JUNGLE TO TITICACA (11 NIGHTS)

From the legendary stonework of Machu Picchu to the distant horizons of Lake Titicaca, Peru delivers world-class destinations through a flavourful coastline, profound Andes and a lively amazon jungle. A place overflowing with singularities: the Amazon – the world’s largest rainforest, Lake Titicaca – the world’s highest navigable lake, and Colca – home to the world’s deepest canyon.

All this, in addition to an evolving culture where art, customs, and flavours are still being written. Peru is a place of astounding proportions and diversity, with plenty left to explore.

Please check your visa requirements for Peru with your travel agent. If you are travelling onward to other countries, be sure to verify their entry requirements as well. All necessary visas must be secured before departure. The staff, agents and their tour operators cannot be held responsible for any issues arising from visa noncompliance.

Upon arrival in Peru, you will pass through immigration and present your passport, which must be valid for at least six months from your entry date. Your passport will be stamped with your entry date and authorised length of stay; this information is recorded online and will be needed when checking in to hotels to qualify for exemption from the 18% sales tax.

Keep a scanned copy of your passport accessible via email in case of loss or emergency.

The official currency in Peru is the Sol, or Soles in Spanish (S/. – PEN). The American dollar is still accepted in many places and is the easiest currency to exchange. Please note that US dollar bills must be in excellent condition, as even the smallest tear or mark may result in them not being accepted.

• Money Exchange: ‘Casas de Cambio’ (exchange bureaus) usually offer better rates than hotels or banks. While street ‘Cambistas’ (money changers) are common, we suggest you avoid exchanging money at night or in isolated areas. For additional recommendations, please consult your guide or hotel staff.

• ATMs: ‘Cajeros Automáticos’ (ATMs) are available in most cities, airports, and shopping centres. Smaller towns, including Machu Picchu, have limited access — it’s advisable to withdraw cash beforehand. ATMs usually charge a fee and dispense both US dollars and Peruvian soles. For safety, use only machines located inside banks during daylight hours.

Flight Check-in and Reconfirmation

Please arrive at the airport: 

• Domestic flights: At least 2 hours before departure

• International flights: At least 3 hours before departure

During peak seasons (June–September and December), allow additional time for queues and security checks. 

Luggage Information

Airlines within Peru generally allow:

• Checked baggage: Up to 23 kg (50 lbs)

• Carry-on: Up to 10 kg (22 lbs) plus one personal item (maximum dimensions 45 x 35 x 20 cm) 

Policies may vary, so please check with your airline directly. 

• Train to Machu Picchu: Luggage space is limited. Passengers are allowed one small overnight bag with a maximum weight of 5 kg (11 lbs).

Medical Conditions

Please inform us of any medical conditions, allergies (such as bee stings, nuts, shellfish), or dietary restrictions before your arrival. We will do our best to accommodate your needs but cannot be held responsible if we are not advised in advance.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is a common concern for travelers heading to Peru. It’s a completely natural and normal response to the body’s adjustment to a significant change in elevation. The short 1.5 hour flight from Lima to Cusco elevates travelers from sea level to the Andes at 11,155 ft (3,400 m), which can lead to symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, or lightheadedness for many individuals. Here are our best tips for the first few days at high altitude:

• Limit strenuous physical activity during the first 36 to 48 hours to help your body acclimate to the altitude.

• Opt for light meals and avoid alcohol; soups and easily digestible foods are preferable.

• Stay hydrated by drinking ample water and try local coca tea in the morning or muña tea in the afternoon, both known for their potential benefits at high altitudes.

• If necessary, consider purchasing local soroche pills from a pharmacy, but be sure to consult your doctor beforehand if you have any preexisting medical conditions.

Travelling with Disabilities

Travelling in Peru can present challenges for those with mobility issues. Public transport such as trains and buses generally do not have wheelchair access, although some trains offer designated seating. 

As with any international travel, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in busy areas. Here are a few suggestions to keep your journey smooth:

• Never leave your bags or valuables unattended.

• Keep valuables, medications, and important documents in your carry-on when flying.

• Use hotel safes to store passports, cash, and additional cards.

• Carry only the cash you need for the day, and keep the rest securely stored.

• Be cautious with unsolicited offers of help and avoid displaying cash in public.

• Carry a photocopy of your passport or store a digital copy securely

Meat and fish should always be enjoyed well-cooked. Street food is plentiful in local markets and shops, but do make sure it has been properly heated and not left out. Vegetables are best eaten cooked, and fruit should be peeled. 

Water 

Tap water in Peru is not suitable for drinking. Please use bottled water, either still or sparkling, which will be provided in your hotels and vehicles, and is readily available in shops. Whenever possible, ask for your personal water bottles to be refilled to help reduce plastic waste, especially in rural areas where the impact is greatest.

Peru’s climate varies by region—coast, highlands, and rainforest—so layers are key. The coast sees little rain during winter, the highlands have seasonal showers, and the Amazon gets rain year-round. 

Peru is a very geographically diverse country and has many different climates. Because the weather can change throughout the day and the temperatures may fluctuate, we recommend bringing clothing that can be easily layered.

Internet access is available in many places you may visit, including your accommodation, restaurants, coffee shops, shopping malls, public parks and libraries. All offer convenient access, allowing you to stay connected with ease whenever needed.

Peru operates on 220 volts. Most upscale hotels also offer 110-volt outlets. Power sockets are usually three-pin, 15-amp type. Many modern appliances have built-in converters or adaptors, and most hotels provide adaptors upon request. 

Tipping is not mandatory but is greatly appreciated. If you would like to express your gratitude with a tip, here are some general recommendations:

• Specialized Guides: Consider tipping USD 10.00 per person per day.

• Drivers: A tip of USD 5.00 per person per day.

• Restaurants: It is customary to leave a tip of 10% based on the total bill.

• Bellboys: A small tip of USD 1.00 or 2.00 is appreciated per service.

• Trekking: It is customary to tip your trekking team based on their services; your trekking company will share suggestions based on the length and type of trek.

For larger groups (more than eight people), these amounts may be slightly lower. Tips can be given in either US dollars or Peruvian soles – whichever suits you best.