Explore Peru’s Diverse Landscapes and Ancient History – Discover the Spectacular Cusco and Machu Picchu.
Peru is a captivating country, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. When exploring Peru, make sure to visit the ancient Inca capital, Cusco. Wander through its colonial cities, which have preserved the legacy of the Spanish conquistadors. Additionally, don’t miss out on the opportunity to embark on a journey to the lost city of Machu Picchu.
Peru boasts some of the most stunning and diverse scenery in South America. The Peruvian Andes, known as the most beautiful on the continent, are home to millions of highland natives who still speak the ancient language Quechua and cherish a traditional way of life. The Amazon Rainforest, covering half of Peru, is a remarkable biodiversity hotspot. Brace yourself to learn about its extraordinary ecology. Moreover, Peru’s coastal deserts are a sight to behold, with vast rolling dunes, fertile farmland oases, and picturesque fishing villages.
For travelers, it’s worth noting that citizens from certain areas, including North and South America, Western Europe, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Fiji, and India, are granted a visa upon arrival (typically 30-90 days, often 90). If uncertain, please consult the nearest Peruvian consulate. Upon entering Peru, you will need to fill out a double entry form. The original copy will stay with immigration, while the duplicate copy will be given to you and must be presented upon departure. Keep it safe and don’t misplace it. Should you lose it, a replacement costs US$5.
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HEALTH AND VACCINATION.
Before traveling to Peru, especially if visiting the jungle, it is important to take certain precautions regarding health and vaccinations. It is necessary to obtain a yellow fever vaccination, acquire adequate health insurance, and consult with a doctor about the specific immunization requirements for the Peruvian jungle. In areas like Manu, Tambopata, Iquitos, and Puerto Maldonado, taking anti-malarial pills and receiving a yellow fever shot is mandatory. It is advisable to consult your personal physician for further guidance.
Cholera vaccinations are not required. Most cities in Peru have doctors who can communicate in English and other European languages, and there are also private clinics available. Prior to your arrival, SUNRISE PERU TREK should be informed of any medical restrictions or medications you may require. Travelers with pre-existing heart conditions, respiratory problems, or high blood pressure should consult with their doctors before traveling to Cusco, considering the city’s high altitude of over 3,400 meters above sea level. It is recommended that each traveler brings their own basic medical kit.
ABOUT CUSCO CITY
Cusco, the sacred city and former capital of the Inca Empire, held significant political importance as the central government hub of the Tahuantinsuyo administrative regions. This remarkable empire spanned across present-day Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, and Chile. Renowned for its well-structured society, the Inca Empire excelled in various fields including architecture, hydraulic engineering, medicine, and agriculture.
Population:
The population in Cusco city by the beginning of the XXI century is projected to be 300,000 inhabitants. The annual growth rate is approximately 4%. In 1821 after 3 centuries of Spanish colonial administration, this city had about 40,000 people. In the Tawantinsuyo’s apogee it should had between 225 to 300 thousand inhabitants.
Altitude:
The altitude is 3,400 meters above sea level (11,150 feet). Some persons not used to the high altitude get problems as a consequence of the oxygen scarcity. It is necessary to be one day at least in city before to make trekking. The latitude is 13° 30′ 45″ it indicates that we should have a tropical or equatorial weather, but it is not like that. Sometimes Cusco is cooler because of its high altitude. The Longitude is 71° 58′ 33″. We are 5 hours later than the Greenwich Mean Time.
Temperature:
It is relatively cool. The annual average in the city is between 10.3° to 11.3° Celsius (50.54° to 52.34° Fahrenheit). Over here there is some uniformity in temperature between summer and winter. Normally it is somewhat cold at nighttime and during the first hours in the early morning while that at midday temperature increases considerably. During the early mornings in June and July temperature frequently drops to 5° and 7°C below zero (23° and 19.4°F). There are just 2 well-defined seasons: a dry season and another rainy one. The dry season is from May to October and the rainy season from November to April.
Probable weather in Cusco and on the Inca trail to Machu Picchu.
In Cusco dry season starts in April to October, the days are usually sunny and hot but temperatures drop abruptly after 5-6 pm until 7- am. Weather is very changeable from November to March and heavy rains are expected being the wettest month December to March although is not as cold as it is in the dry season.
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maxº C | 19º | 19º | 19º | 20º | 20º | 20º | 19º | 20º | 20º | 21º | 21º | 21º |
| Minº C | 7º | 7º | 6º | 5º | 3º | -0º | -0º | +2º | 4º | 6º | 7º | 8º |
The water in Cusco And Machu Picchu
Drinking tap water is not advisable in Peru. Bottled water is a must. Water is available in most hotels and stores all over Peru. 3-4 liters of water per day is enough to avoid dehydration which can be a real problem in high altitudes like Cusco. Other ways you can avoid parasites is to boil and/or filter water or add purification tablets.
Currency and credit cards:
In 1991 the Peruvian government introduced the “Nuevo Sol”, divided in 100 cents. There are 5, 10, 20 and 50 cent coins and S/.10, 20, 50,100 and 200 banknotes or bills. US dollars are welcome at most shops, restaurants and service stations at the current exchange rate. Most Shops and stores accept the most common credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Diners and American Express.
ATM cards can now be used in city locations: airports, bank machines and shopping centers. The main banking systems are:
- visa/plus,
- MasterCard/cirrus.
It’s possible to obtain Nuevos Soles (sometimes dollars) with your card. Don’t forget there’s always a small service charge when you use credit and ATM cards. The use of traveler’s checks are welcome. When using a credit card make sure you are charged the right amount for your purchase. In case of lost or stolen cards, don’t forget to have the telephone number of the bank in order to cancel your card.
Changing money on the street is very common but risky. Banks or “casas de cambio” are a better choice. Important note: old or damaged US bills (i.e. a very slight tear) either won’t be accepted or will be exchanged at lower rates. When exchanging cash be sure to have crisp, new bills. Bring bills of various denominations.
Taxes in Cusco and Peru:
The price of food and services is included in a 18% national tax (airline tickets, included). In almost all restaurants there is a 10% service charge. However, when in doubt consult your guide. Tax for international flights is $25 and $4.50 for domestic flights, which you will need to pay in cash at the airport.
Browse tour & Treks to Machu Picchu in Cusco – Peru
The wonderful natural and cultural highlights of Machu Picchu provide an unparalleled trips and adventure trekking experience. Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, trek the Salkantay Trek, the Lares Trek, travel by train through the Urubamba canyon, and many other options offer Machu Picchu Trips for your adventure experience that you won’t get nowhere in the world.
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