FAQs

Peru Travel FAQ: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Find answers about Machu Picchu, Weather, Safety, Trekking and More.

Travel Packages FAQs

Most tour packages lasting 5 days or more include accommodation, transfers, guided tours, admission to major attractions, and some meals, depending on the itinerary.

Yes, we customize and tailor itineraries based on the days available, budget, destinations, and type of experience.

It is recommended to book 2 to 3 months in advance, especially if your trip includes Machu Picchu or the Inca Trail, or if you plan to travel during high season (April to September).

During these months, tickets to Machu Picchu and permits for the Inca Trail sell out quickly, as do the best hotels, which tend to fill up well in advance.

Last-minute trips:

If your itinerary does not include Machu Picchu, it is possible to travel at the last minute, always with the coordination and advice of our experts, who will help you organize the best option available.

Yes. Our standard packages use 3-star hotels, but you can upgrade to 4-star, 5-star, or Boutique hotels. Just let us know in your inquiry.

Weather & Best Time

The climate in Peru is as diverse as its landscapes, as the country is made up of three natural regions, each with its own charm:

Coast

It stretches along the Pacific Ocean and is characterized by a dry, temperate climate. Rainfall is very scarce, although in winter there may be light drizzle (garúa). Its desert landscapes and beaches make this region an ideal place to enjoy the sea and coastal cities.

Sierra / Andes

Located in the heart of the country, the Andes mountain range crosses Peru from south to north. The climate here is variable, with sunny days, cold nights, and a rainy season between November and March. It is the perfect region for those seeking adventure, trekking, and spectacular mountain scenery.

Amazon Rainforest

Peru is home to a large part of the Amazon rainforest, famous for its biodiversity. The climate is warm and humid throughout the year, with frequent rainfall that keeps the jungle green and vibrant. Ideal for nature experiences, wildlife viewing, and sustainable tourism.

Summer (December–March): Sunny and warm, ideal for the beach.

Winter (June–September): Cool, cloudy, and drizzly, but without heavy rainfall.

Dry season (April–September): Sunny days and cold nights, ideal for trekking.

Rainy season (November–March): Green landscapes, but with frequent rainfall.

Machu Picchu Tours FAQs

How far in advance should I book my ticket to Machu Picchu? It is recommended to book at least 2 or 3 months in advance for general admission. If you want to climb the additional mountains (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain), you should book even further in advance, as spaces are very limited and sell out quickly.

No, tickets are not sold at the entrance to the citadel. You must purchase them in advance online (at https://tuboleto.cultura.pe ) or at authorized offices in Cusco or Aguas Calientes before going up.

Important warning: Leaving your purchase until the last minute carries a high risk of not finding availability. During the high season (May to October), tickets are limited and the lines at the physical offices are very long. Due to the lack of ticket availability, many tourists end up stranded in Aguas Calientes for 1 to 5 days waiting to get a ticket.

To avoid this situation, we recommend booking your Machu Picchu tickets well in advance through Wari Expeditions, along with your train and hotel reservations.

Since June 1, 2025, to protect the monument and prevent overcrowding, entry to Machu Picchu has been divided into three main circuits (which in turn have different routes). It is essential to understand that the tours are one-way: once you move forward, you cannot return.

1. Circuit 1: Panoramic (The Classic Photo)

This circuit explores the upper part of the mountain.

  • What will you see? You access the upper terraces and the famous "Guardian's House." This is the exact spot to take the classic postcard photo with the citadel in the background.
  • Warning: This ticket does NOT allow you to go down into the urban sector (the stone ruins, temples, and plazas). You only view them from above.
  • Variants: Includes options for the hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) or the Inca Bridge.

2. Circuit 2: Classic (The Complete Experience)

This is the most requested ticket and the one that sells out the fastest.

  • What will you see? It combines the best of both worlds: you climb to the upper part for the classic photo and then descend to explore the urban sector (Temple of the Sun, Main Plaza, Sacred Rock, etc.).
  • Best for: First-time visitors who want to see everything.

3. Circuit 3: Royalty (Adventure & Lower Zone)

This circuit explores the lower part of the citadel.

  • What will you see? You enter directly into the stone constructions (Temple of the Condor, Temple of the Sun - lower area).
  • Important: This circuit does NOT have access to the panoramic classic photo from above.
  • Mountains: This is the mandatory circuit if you want to hike Huayna Picchu or Huchuy Picchu mountains.

Which one should I choose?

  • Is it your first time? Choose Circuit 2 (Classic Route) without hesitation. It is the most complete experience.
  • Do you love adventure? Choose Circuit 3 + Huayna Picchu Mountain (but keep in mind you won't get the panoramic photo from the top).
  • Do you want the best photo or prefer less walking? Choose Circuit 1. The views are incredible, and the physical effort is less than Circuit 2.

Note: If you buy the wrong circuit, you cannot change it at the entrance gate. Read carefully before booking!

The restrooms are located outside the entrance checkpoint. Be sure to use them before entering, as if you leave to go to the restroom, you will not be able to re-enter (except in very specific cases, depending on your ticket).

Rainfall is most frequent between January and February. However, as it is located on the edge of the jungle, it can rain at any time.

Yes. There are accessible trails, although a basic level of physical fitness is recommended for walking. However, they are also wheelchair accessible.

Inca Trail & Trekking – FAQs

The Classic Inca Trail (4 Days) is a 45km hike involving 3 nights of camping and crossing high passes like Dead Woman's Pass. The Short Inca Trail (2 Days) starts at KM 104, involves only 1 day of hiking (about 6-7 hours), and you spend the night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes instead of camping.

Since permits are limited to 500 per day (including staff), we recommend booking 2 to 6 months in advance for the high season (May to August). For the Short Inca Trail, 1-3 months is usually sufficient, but early booking is always advised.

Yes, Salkantay is generally considered more challenging. It reaches a higher altitude (4,630m at the Salkantay Pass) and covers more distance (around 72km). However, it offers more diverse landscapes, including glacier views and tropical forests, and doesn't require permits as far in advance.

We strictly recommend staying in Cusco for at least 2 days before starting any trek. Drink plenty of water, try "Coca tea," and eat light meals. If you're concerned, consult your doctor about altitude medication (like Diamox).

No. In our Classic Inca Trail tours, porters carry the tents, cooking equipment, and up to 7kg of your personal belongings (duffel bag provided). You only carry a small daypack with your essentials like water, camera, and rain jacket.

The Inca Trail is open year-round except for February, when it closes for maintenance and due to heavy rains. Machu Picchu remains open, and alternative treks like Salkantay or Lares are usually available, weather permitting.

There are three levels to choose from when deciding where to start trekking in Peru:

Beginner level: short, well-marked routes at low altitude that can be completed in a single day. Laguna Humantay falls into this category.

Intermediate level: perfect for those who exercise regularly. The hike can last up to 7 hours at an altitude of around 800 meters above sea level. Options include the Inca Trail and Salkantay routes.

Advanced level: If you practice mountaineering or other mountain sports, this trekking category is ideal for you. The hike can last from 8 hours to several days. This type of traveler has technical skills and is exposed to difficult conditions due to climate change. A route through the Cordillera Blanca challenges this category.

Peru offers a variety of trekking destinations that cater to different skill levels and interests. Some of the most popular trekking destinations include:

  • Inca Trail: The classic hiking trail to Machu Picchu, known for its historical significance and stunning landscapes and archaeological sites.
  • Salkantay Trek: This route, an alternative to the Inca Trail, offers breathtaking views of Mount Salkantay and varied landscapes, and usually takes 5 days to complete.
  • Lares Trek: A cultural route that winds through traditional Andean villages, offering a glimpse into local life and breathtaking views of mountains, alpacas, and lakes.
  • Choquequirao Trek: A challenging hike to the little-known Inca site of Choquequirao, often referred to as the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, offering breathtaking scenery and passing through the Apurimac Canyon.
  • Cordillera Blanca: Known for its stunning snow-capped peaks, this region offers challenging treks like the Santa Cruz Trek and Alpamayo Circuit.
  • Colca Canyon: One of the deepest canyons in the world, offering treks that showcase Andean culture and wildlife, including the majestic Andean condor.
  • Huascarán National Park: Home to Peru's highest peak, Huascarán, this park offers various trekking routes with breathtaking views of glaciers and alpine lakes.
  • Ausangate Trek: A high-altitude trek that takes you around the sacred Ausangate Mountain, known for its colorful landscapes and traditional Andean villages.
See hiking trails

Packing & Essentials

Yes, it depends on your nationality. Many countries (the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and most of Europe and South America) do not require a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days, only a passport that is valid for more than 6 months.. Check your local consulate.

Both are recommended. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist establishments. However, it is advisable to bring cash (US dollars) when arriving in Lima or Cusco, where you can easily exchange it for Peruvian soles (PEN). Cash is useful for small shops, local markets, transportation, rural areas, and tips.

Peru's official currency is the Peruvian sol (PEN), commonly referred to as the “sol.” It is the most widely used currency throughout the country for daily payments, transportation, restaurants, markets, and tourist services.

Peruvian sol denominations:

  • Coins: S/ 0.10, S/ 0.20, S/ 0.50, S/ 1, S/ 2, and S/ 5.
  • Bills: S/ 10, S/ 20, S/ 50, S/ 100, and S/ 200.

Note: It is advisable to carry small bills to facilitate payments in taxis, markets, and rural towns. In tourist areas, travel agencies, hotels, restaurants, and some establishments accept US dollars.

Peru uses Type A and Type C plugs, with 220V. Travelers from the USA and Canada may need a voltage converter.

Safety & Health

Wari Expeditions monitors social situations 24/7.

Many travelers ask if traveling to Peru is safe. The answer is yes, traveling to Peru is safe, especially in tourist areas such as Lima (Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro), Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, as well as other departments of Peru where tourism operates normally after periods of social instability. As with any destination, it is crucial to take basic precautions: look after your belongings, use taxis or secure transportation apps, and stay informed about the local situation, as protests or occasional roadblocks may occur that affect routes. Wari Expeditions continuously monitors the situation to ensure the safety of our travelers.

Drink plenty of water, eat light meals, and drink Coca Tea. We recommend resting the first day in Cusco. Oxygen is available in hotels and carried by our guides.

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