Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. Drink only bottled or filtered water throughout Peru.

How do I deal with the altitude?

Hydrate heavily, minimize caffeine and alcohol for 48 hours, and ask your doctor about Acetazolamide (Diamox) before leaving home.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

In major tourist hubs, English is widely spoken, but learning basic phrases like 'cuánto cuesta' (how much) is very helpful in markets.

How to Spend Two Weeks in Peru

To see the highlights of Peru in 14 days, focus on the 'Gringo Trail' loop: Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, with a stop in Puno to see Lake Titicaca. You must book your train and Machu Picchu entry tickets at least 3 months in advance to ensure availability.

Acclimatize immediately. Fly directly from Lima to Cusco and immediately take a taxi to the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo or Pisac), which sits at a lower altitude than Cusco. Spend your first two nights there to avoid severe altitude sickness.
Secure your Machu Picchu permit. Choose your circuit (Circuit 2 is the most popular) and buy your entry ticket on the official government website. If you plan to hike Huayna Picchu, book it 4-6 months ahead as spots are capped.
Use internal flights. Peru is massive with winding mountain roads. Take flights between Lima and Cusco, and Cusco and Juliaca (for Puno). It will save you 15+ hours of bus time per leg.
Master the train system. Book your PeruRail or Inca Rail ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Only take the train; do not attempt to drive, as there are no roads into the town.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?: No. Drink only bottled or filtered water throughout Peru.
How do I deal with the altitude?: Hydrate heavily, minimize caffeine and alcohol for 48 hours, and ask your doctor about Acetazolamide (Diamox) before leaving home.
Do I need to speak Spanish?: In major tourist hubs, English is widely spoken, but learning basic phrases like 'cuánto cuesta' (how much) is very helpful in markets.