How far ahead should I book Machu Picchu?

Book 3-4 months ahead for regular entry tickets, 6 months for Inca Trail permits. Huayna Picchu mountain climb sells out fastest - book it when you buy Machu Picchu tickets.

Can I do Peru in less than a week?

Possible but rushed. You need minimum 2 days in Cusco for altitude, 1 day for Machu Picchu, 1 day Sacred Valley. That's 4 days before adding travel time. 8 days is comfortable minimum.

Should I hire a guide or go independently?

Machu Picchu is self-guided with audio guides available. Sacred Valley ruins benefit from guides for historical context. Cusco city is walkable solo. Guides cost $25-40 per day for small groups.

What about altitude sickness?

Arrive 2-3 days before strenuous activities. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol first day. Symptoms include headache and nausea. Severe cases need medical attention. Many travelers take acetazolamide preventively.

Is the rainy season really that bad?

December through March brings daily afternoon rain and muddy trails. Inca Trail closes in February. But fewer crowds and green landscapes. Pack serious rain gear if visiting wet season.

How to plan your first Peru itinerary

Plan 10-14 days minimum for Peru, splitting time between Lima (2 days), Cusco/Sacred Valley (4-5 days), and Machu Picchu (2 days). Book Machu Picchu permits 3-4 months ahead. Allow 2-3 days in Cusco before altitude activities.

Book Machu Picchu permits first. Reserve your Machu Picchu entry tickets and Huayna Picchu climb (if wanted) 3-4 months in advance through the official government website. Choose morning or afternoon slots. If hiking the Inca Trail, book 6 months ahead through a licensed operator.
Plan around altitude acclimatization. Arrive in Cusco (11,200 feet) 2-3 days before any high-altitude activities. Start with light walking around the city. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals the first day. Consider arriving via Lima to ease the transition.
Choose your Machu Picchu route. Train from Cusco takes 3.5 hours to Aguas Calientes, costs $65-120 each way. Bus to Machu Picchu entrance adds $12 each way. Alternatively, drive to Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours) then take the train (1.5 hours) to save money and see the Sacred Valley.
Build your Sacred Valley loop. Base in Cusco or Ollantaytambo. Visit Pisac market (Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday), Ollantaytambo ruins, and Chinchero weaving village. Add Moray agricultural terraces if you have extra time. One full day minimum, two days comfortable.
Decide on Amazon vs coast extensions. Puerto Maldonado Amazon requires 3 days minimum (1 day travel each way). Iquitos needs 4-5 days. Coastal options: Paracas for Nazca Lines (2 days) or Huacachina oasis (1 day). Choose based on interests, not trying to see everything.
Book internal flights strategically. Lima to Cusco flight takes 1.5 hours vs 20+ hours by bus. Cusco to Puerto Maldonado is 45 minutes vs 10+ hours overland. Book domestic flights 4-6 weeks ahead for better prices. LATAM and Sky Airlines are reliable options.

How far ahead should I book Machu Picchu?: Book 3-4 months ahead for regular entry tickets, 6 months for Inca Trail permits. Huayna Picchu mountain climb sells out fastest - book it when you buy Machu Picchu tickets.
Can I do Peru in less than a week?: Possible but rushed. You need minimum 2 days in Cusco for altitude, 1 day for Machu Picchu, 1 day Sacred Valley. That's 4 days before adding travel time. 8 days is comfortable minimum.
Should I hire a guide or go independently?: Machu Picchu is self-guided with audio guides available. Sacred Valley ruins benefit from guides for historical context. Cusco city is walkable solo. Guides cost $25-40 per day for small groups.
What about altitude sickness?: Arrive 2-3 days before strenuous activities. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol first day. Symptoms include headache and nausea. Severe cases need medical attention. Many travelers take acetazolamide preventively.
Is the rainy season really that bad?: December through March brings daily afternoon rain and muddy trails. Inca Trail closes in February. But fewer crowds and green landscapes. Pack serious rain gear if visiting wet season.