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It depends on the area. For Cusco and the Andes, the dry season (approximately May to October) is usually the most comfortable for sightseeing and hiking because it rains less. The rainy season (approximately November to March) features greener landscapes, but there can be heavy rain and changes in the weather. On the coast (Lima), the summer is sunnier and the winter is cloudier.

For a comfortable visit, many people spend 4 to 6 days in Cusco: 1-2 days to acclimatize and get to know the city + 1 day Sacred Valley + 1 day Machu Picchu (sometimes with a night in Aguas Calientes). If you also want Montaña de Colores, Humantay or other tours, the ideal is to add 1 or 2 extra days.

Citizens of many countries in Latin America, Europe and North America can enter as tourists without a visa for a limited period. Even so, requirements vary depending on nationality, so it is important to consult official information before traveling and take a valid passport and, when requested, a ticket to leave the country.

In general, you can travel normally, but as in any tourist destination, it is advisable to take some precautions: take care of your belongings, avoid lonely areas at night, use formal transport and not display high-value objects. On tours, always follow the guide's instructions and avoid purchasing services from informal sellers without references.

The currency is the Peruvian sol (PEN). In big cities, many establishments accept cards, but in markets, smaller cities and small purchases it is better to use cash. Carry low denomination notes. To exchange money, look for reliable exchange offices or banks and avoid exchanging money on the street.

Cusco has a mountain climate, which can change quickly. During the day, the sun can be strong, and in the afternoon the temperature tends to drop. The ideal is to dress in layers: t-shirt, blouse or fleece and a windproof or waterproof jacket. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and comfortable shoes. On tours like Humantay or Rainbow Mountain, it is colder, especially early in the morning.

For most travelers, there is no mandatory vaccination requirement in the most touristy areas, such as Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. If you go to the Amazon, including Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado, consult a healthcare professional about the yellow fever vaccine and preventing mosquito bites. It is also important to travel with insurance and take your personal medications.

In Peru, you can buy a prepaid chip from local operators at airports, shopping malls or official stores. Normally, you need to present a document to register. Hotels and restaurants often offer Wi-Fi, but the signal can be unstable in rural areas. When trekking, be prepared to go through sections without connections.

The main thing is to book in advance: tickets and, when necessary, train or bus tickets can sell out in high season. Bring your document (passport or ID), as it is usually requested at the entrance. Respect the defined circuit and schedule. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sunscreen, as the weather can change quickly.

In Peru, type A and C sockets are used, generally with a voltage of 220 V. If your devices use another socket or voltage standard, take an adapter and, if necessary, a transformer. Some hotels offer different types of sockets, but it's best not to count on them.

A tip is not always mandatory, but it is common to leave it if the service was good. In restaurants it can vary, and on tours it is common to tip the guide and/or driver according to your satisfaction. Carrying small notes helps a lot with this.

In many cities, it is recommended not to drink tap water, especially if your stomach is sensitive. The safest thing is to use bottled or boiled water, and be careful with ice or juices in places where hygiene is uncertain.

In Lima, choose transport apps or formal services instead of taking informal taxis on the street. In Cusco, it is possible to walk short distances — paying attention to the hills — and use formal taxis or transport organized by an agency to other points. To visit attractions outside the city, the most practical option is to hire a tour or private transport.

Don't forget to bring a valid document, travel insurance, layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, repellent (if you're going to the jungle), sunglasses, a cap, a basic first aid kit and money in small bills. For more demanding tours, it is also worth taking anti-nausea medicine and light snacks.