Peru FAQ's

Do I need a visa?
Travelers with a US, Canadian or European passport do not need a visa. Visit (www.embassy.org/embassies/pe.html) for entry requirements if your passport is from another country; or (http://travel.state.gov/foreignentryreqs.html) for further details pertaining to US citizens.

Is my passport valid?
Your passport must be valid at least 6 months following the end of your trip for entry into Peru. If it expires sooner, you must get a renewal (http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/get_840.html).

Do I need any shots?
No vaccinations are required for travel to Peru from the USA. Call the CDC Travelers' Hot Line at 888-232-3228 or visit the website (www.cdc.gov/travel). Most travelers receive innoculations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid Fever and Tetanus. If traveling to the Amazon region, you should consider Malaria prophylaxis and Yellow fever.

When can I expect more details on my trip?
You will receive two mailings: 1. Pre-departure materials once your trip is guaranteed, typically 2-4 months prior to your departure; and 2. Final Documents sent 8-14 days before you leave.

When is my balance due?
Your land balance is due 90 days prior to departure. An invoice will be sent with your pre-departure packet.

Will I be met at the airport?
Yes, if you arrive according to schedule or have arranged extra transfers through our office. Meeting instructions and local contact information will be given with your Final Documents.

Who books the local flights within Peru?
You can book the flights in conjunction with your international itinerary. Southwind will provide you with an air schedule to best match your trip. We can also recommend a Latin American ticketing specialist to assist you with all your airline ticketing needs. Most local airlines use 727/737 jets except for charter flights into the Amazon Basin (ie. Manu Park) or overflight of Nazca Lines where smaller (8-15 passenger) prop planes are used.

How much money should I bring?
Depending on the length of your trip, plan to bring $300-600 per person for spending money, tips, airport taxes and those meals not included in the itinerary.

Should I bring cash or traveler's checks?
Cash is the easiest to exchange and most places accept US dollars, traveler's checks are also OK. Visit (www.oanda.com/converter/classic) for current exchange rates.

Are ATM machines available?
Yes. There are ATM machines in the main cities such as Lima and Cusco. We recommend using the ones located inside some hotels, stores, restaurants or banks. Be cautious as some thieves may watch these machines and target tourists and others who take out large amounts of cash. Consult with your guide for safety recommendations on ATM's or exchanging money.

What is the elevation of Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is actually lower in elevation than Cusco (7,874' versus 11,150').

Is Peru safe?
We consider Peru a safe destination. After more than 15 years of operating trips to Peru, our travelers have never experienced a problem with safety, whether in the cities or trekking routes. You can receive an updated Consular Information Sheet from the US State Department's website (http://travel.state.gov/travel/warnings.html) or call their hotline at 888-407-4747.

What about thievery?
Petty thievery in Peru's cities is not higher than in any large city in the US. Common sense is important. Use the safety deposit box at your hotel for your passport and extra money (carry only as much as you might spend) and leave jewelry and expensive watches at home.

What will the weather be like?
Cool in the mountains (Cusco, Arequipa & Lake Titicaca) with daytime highs in the upper 60's to mid 70's and nighttime lows between 30°F and 42°F. Hot & humid at Machu Picchu and in the Amazon with daytime highs in the upper 80's to mid 90's and nighttime lows in the upper 50's to low 70's. Visit (http://weather.yahoo.com/regional/SOUTHAM.html) for current temperatures and forecasts.

Will we stay at the Sanctuary Lodge adjacent to Machu Picchu?
Southwind uses the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel in Aguas Calientes. Most of our guests prefer this property for it's comfortable and modern rooms, excellent service and great food. Additionally, the close proximity to the village of Aguas Calientes allows for easy access to local cafes, shops and hot springs. If you prefer to stay at the Sanctuary Lodge adjacent to the citadel, we can upgrade you to this property for an additional fee. Southwind will try our best to accommodate your preference, although the Sanctuary Lodge has a limited number of rooms and cannot be guaranteed.

What about sunrise at Machu Picchu?
Due to the mountain location, it is not possible to actually view the sunrise over the horizon from Machu Picchu. What is commonly referred to as sunrise at Machu Picchu occurs when the first light strikes the citadel itself. This happens between 6:30am and 7:20am depending on the month. The gates to the ruins open at about 5:30am which should allow anyone wishing to witness this phenomenon time to locate a special spot within the citadel. There are early buses up to the ruins from Aguas Calientes for those staying at the Pueblo Hotel to enjoy 3-4 hours at Machu Picchu before the tourist train arrives at about 10:30am.

What about the full moon at Machu Picchu?
Due to stricter visiting hours, it is not possible to enter the ruins at night. The gates to the Machu Picchu ruins close at 6:00pm.

How do I train for my trip?
If you lead an active lifestyle (walking, cycling, swimming, tennis, etc. on a regular basis) you will do fine on a Grade I or II trip. For Grade III trips you should plan to jog or stair climb for at least 45 minutes 4-5 times per week (more frequency for a Grade IV trip). View more details on Trip Ratings.

How do I adjust to the altitude?
Gradual exposure to higher elevations and time are the best ways to acclimatize. If possible, try to arrive to Cusco (elevation 11,150') a day early. Drink plenty of water, eat lightly and avoid alcoholic beverages for the first day or two. Many travelers find that drinking coca tea is also effective.

What about an emergency while traveling?
Southwind has never had a life-threatening emergency for a traveler in more than 15 years of operations. Our guides are trained in mountain/wilderness first-aid. Depending on the circumstances, a vehicle, horse or helicopter may take an injured or ill person to the nearest medical facility. English-speaking doctors and clinics are available in all major cities (Cusco, Arequipa, Trujillo, Lima, etc.).

Who will be my guide?
We work with the most respected and experienced local guides, many of whom have advanced degrees in tourism, biology, Andean culture or other specialities. All speak fluent English and are knowledgeable, patient and fun to be around. Your Final Documents will provide guide details.