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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Peru

Essential Preparations

A chronological outline to help you organize your travel plans effectively.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Follow these steps to ensure all major aspects of your trip are handled in a timely manner.

1

-6 Months Before

Book Tickets & Permits

Book Machu Picchu tickets or Inca Trail permits. This is often the most time-sensitive booking, especially for peak season.

Arrange Flights

Book international flights to Lima and domestic flights to Cusco. Early booking often presents better prices.

Secure Accommodations

Research and book major tours and accommodations, specifically if traveling during high season (June-August) or major festivals.

2

-2 Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check your passport validity. It must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date from Peru. Apply for any necessary visas if your nationality calls for one.

Health & Insurance

Consult a travel clinic or your doctor for vaccinations. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. This covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and any planned high-altitude activities.

Language Preparation

Start learning basic Spanish phrases. This makes interactions easier and .

3

Week Before & Onward

Gear & Documents

Acquire any gear like sturdy Hiking boots and layered clothing. Make copies of all important documents.

Banking & Transfers

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel dates. Arrange airport transfers in Cusco.

Digital Prep & Packing

Download offline maps and translation apps. Pack your daypack with essentials for arrival, like water and a warm layer.

Required Advance Bookings

These reservations are important for a smooth and guaranteed experience.

Reservations

  • Machu Picchu entry tickets.
  • Inca Trail or other multi-day trek permits and bookings.
  • Lima-Cusco flights.
  • Accommodation, notably during high season.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Informative preparations that enrich your journey.

Informative Preparations

  • Read about Inca history and culture to heighten your appreciation of sites.
  • Familiarize yourself with the symptoms and prevention strategies for altitude sickness.
  • Understand local currency, exchange rates, and tipping customs.
  • Arrange for mail collection, pet care, or house-sitting if needed. Pay any upcoming bills. Inform family or trusted friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure peace of mind by managing your home affairs before embarking on your adventure.

Mail and Home Care

  • Arrange for mail collection.
  • Organize pet care or house-sitting.
  • Pay any upcoming bills.
  • Secure your home before departure.

Digital and Document Security

  • Make copies of all important documents.
  • Store digital copies on phone and cloud.
  • Keep physical copies separate from originals.
  • Inform bank of travel dates. Consider NordVPN for online security.

Itinerary Sharing and Packing

  • Inform family or trusted friends of your itinerary.
  • Provide emergency contacts.
  • Charge all electronics before leaving.
  • Pack your daypack with essentials for arrival.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Cusco establish the tone for your trip. Prioritize these steps to settle in comfortably.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration:

    Clear immigration and obtain your TAM card. Keep this document safe.

  • 2
    Currency Exchange:

    Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport or use an ATM to get local cash.

  • 3
    Local SIM Card:

    Consider purchasing a local SIM card (optional, you can do this later in the city).

Orientation and Settlement

  • Hotel Check-in & Acclimatization:

    Check into your hotel. Immediately drink coca tea, rest, and hydrate to begin acclimatizing to the altitude.

  • Locate Nearby Services:

    Locate nearby pharmacies, ATMs, and reliable restaurants around your accommodation.

  • Gentle Exploration:

    Take a gentle walk around your immediate neighborhood to get your bearings. Avoid strenuous activity.

Practicalities on Arrival

Currency and Initial Purchases

Exchange enough Soles for your initial taxi ride, snacks, and small purchases.

Purchase bottled water.

Airport to Accommodation

Use a pre-arranged hotel transfer, an official airport taxi, or a ride-sharing app like Didi or Uber.

Verify your destination with the driver before starting.

Quick Language Use

Simple Spanish phrases like "Hola" (Hello) and "Gracias" (Thank you) are appreciated.

Practice greetings with locals to show goodwill.

Smooth Transitions

Thoughtful actions upon arrival contribute to a positive start to your Cusco adventure.

Departure Preparation

Final steps to organize your departure from Cusco with ease.

Souvenirs and Shipping

  • Purchase your souvenirs a day or two before departure to avoid last-minute rushes.
  • If you plan to ship large items home, inquire about services at the artisan market or the local post office. Eagle Creek has good packing solutions.
  • VAT refund procedures (if applicable): Peru does not typically offer VAT refunds for tourists on general purchases.
  • Pre-departure timing recommendations: For flights departing from Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport (CUZ), arrive at least 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights.

Final Steps for Departure

  • For train departures, arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time.
  • Confirm your onward flights or bus/train tickets.
  • Pack essentials for your journey home, keeping any liquid restrictions for air travel in mind.
  • Your TAM card is needed for immigration upon departure.

Travel Document Check

Ensure all your documents are in order for a seamless exit.

Documents

  • Passport:Valid for 6+ months
  • Visa (if applicable):Current and valid
  • Flight/Train Tickets:Confirmed details
  • TAM Card:Essential for departure

Health & Comfort for Departure

  • Carry any necessary medications for your journey.
  • Stay hydrated, especially if flying at altitude.
  • Consider bringing a travel pillow for comfort on long trips.
  • Pack hand sanitizer and tissues.

Farewell Cusco

Organize your final moments in Cusco with ease.

Depart with lasting memories and plans for future adventures.