Things to Know Before You Go

1️⃣ Elevation & Acclimatization

Peru’s Sacred Valley and Cusco region sit at high elevation. Plan your itinerary accordingly.

• Cusco: 11,152 ft (3,399 m)
• Sacred Valley (Urubamba): 9,420 ft (2,871 m)
• Machu Picchu: 7,972 ft (2,430 m)
• Rainbow Mountain: 17,060 ft (5,200 m)

Important:
• Plan 2–3 nights in the Sacred Valley before staying in Cusco
• Hydrate aggressively
• Avoid intense activity on Day 1
• Kids often acclimate faster, but do not assume

2️⃣ Machu Picchu Tickets & Circuits

Entry to Machu Picchu is circuit-based. Visitors cannot freely roam the ruins.

• Circuit 2: Classic postcard viewpoint
• Circuit 1: Higher panoramic routes
• Circuit 3: Lower terraces, easier walking

Tickets sell out weeks (sometimes months) in advance. Advance booking is essential.

3️⃣ Train Rules to Machu Picchu (Important for Families)

Trains to Machu Picchu have strict age and luggage policies.

• Age 12+ is considered an adult ticket
• Ages 3–11 qualify for child fares
• Under 3 may ride free (without their own seat)

Luggage:
Only small carry-on bags are allowed. Larger luggage must remain at your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.

4️⃣ Passport Requirements

Your passport is required for:

• Machu Picchu entry
• Train boarding
• Hotel check-in

Passport details must match ticket information exactly.

5️⃣ Weather & Seasons

Peru has distinct seasons:

• Dry Season (May–September): Clearer skies, peak season
• Rainy Season (November–March): Lush landscapes, possible cloud cover

Morning fog at Machu Picchu is common and may clear later in the day.

6️⃣ Domestic Flights (Lima ↔ Cusco)

• Carry-on weight limits are enforced
• Checked baggage limits are strict
• Build buffer time — delays are common

7️⃣ Tipping Guidelines

• Private guide: $10–20 per person per day
• Driver: $5–10 per day
• Restaurants: 10% if not already included

Bring small bills in Peruvian Sol.

8️⃣ Currency & Payments

• Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN)
• Credit cards widely accepted in cities
• Smaller towns prefer cash
• ATMs available in Cusco and the Sacred Valley

9️⃣ Food & Water Safety

• Do not drink tap water
• Most luxury hotels provide filtered water
• Avoid raw street food unless vetted

Peru is a world-class culinary destination — plan reservations accordingly.

🔟 Visiting with Children

• Age 12+ = adult pricing for trains and many excursions
• No strollers allowed inside Machu Picchu
• No food sold inside the ruins
• Bathrooms are located outside the entrance