Experience
Cusco, Peru
+46 761903250
contact@cuscouniqueexperience.com
Cusco Unique
Travel Tips
Organize Ahead
Traveling to Peru during the peak season (June, July, August) requires detailed planning, with several months' in advance. This includes booking hotels, flights, train tickets to/from Machu Picchu, tickets to Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu and Inca Trail. We recommend booking your trip 6 months in advance.
Altitude Issues
Altitude sickness is a common health concern for travelers arriving in Cusco. Acclimation varies widely from person to person, but many people adjust within 24 to 48 hours. Minor symptoms include headache, fatigue, insomnia, and loss of appetite. Severe reactions to high elevations are rare and hard to predict. Before you travel, ask your doctor about medications to prevent altitude sickness. During your stay in Cusco, keep hydrated, avoid heavy meals, and drink coca leaf tea. If you're planning to trek to higher altitudes, plan to spend a few days acclimating in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before beginning the journey.
Packing List
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Passport: Valid for at least 6 months, plus photocopies
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Visa: Maybe it is required for your nationality. (Most nationalities can travel to Peru)
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Travel Insurance: Covers health, theft, and cancellation
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Cash & Cards: US Dollars and Peruvian Soles (for small purchases), plus credit/debit cards
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Itineraries and Bookings: Printed/digital copies of tickets and tour itineraries
Clothing
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Base Layers: Lightweight and breathable shirts
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Warm Layers: Fleece jacket, sweater, and a beanie for nights in the altitudes
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Outer Layers: Waterproof rain jacket or poncho
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Pants: Hiking/trekking pants and jeans for cities
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Food wear: Hiking shoes and comfortable sneakers
Gear & Electronics
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Backpack: For daily excursions with a rain cover
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Electronics: Camera, power bank, universal adapter (Type A/C/F)
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Headlamp: Useful for early morning treks on the Salkantay Trek or the Inca Trail for example
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Reusable Water Bottle: Always have a water bottle with you, since you can’t drink water from the tap
Toiletries, Health & Hygiene
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Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen (30+), sunglasses, sun hat (Andean sun is very intense)
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Insect Repellent: Essential for the Amazon jungle and around Machu Picchu
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Medication: Prescription medication, pain relievers, stomach medication, and altitude sickness pills
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First Aid/Hygiene: Band-aid, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and toilet paper
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Fruits: If you decide to buy fruits on a market or supermarket, you should always wash them with soap before eating
Regional Tips
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Lima/Coast: Light clothing, summer wear
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Andes/Cusco/Machu Picchu: Heavy layers, rain gear, cap
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Amazon/Jungle: Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing, high-strength repellent
Cusco Day Excursion Checklist
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Always bring a backpack
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Carry a bottle of water and stay hydrated
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A camera or phone with charged batteries
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Sweatshirt or jacket in case the temperature cools off (Always bring extra clothes with you in your backpack, since the weather and temperature can change drastically)
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Extra soles to purchase any souvenirs that grab your attention or for tipping
Dry Season Packing Suggestions
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Wear light, comfortable clothes while you are touring. Long-sleeve shirts and pants are recommended in order to be protected from the sun
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Bring a cap, sunglasses, and sunblock. The sun is quite intense at Cusco’s high elevation
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Pack a fleece shirt or jacket. Temperatures in Cusco change drastically from day to night, especially during the peak dry season from June until August. If you need extra warmth, buy a beanie, gloves, or a scarf in any of the alpaca stores or crafts markets in Cusco
Rainy Season Packing Suggestions
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Wearing the right clothes to stay dry can make the difference in enjoying your experience in Cusco
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Pack an umbrella, or a rain poncho
