Peru
This period includes sunny days and clear blue skies. Daytime temperatures average 18-20°C (64-68°F), making for pleasant conditions for sightseeing. However, nights become quite cool, often dropping to 0-5°C (32-41°F). This cool night air feels crisp, so pack warm layers. Humidity stays generally low.
You can expect frequent rainfall during these months, with the heaviest precipitation from January to March. Days are milder, averaging 20-22°C (68-72°F), and nights are warmer, typically around 7-12°C (45-54°F). Humidity levels are higher. Rain showers often occur in the afternoon, leaving mornings clear.
Cusco's high elevation brings strong equatorial sun during the day, even in cooler months. Protect your skin and eyes. Altitude sickness (soroche) commonly occurs upon arrival. Plan to take it easy for your first day or two.
During the wet season (December-March), heavy rain can lead to localized flooding or landslides in rural areas. This might impact transport routes, especially to Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley. Stay informed about local weather advisories. The UV index stays high year-round due to the altitude. Always use sun protection.
June - August
Dry weather and clear skies suit trekking, including the Inca Trail and Salkantay.
Most crowded. Prices for flights and accommodations peak. Book tours and permits many months in advance. More visitors at popular sites.
April-May & Sep-Oct
Favorable weather, fewer crowds. Lush landscapes. Reasonable prices. Great for balanced conditions.
Occasional rain showers possible, especially in April and October.
November - March
Fewer tourists, lower prices for accommodation and some tours. Unique local festivals, like Carnival in February or March.
Frequent rain (Jan-Mar). Humidity higher. Inca Trail typically closes for maintenance in February. Some other trails muddy or inaccessible.
Cusco's high elevation brings strong equatorial sun during the day, even in cooler months. Protect your skin and eyes. Altitude sickness (soroche) commonly occurs upon arrival. Plan to take it easy for your first day or two. The thin air impacts physical exertion. The UV index stays high year-round. Always use sun protection.
During the wet season (December-March), heavy rain can lead to localized flooding or landslides in rural areas. This might impact transport routes, especially to Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley. Stay informed about local weather advisories. Trails can become muddy, and some may be inaccessible.
Rest for the first 24-48 hours upon arrival.
Drink plenty of water; avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Eat smaller, easily digestible meals.
Many hotels offer coca tea, a traditional remedy for mild symptoms.
Speak to your doctor about altitude sickness medication.
Most visitors will find entry simple, but specific requirements depend on your nationality.
Citizens from the United States, Canada, the European Union (Schengen Area countries), Australia, New Zealand, and most South American countries do not need a tourist visa for stays up to 90 or 183 days (depending on nationality) within a 12-month period. A valid passport is sufficient for entry.
If your nationality is not listed as visa-exempt, a visa is necessary. Consult the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru or the nearest Peruvian consulate in your home country. Visa applications typically involve submitting a form, your passport, passport-sized photos, a flight itinerary, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay. Start this process well in advance of your trip. IVisa and VisaHQ can assist with visa applications.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Peru. Airlines may ask for proof of a confirmed return ticket or onward travel to another country before allowing you to board your flight to Peru. Have this ready.
Upon arrival at an international airport, you will receive an Immigration Card (Tarjeta Andina de Migración - TAM). Keep it safe, as immigration authorities will require it for your departure. Do not lose it. While not typically necessary for visa-exempt entries, carrying a few passport-sized photos can be useful for various local applications, like some trekking permits or local IDs, if needed.
Special Permit Needed
A special permit from the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. These are very limited and sell out quickly, often months in advance. Book through an authorized tour operator. Independent trekking is not allowed.
Independent trekking on the Inca Trail is not permitted; use authorized tour operators for booking.
Advance Purchase Advised
Tickets have daily limits. Purchase them in advance, especially during high season, through the official Peruvian Ministry of Culture website or authorized tour operators.
Daily limits apply. Huayna Picchu / Machu Picchu Mountain hikes need additional tickets, even more limited.
Regional Recommendation
This vaccination is for travel to jungle areas (e.g., Puerto Maldonado, Manu National Park, Iquitos) below 2,300 meters (7,546 feet). It is not generally necessary for Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
Always check current advisories from your country's health authorities or the World Health Organization (WHO) before your trip.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: A special permit from the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. These are very limited and sell out quickly, often months in advance (6+ months for peak season). Book them through an authorized tour operator. Independent trekking is not permitted. Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets: Separate from Inca Trail permits, these tickets also have daily limits. Purchase them in advance, especially during high season, through the official Peruvian Ministry of Culture website or authorized tour operators. Huayna Picchu / Machu Picchu Mountain: If you hike one of these peaks, you require an additional entrance ticket. These tickets are even more limited and must be booked at the same time as your main Machu Picchu ticket.
Yellow Fever Vaccination: This vaccination is a consideration if you travel to jungle areas (e.g., Puerto Maldonado, Manu National Park, Iquitos) located below 2,300 meters (7,546 feet). It is not typically necessary for Cusco and the Sacred Valley, which are at higher altitudes where the risk is minimal. Always check current advisories from your country's health authorities or the World Health Organization (WHO) before your trip.
Must be valid 6+ months beyond departure.
Confirmed return or onward ticket often needed.
Immigration card received upon arrival, do not lose it.
Carry a few for various local applications.
Peru does not charge a general entry fee for tourists from most countries.
Peru accommodates all travel budgets.
The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN), often represented by the symbol S/. One Sol divides into 100 Céntimos. Banknotes come in S/10, S/20, S/50, S/100, and S/200. Coins in S/0.10, S/0.20, S/0.50, S/1, S/2, and S/5. Exchange money at Casas de cambio (exchange houses) for generally better rates than banks or airports. ATMs are widely available, especially in Cusco's city center, but they might have withdrawal limits per transaction and associated fees. Inform your bank of your travel plans to prevent your card from suspension due to unusual activity.
Breakdown for different travel styles (daily averages in PEN/USD):
Tipping culture and expectations:
The city generally is a good safety record for tourists.
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Flu). Hepatitis A & B and Typhoid are advised for most travelers. Yellow Fever for jungle areas below 2,300m, not typically Cusco. Rabies for long-term stays or animal interaction. Consult a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip.
Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath. Acclimatize gradually, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol/heavy meals. Doctors may prescribe acetazolamide (Diamox). Coca tea can help. A portable Pulse oximeter monitors oxygen levels.
Drink only bottled, purified, or filtered water. Avoid raw fruits/vegetables washed in tap water, unpeeled fruits, and unhygienic street food. LifeStraw offers water filtration solutions.
High Altitude UV Warning!
The high altitude yields stronger UV radiation. Use high-SPF Sunscreen, wear a Wide-brimmed hat, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day. Consider UV-protection lip balm and sunglasses.
While dengue fever and Zika virus are present in lower-altitude jungle regions of Peru, they are not typically a concern in Cusco. A good Insect repellent with DEET is useful for general comfort and protection, especially if you plan day trips to lower elevations within the region.
Always prioritize sun protection and hydration in Cusco's high-altitude environment.
Cusco has several, including Clínica Peruano Americana and Clínica Pardo, familiar with tourist treatment. Standards can vary, so having good travel insurance is important.
Widely available in Cusco's city center. They offer a range of over-the-counter medications and some prescription drugs.
Tap water in Cusco is generally not safe for drinking. Rely on bottled, purified, or filtered water. For trekking or exploring remote areas, consider a Portable water filter. Eat at reputable restaurants. Exercise caution with street food; ensure it is cooked thoroughly and served hot. Wash your hands frequently.
Cusco is generally a city with good safety for tourists, notably in the main tourist areas. However, awareness of certain concerns is wise.
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance. This is highly suggested and covers medical emergencies, including emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, lost luggage, and personal liability. Verify that your policy covers high-altitude activities if you plan to trek.
Travel insurance for adventurous travelers. Visit World Nomads.
Insurance tailored for digital nomads and remote teams. Check SafetyWing.
Medical and travel-related coverage, including for foreigners visiting the United States. Explore Insubuy.
