Welcome to Qoyawarkuna Travel’s essential Help Guide. We understand that planning a trip to Peru, especially to the heights of the Andes, often raises questions. Our local experts designed this guide to provide you with practical and essential advice, ensuring your experience is safe, pleasant, and smooth. Information and acclimatization are key to enjoying Peru.

2. Health and Acclimatization: Altitude Sickness (Soroche)

Altitude sickness or Soroche is the main concern for visitors to Cusco ($3,399$ m / $11,152$ ft above sea level). Prevention is simple and vital:

• Gradual Acclimatization: If possible, travel directly from Cusco Airport (CUZ) to a hotel in the Sacred Valley (approx. $2,800$ m / $9,186$ ft above sea level) to spend your first two days.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and coffee for the first 48 hours.
• Diet: Consume light foods and avoid heavy, fatty meals. Soups and broths are ideal.
• Andean Remedies: Drink Coca Tea (Mate de Coca) or Muña Tea (Mate de Muña), traditional infusions that aid oxygenation.
• Rest: On the first day, walk slowly and rest frequently.
• Warning: If you plan to undertake high-mountain treks (Vinicunca, Ausangate), consult your doctor about preventive medications such as Diamox or Soroche pills (available in local pharmacies).

3. Documentation and Security

• Passport: Your passport must have a minimum validity of six (6) months from the date of entry into Peru. Citizens of the European Union and the Americas typically do not require a tourist visa for stays shorter than 90 days.
• Travel Insurance: This is highly mandatory. Your insurance must cover medical expenses, accidents, lost luggage, and, crucially, emergency medical evacuation (vital in remote or high-mountain areas).
• General Security: Cusco is a safe city. However, as in any tourist destination, use taxis from reliable companies (taken inside the airport or requested via apps/hotel), keep your valuables hidden, and avoid walking in poorly lit areas at night.
• Copies: Leave your original passport in the hotel safe and carry a color photocopy for tours.

4. Climate and Essential Luggage

Peru has three regions (Coast, Highlands, and Jungle) with distinct climates, but in Cusco (Highlands):

• Dry Season (May to September): Sunny and chilly days, very cold nights. Best time for trekking.
• Rainy Season (November to March): Intermittent afternoon rain. Milder climate overall.
• Key Luggage (Layering Technique): Bring clothes that allow for layering: Thermal clothing, fleece, and a windproof/waterproof jacket. The sun is strong during the day, but mornings and nights are very cold.
• Essentials: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent (necessary in the cloud forest of Machu Picchu).

5. Money and Communication

• Currency: The official currency is the Peruvian Sol (S/). US Dollars (US$) are accepted in many hotels and agencies.
• Cash vs. Card: Credit cards are accepted in large restaurants and stores, but you will need cash (Soles) for markets, tips, local entry fees (e.g., Maras Salt Mines), and taxis.
• Internet: It is easy to purchase a local SIM card or an eSIM (Holafly, for example) upon arrival to have mobile data. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels.
• Electricity: The voltage is 220 volts. Outlets are generally types A and C (flat and round), so we recommend carrying a universal adapter.

6. Includes (Value of the Guide)

• Detailed advice on acclimatization.
• Essential safety guidelines for tourism in Cusco.
• Clear recommendations on luggage and seasonal climate.

7. Excludes (Exclusions)

• Specific medical advice (we recommend consulting a professional).
• Detailed visa information for all nationalities (only major ones are covered).

8. Recommendations (Call to Action)

• Planning: Use this guide as your trip checklist.
• Qoyawarkuna Travel Advises You: If you have specific questions about your itinerary, our team of experts stands ready to provide you with personalized support.