Trip Tips and What to Pack For Your
Machu Picchu Singles Vacation by Train
Passport and Visas
Northen Americans and citizens of the European Union do not need visas to enter Peru. If you are from a citizen of a different country you can check the Peru Consualate's website for visa requirements.
Local Currency
The local currency is Nuevos Soles but US dollars are widely accepted. 1 Nuevo Sol is divided into 100 Céntimo. ATMs will be available in all cities just remember you will need your pin code. Do not change money with street changers.
Most establishments accept credit cards, including Visa, Master Card, Diners and American Express.. When using a credit card, make sure you are charged the right amount for your purchase. Visa is the most widely accepted card in Peru. If you are planning on using your credit cards then you should call the credit card companys and let them know that you are traveling to Peru.
Language
Peru has two official languages: Spanish and Quechua. English is spoken at most hotels, tourist attractions and shops.
Local Time
Peru is 5 hours behind GMT (Greenwich mean time), which is the same time as Eastern Standard Time in the United states.. Peru does not observe daylight savings time.
Electric Plugs
The electric system of Peru works on 220 volts. So check your equipment (phone and camera chargers, hair dryers, flat irons. In most hotel bathrooms there is an electrical outlet with 110 volts for electric shavers but not to be used for irons or hairdryers. Purchase a converter/adaptor before you leave home.
Peru Weather
The high altitude of Machu Picchu makes for mild temperatures with the average ranging between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit with only slight variations throughout the year. Machu Picchu is almost always surrounded by fog. November to April is the rainy season, although daily short showers are common thoughout the year. Peak tourist season corresponds with dry season in July and August when the nights are cool and the days are generally dry. January and February are the rainiest months, and many people visit the area in November and April to avoid the heaviest crowds.
The tempertaure can vary from hot during the day to cold at night – so be prepared. It can get rather chilly in the shade, thus you should always keep a warm garment with you when you're out and about.
What to Pack for Your Peru Vacation
The key to packing for a vacation to Peru is to pack for a variety of conditions while keeping the weight to a minimum. Easier said than done when you have to deal with the heat of the high altitude and the cold mountain nights. The best way to deal with these changes is to dress using layers.
You have to be prepared for fluctuating temperatures. It would be ideal to bring along a sweater, mittens and a wind-jacket, inside a small backpack. During the day, you can wear long sleeve cotton shirts and comfortable trousers to move around easily. During the dry season (May-November), the sun forces you to wear sunglasses and a hat, and apply sunscreen.
If you are taking a medium or large suitcase on your vacation, then you should also have a carryon bag for the overnight trip to Machu Picchu. The larger suitcase will remain at the Cusco hotel. What you should have in your overnight bag:
- Insect repellent - insects and mosquitoes appear during sunny days, and their bites can produce skin irritation.
- Raincoat, umbrella, and plastic bags to protect your camera, cell phone, and other valuables from getting wet.
- Sunblock, sun hat, and sunglasses: the sun can be very strong at Machu Picchu and there is little shade.
- Good walking shoes as you will be climbing steps and walking on uneven stone paths.
- A swim suit if you want to visit the famed thermal baths of Aguas Calientes. You can purchase or rent a towel at one of the many shops along the way.
- If you are a light sleeper you might want earplugs, many of the Machu Picchu hotels are not well insulated.
- Don't forget your Altitude medication.