What to Bring for Your Trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu
 Traveling to Cusco and Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but high altitude, changing weather, and long travel days mean good preparation makes all the difference.

Based on years of experience guiding travelers in the Andes, here’s the most complete and practical list of what to bring and how to get ready.

 Documents and Tickets
 - Always carry your original passport  it’s required to board trains and enter Machu Picchu.
 - Take a photo of your passport on your phone as backup.
 - Bring your Machu Picchu entrance ticket and train ticket (printed or digital).
 - Students should carry an ISIC card for discounts.
 - Keep all documents in a waterproof pouch or travel wallet.
 - Travel insurance if possible is recommended, especially for altitude and hiking activities.
 ✅ Without these documents, you cannot enter Machu Picchu  check before leaving your hotel.


 Money and Payments
 - Exchange money only in official exchange houses (casas de cambio) in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
 - Avoid airports rates are poor and counterfeit bills are common.
 - Most hotels and restaurants accept Visa or Mastercard, but small shops and taxis require cash (soles).
 - Carry small bills for local markets and tips.
 - ATMs are available in Cusco and Ollantaytambo but not in remote areas.
 - If unsure where to exchange money, ask us  we recommend safe, trusted places near your hotel.


 Weather and Clothing
 Weather in the Andes has become unpredictable  you can experience sun, wind, rain, and cold all in one day, even during the dry season, short rain showers are common.
 Bring:
 - Sun protection: high SPF sunscreen (50+), hat, sunglasses, and lip balm with SPF.
 - Rain protection: poncho or waterproof jacket — always keep one in your backpack.
 -  Layers: t-shirts, fleece, and a light down jacket for cold mornings.
 - Comfortable, non-slip shoes — for uneven stone paths and stairs.
 -  Quick-dry clothing , avoid heavy denim or cotton, especially in rainy season.
 - Andean weather can be deceiving  be prepared for both sun and rain, anytime of year.


 Altitude and Health
 Cusco sits at 3,399 meters (11,152 ft) altitude can affect anyone.
 You may feel headache, fatigue, or dizziness during your first day.
 To prevent altitude sickness:
 - Drink plenty of water and rest your first day.
 - Try coca tea, coca candies, or muña tea available everywhere.
 - Bring electrolyte powder or rehydration salts to stay hydrated.
 - Eat light meals and avoid alcohol until your body adjusts.
 - Hydration and slow acclimatization are key  don’t rush your activities the first 24 hours.

 Bags and Packing Tips
 - Use a small backpack (max 20L) for Machu Picchu (required by regulations).
 - Leave large suitcases at your hotel  most offer free luggage storage.
 - Pack light: the less you carry, the more you enjoy your trip.

Inside your daypack:
 - Water bottle
 - Snacks (nuts, energy bars)
 - Poncho
 - Camera or phone
 - Passport and tickets
 - Hand sanitizer and tissues
 ✅ At Machu Picchu, large bags are not allowed only small daypacks.

Health and Safety Essentials
 -   Mosquito repellent: necessary in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
 -   Basic medicines: painkillers, antihistamines, band-aids, antiseptic wipes.
 -   Water purification tablets (if hiking).
 -   Personal medication in original packaging.
 -   sanitizer and wet wipes, public bathrooms may lack supplies.

 Electronics and Adapters
 -  Universal adapter: Peru uses 220V outlets (types A, B, and C).
 -  Portable charger (power bank): tours can last all day.
 - Camera or smartphone: bring extra SD cards and batteries.
 - Earphones for long train or bus rides.
 -  Cloud backup or hard drive for your photos.
 You’ll take hundreds of pictures — make sure your battery and memory last!

 Sun and Hydration
 - The radiation at high altitude is intense  always use sunscreen and wear a hat.
 - Bring a reusable water bottle and refill often.
 - Add electrolytes to your water to prevent dehydration and fatigue.
 ✅ The more you hydrate, the better your body adapts to the altitude.

  Traveling with Family
 If you’re traveling with children or seniors:
 - Bring personal medicines and snacks.
 - Use layers and thermal clothing for cold mornings.
 - Carry wet wipes and hand gel.
 - Plan rest stops  altitude can cause tiredness.
  Cusco is family-friendly, but the altitude and early mornings require extra care.


 Rainy Season (November–March)
 If traveling during the rainy season, include:
 - Waterproof shoes with good grip.
 -Rain poncho (better than umbrellas).
 - Dry bags or ziplocks for electronics.
 - Quick-dry clothes and spare socks.
 - Waterproof cover for your backpack.
  Don’t let the rain stop you Cusco is beautiful and green this time of year.


 Respect and Culture
 - Always ask before taking photos of local people.
 - Respect sacred sites o not touch or climb on stones.
 - Greet people with a smile  kindness goes a long way.

  Final Advice
 - Before leaving your hotel, double check your passport, tickets, and essentials.
 - Plan ahead, travel light, drink water, and expect sudden weather changes.
 - Exchange money only in safe places, stay cautious with street food, and enjoy every step of your journey.
 - You’re not just visiting Machu Picchu  you’re discovering the living heart of the Andes.