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Things to Consider Before You Visit
- Best time to visit: May to September (dry season and ideal for Machu Picchu)
- Local currency is Peruvian Sol (PEN); US dollars accepted in tourist zones
- Spanish is the official language; English spoken in major tourist areas
- Altitude sickness is common in Cusco and Andean regions; acclimatize and drink coca tea
- Cash is needed in rural towns; ATMs are common in cities
- Petty theft can happen in cities; use crossbody bags and avoid dark streets at night
- Dress modestly in rural areas; layers are best due to altitude shifts
- Follow local regulations and preserve historic sites like Machu Picchu
Top Attractions
- Machu Picchu; iconic Incan ruins in the Andes
- Cusco; charming city with rich Inca and colonial history
- Sacred Valley; scenic villages and ancient ruins
- Lake Titicaca; high-altitude lake with floating islands
- Lima; coastal capital with top food and museums
