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Traveler FAQs: Peru

Peru, Education, Traveler FAQ

Updated over 3 weeks ago

We offer several trips to Peru, with different itineraries. However, we are often asked frequent questions regarding what to prepare. From accommodations to tipping Guides, you can find the answers here!

Click on the question you're interested in to view the answer. If you can't find what you're looking for, please reach out to our Customer Support team here.

Accommodations

For the Inca Trail trekking itinerary, what essential camping equipment is included?

Tents, sleeping pads, and duffle bags are included. You have the option of renting sleeping bags or trekking poles upon booking, or can bring your own. You should also plan on bringing your own pillow if one is desired.

Duffel bags are provided by the local Operator, so you don't have to bring your own. These bags will be carried by porters during the trek and have a weight limit of 13 lbs per Traveler.

What are the specifications of the optional sleeping bags?

Below is the technical information for the optional sleeping bags available for rent from the local operator. Various options are offered to suit different seasons.

Sawtooth Sleeping Bag Long: Temperature range: Comfort: -3°C (26.6°F) / Limit: -9°C (15.8°F) / Extreme: -28°C (-18.4°F)

Explorer Down-Doite Sleeping Bag: Temperature range: Comfort: 3°C (37.4°F) / Limit: -1°C (30.2°F) / Extreme: -15°C (5°F)

Each sleeping bag weighs ~1.5 kg (3.3 lbs)

Can I bring my own sleeping bag?

Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own sleeping bag, but it must not exceed 3.6 kg (7.9 lbs). For general reference, sleeping bags should have a comfort rating between -3°C (26.6°F) and 3°C (37.4°F). Please contact our Customer Support Team to let us know if you plan to bring your own.

If we don’t hear from you, a sleeping bag will automatically be provided for you at no additional cost, along with optional trekking poles (when applicable).

Does the Inca Trail trekking itinerary include portable toilets?


Yes, all of our treks include portable toilets with toilet paper.


Activities

Are hiking boots needed?

It’s best to bring hiking boots, as the trails are often uneven and can become quite muddy if it rains. While some parts of the trek are flat, others involve uphill and downhill sections, so we recommend boots that provide ankle support.

Are trekking poles allowed at Machu Picchu?

Trekking poles are no longer permitted at Machu Picchu, including those with rounded caps. However, if you have a medical condition that requires the use of a trekking pole, you can bring a doctor’s note explaining your need. This note can be presented to the local authorities when you arrive at Machu Picchu.

If approved by the local authorities, you’re welcome to bring your own trekking pole or rent one through the local operator for approximately $20–$25 USD.

Are drones allowed at Machu Picchu?

Drones are not allowed at Machu Picchu. This policy is set by the local authorities.

Can Travelers take a mule if they get tired?

For all treks, one horse is included for emergencies only. This option is only available if you’re unable to continue hiking. Typically most Travelers have preferred alternative transportation rather than continuing the trek on horseback.

Please note that in emergencies you can ride the horse to the campsite at Llaqtapata, but beyond that point, riding is prohibited by the Ministry of Culture.

What are some tips for managing altitude sickness during the trek?

For travelers concerned about altitude sickness during the trip, it’s helpful to know that Cusco and Ollantaytambo are actually higher in elevation than Machu Picchu. That means your first three days — spent in Cusco and Ollantaytambo — are intentionally designed with light activities and easy-paced walking to help you acclimate.

By the time you begin the Machu Picchu Ruins Tour on Day 4, you’ll actually be descending in elevation, which often comes as a relief. Many travelers report feeling noticeably better once they arrive at Machu Picchu after spending time at higher altitudes.

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What to Expect and How We Support You:

Your local guide will be closely monitoring how everyone is feeling and will adjust the pace of activities if needed to ensure comfort and safety throughout the experience.

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Tips for Managing Altitude — Especially in Cusco (Your Highest Elevation Stop):

  1. Take it Easy the First 3 Days

    Rest, hydrate, and give your body time to adjust. The itinerary supports this by being intentionally light and low-key.

  2. Avoid Overexertion Early On

    Skip intense hikes or alcohol at the beginning — your body will thank you!

  3. Hydrate Like a Pro

    Drink lots of water and consider adding electrolytes (like Liquid I.V. or Nuun) to help with balance and energy levels.

  4. Coca Tea (Mate de Coca)

    This is a local remedy that’s widely available at your hotel, cafes, and even the airport. It helps with circulation and can reduce headaches or nausea.

  5. Essential Oils

    Peppermint or eucalyptus oils can help ease dizziness and nausea. You can find them in local pharmacies or bring your own.

  6. Portable Oxygen (if needed)

    While it’s more common on trekking itineraries, your guide can help access oxygen if needed — either from their own supply or from a nearby pharmacy.

  7. Medication (if pre-arranged with a doctor)

    For those extra concerned, talk to your doctor about Acetazolamide (Diamox). It’s often prescribed for altitude and should be taken 1–2 days before arrival and continued for a few days into the trip.

    Ibuprofen or Paracetamol are also helpful for general altitude-related headaches.

Will there be extra oxygen available during higher elevation levels? What is the emergency protocol if someone is feeling altitude sickness?

Yes, our guides carry supplemental oxygen and a full first aid kit as a standard safety precaution during the trek — especially important at higher elevations. While the first couple of days can be physically demanding due to the altitude, the latter part of the trek becomes more manageable as the route gradually descends into the cloud forest.

If a traveler begins to feel unwell due to altitude sickness (e.g., headache, nausea, dizziness), our guides are trained to recognize symptoms early and will immediately respond by:

  • Stopping activity to allow for rest and hydration

  • Administering oxygen if needed

  • Monitoring the traveler closely

Both the lead guide and assistant guide are there to support the group and will give extra attention to anyone feeling unwell.

In the rare event that a participant is unable to continue, our team is fully prepared to coordinate an evacuation. Our guides are equipped with a satellite phone for emergency communication, and we can arrange for a vehicle to access the nearest reachable camp and safely transport the traveler back to Cusco.

If you have a known sensitivity to altitude, we strongly encourage consulting your doctor before the trip and discussing preventive medication such as acetazolamide (Diamox).

Let us know if you have any other questions or concerns — your safety and comfort are our top priorities!

Currency

How much should I tip my Guide, and in what currency?

Tips for Guides, drivers, and restaurant staff are not included in your trip costs. While tipping is not mandatory, it is a meaningful way to show appreciation and provides supplemental income for local teams. If they have enhanced your experience, consider rewarding their efforts with a tip. Below are tipping suggestions:

  • For Guides, it is recommended to tip $2-4 USD per person/per day

  • For Drivers, it is recommended to tip $1-2 USD per person/per day

  • At restaurants, it is recommended to tip 10-15% of the total bill

  • For Hotel staff who assist with luggage, it is recommended to tip $1-2 USD per bag

  • For Hotel housekeeping staff, it is recommended to tip $1-2 USD per person/per day

Tips can be given in either Peruvian Sol or US dollars.

How much money should I prepare?

When it comes to money matters on the trip, every Traveler is a little different. You know your spending habits better than anyone, so please budget a sensible amount for things like drinks, shopping, optional activities, tipping and laundry. It’s always better to bring a little more than you think you’ll need.

The recommended amounts are listed in USD for the relatability of universal Travelers, however local currency may be needed.

  • It is recommended to have access to $300-400 USD for emergencies or additional unexpected expenses

  • It is recommended to budget between $25-50 USD per day for meals that are not included

  • See the answer above for tipping guidelines

If needed, ATMs are widely available in major towns across Peru. Your Guide can assist with helping you find an ATM during the trip.

Credit cards are generally accepted in tourist shops and restaurants. Visa and Mastercard are generally more widely accepted over American Express, Diners, etc. Please check with your banking provider to ensure they are aware of your travel plans before your departure.

Guides

How many Guides will be assigned to our trip?

One primary Guide will be assigned to your group for the entire duration of the trip. Depending on the activity, transportation logistics, or legal requirements, additional Guides may be needed. Please refer to the specific guidelines below:

  • Hiking Through Ruins Itinerary

    • Full Day Sacred Valley (Pisac Market & Archaeological Site, Local Community, Ollantaytambo, Maras, Moray, Local Community of Chinchero): One primary Guide for up to 19 Travelers. For groups of 20 or more, an additional Guide will be assigned, as the group will need to be split into two buses to enter the local community.

    • Machu Picchu: One primary Guide for up to 16 travelers. For groups of 17 or more, an additional Guide will be assigned to comply with local law requirements.

    • Full Day Waqrapukara: An additional Guide will be required for every 8 Travelers.

    • Full Day Palcoyo: An additional Guide will be required for every 8 Travelers.

  • Machu Picchu Adventure

    • Hiking Through Cusco Ruins: One primary Guide will be sufficient—no additional Guide is required.

    • Cusco Downtown Walking Tour: One primary Guide will be sufficient—no additional Guide is required.

    • Full Day Sacred Valley (Pisac Market & Archaeological Site, Local Community, Ollantaytambo, Maras, Moray, Local Community of Chinchero): One primary Guide for up to 19 Travelers. For groups of 20 or more, an additional Guide will be assigned, as the group will need to be split into two buses to access the local community.

    • Machu Picchu: One primary Guide for up to 16 Travelers. For groups of 17 or more, an additional Guide will be assigned to comply with local regulations.

    • Cooking Class: A professional chef will be assigned to lead the group.

  • Multi-Day Trek to Machu Picchu

    • Hiking Through Cusco Ruins: One primary Guide will be sufficient—no additional guide is required.

    • Cusco Downtown Walking Tour: One primary Guide will be sufficient—no additional guide is required.

    • Salkantay Trek: One primary Guide for up to 5 Travelers. For groups of 6 to 16 Travelers, an additional Guide will be assigned. For groups of 17 or more, two additional Guides will be assigned.

Luggage

Are there are luggage restrictions when visiting Machu Picchu?

When visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll need to leave your main luggage at your hotel in Ollantaytambo. For your journey to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, please pack only a small carry-on or overnight bag (such as a backpack, handbag, or duffel bag). The weight of your bag should not exceed 8kg (17 lbs), and the total dimensions should be no more than 118 linear cm / 46 linear inches (height + length + width).

This applies whether you’re planning a day trip or an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes. Rest assured, your hotel in Ollantaytambo will securely store your main luggage until your return. Be sure to pack all the essentials for your Machu Picchu adventure in your smaller bag!

How does carrying luggage work on the Inca Trail trekking itinerary?

You’ll receive your duffel bag during the briefing with your assigned Guide the evening before you begin the trek. Any suitcases you bring from home will stay securely stored at your first hotel, so you’ll only need to pack essential items in your duffel bag for the trek.

During the trek, horses and mules will transport your duffel bags between campsites, so you won’t have to carry them along the trail. However, since your duffel bag will travel ahead of the group, you won’t have access to it until you arrive at the next campsite.

To ensure you have everything you need during the day, it’s highly recommended that you bring a small backpack for your essentials. Keep in mind that you’ll be responsible for carrying your own backpack, as no one will be available to assist with it.

Meals

Is the water safe for me to drink?

You should avoid using tap water, even for brushing your teeth, whenever possible. Instead, stick to treated or bottled water, which will be readily available at all lodging accommodations.

When can water bottles be refilled when on the trek?

You can refill your water bottles at three specific times during the day: at breakfast, at lunch, and when you arrive at the campsite.

How much water should I plan to carry?

The amount of water you should carry in your daypack depends on how much you typically drink. We usually recommend bringing a 1 or 1.5-liter bottle. Keep in mind that while you can bring larger bottles, they will add extra weight to your daypack, as you'll need to carry them.

Will there be snacks provided on the trek?

Meals on the trek are hearty and packed with plenty of carbohydrates to keep you energized. While snacks are provided, you’re welcome to bring your own if you’d like.

Passport

Why is my passport information required ahead of time?

For all trips to Machu Picchu, our local operator requires passport information at least 60 days before the trip to secure tickets and permits. To ensure a smooth process, TrovaTrip reaches out to confirmed Travelers well in advance to collect this information, allowing ample time for ticket arrangements.

Transfers

What type of transfer vehicle is used during the trip?

A private van or shuttle bus.

What does public transportation look like?

Taxis and buses are readily available in both Lima and Cusco, but the best way to explore Cusco is on foot!

Is Uber or Lyft available?

Uber is available in Lima.

Trip Insurance

Is trip insurance required?

While trip insurance is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended to protect yourself in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies during your travels.

Please refer to the Trip Prep guide here for additional information about Peru.

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