How far in advance should I book Machu Picchu?

Book 3-4 months ahead, especially for dry season (May-September). The classic 4-day Inca Trail sells out 6 months in advance. Train tickets to Aguas Calientes should be booked 2-3 months ahead.

Is altitude sickness a real concern?

Yes. Cusco sits at 11,200 feet and many people feel effects within hours. Plan 2-3 acclimatization days with light activities. Drink lots of water, avoid alcohol, and consider altitude sickness medication if you're prone to it.

Can I do this itinerary during rainy season?

December through March is rainy season, but many activities still run. The Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance. Bring good rain gear and be flexible with outdoor plans. Hotels are cheaper and crowds smaller.

Should I book tours in advance or on arrival?

Book Machu Picchu, Inca Trail, and multi-day Amazon tours in advance. Day tours around Cusco and Lima can be booked 1-2 days ahead. Sacred Valley tours are easy to arrange on arrival.

Is it safe to travel independently in Peru?

Yes, Peru is generally safe for independent travelers who use common sense. Stick to main tourist areas, don't flash valuables, use official taxis, and stay in established accommodations. Tourist police are helpful in major destinations.

How to Plan a Two-Week Peru Itinerary

A two-week Peru itinerary should include 4-5 days in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, 2-3 days for Machu Picchu, 3-4 days in Lima, and 3-4 days exploring either the Amazon, Arequipa, or northern Peru. Book Machu Picchu permits 3-4 months ahead and plan for altitude acclimatization in Cusco.

Book Machu Picchu permits first. Secure your Machu Picchu entrance tickets and Inca Trail permits 3-4 months in advance at machupicchu.gob.pe. If the classic 4-day Inca Trail is full, book the 2-day short trail or alternative treks like Salkantay. Train tickets to Aguas Calientes book up 2-3 months ahead.
Plan your arrival and acclimatization. Fly into Lima first, spend 1-2 days there, then fly to Cusco. Never go straight from sea level to Cusco (11,200 feet). Plan 2-3 days of light activities in Cusco before any strenuous hiking. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol the first few days.
Build around the Sacred Valley. Base yourself in Cusco for 4-5 days total. Day 1-2: acclimatize in Cusco city. Day 3: Sacred Valley tour (Pisaq market, Ollantaytambo ruins). Day 4-5: Machu Picchu (overnight in Aguas Calientes) or start your trek. The Sacred Valley is at lower altitude and helps acclimatization.
Choose your fourth region. With 5-6 days remaining after Lima and Cusco regions, pick one: Amazon (Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos) for wildlife, Arequipa and Colca Canyon for landscapes, or northern Peru (Huacachina Oasis and Nazca Lines). Don't try to do everything—Peru is huge.
Plan internal transportation. Book domestic flights between major regions (Lima-Cusco, Lima-Arequipa, Lima-Puerto Maldonado). Overnight buses work for shorter distances like Lima to Huacachina (4 hours) or Cusco to Arequipa (10 hours). Cruz del Sur and Oltursa are reliable bus companies.
Account for weather and seasons. May through September is dry season—best for trekking but also peak crowds. December through March is rainy season—fewer tourists but the Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance. shoulder seasons (April, October) offer good weather with smaller crowds.

How far in advance should I book Machu Picchu?: Book 3-4 months ahead, especially for dry season (May-September). The classic 4-day Inca Trail sells out 6 months in advance. Train tickets to Aguas Calientes should be booked 2-3 months ahead.
Is altitude sickness a real concern?: Yes. Cusco sits at 11,200 feet and many people feel effects within hours. Plan 2-3 acclimatization days with light activities. Drink lots of water, avoid alcohol, and consider altitude sickness medication if you're prone to it.
Can I do this itinerary during rainy season?: December through March is rainy season, but many activities still run. The Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance. Bring good rain gear and be flexible with outdoor plans. Hotels are cheaper and crowds smaller.
Should I book tours in advance or on arrival?: Book Machu Picchu, Inca Trail, and multi-day Amazon tours in advance. Day tours around Cusco and Lima can be booked 1-2 days ahead. Sacred Valley tours are easy to arrange on arrival.
Is it safe to travel independently in Peru?: Yes, Peru is generally safe for independent travelers who use common sense. Stick to main tourist areas, don't flash valuables, use official taxis, and stay in established accommodations. Tourist police are helpful in major destinations.