21 Peru Travel Tips: What to Know Before Your First Trip

Peru is one of those destinations that truly offers something for every type of traveler, from ancient Incan ruins and vibrant food scenes to dramatic landscapes that stretch from the coast to the Andes. But traveling through Peru comes with a learning curve, especially for first-time visitors navigating altitude changes, transportation logistics, and cultural norms.

These Peru travel tips are designed specifically for first-time travelers planning a trip to Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. Based on firsthand experience, this guide covers everything you need to know before you go, from flights and getting around to altitude sickness, money, safety, and everyday etiquette, so you can travel confidently and focus on enjoying the experience.

Peru Travel Tips at a Glance

✔ No visa needed for most travelers
✔ Prepare for altitude before Cusco
✔ Use Uber or private drivers
✔ Carry cash + don’t flush toilet paper
✔ Bring layers year-round

Getting There

Most travelers arrive in Peru by flying into Lima or Cusco, and understanding visa requirements, major airport hubs, and flight routes helps first-time visitors plan a smoother arrival.

1) You don’t need a visa.

Peru does not require a tourist visa from citizens of the United States and most Western European countries. You need your passport to have at least two blank pages for stamps. You can only stay on a tourist visa for a maximum of 183 days per year.

2) Fly into the two major Peru airport hubs. 

The two major airport hubs in Peru are Jorge Chávez in Lima (LIM) and Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco (CUZ).

If you’re short on time, my 4-day Peru itinerary shows how to prioritize Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu without feeling rushed.

3) Request a window seat if you are flying to Cusco.

Flying from Lima to Cusco, you will find the most picturesque views of the Andes mountains. Sit by the window.

Peru Transportation

Getting around Peru requires a mix of rideshare apps, taxis, private drivers, and occasional flights, depending on the cities and regions you plan to visit.

4) Take Uber.

We got around Lima primarily using Uber. Our Uber ride from LIM to Barranco was 50% less than the airport taxis quoted. The only downside to using Uber at LIM was spotty internet, which made communication with the driver difficult. 

Pro Tip: The best place to meet the Uber driver at the airport was by the parking areas.

5) Beware: Taxi drivers are aggressive at the airport.

Beware that taxi drivers at the airport are super aggressive. It can be overwhelming. They usually listen after the third “No,” though. Don’t tell them you’re taking an Uber; it will only add more fuel to their fire.

6) Use Private drivers.

Since we were short on time, we got around Peru primarily with private drivers who also served as guides. To get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, we hired a private driver online through Taxidatum for 110 soles (33 USD). While we could have gotten a taxi for as low as 60 soles (18 USD), we wouldn’t be guaranteed a comfortable ride or that the driver spoke English. To go from Ollantaytambo to Cusco via the Sacred Valley, our hotel recommended a driver/ guide whom we hired for the day at 283 Soles (86 USD).

Pro Tip: While Peru is generally safe for travelers, be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially in Lima and Cusco. Keep valuables secure, avoid flashing expensive items, and use trusted transportation options whenever possible.

Staying Healthy

Staying healthy while traveling in Peru means preparing for altitude changes, sun exposure, and food and water safety, especially when visiting high-elevation destinations like Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Rainbow Mountain.

7) Prevent Altitude sickness.

Altitude sickness is one of the biggest challenges travelers face in Peru, particularly in high-altitude regions. While it can’t be fully predicted, it can be managed with proper acclimatization, hydration, and pacing.

What is Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness, known locally as soroche, can occur at elevations above 8,000 feet (2,500 meters). At higher altitudes, the air pressure is lower, meaning each breath delivers less oxygen to your body.

To compensate, your body increases breathing and heart rate to circulate oxygen more quickly. For many people, this adjustment process can feel stressful on the body and lead to noticeable symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heartbeat

Who Is at Risk?

One of the trickiest things about altitude sickness is that it’s unpredictable. Physical fitness, age, and gender don’t reliably determine who will be affected.

People with heart or lung conditions may be more sensitive, which is why I took this seriously before my trip. As someone with mild asthma, I did a lot of research beforehand, but I wasn’t about to let that stop me from experiencing Cusco and Machu Picchu.

How to Prevent Altitude Sickness?

The good news: there are several effective ways to reduce your risk.

Acclimate Slowly: Ascending gradually is the most important prevention strategy. I completely reorganized my itinerary after learning about acclimatization, and I’m glad I did.

Because Rainbow Mountain sits at over 17,000 feet, I recommend saving it for later in your trip, something I explain in more detail in my Rainbow Mountain guide.

Here’s the acclimatization-friendly route we followed instead:

• Days 1–2: Lima (505 ft / 154 m)
• Day 3: Ollantaytambo (9,160 ft / 2,792 m) via Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,399 m)
• Day 4: Machu Picchu during the day (7,972 ft / 2,430 m), Ollantaytambo at night
• Days 5–6: Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,399 m)
• Day 7: Rainbow Mountain (17,060 ft / 5,200 m)
• Days 8–9: Lima

This slower ascent made a noticeable difference. I share the full breakdown of this acclimatization-friendly route in my 7-day Peru itinerary, which maps out each stop to help your body adjust gradually while still seeing the highlights.

Take It Easy Your First 24 Hours: Your first day above 8,000 feet should be low-key. For us, that meant flying into Cusco and immediately driving to Ollantaytambo, no sightseeing, no stairs, no pressure.

Stay Hydrated: High-altitude regions are often dry, which can worsen symptoms. Drink water consistently throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can intensify the effects of altitude and make symptoms worse. It’s best to skip drinking for the first couple of days at elevation.

Eat High-Carbohydrate Foods: Carbohydrates help support energy levels and oxygen efficiency at altitude. This isn’t the time to be overly strict about diet—foods like bread, potatoes, rice, and pasta can actually help your body adjust.

Try Local Remedies: Many locals recommend coca leaves or coca tea, which are widely available in high-altitude cities. While not scientifically proven, these remedies are culturally accepted and commonly used.

Coca leaves contain only trace amounts of cocaine alkaloids, and their effects are very different. We were offered coca tea as soon as we landed in Cusco, and most hotels provide it as well—along with coca candies.

Consider Medication: Prescription medications such as acetazolamide (Diamox) are commonly used to prevent altitude sickness.

I started taking Diamox the day before arriving in Cusco and continued daily. I was the only one in my group who took prescription medication, and I experienced noticeably fewer symptoms. My friends relied on ibuprofen and dealt with more headaches and shortness of breath, especially when climbing stairs.

Always consult your doctor before traveling if you’re considering medication.

8) Don’t Drink the Tap Water.

Tap water in Peru is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth, or use purification methods such as iodine tablets, a personal water filter, or a Steripen.

9) Protect Yourself From the Sun.

Sun exposure is stronger at high altitudes, even on cloudy days. Wear a hat, apply sunscreen regularly, and don’t underestimate how quickly you can burn.

Where to Stay

Choosing where to stay in Peru depends on your itinerary, but first-time visitors are best served by basing themselves in central neighborhoods in Lima, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley for easier access and smoother logistics.

10) Give Lima a chance.

People often complain about Lima, but I truly enjoyed it. Lima was the city that enticed me to come back and explore Peru more deeply. At the very least, it is the gastronomical capital of the world, which is more than enough reason to go and explore its restaurant scene. In Lima, we stayed in Airbnbs in Barranco and Miraflores. I loved Barranco’s intriguing street art and hipster vibe, and Miraflores’s bougie vibe. 

11) In Cusco, stay close to Plaza de Armas.

When choosing your accommodations in Cusco, it’s best to pick places near Plaza de Armas, as it’s a central hub of activity! We visited Cusco in June, when the city was in a time of great celebration. The Jubilee celebrations in Cusco last several weeks and showcase Andean and Incan culture and religious traditions. Most events take place in the Main Square and are free!

12) When visiting Machu Picchu, stay in Ollantaytambo.

We stayed in Ollantaytambo because it is an interesting town, so that we could have a shorter commute to Machu Picchu (1 hour and 50 minutes as opposed to 3 hours and 20 minutes from Cusco). Some people choose to stay in Agua Calientes (the town of Machu Picchu); however, accommodations there tend to be pricier.

I break down tickets, trains, timing, and what to expect on-site in my detailed Machu Picchu travel guide, which is especially helpful for first-time visitors.

Weather

Peru’s weather varies dramatically by region and elevation, so understanding seasonal patterns and packing layers is essential for staying comfortable throughout your trip.

13) Bring Layers. Peru can get cold!

We traveled during Peru’s winter, which is their dry season. The dry season is the best time to visit Peru and see the main attractions like Machu Picchu, but it can get extremely cold. Layering was critical because temperatures ranged from the low 30s to the high 60s throughout the day. Beware that most hotels don’t have central heating, but they do provide space heaters and alpaca blankets.

The rainy season runs from November to March, with January and February seeing the heaviest rainfall—especially in the Andes.

Language

14) Learn some Spanish.

Peru is a multilingual country, with Spanish as its official language. It would be helpful to know a few basic Spanish phrases. The indigenous languages, Quechua and Aymara, are also widely spoken.

Electricity

15) Prepare your electronics! The Voltage Is Higher in Peru.

If you are from the U.S., you don’t need a power adapter because we use the same plugs as Peru. However, you should note the difference in the electrical sockets of the U.S. (120 volts) and Peru (220 volts). This isn’t an issue because most electronics work with a wide range of voltages, but your devices will charge much faster and heat up. Unplug your devices when you’re done charging so you don’t stress the circuitry.

Public Restroom

16)  Bring your toilet paper, and don’t flush it in the toilet.

You usually must pay a small fee (1-2 soles) to use public bathrooms at historical sites. I highly recommend carrying toilet paper or wipes because they are not always available in restrooms. Also, don’t throw paper down the toilet, as it clogs the drainage system and can cause flooding. There is usually a trash bin next to the bathroom for your tissues.

Sacred Valley Preparation

17) Prepare to hike at the ruins.

At the Ollantaytambo ruins, you will climb steep stone steps. The top of the steps will lead you to a hike along the mountain, where you will find the city’s best views.

18) Get a tour guide.

Peru is filled with incredible history. It’s one thing to marvel at the beauty of the sites, but having a guide to explain their history enriches the experience.

Photography Rules

19) Ask Before Photographing People

Life isn’t a cover of National Geographic. Never take a picture of someone’s face without their permission. At prominent tourist landmarks like the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, you will find women and children dressed in traditional clothing posing with llamas, alpacas, and baby lambs. They make their living by charging tourists for photos.

Money

Managing money in Peru is fairly straightforward once you know when to use cash versus cards, where to exchange money, and how payments work in markets and smaller towns.

In general, credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but cash is still essential, especially outside of Lima.

Quick Money Tips to Remember

• Keep cash stored in more than one place
• Carry small bills for taxis and markets
• Restrooms often require cash for entry
• Always ask about card fees before paying

Cash vs. Credit Cards in Peru

• Credit cards are commonly accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops in Lima, Cusco, and other tourist hubs.
• Cash is still necessary for:
  • Local markets
  • Taxis
  • Small towns
  • Public restrooms
  • Street food and souvenirs

Some vendors may add a 5–10% fee for card payments, which is another reason to keep cash on hand.

Pro Tip: While Visa is widely used, some places only accept Mastercard, so always confirm before ordering or paying. I once dined at a restaurant with a “We Accept Visa” sign, only to be told at checkout that they didn’t.

If you have one, a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card is ideal for Peru. I relied heavily on my Chase Sapphire Reserve, which made payments easy and allowed me to earn points on most purchases.

20) Exchange Some Money at the Airport, But Most in Town

It’s helpful to exchange a small amount of money at the airport for immediate expenses, such as taxis or snacks. For better rates, exchange the rest at banks or official exchange offices in town.

You can also withdraw soles from ATMs. I used a combination of:

• Airport exchange
• Bank exchange in town (best rates)
• ATMs as needed

I have a Charles Schwab account that refunds ATM fees, which is very helpful when withdrawing cash internationally.

21) Haggle in Markets

Haggling is expected in local markets and with street vendors.

A good rule of thumb:

• Start at about half the initial asking price
• Negotiate politely
• Pay in cash for better leverage

Don’t be afraid to walk away; vendors will often call you back with a better offer.

Peru Travel Tips: FAQs

Below are answers to some of the most common questions travelers have when planning a trip to Peru, covering safety, costs, health considerations, and everyday logistics.

Is Peru safe for first-time travelers?

Yes, Peru is generally safe for first-time travelers, especially in popular areas like Lima, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley. Like in any major destination, petty theft can occur, so be mindful of your belongings, avoid displaying valuables, and use trusted transportation. Staying in central neighborhoods and following basic safety precautions goes a long way.

Do I Need Vaccinations for Peru?

No specific vaccinations are required for most travelers visiting Peru’s main tourist areas. However, it’s recommended to be up to date on routine vaccines, and some travelers may consider additional vaccines depending on their itinerary, especially if visiting remote or jungle regions. It’s best to consult your healthcare provider before your trip.

Is Peru Expensive to Visit?

Peru can be very affordable compared to many international destinations, especially for food, transportation, and accommodations. Costs vary by region; Lima and Cusco are more expensive than smaller towns, but travelers can easily adjust their budget by choosing local restaurants, public transportation, and mid-range hotels. Overall, Peru offers excellent value for the experience.

How Much Cash Should I Carry in Peru?

It’s best to carry enough cash for daily expenses, such as markets, taxis, small restaurants, and public restrooms—especially outside Lima. Many travelers find that withdrawing cash as needed from ATMs works better than carrying large sums at once. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is still essential in smaller towns.

Final Thoughts: Peru Travel Tips

These Peru travel tips are meant to help first-time visitors feel confident navigating everything from altitude changes and transportation to money, weather, and local etiquette. With a little planning and flexibility, you’ll be able to move through Peru at a comfortable pace, take in its highlights, and still leave room for the unexpected moments that often become the most memorable.

Whether you’re wandering Lima’s neighborhoods, adjusting to the altitude in Cusco, or standing in awe at Machu Picchu, Peru invites you to slow down, listen, and experience it fully. Go prepared, stay open-minded, and you’ll quickly understand why so many travelers dream of returning.

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