You’re about to embark on an extraordinary journey through the Sacred Valley and the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, places where history, culture, and the rhythm of life move in harmony with the mountains.
Life in the Andean villages flows at a pace shaped by nature, tradition, and deep spiritual connection. What may seem unfamiliar at first, the quiet moments, the simplicity, the rituals of daily life, are often what make this region so captivating.
It’s these differences that reveal the Valley’s true magic: its authenticity, its resilience, and the profound sense of wonder that comes from walking among people and landscapes that have endured for centuries.
If you’re a U.S. passport holder traveling to Peru for tourism, the entry process is simple and straightforward.
For the most up to date travel advice, please refer to the Department of State website HERE
Note: You will be required to sign a Liability Release Form at the hotel before the expedition. The conditions for this form are the same as the ones you have agreed to when booking. This form must be signed before you depart on your trek.
Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance is a requirement for all guests travelling on our expeditions.
Once you have booked an expedition we suggest booking your travel insurance as soon as possible to protect your investment and other associated costs. Trip cancellation insurance will reimburse you for any non-recoverable air or land expenses should you have to cancel your trip due to personal or family illness or leave the expedition early due to other reasons.
If you should receive an injury 12 months prior to your travel date, you must contact the Insurance Company with details to ensure you are covered for this injury whilst travelling. Should you not do this and require medical assistance for this injury whilst travelling you may not be covered by the insurance company.
In the event that an aircraft evacuation is required, No Roads Expeditions will undertake to arrange the evacuation on the condition that the expenses are reimbursed by the passenger before departing the Country.
Note: Accidents caused by the inappropriate consumption of alcohol or drugs may void your travel insurance.
In Lima: Casa República Barranco
Begin your Peruvian journey in Barranco, Lima’s most artistic and bohemian district, at the elegant Casa República. This restored 1920s mansion blends colonial charm with modern comfort, offering a stylish retreat just moments from the Pacific coast. Its leafy courtyard, quiet ambiance, and boutique size make it feel like a private hideaway in the heart of the city’s most creative neighborhood, perfect for relaxing after your flight or exploring nearby galleries, cafés, and coastal walks.
Address: Jirón Sáenz Peña 208, Barranco 15063, Peru
Phone: +51 1 4886059
In the Sacred Valley: Hacienda Urubamba
Nestled amid the rolling hills and farmlands of the Sacred Valley, Hacienda Urubamba is a stunning property that captures the essence of Andean serenity. Surrounded by towering mountains and traditional villages, the hotel combines rustic-luxury design with sweeping valley views. Spacious rooms feature natural materials and floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the outdoors in. The onsite restaurant celebrates organic produce grown right on the property, offering a taste of the region’s rich agricultural heritage, an ideal base for exploring Machu Picchu and nearby Inca sites.
Address: Sacred Valley of the Incas, Km 63 of the Cusco-Urubamba-Pisac-Calca Highway, 08670, Peru
Phone: +51 1 6100400
In Cusco: Antigua Casona San Blas
Your stay in Cusco is at the beautifully restored Antigua Casona San Blas, located in the city’s charming artisan quarter. This boutique hotel blends Inca stonework and colonial architecture with contemporary style and warm Peruvian hospitality. Cozy courtyards, a welcoming fireplace lounge, and a tranquil spa create a calm oasis just a short walk from Cusco’s main square. It’s the perfect place to unwind after days of high-altitude exploration and to immerse yourself in the spirit of historic Cusco.
Address: Carmen Bajo 243, Cusco 08003, Peru
Phone: +51 84 200700
Most travelers from the United States begin their Peruvian adventure by flying into Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima, the country’s main international gateway.
There are nonstop flights from several U.S. cities, including Miami, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles, and New York, operated by major airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, LATAM, and United. Flight times typically range from 6 to 8 hours, depending on your departure city.
Cusco’s Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport (CUZ) is classified as an international airport, and it does support some non-domestic flights, meaning it has the infrastructure for international services.
That said, most international flights to and from Peru run via Lima, so even if you depart from Cusco internationally, your journey may still involve a Lima connection.
The fastest and most practical way to travel between Lima and Cusco is by air. The flight takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and there are multiple daily nonstop services between Jorge Chávez in Lima (LIM) and Alejandro Velasco Astete in Cusco (CUZ).
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, stretching along the Urubamba River between Cusco and Machu Picchu, was once the spiritual and agricultural heart of the Inca Empire. Its fertile lands, mild climate, and strategic location made it the empire’s breadbasket, where maize and other crops flourished under sophisticated Inca terracing and irrigation systems. Scattered throughout the valley are the remains of ancient towns and fortresses, like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, that reveal the Incas’ deep understanding of astronomy, engineering, and community life.
At the far end of the valley lies Machu Picchu, the legendary “Lost City of the Incas.” Built in the mid-15th century under Emperor Pachacuti, it was likely a royal estate or sacred retreat, hidden high in the Andean cloud forest. The site’s masterful stonework and alignment with celestial events showcase the Incas’ extraordinary craftsmanship and reverence for nature. Abandoned during the Spanish conquest, it remained largely unknown to the outside world until its rediscovery by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.
Today, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu stand as symbols of Peru’s rich cultural heritage and enduring connection to the Andes. For visitors, they offer not only breathtaking scenery and remarkable history, but also a living link to the traditions and spirit of the Inca civilization that still resonate through the valley’s villages and people.
PERSONAL GEAR
During your trek you will only carry a day pack. Your luggage will either be transfered with us in our transit vehicles, however most days your suitcase or backpack will be left in your room!
In your day pack you will need to carry water, a rain coat, any snacks, medications, camera equipment you’ve chose to bring and valuables.
SLEEPING GEAR
This trip is designed for comfort, so other than sleeping attire, you don’t need to bring a thing!
With boutique hotel accommodation, there are no tents, blow up sleeping mats, or anything of the sort required for this Sacred Valley adventure.
TREK WEAR
Ultimately you want to be comfortable. Consult our recommended packing list, but above, try to ensure that what you were during your trek, is not being worn for the first time!
Nothing is worth than being on the trail and discovering there that your brand new boots give you blisters…
OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
Camera film, Spare camera batteries, lens cleaner & paper.- A small supply of favorite snacks – bigger supply for longer and remote area trips.
Note:
If you have any questions regarding the above list or any other items that you want to ask about please contact us. We can provide you additional information at any time.
(No Roads Expeditions carries an extensive first aid kit & Oxygen on all trips, but these are generally for emergencies only)
Supplied Equipment
Currency
Peru uses the Peruvian Sol (PEN). It’s a good idea to bring a small amount of U.S. cash so you have local currency when you arrive.
As of early October 2025, the exchange rate was approximately USD $1.00 = PEN 3.45 (rates fluctuate, so check before you travel).
Exchanging Money
You can exchange U.S. dollars for Soles at banks or official exchange offices, known as Casa de Cambio, in Lima and Cusco. Exchange counters at airports are convenient but often charge higher fees.
For most travelers, it’s easiest to withdraw Soles directly from ATMs using your debit or credit card once you’ve arrived.
ATM Access
ATMs that accept Visa and Mastercard are widely available in Lima, Cusco, and throughout the Sacred Valley. Machines generally dispense Soles, and many allow you to select “English” on-screen. Just be sure to notify your bank before travel to avoid any security holds.
Credit Cards
Most major hotels, restaurants, and shops accept Visa and Mastercard, particularly in Lima and Cusco. However, small cafés, local markets, and some rural establishments may be cash-only, so it’s best to keep some Soles on hand for incidental purchases.
Spending Money
Everyone’s spending habits vary, but we suggest bringing around $350–$450 USD in total for personal expenses such as tips, meals not included in your trek, and souvenirs.
This is a general guideline, you may spend more or less depending on how much you shop or dine out before and after your trek.
Tipping is not mandatory in Peru, but it’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation to your guides, drivers, or hotel staff for excellent service.
Tipping practices vary around the world, and it can sometimes feel confusing or even stressful while traveling. In Peru, tipping is always appreciated but never mandatory. How much you choose to give should reflect the quality of service you’ve received and what feels comfortable for your budget.
To put things in perspective, the minimum monthly wage in Peru is about 1,025 Soles (roughly $275–$300 USD) for a six-day, 48-hour work week. In many service positions,such as restaurant staff, porters, and drivers, this standard isn’t always strictly enforced, so gratuities can make a meaningful difference to those providing your travel experience.
The following may be useful as a rough guide:
Airport Porters* Minimum 1-3 Soles per bag (compulsory)
Hotel Staff 1-2 Sole per bag / per breakfast
Transfer drivers Generally not expected
Drivers 10-50 Soles per day total from the group
Specialist guides US$20-50 per day total from the group
Assistant Guides US$10-25 per day total from Group
Inca trail support staff 100-300 soles per client, pooled and divided
Other treks support staff 25-50 soles/ per client per day pooled and divided
Tour Conductors US$10-50 per day total from the group
Restaurants 5-15% for adequate to excellent food and service
* This is not a standard tip as these people make their living by carrying your luggage from the carousel to your vehicle.
Parts of your journey, particularly in the Sacred Valley (around 8,000 ft) and Cusco (about 11,000 ft), take place at high elevations where oxygen levels are lower than at sea level. Travelers flying or driving directly to these altitudes may feel mild effects of altitude, known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Symptoms can include headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, or lightheadedness, usually appearing 6–12 hours after arrival. While most cases are mild and short-lived, it’s important to recognize the signs early and allow your body time to adjust.
Anyone can experience altitude effects, fitness level or age makes little difference. If you’ve had altitude illness before, you may be more prone to it again. People with heart or lung conditions should talk with their doctor before traveling to high elevations. In rare cases, altitude illness can progress to more serious conditions, such as High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) or High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), which require immediate descent and medical attention.
The best way to prevent altitude problems is to ascend gradually, stay well-hydrated, avoid overexertion and alcohol, and rest if you feel unwell. Never continue higher if you have symptoms, and always descend if they worsen. Some travelers choose to take acetazolamide (Diamox) or other medications as a preventive measure. Ask your doctor if this is appropriate for you.
All No Roads Expeditions itineraries are designed to minimize the effects of altitude. Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and carry comprehensive medical kits. On higher-altitude expeditions, a Portable Altitude Chamber is available as an added safety precaution.
The Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Explorer is what we call a High Heart Rate Holiday. An active adventure designed to challenge you just enough while rewarding you with breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and a deep sense of achievement. From hiking ancient Inca trails to exploring traditional villages and the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu, this journey celebrates movement, discovery, and connection.
While certain sections will get your heart rate up, many parts are gentler, giving you time to catch your breath and fully absorb the magnificent landscapes of the Andes. With comfortable accommodations, excellent local cuisine, and full luggage support, this experience strikes the ideal balance between effort and enjoyment, the essence of an active vacation done right.
You don’t need to be an athlete, but a moderate level of fitness (or a willingness to train beforehand) will help you make the most of each day on the trail. If you’re unsure what that looks like, just reach out, our team will be happy to guide you through how to prepare and ensure you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Andes.
Pace, Challenge, and Preparation
Because this is for the most par, an unpack-once adventure, you’ll enjoy the comfort and elegance of a single luxury hotel in the Sacred Valley, using it as your base while exploring the surrounding trails, villages, and archaeological sites. Each day offers a choice of guided hikes and cultural experiences, allowing you to decide how active you want to be. Groups travel at a relaxed, conversational pace, taking plenty of breaks to enjoy the spectacular Andean landscapes and insights from your local guides. This flexibility makes the trip as easygoing or as energetic as you prefer.
If you plan to join all of the daily hikes and activities, expect a moderate physical challenge. Some days include several hours of hiking on mountain trails with gradual ascents and descents, often between 8,000 and 11,000 feet in elevation. You’ll carry only a light daypack (10–15 lbs) while transfers and logistics are fully supported. While the altitude can make activity feel more demanding than at lower elevations, the experience is deeply rewarding, from panoramic valley views to the unforgettable moment you first set eyes on Machu Picchu.
To make the most of your time in the Andes, aim to arrive in good physical condition. We recommend consulting your physician before travel to ensure you’re fit for moderate hiking at altitude. Please note that comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation is required for all travelers (see Insurance section).
For safe and effective preparation, begin training four to six months before departure with regular hikes or long walks that build stamina and strength. Gradually increase your elevation gain, distance, and time on your feet, and practice carrying a small daypack.
You are now at an altitude of approximately 10,800 feet (3,300 meters). Take it easy for the first couple of days while your body adjusts to the thinner air and lower oxygen levels. Mild symptoms such as headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, fatigue, or trouble sleeping are common and usually temporary. Drink plenty of water or mate de coca (coca leaf tea), rest often, and avoid alcohol, smoking, and heavy meals. If you experience severe headache, extreme shortness of breath, or confusion, seek medical help immediately — these may be signs of serious altitude illness.
Please drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach upsets, and use bottled water when brushing your teeth.
In Peru, toilet paper should not be flushed as it can block plumbing systems. Instead, place used paper in the bin provided next to the toilet.
Like many busy tourist areas, Cusco has occasional pickpocket activity. Keep your valuables secure, avoid leaving bags unattended, and use your hotel safe whenever possible. Be especially cautious in crowded areas such as markets, plazas, and restaurants.
After dark, use only official taxis. Licensed taxis in Cusco display a hexagonal sticker on the windshield and often have a roof sign with a phone number or company name. Your hotel or guide can assist you in arranging safe transportation.
A COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required to enter Peru. However, for your own safety and the wellbeing of fellow travelers and staff, we strongly recommend being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before joining any No Roads Expeditions trip.
Before traveling, you should also review your routine immunizations and consider additional vaccinations recommended for Peru. Please consult your doctor or a travel medicine clinic well in advance, as some vaccines require multiple doses or take time to become effective.
Recommended Vaccinations:
Typhoid: Recommended for Peru; ideally administered at least 2 weeks before travel.
Hepatitis A: Recommended for Peru; ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Influenza: The most common vaccine-preventable illness among travelers; vaccine is recommended and effective for 1 year.
Hepatitis B: Recommended for Peru, particularly for extended stays; ideally 2 months before travel.
Tetanus: Ensure your booster is up to date before traveling.
Yellow Fever: Not required for entry into Peru and not recommended for travelers visiting only Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, or the Sacred Valley (all above 7,500 ft). It is recommended only if you plan to visit lowland jungle regions such as the Peruvian Amazon (Loreto Department).
Malaria: Risk is limited to the Amazon Basin. If your trip includes this region, discuss antimalarial medication with your healthcare provider.
Plan ahead: Some vaccines require an initial shot followed by boosters, and certain medications (such as malaria prophylaxis) must begin at least one week before departure. Your physician or travel health specialist can help tailor recommendations to your itinerary and medical history.
Water
Most plumbing in Peru leaves a lot to be desired. Visitors should drink only bottled water, which is widely available. Do not drink tap water, even in major hotels, and try to avoid drinks with ice.
Note: However, no matter how safe the water may be, we insist that all trekkers use either water purification tablets such as Aquatab (iodine) or Steri Pen.
Women’s Health
On top of the normal health considerations, women are advised to bring a tube of Canesten and an applicator. The Canesten is used for the treatment of thrush (which can be very painful if left untreated) and can be applied to both internal and external thrush.
Prescriptions can be filled at farmacias and boticas; it’s best to know the generic name of your drug, however, to save time and possible confusion, it is recommended you bring most of your medicinal and sanitary needs with you.
Pumahuacachi
You may be asking what is this?
The dreaded Pumahuacachi ‘The one that makes the puma cry’, is a very small sand fly that you cannot detect biting you, but you will know later with a welting of the skin and itching.
Found in various places along the trail, the best ways to protect oneself from them is:
Medicines & First Aid
All trekkers are recommended to carry a personal first aid kit with medicines for common ailments, cuts and bruises, pain killers, etc. Anyone using any prescription medicines regularly should carry a supply for the whole duration of their expedition. Please consult your doctor and include items and medicines that may be required for you or for the area you are traveling in. No Roads does not supply any medicines and takes no legal responsibility for any medical treatment or professional medical support to our clients.
We will do everything we can to support guests that have disclosed a medical condition, allergy or anaphylaxis, by informing all in country personnel and ensuring reasonable provisions are made. We do however, suggest and encourage all guests in this situation to assist us by reconfirming this information in situations or instances where it may be required to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable adventure experience.
*If you have something you are particularly prone to such as ear infections, sinus problems or mild asthma bring what you need with you.
The No Roads Guide will be carrying an extensive Wilderness First Aid Kit.
Your personal first aid kit should contain:
Band aids, Paracetamol, Deep Heat or other muscle liniment, Blister pads, Crepe bandages, Antibiotic cream for cuts and scratches, ‘Imodium’ tablets, Strapping tape (for knees and ankles), Anti chaffing cream e.g. Pawpaw cream, Foot powder, Waterless hand disinfectant, Anti-malarial drugs (see your doctor. This is largely only if you are also visiting the Peruvian Amazon in the Loreto Department), Anti-inflammatory cream, Broad-spectrum antibiotic tablets, Anti-Nausea Tablets.
At No Roads Expeditions, we believe travel should leave a positive impact, enriching local communities, protecting fragile ecosystems, and inspiring travelers to become stewards of the places they explore. Our goal is to minimize our footprint while maximizing the benefits that responsible tourism can bring. You can learn more about our social and environmental commitments in our online policy.
The Environment
Many of the areas you’ll visit are pristine natural environments, and we ask that all travelers help us keep them that way. Please:
By following these simple practices, you’ll help preserve the Dolomites’ landscapes and wildlife for future generations to enjoy.
The Local Community
We believe travel should give back to the communities that make our experiences possible. No Roads Expeditions proudly supports local conservation and social initiatives in the regions we visit. For every expedition booked, we donate $20 to a local charity or environmental project.
You can read more about these initiatives on the Charity section of each expedition page, and know that your adventure directly contributes to sustaining the places and people that make it so special.
Peru uses 220-volt electricity and Type A (two flat prongs) or Type C (two round prongs) outlets.
Most U.S. devices run on 110 volts, so check your charger or appliance label — if it says “100–240V”, it will work fine with just a plug adapter.
In the United States, most modern appliances and electronics use the Type B plug, which has two flat parallel prongs and a third round grounding prong (the “three-prong” plug).
If your device has a three-prong plug or two-prong plug, you’ll need to bring a universal travel adapter to fit Peruvian outlets.
