plan around seasons. Dry season (May-September): Best weather, busiest crowds, higher prices. Wet season (October-April): Fewer tourists, rain in afternoons, Inca Trail closes in February. Shoulder months (April-May, September-October) offer good balance.
Get required vaccinations. Yellow fever vaccine required if visiting Amazon regions like Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado. Get it 10 days before travel. Hepatitis A/B, typhoid, and routine vaccines recommended. Consult travel clinic 6-8 weeks before departure.

Do I need altitude sickness medication?: Yes, especially if going directly from sea level to Cusco. Get acetazolamide (Diamox) prescribed by your doctor. Take it 1-2 days before ascending and continue for 2-3 days at altitude. Drink lots of water and avoid alcohol first few days.
Can I buy Machu Picchu tickets at the gate?: No. All Machu Picchu tickets must be purchased online in advance through the official government website. No tickets sold at entrance. Peak season sells out months ahead, so book as early as possible.
Is it safe to drink tap water?: No, stick to bottled or filtered water throughout Peru. Ice in tourist restaurants in major cities is usually safe, but avoid it in rural areas. Brush teeth with bottled water to be extra cautious.
How much cash should I bring?: Bring $300-500 USD cash for your trip. ATMs widely available in cities but scarce in remote areas. Many places don't accept cards. Exchange money at official cambios (exchange houses) for better rates than airports.
Do I need a tour guide for Machu Picchu?: Guides aren't required but highly recommended for first-time visitors. Official guides available at entrance for 200-400 soles ($55-110) for groups up to 16 people. They provide historical context you can't get from just walking around.