Essential Tips for First-Time Traveler's to Peru: What I Wish I Knew Before My Trip

Peru had always been my dream destination but it initially seemed out of reach for me due to the expensive flight tickets. However, after getting a buddy pass from Qatar Airways, I finally seized the opportunity to write my essential tips for Peru traveler's.

I had a three-month preparation period for the journey. I gathered my hiking equipment, organized my packing list, and outlined an itinerary. My main focus was on seeing Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and experiencing Ayahuasca.

There are diverse routes to reach Machu Picchu, and I chose the challenging Salkantay Trek. Rainbow Mountain posed more challenges than anticipated. Although I was intrigued by Ayahuasca, unforeseen circumstances stopped me from pursuing it further. I hope the lessons I learned from this trip will be beneficial to others who are planning to travel here someday.

 1. Be prepared for high altitudes

Upon arrival in Cusco, I immediately felt the effects of the high altitude. Even a short stroll in the streets left me fatigued. After a two-day flight with only half a day in the city, I recommend spending at least two days in Cusco to acclimatize before taking any high-altitude hikes. Cusco is a stunning location on its own. You can fully discover the city in just 2 days by visiting museums, browsing shops, and enjoying the local cuisine.

The 12-angled stone - a prominent symbol of Inca architecture, found in the streets of Cusco

Plaza de Armas

Ceviche and Guinea pig

In Cusco, it is common to chew coca leaves as a remedy for altitude sickness. Throughout our trek, we brought along plenty of coca leaves and also brewed them into tea. While certain trekkers choose to use Diamox, simply staying well-hydrated and moving at a slow pace should suffice to prevent altitude sickness.

To enjoy your hiking experience, it's crucial to have physical training several months in advance. While I did some light exercises before my trip, I should have prioritized more rigorous and hiking-specific workouts.

During our second day, I had to ride a horse for certain sections of the trek.

2. Consider a self-guided or local tour approach

I booked a 5-day Salkantay trek with Alpaca Expeditions two months beforehand. Despite the higher cost, I preferred avoiding the stress of planning and carrying a heavy load while hiking.

While group tours can be an excellent way to meet people, there's a risk of not fitting in well with the group. I found myself grouped with younger travelers on my tour, which occasionally made me feel out of place. This experience nearly spoiled my entire trip!

To be honest, the organized tour was quite impressive! The delicious food, comfortable accommodations, and excellent service made it a great experience. The primary guide is knowledgeable about Peru's history and is fluent in English. However, I believe that if I had been with people closer to my age and fitness level, I would have enjoyed it even more.

For those who are still interested in joining an organized tour, there are budget-friendly and more flexible choices available in Cusco. I just found out that the hotel where I stayed was providing the same tours I took at nearly half the cost!

Stayed at a Hobbit House-themed lodging after a 10-hour hike on day 3

a delicous dish at the hostel in Cusco

a delicious breed with sauce on a platter

Delicious meals prepared by our local Chef!

We reached Humantay Lake (4200masl) on the first day of our hike

Ending our 5-day Salkantay trek at Machu Picchu

3. Plan rest days for recovery

Following the Salkantay Trek, I booked another tour with the same company to Rainbow Mountain the next day. It was just a half-day tour and this time, I did not find it difficult to fit in since we were in the same age group. However I had difficulties again with the high altitude, so I was asked to ride a horse to keep up with the scheduled itinerary.

The challenging paths at Rainbow Mountain

The first photo stop at Rainbow Mountain

The Red Valley

The following day, I experienced flu-like symptoms due to exhaustion and altitude sickness, resulting in the cancellation of my Ayahuasca plans. Thankfully, my travel insurance covered the cost of my medicines and consultation fee.

Perhaps I underestimated the difficulties of the hiking tours, which is why I forgot to take a break. My main goal was to make the most of my time, but pushing myself too hard only resulted in more problems.

4. Test your equipment in advance

Even though I carefully organized my packing list, I overlooked the most crucial item - my hiking shoes. I was surprised to find out that the boots I had used a year ago no longer fit me, so I had to buy a new pair that was not ideal for the hike. I attempted to find alternative hiking boots, but they were unavailable in the store, and I had limited time before the hike.

5. Discover more than Machu Picchu

If you are a foodie like me, check out Lima to explore the culinary scene. I regret missing out on Central, the world's top restaurant in 2023.

Should I have a chance to revisit Peru, I would hike the Inca trail on my own and visit the Sacred Valley as well as the historical sites close to Cusco. Additionally, I might consider returning for another opportunity to participate in an Ayahuasca ceremony.