Travel, Vaccinations & Medications – Peru Adventure Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Peru, especially the iconic Machu Picchu, one thing you’ll want to be prepared for is altitude sickness. It can sneak up on you and hit hard, so it’s important to take the right precautions. Here’s a detailed look at our journey—from vaccines to local food and everything in between.
Altitude Awareness
Cusco sits at over 11,000 feet (3,400 meters), and many travelers feel the effects quickly—shortness of breath, fatigue, or even nausea. We started feeling it within hours of arrival.
Pro Tip:
Talk to your doctor about taking Acetazolamide (Diamox) before or during your trip. It can help your body acclimatize faster. And don’t push yourself on the first day—hydrate, rest, and take it slow.
Vaccines & Medications
Before you go, make sure your vaccinations are up to date. Depending on where you’re traveling in Peru, different shots might be recommended:
- Yellow Fever: Needed if you’re visiting jungle regions or lower elevation areas (not required for Cusco/Machu Picchu).
- Hepatitis A & B: Good to have, especially for food and water safety.
- Typhoid: Consider this if you’re eating street food or staying long-term.
- Altitude meds: Again, consider Diamox if you’re worried about altitude sickness.
We also took care to pack mosquito repellent, as Peru has occasional outbreaks of dengue and chikungunya, particularly during the warmer, wetter months.
Getting There
Our route:
Toronto → Bogotá → Lima → Cusco
It was a long journey—and the final flight into Cusco was especially exhausting. The thin air can be a shock right after landing. We recommend staying active on flights (walk, stretch), drink lots of water, and go easy on the alcohol.
Arrival in Cusco
Touchdown in Cusco was exciting. The city is vibrant, colorful, and rich in history. We did a quick city tour right after landing, which was beautiful but physically draining due to the altitude.
Our first meal? Pollo a la brasa—Peruvian roast chicken with potatoes and a local beer. Affordable, delicious, and comforting after a long trip. Just make sure to eat at clean, reputable restaurants to avoid any stomach issues.
That first night, the altitude symptoms got worse—shortness of breath, fatigue, and restlessness. So don’t underestimate it. Stay hydrated and give your body time to adjust.
Machu Picchu – The Highlight
The next day was the big one: Machu Picchu.
We started early, with a 2-hour journey that included a scenic train ride through lush green valleys and dramatic mountain cliffs. Absolutely stunning.
At a small market stop, I grabbed a soft, high-quality alpaca wool scarf and neck warmer—amazing value and craftsmanship. Definitely check out the local artisan markets.
After the train, we took a bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The experience at the top? Unreal. Surrounded by ancient terraces, fog-shrouded peaks, and waterfalls, it’s one of the most awe-inspiring places I’ve ever visited.
A Medical Emergency in Cusco: The Importance of Travel Insurance
The next morning, we were all set to head back to Lima when our trip took an unexpected turn. Just as we were getting ready to leave for the airport, my son developed a sudden and serious medical issue—a testicular emergency that needed immediate attention.
We rushed back from the airport to an international medical center in Cusco. It was a stressful and emotional moment, but thankfully, we had adequate travel and medical insurance. This made a huge difference—not just financially, but in terms of the speed and quality of care we received.
We ended up staying in Cusco for three extra days while my son underwent surgery and recovered. The doctors were professional and reassuring, and the care he received was excellent. It was a difficult experience, but everything was handled smoothly thanks to being properly prepared.
Travel tip: If there’s one thing I can’t stress enough—it’s this: never travel without comprehensive medical and travel insurance. Emergencies happen when you least expect them.
Back to Lima: Reflections and Recovery
After my son was stable and cleared to travel, we continued our journey back to Lima. The trip gave us another chance to soak in the breathtaking scenery—snow-capped peaks, winding valleys, and those dramatic overhanging mountains that make Peru so visually stunning.
We checked into a beautifully furnished apartment in downtown Lima, which provided a bit of comfort and calm after the intensity of the last few days. The city’s energy, warmth, and great food were a welcome shift as we wound down the final leg of our journey.
Heading Home
Our flight back to Toronto was thankfully uneventful—just how you want a long-haul flight to be. It gave us time to reflect on the highs, the challenges, and everything in between.
Despite the medical hiccup, this trip was full of unforgettable memories—from the awe of Machu Picchu, the charm of Cusco, to the resilience and support we experienced during a family emergency.
Travel always teaches you something—and this time, it reminded me to be prepared, stay flexible, and find gratitude even in the tough moments.
Quick Tips Recap
- Vaccines: Yellow Fever (if applicable), Hep A & B, Typhoid
- Medications: Diamox for altitude sickness
- Health: Hydrate, stretch during flights, avoid alcohol
- Gear: Hiking shoes, comfortable clothes, bug spray
- Insurance: Must-have—make sure it covers medical emergencies
- Docs: Keep passport, insurance info, and bookings handy
- Food: Enjoy the local cuisine—but eat smart
- Shopping: Don’t miss the artisan markets for alpaca goods and souvenirs
Final Thought:
Peru is incredible—breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, warm people. Just be prepared for the altitude, stay organized, and don’t skimp on health precautions. It made our trip stress-free and full of unforgettable moments.
