Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu Tour 7 Days

Okay, weather in Peru is kinda split:

• Dry Season (April to October): This is usually the most popular time. You get sunny days, especially in the mountains (Cusco, Machu Picchu). Good for hiking. Less chance of rain messing up your plans. Downside? More crowds, maybe prices are a bit higher. Lima can be kinda gray and damp even in the dry season (’cause it’s on the coast).
• Wet Season (November to March): Expect rain, especially afternoon showers in the mountains. It can make hikes muddy or sometimes cause delays. The Inca Trail actually closes in February for maintenance. Upside? Everything is super green and lush. Fewer tourists usually means you might find better deals. Rainbow Mountain might be covered in snow sometimes, or the colors less bright if it’s cloudy.

Which is best? Most people aim for the dry season, maybe the shoulder months like April/May or September/October when it’s not peak crowds but weather is still pretty good. But hey, Peru is cool anytime, just pack for the weather!

What to Pack (Your Essential Gear List)

Packing for Peru means being ready for different weather and activities. Think layers!

Clothes & Shoes:

• Layers are key: Bring t-shirts (quick-dry ones are good), long-sleeve shirts, a fleece jacket or warm sweater, and a waterproof rain jacket (even in dry season, just in case!). You’ll add and remove layers all day.
• Pants: Comfortable hiking pants or travel pants. Maybe a pair of shorts for warmer spots like Ica, or just comfy pants for evenings. Jeans are okay for cities but not great for hiking.
• Good Shoes: You NEED comfortable walking shoes or sneakers. You’ll be doing a lot of walking.
• Hiking Boots (Maybe): If you plan on serious hiking like Rainbow Mountain, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support are a good idea. For Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley, sturdy walking shoes might be enough if you don’t want extra boots.
• Socks: Good wool or synthetic socks are better than cotton for hiking. Bring plenty.
• Comfy Clothes: For relaxing at the hotel or travel days.

Machu Picchu Tour 7 Days Sun & Personal Stuff:

• Sunscreen: High SPF! The sun is STRONG at high altitude, even if it’s cloudy. You’ll burn fast.
• Hat: Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection is best. A baseball cap is okay too. Maybe a warm hat (beanie) for cold mornings/nights up high.
• Sunglasses: Essential. The glare is real.
• Lip Balm with SPF: Your lips will thank you.
• Bug Spray: Especially for Machu Picchu area and maybe Ica/Paracas.
• Basic Meds: Pain relievers, stomach meds (just in case), band-aids, any personal prescriptions. Maybe altitude sickness pills (talk to your doctor first!).
• Hand Sanitizer: Always useful.
• Toiletries: Your usual stuff – toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc. Travel sizes are easier.

Extra Gear (Optional but Helpful):

• Daypack: Small backpack to carry your water, snacks, camera, rain jacket during day tours.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated! Especially important for altitude. You can refill it.
• Camera & Extra Batteries/Memory Card: You’ll take a ton of pictures.
• Phone & Portable Charger (Power Bank): Keep your phone juiced up for photos and emergencies.
• Travel Adapter: Peru uses Type A and Type C outlets. Voltage is 220V. Check if your electronics need a converter.
• Headlamp or Small Flashlight: Could be useful for early morning starts.
• Book or E-reader: For travel time or downtime.
• Spanish Phrasebook/App: Not essential, guides speak English, but knowing a few basic phrases is always nice.
• Cash: Have some Peruvian Soles for small purchases, tips, bathrooms.

Getting Ready: Body and Mind Prep

This trip involves altitude and some physical activity.

Physical Prep:

• Altitude: This is the big one for Cusco, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, Humantay. You’re going high (more on that later). The best prep is to take it easy your first day or two in Cusco. Don’t rush. Drink lots of water. Avoid heavy meals and alcohol at first. Locals swear by coca tea (mate de coca) – try it, it helps many people. If you’re worried, talk to your doctor about Diamox (altitude sickness medication) before your trip.
• Walking/Hiking: You’ll be doing a fair bit of walking, especially on tours. If you don’t walk much normally, try to do some walks leading up to your trip. For Rainbow Mountain and Humantay, being reasonably fit helps. They aren’t technical climbs, but the altitude makes them tiring. No need to be a marathon runner, just be ready to walk uphill slowly.
• Stairs: Lots of stairs at Inca sites. Just be aware.

Mental Prep:

• Pace Yourself: It’s a packed week. Don’t try to do everything extra. Enjoy the main tours.
• Be Flexible: This is travel. Things might change. Tours might start a bit late, weather might affect plans. Just go with the flow. Having a relaxed attitude helps a lot.
• Early Starts: Some tours, like Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu, often have very early morning starts. Be ready for that.
• Culture Shock?: Peru might be different from home. Embrace it! Try new foods, be open to different ways of doing things.