Arjun Kapoor
Americas Travel Expert
Machu Picchu — the "Lost City of the Incas" — is one of the world's most awe-inspiring archaeological sites, perched at 2,430m in the Andean cloud forest and rediscovered only in 1911. No photograph fully prepares you for the first sight of those stone terraces emerging from mist above a horseshoe of river. This guide covers everything for an unforgettable Peru trip.
Best Time to Visit Peru
Peru's **dry season (May–October)** is the best time to visit — clear blue skies, minimal rain, and excellent trail conditions. June and July are busiest; May and September–October offer a sweet spot of good weather and fewer crowds. The **wet season (November–April)** brings daily rains and cloud cover at Machu Picchu, lush green landscapes, and far fewer tourists. The Inca Trail closes entirely in February for maintenance.
10-Day Peru Itinerary
Day-by-Day Plan
| Day | Base | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1–2 | Lima | Arrive Lima; Miraflores cliffs, Larco Museum, best ceviche in the world |
| Day 3 | Cusco | Fly to Cusco (3,400m); rest and acclimatise, Cusco city walk, San Pedro Market |
| Day 4 | Cusco | Sacred Valley — Pisac Inca ruins, Ollantaytambo fortress, salt mines of Maras |
| Day 5 | Aguas Calientes | Train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town); evening at thermal baths |
| Day 6 | Machu Picchu | Early bus up to Machu Picchu (5:30am); full-day guided tour; optional Huayna Picchu hike |
| Day 7 | Machu Picchu | Second visit (different circuit); afternoon train back to Cusco |
| Day 8 | Cusco | Sacsayhuamán fortress, Q'enqo, Puka Pukara; shopping for alpaca textiles |
| Day 9 | Lake Titicaca | Fly or bus to Puno; Lake Titicaca boat to Uros floating islands |
| Day 10 | Lima | Fly Lima, evening international flight |
Altitude Sickness Warning
Important Warning
Cusco sits at 3,400m and the altitude affects nearly all visitors. Plan at least 1–2 rest days upon arrival before any strenuous activity. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol for the first 48 hours, and consider Diamox (acetazolamide) prescribed by your doctor before departure. Coca tea (muña) offered everywhere in Cusco genuinely helps with acclimatisation.
Booking Machu Picchu Tickets
Machu Picchu has daily visitor limits — **tickets must be booked in advance** on the official Peruvian government portal (machupicchu.gob.pe). Choose your entry circuit (1, 2, 3, or 4) and time slot. The **Huayna Picchu hike** (the steep peak above the citadel) requires a separate ticket and is limited to 400 people/day — book 3–4 months ahead as it sells out quickly. General admission costs approximately $65 USD.
Visa for Indians
Indian passport holders can enter Peru **visa-free for up to 90 days** as tourists. No advance visa application required — just a valid passport (6+ months), confirmed return ticket, and hotel booking. Peru is one of the most visa-friendly destinations in South America for Indian travellers.
Budget Guide
Daily Cost in Peru
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15–30 (hostel) | $60–130 (hotel) | $200–500+ |
| Meals | $10–20/day | $25–55/day | $70–180/day |
| Transport | $5–20/day | $20–60/day | $50–120/day |
| Total (approx ₹) | ₹2,500–6,000/day | ₹9,000–21,000/day | ₹28,000–70,000/day |
Peru Food Guide
- **Ceviche** — raw fish cured in lime juice with aji amarillo chilli and red onion; Peru's national dish and the world's best
- **Lomo Saltado** — stir-fried beef with tomatoes, onions, and aji amarillo over rice and chips; a Peruvian-Chinese fusion classic
- **Causa Limeña** — chilled potato cake layered with avocado and tuna or chicken; vibrant street food
- **Anticuchos** — grilled beef heart skewers marinated in aji panca; a beloved street food near Plaza de Armas
- **Pisco Sour** — Peru's national cocktail; Pisco brandy, lime, egg white, and Angostura bitters