How bad is altitude sickness in Cusco?

Most people feel it - headaches, fatigue, nausea. Arrive early morning, take it slow first 24 hours, drink tons of water, limit alcohol. Coca tea helps. Diamox prescription can prevent severe symptoms if you're worried.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

No. Bottled water everywhere, even for brushing teeth. Amazon lodges usually provide safe filtered water. Most restaurants use bottled water for ice, but ask to be sure.

Can I do this trip solo as a woman?

Yes, Peru is relatively safe for solo female travelers. Use common sense in cities, book reputable Amazon lodges, join group tours for activities. Cusco and tourist areas have good infrastructure for solo travel.

What if Machu Picchu is sold out?

Check official site daily for cancellations. Book Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permits as backup - they include Machu Picchu access. Last resort: some tour companies hold permits but charge premium.

Amazon in wet season worth it?

Yes but different. More wildlife, lush vegetation, fewer tourists. Trails muddy, some activities limited. River levels higher so better boat access to remote areas. Bring serious rain gear.

How to plan 2 weeks in Peru covering Andes and Amazon

Split your 2 weeks between 8-9 days in the Andes (Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu) and 4-5 days in the Amazon (Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado). Book domestic flights early, get yellow fever vaccination 10 days before travel, and plan for altitude adjustment in Cusco.

Get vaccinations and permits sorted first. Yellow fever vaccination required 10 days before Amazon travel. Get it done early. Book Machu Picchu permits immediately - they sell out months ahead. Huayna Picchu permits go first if you want that hike.
Plan your route: Lima → Cusco → Amazon → Lima. Fly Lima to Cusco (1.5 hours), spend 7-8 days in Cusco region, then fly Cusco to Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado for Amazon (1 hour each). Return flights to Lima from Amazon bases. This minimizes backtracking and altitude issues.
Book Amazon lodge early. Amazon lodges fill up fast and transport is limited. Iquitos lodges are deeper jungle, accessed by boat. Puerto Maldonado lodges are easier to reach but still authentic. Book 3-4 night packages that include transport, meals, and guides.
Structure your Andes time for altitude. Land in Cusco, take it easy for 24 hours. Day trips to Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo, Pisaq) help acclimatize at lower altitude. Save Machu Picchu for day 4-5 when you're adjusted. Add Rainbow Mountain or Choquequirao if you're hiking fit.
Book transport between cities now. Domestic flights book solid during peak season. LATAM and Sky connect major cities. Train to Machu Picchu (Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes) books months ahead - get tickets when you get Machu Picchu permits.
Plan for weather extremes. Andes are cold at night (near freezing), hot during day. Amazon is hot and humid year-round with sudden rain. Dry season (May-September) is easier but busier. Wet season (October-April) means muddy Amazon trails but fewer crowds.

How bad is altitude sickness in Cusco?: Most people feel it - headaches, fatigue, nausea. Arrive early morning, take it slow first 24 hours, drink tons of water, limit alcohol. Coca tea helps. Diamox prescription can prevent severe symptoms if you're worried.
Is it safe to drink tap water?: No. Bottled water everywhere, even for brushing teeth. Amazon lodges usually provide safe filtered water. Most restaurants use bottled water for ice, but ask to be sure.
Can I do this trip solo as a woman?: Yes, Peru is relatively safe for solo female travelers. Use common sense in cities, book reputable Amazon lodges, join group tours for activities. Cusco and tourist areas have good infrastructure for solo travel.
What if Machu Picchu is sold out?: Check official site daily for cancellations. Book Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permits as backup - they include Machu Picchu access. Last resort: some tour companies hold permits but charge premium.
Amazon in wet season worth it?: Yes but different. More wildlife, lush vegetation, fewer tourists. Trails muddy, some activities limited. River levels higher so better boat access to remote areas. Bring serious rain gear.