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Safe Travels Ayahuasca Retreat Ceremony in Cusco 1 Day Secure Payment Ayahuasca Retreat Ceremony in Cusco 1 Day

Ayahuasca Retreat Ceremony in Cusco 1 Day

APR 2025 - DEC 2026 Price from $ 360 USD pp $ 390 USD
Trip Type foodCulture & Adventure
Group Size 2-8 people Private Tour
BOOK NOW ONLINE Or call +51 981488207 Call us +51 981488207
Safe Travels Ayahuasca Retreat Ceremony in Cusco 1 Day Secure Payment Ayahuasca Retreat Ceremony in Cusco 1 Day Andean Great Treks Since 2007:
CREATING AUTHENTIC TOURS IN PERU
Discover the Ayahuasca spiritual ceremony in Cusco 1 Day

Trip Overview

Participate in an Ayahuasca retreat in Cusco; Ayahuasca is the Quechua name to refer both to the liquid resulting from the slow decoction of an Amazonian vine called Banisteriopsis caapi, and to the vine itself, which contains the compounds Harmine, Harmaline and Tetrahydroharmine.

Based on the liana decoction called ayahuasca, each Amazonian group or each healer adds different plants with the aim of communicating with a specific spirit depending on the disease they are going to treat, or the specific ritual they are going to perform. Ethnographic studies have reported that there are more than 5,000 different recipes to prepare Ayahuasca and more than 200 plants that can be added to the decoction.

In pre-Columbian times, it was believed that the healer or commonly called shaman had a great capacity to make contact with his extrasensory consciousness through psychophysical techniques and/or the intake of psychotropic substances. In this way they managed to enter a state of consciousness that provided them with divinatory and therapeutic wisdom.

INCLUDED

INCLUDED IN THE AYAHUASCA RETREAT CEREMONY  IN SACRED VALLEY 1 DAY

  • All transport to and from the retreat center
  • Accommodation 1 night – within our facilities you may find the basic life necessities such as shared bedrooms with a capacity of three people as well as shared bathrooms.
  • All retreat facilitated in English
  • Shaman for the “AYAHUASCA ” Ceremony
  • Individual consultations with the shaman and psychology to discuss your experiences and healing process. Consultations are available before and after the ayahuasca ceremonies.

DOES NOT INCLUDE:

  • Other expenses not mentioned
  • Travel insurance

Trip Highlights

  • Ayahuasca is like 10 years of therapy in a few hours, some say. The active ingredient breaks down your defenses to let the suppressed, repressed emotions and memories come up. It’s been proven to improve neuroplasticity of the brain, forming new pathways. The experiential nature of the “trips” makes realizations stick. People tend to make significant life choices in the days, weeks and months afterwards. Many report they were positive.
  • Ayahuasca is said to be the closest thing to a near-death experience. Having to fight to survive “death” is a common experience in psychedelics and one that confronts you with fears and discomfort and forces you to push through. The reward is the calm of wisdom and gratitude .
  • Current research shows that ayahuasca can protect and restore certain parts of the brain, increase mindfulness, improve emotion regulation, and reduce stress and depression almost immediately, as it paves the way for retrieving and reprogramming memories repressed.

Activities

Ayahuasca is a shamanic medicine originating from the Amazon Rainforest, brewed from a combination of several plants that are legally available in Peru. It is associated with rituals and religious ceremonies that are specific to a complete Ayahuasca experience. The immediate effects of the medicine can be felt in about 20-60 minutes after the oral intake, but the intoxication can, on occasion, last on a person for up to 8 hours. Ayahuasca has a broad spectrum of some amazing positive effects on the body, mind & soul, making one feel completely different in every single ceremony.

Accommodations

Hampiq Wasi : 01 Night

Our Hampiq Wasi  is located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, just one hour from Cusco. The calming environment at Hampiq Wasi makes this an excellent choice for anyone who’ll be having their first interaction with ayahuasca. There our Andean and jungle Shamans will guide you in the wonderful spiritual world of the Andean religion, and the use of its sacred plants, such as Ayahuasca, San Pedro, Kambo, Rape, Sananga. Likewise, personalized psychological help and therapies. All with a lot of discretion.

Itinerary

Level Leisurely/Moderate
Max Elevation 2700 m

Our staff will come to pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 pm, then we will transfer by private transportation to the sacred valley of the Incas, our ceremony will take place in the Town of Pisac, there we will meet Master Alberto, who will give us a warm welcome. The ayahuasca ceremony begins at 6:00 p.m. with the prior permission ceremonies performed by the ayahuasca shaman with different rituals that include tobacco rituals and Iqaros. The dose that is provided to people depends on the energy level and mental strength; the shaman does not provide the same dose for all people.

During the ceremony, you will take a place on one of the mattresses lined up around the room. A bucket and toilet paper next to each one. Then you will sit and watch the shaman prepare the Ayahuasca and perform the ritual of blessing the medicine. The shaman will also drink the medicine. During the purge you will cry, urinate, vomit, defecate, wince, or yawn. We will be aware of all these reactions that are coming and we will be able to act to guide you at all times.

Over the course of the night, you will experience many things. Or possibly just one important thing or very little. The ceremony ends shortly after 11:00 pm, when the lights are turned on. And then you will lie down on your bed, which is assigned to you before the ceremony.

The next day you will be offered a light breakfast, likewise you can consult the Shaman about your visions, who will provide you with spiritual guidance on the possible meanings, and how to have a good harmony of your energies. Our staff will pick you up at 8:00 am, arriving in the city of Cusco at approximately 9:30 am.

FAQ

WHAT IS AYAHUASCA?

Ayahuasca is becoming well known, and Ayahuasca tourism to South America for ayahuasca ceremonies has doubled in the past couple of years. Everyone wants to attain a higher consciousness and peek into the vast unknown universe within.

Ayahuasca is called by some the Spirit Molecule, and by others the God Molecule. It helps people discover the divine within us all. DMT has been the spiritual medicine of indigenous tribes in South America, particularly in Peru and Ecuador. It is a medicine of the jungle. It is a combination of several ingredients, all plants that grow in the jungle, and DMT ayahuasca is a brew of this combination of plants. Spirit vine contains DMT, the God Molecule, or the Spirit Molecule because it puts a person in an altered state of consciousness, a hallucinogenic entheogen.

Many people tout the healing effects of DMT ayahuasca, from the physical level, the emotional level, the mental level, and most importantly the spiritual level, where all illness starts from. If the illness is addressed from within, deep within, the physical manifestation of illness often disappears. If old resentment and anger is let go, health in mind, body and spirit takes its place.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE AYAHUASCA CEREMONY

Everyone is different, and the plant medicine reacts differently in each person’s chemistry, mental constructs, and emotional environment. What can you expect? It is a very individualized experience for each person.

There are as many paths to God as there are individuals on the planet; likewise, there are just as many possibilities for an Ayahuasca experience as there are individuals on the planet. Your experience with Ayahuasca will be unique and will be your own. Just as with meditation, some people are very visual types of people (clairvoyant) and will see colors, patterns, and visions.

Some people are sensing types and will feel emotional and mental changes, or will sense magnetic forces; they seem to “know” (clairsentient). Some people “hear” voices, explanations or sounds (clairaudient). For yet others, it is a combination of all of these. All report feeling physical changes, and this is to be expected when you ask, “what can I expect?” Ayahuasca spirit and all plant medicines are healing vessels and each individual perceives what they do with different senses.

GENERAL EFFECTS OF AYAHUASCA

Ayahuasca is used extensively for healing and religious ceremonies. In recent decades, there is a growing interest in the said substance due to its potential in treating mental disorders like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and addiction.

Some felt that they were lost, but came to their senses again after using Ayahuasca. Others felt that they were too consumed with their personal issues, but Ayahuasca awakened them to feel alive again. In most ayahuasca ceremonies, nausea and vomiting are a common side effect. Some even experience diarrhea. Aside from these, there are obvious physical side effects. Some ayahuasca users experience profuse sweating and shivering. Their heart rate and blood pressure rise. These ayahuasca effects, which are likely due to DMT intoxication, subject one to risks of hypertension, agitations, dizziness and muscular incoordination.

Ayahuasca may also affect one’s emotional state. As some put it, ayahuasca makes one reflect on his experiences and loosen up from his normal way of thinking. It gives one the strength to think about his traumatic past and confront those things that he usually pushes out of his conscious mind. It can stir up your traumatic past and result in distress. It may also heighten one’s fears and result in anxiety and paranoia.

AYAHUASCA DURATION
  • Total duration: 4 – 8 Hours
  • Onset: 20 – 60 minutes
  • Coming up: 30 – 45 minutes
  • Plateau: 1 – 2 hours
  • Coming down: 1 – 2 hours
  • After effects: 1 – 8 hours
DIET PREPARATION FOR THE AYAHUASCA CEREMONY

In preparation for your ayahuasca ceremony, it is suggested that you adhere to ayahuasca diet guidelines. It is not required to be on the ayahuasca diet to have a good experience but it helps to prepare your body to receive ayahuasca. It depends on how clean you already eat and how healthy you are. If you are already a healthy eater, you will probably be fine and have a good experience. The ayahuasca diet is simply a suggestion to prepare for ayahuasca ceremony.

There is a specific way an ayahuasca shaman suggests preparing for ayahuasca ceremony. Shamans suggests that, if possible, using the ayahuasca diet for 2-4 weeks prior to your ayahuasca ceremony. If you don’t have 2-4 weeks to prepare, try to be disciplined for 2-3 days before the ayahuasca ceremony.

These plant medicines seem to “know” when you’ve been bad or good in your diet, and your experience will reflect what is in your body. Make sure your body is a clean vessel in which this medicine can function the way it is intended to. For the most part, the ayahuasca diet is like an alkaline diet, which excludes acidic foods.

PRE-RETREAT REQUIRE RESTRICTIONS

TWO WEEK PRIOR, ABSTAIN FROM:

  • Pork
  • Sexual activities of any kind, including masturbation
  • Alcohol
  • Cannabis
  • ALL street drugs (cocaine, MDMA, amphetamines, etc.) – obligatory for your safety and for the possible energetic impact on other guests
  • Spicy food
  • Ice, ice cream, or ice cold drinks

ONE WEEK PRIOR, ABSTAIN FROM:

  • Refined sugars
  • Red meat
  • Junk foods
  • Salt or pepper
  • Sweets or chocolate
  • Oils (if you must use oil, use olive or coconut oil very sparingly)
  • Animal fats (lard, etc.)
  • Carbonated drinks (including diet sodas, energy drinks, non-alcoholic beer)
  • Dairy products
  • Fermented foods
  • Caffeine & other stimulants

ADDITIONAL RESTRICTIONS:

  • IMPORTANT: Please contact us if you are currently taking any medication or supplements.
  • If you will be menstruating during the retreat, please inform your facilitators when you arrive.
  • Ayahuasca is not compatible with pregnancy.
MEDICAL GUIDELINES FOR AYAHUASCA CEREMONIES

We require that you NEVER enter an ayahuasca ceremony combined with any recreational substance, pharmaceutical drugs, nor health herbal formulations that can affect the physical body in any way, including seemingly non-impacting vitamins or herbs.

All that is being required is three days before the start of shamanic ceremonies you go all natural and have your body in its unadulterated state so you can truly connect with these plant medicine spiritual experiences. Ayahuasca must be used alone, by itself, and never combined with other medicines, stimulants or depressants. There shouldn’t be any chemical altering of your body or brain even if seemingly for something minor.

No documentation or scientific study has been done to examine any substance in combination with Ayahuasca, so no one really knows what would be safe. Therefore, it is safe to say that abstaining from everything for the three days before the ceremony would be the best avenue. That includes your normal medications as well. (Always consult with your doctor about this.)

SAFETY DURING THE AYAHUASCA CEREMONY

One reason why there have been complications for some people with ayahuasca ceremonies, is that some shamans mix other substances into their medicine, like datura (which can give nightmarish experiences and cause death) or high quantities of nicotine (to open the body more to medicine), or other substances that change the nature of the medicine somewhat.

By contract with our shamans, we do not allow our shamans to mix anything into the medicine that is not part of the traditional ingredients. Our shamans practice the utmost of safety when it comes to making sure our medicines are pure and unadulterated. When deaths are connected to Ayahuasca, it is normally the person who ingests the ayahuasca has mixed with other substances.

No deaths from Ayahuasca DMT, Ayahuasca, or the Spirit Molecule / God Molecule are known, unless pharmaceutical or recreational drugs are mixed, or serious health issues are aggravated, like respiratory illnesses or heart diseases. Blood pressure can rise too. However, death has not been associated with DMT ayahuasca no matter what the dose.

WHAT IT'S LIKE TO DO AYAHUASCA AND WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A CEREMONY

If you are considering partaking in such a journey, prepare to encounter the divine, the infinite, the mystery—whatever you choose to call it—that which is beyond the limited perspective of your mind. You must also be willing to accept that the divine/infinite/mystery cannot be experienced in a way that will make sense to your brain. The infinite is infinite, while your brain is still finite.

The icaros, sung by a Shaman, are an integral part of the ceremony. It is through these songs that your mareación (the visionary effects of Ayahuasca) is enhanced. It is also quite likely that you will gain a greater appreciation of the power of music through the icaros.

Be wary that you might not necessarily like the information that the divine/infinite/mystery chooses to share with you. In the documentary Vine of the Soul: Encounters With Ayahuasca, one user reported that the horror she experienced was truly indescribable and that she thought she was going to die. But another participant in the ceremony said that Ayahuasca opened her heart in a way it had never been opened before.

Ayahuasca is always referred to in the feminine because users have said that the voice of higher intelligence that they’ll hear during the ceremony is female. She (meaning the plant) speaks to you directly and tells you what you need to work on in your life.

The experience will be ineffable, beyond language, and you will likely find that trying to put it into words after the ceremony has ended will be daunting if not impossible. “Ten years of therapy downloaded in a night,” seems to be a fairly universal analogy to convey the possible take-away from a ceremony. Another possible outcome of an Ayahuasca ceremony is that you will realize that everything perceived through your five senses and assimilated by your mind is contrived or false.

Returning ceremonial participants should also be aware that each time you experience the divine/infinite/mystery, it will be different. Each experience is akin to just a small drop in the ocean.

If you do not adhere to the recommended dieta (diet) before the ceremony, then the plants will assist your body in ridding itself of the chemicals—salt, sugar, alcohol, caffeine, etc., by fleshing out the toxins and impurities that you have crammed into it over the years. This is commonly known as purging, which translates to literally just that. You’ll probably vomit profusely, but purge buckets will be provided. But fear not, if your body (including the subtle energy body) is clean, then there will be nothing to purge.

It is possible that plant medicine allows the subjective self to temporarily shed and merge with the infinite “other.” After a ceremonial night of purging, you might find that you gain a fresh new outlook on what was once a seemingly mundane reality.

WILL AYAHUASCA CAUSE ME HALLUCINATIONS?

Ayahuasca does not cause hallucinations, but rather takes you on a journey into the unconscious.
Due to its chemical composition, ayahuasca is considered an entheogenic and non-hallucinogenic substance, which means that the altered state of consciousness it produces connects us with our most spiritual part. Etymologically, “entheogen” means “being inspired by the gods”. That is why it is usually taken to connect with sleeping or blocked parts of our unconscious or to connect with the sacred in the world.

AYAHUASCA WILL GENERATE ME ASTRAL JOURNEYS

It is not the ayahuasca that produces the “journey”.
The psychoactive substance that modifies our state of consciousness is DMT and it is not found in the ayahuasca rope, but in the leaves of a low jungle bush called chakruna. Our body (which by itself secretes DMT in very small quantities, for example when we are newly born) has the ability to neutralize the effect of the psychoactive substance. That is to say: the chakruna by itself cannot cause us anything. Ayahuasca is the one that has the ability to block the enzymes of our liver so that DMT is successfully metabolized.
The curious thing is that ayahuasca is the only plant in the jungle (among millions of species) capable of blocking these enzymes in our body. How did the shamans know?

WHAT ROLE DO THE SHAMANS DURING THE AYAHUASCA CEREMONY

The shaman is the mediator between the visible world of things and the invisible world of energies and spirits. No matter what you ask a shaman, he will always end up answering whatever he wants. We, the outsiders, come with such a desire to know everything, to know what is in that other invisible world that is there but that we can barely touch, that we do not stop launching questions like arrows. However, shamans know that each one must find their own answers and they practice their role as guide very well.
The mission of the shaman is to direct the ceremony, that is, to call the spirits (especially the spirit of Mother Ayahuasca) so that they heal us with their wisdom and show us what we have to see.

PACKING LIST

AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY warm jackets
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY Hydration bladder
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY wool socks
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY camera
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY scarf
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY first aid kit
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY hiking shoes
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY Dry bags
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY Trekking Poles
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY sun cream
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY Snack
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY sun hat
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY bathing suite
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY rain coat
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY Sandals
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY insect repellent
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY Passport
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY Down Jackets
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY toilet paper
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY daypack
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY Wool cap
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY head lamp
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY gloves
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY sun glasses
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY cap
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY extra cash
AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY Trekking pants

ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION

ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

View Essential Trip Information

BEST SEASON TO TRAVEL

The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, between May and November, when the weather is dry and bright, with more frequent rainfall occurring between November and April.

JANUARY
Warm - Heavy Rain 20 °C / 7 °C
FEBUARY
Warm - Heavy Rain 20 °C / 6 °C
MARCH
Warm - Heavy Rain 20 °C / 5 °C
APRIL
Hot - Warm 21 °C / 4 °C
MAY
Hot - Warm 21 °C / 0 °C
JUNE
Hot 20 °C / -5 °C
JULY
Hot 21 °C / -3 °C
AUGUST
Hot - Warm 21 °C / -1 °C
SEPTEMBER
Hot 21 °C / 3 °C
OCTOBER
Hot 22 °C / 5 °C
NOVEMBER
Warm - Light Rain 23 °C / 6 °C
DECEMBER
Warm - Light Rain 21 °C / 7 °C

PRICE & AVAILABILITY

PRICE & AVAILABILITY

APR 2025 - DEC 2026 Price from
$ 360 USD Per Person $ 390 USD
Note

To book this tour, a minimum of $ 200 USD per person is required, the remaining balance will be paid upon arrival in Peru, at the Cusco office.

Any other additional information, please coordinate with your travel agent.

Choose your preferred departure date to proceed.
Select passengers Amount
2 Quantity Limit!
Select a date on the calendar!

Reviews

recommendations of A Huge Change in My Life Began Thanks to Ayahuasca
I just completed the Ayahuasca retreat, and I can't even begin to express what a life-changing experience it has been. Everyone will have a different experience, and much of mine will remain personal, but I'd like to briefly summarize the Ayahuasca ceremonies, as I believe everyone should experience this once in their life. I surrendered to the medicine, and it completely healed the problems I was having. I trembled and cried for hours until the tears dried, due to the unconditional love flowing through me. I created a direct connection with God and left feeling as if I had encountered a life-changing experience. I probably had over 100 different beings, such as fire-breathing dragons, harsh demigod rulers like the Anunnaki, creatures from Greek mythology, angels of mercy, and so on. They showed me that the universe is created through song and dance, and I'm not kidding, I created it... I had so much fun lifting mountains, sucking in entire planets and exhaling them into entire galaxies. I learned to open portals with a swinging rope, traversing the multiverse, I was singing. Now I begin my life with wisdom, courage, and a clear path forward. Ayahuasca may not be for everyone, but if you feel a calling, try Andean Great Treks and you'll have the experience of a lifetime.
Emile Bravos A Huge Change in My Life Began Thanks to Ayahuasca
recommendations of Cielo en la tierra
Me sorprendió no solo en el retiro, sino en los ángeles vivos que tienen para ayudar a garantizar su seguridad en su viaje. Tengo hermanos y hermanas de por vida debido a mi viaje. El alojamiento la comida la terapia y cómo el maestro Alberto te cuida. Dijeron que volviera en 2 o 3 años no quería irme y volveré más pronto que tarde. Gracias a todos los que estoy viviendo en gratitud y derramar física y mentalmente una persona espiritualmente sana.
Claudio Uribe Cielo en la tierra
recommendations of An amazing life changing experience
I had no expectations before going on the retreat. What I received was beyond what I expected. The supporting team and Guide are amazing human beings. Absolute professionals who show true care and it is obvious how passionate they are about what they have chosen to do. The food was amazing and super healthy. The volunteer part of the retreat was so rewarding and full of joy. I will be returning to Andean Great Treks for more personal development. Alberto is an integral part of the support the team offers, he was always there at the most needed time to provide the help. Amazing people doing amazing work.
Karl Olov An amazing life changing experience

What to expect from our

Spiritual Journeys

You’ll get up close and personal with the destinations and communities you travel through, seeing the cultural and historical highlights, natural wonders and wildlife, and local hidden gems.

DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR PERU?

 Andean Great Treks

Peru is a country of basically free access. Most of the countries of America and Western Europe do not require a tourist visa to enter Peru, and the maximum length of stay granted by the authorities is 183 days (it cannot be extended). For a stay for a longer period with other objectives (business, study, work, etc.) it is necessary to previously request the corresponding visa from the Peruvian consulates.
To enter Peru it is an essential requirement to present a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months from your entry into the national territory. Citizens of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Ecuador, Colombia, Bolivia and Chile can enter with their national identification document.

WHAT WILL THE GROUP BE LIKE?

 Andean Great Treks

Traveling is one of life’s great pleasures and what most of us dream to do at one time or another in our lives. Discovering new cultures and visiting ancient ruins is what motivates us to travel. Peru has a rich and colorful history with many different regions to explore. While thinking of your Peruvian holiday you might want to also consider a group or individual tours in Peru. Both options are viable when traveling in Peru if you prefer the company of other people when you travel then a group tour will be for you. You’ll always have someone to keep you company along the route, but you don’t always have to walk together. Wherever possible your Andean Great Treks leader will allow everyone to walk at their own pace, regrouping regularly along the route.

MONEY AND CURRENCY IN PERU

 Andean Great Treks

The currency in Peru is the Sol. It doesn’t take long to get used to it. There are just over three Soles to the US Dollar (USD), around three and a half Soles to a Euro (EUR) and just over four Soles to the Pound (GBP). Rounding up helps you make quick conversions when deliberating prices and making payment. While some businesses accept US dollars and some ATMs allow you to withdraw it even, it is much easier to pay for day-to-day things with Soles including food and drink, shopping at local markets and entry to local attractions. There are ATMs in every major city in Peru and as a point of reference can also be found near each city’s Plaza de Armas (the main square). It’s highly unlikely that you will find any ATM in more rural areas including villages and small towns. The fee for withdrawing money at the Peru ATM is around $5-$7 per transaction. The maximum withdrawal is around $200 – $250 per transaction.

IS PERU SAFE TO TRAVEL

 Andean Great Treks

Like many other countries in developing destinations, the region’s beauty and uniqueness are countered by inequality and lack of investment. This has led to crime rates (mainly theft and scams) not being uncommon in the larger cities. We know this doesn’t sound very attractive, but it’s important to mention it regardless. Most experienced and well-traveled visitors will understand this well and not be too concerned. However, having said this, it is our duty to take care of you during your visit. That’s why we present you here with a few recommendations to be extra safe. Avoid walking alone at night on empty streets. Don’t flaunt valuables! If going for a walk or going on public transport, be sensible and avoid showing off expensive items such as expensive watches and jewelry. Be careful of pickpockets! Don’t leave your bags anywhere that doesn’t look safe, and make sure to take them with you.

Peru Travel FAQs

WILL I EXPERIENCE ALTITUDE SICKNESS IN PERU?

Most people can start to feel the effects of altitude at over 2000 m (6561 ft) regardless of age, gender or fitness level. While our leaders have basic first aid training and are aware of the closest medical facilities, it is very important that you make yourself aware of the cause and effects of travelling at altitude, monitor your health and seek assistance accordingly. It’s important to take it easy, drink plenty of water and speak to your group leader at once if you feel unwell.

We recommend seeing your doctor if you have any health concerns before undertaking the trip. Particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition or take any medication.

DO I NEED TO PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE BEFORE TRAVELLING IN PERU?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Andean Great Treks are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your tour guide on the first day of the trip.

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers COVID-19, personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects.

DO I NEED ANY VACCINATIONS BEFORE VISITING PERU?

No vaccines are required in order to enter Peru but some are recommended for protection against disease. Visit your doctor or travel clinic for advice and make sure to schedule vaccinations 4-6 weeks before your departure date, as some require time to become effective.

Recommended travel vaccines for Peru

  1. Hepatitis A (transmitted through contaminated water)
  2. Typhoid (transmitted through contaminated water)
  3. Yellow Fever (transmitted by mosquitos): This vaccination is recommended if you’re visiting Puerto Maldonado, Iquitos or other Amazon Rainforest areas. Some countries require a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate for entry after visiting Peru. Do your research before leaving home to see if you require this vaccine.

CAN I DRINK THE TAP WATER IN PERU?

Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Peru. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your tour guide or the hotel where you’re staying where filtered water can be found. It’s advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating. There’s no need to worry about keeping your mouth closed while you shower, but if you have a particularly sensitive stomach, you may wish to use boiled or filtered water to brush your teeth or wash fruits and vegetables.

When ordering cocktails or smoothies, try to avoid drinks with ice. You can always ask the waiter or vendor if they use filtered water to make ice, but if you’d rather not risk it, just order your drinks  ‘without ice’. Single-use water bottles contribute to a huge environmental problem, so your best bet is to bring a portable water filter or water purifying tablets, and a large reusable bottle to refill at canteens or hotels. Brands like Steripen sterilize water using UV, while bottles from Sawyer remove most bacteria through an in-built foam purifier.

Water safety tips for Peru

Here are some handy tips to follow when it comes to drinking water in Peru:

  • Buy a special water bottle that can purify or filter tap water
  • Bring plenty of oral rehydration tablets in case you come down with diarrhea or stomach upset
  • Take advantage of the wide variety of hydrating fruits and young coconut water available at local markets

ARE CREDIT CARDS WIDELY ACCEPTED IN PERU?

Most hotels, large retailers and tourist attractions accept credit cards but will usually charge a fee (about 5% to 7%) for using them. Make sure you carry cash for when you’re dealing with small vendors, family-run restaurants and market vendors.

CAN I USE MY MOBILE PHONE WHILE IN PERU?

There are many situations where you might want to use your mobile when travelling. It could be to call a hostel to book a room, arrange a meeting point for breakfast with your new travel friends, or contact loved ones in an emergency.

Mobile phone coverage is generally good in Peru’s cities, but may not be available in more remote and mountainous areas. You will be able to use your mobile/cell phone while in Peru, but only if you have activated global roaming or purchased a local SIM card. If you choose to activate global roaming, don’t forget to check with your provider as to what costs will be incurred to avoid any unwanted surprises when you get your phone bill – it’s often painfully expensive! You should also make sure you check that your phone is unlocked before leaving home or the local SIM may not work overseas.

Buying a local SIM in Peru

Many travellers prefer to buy a local SIM card instead of a roaming plan as it works out much cheaper. You can buy a SIM card at most airports and phone retail shops in the bigger towns and cities. There are several carriers to choose from in Peru, with both prepaid and postpaid options available. Though postpaid is slightly cheaper, it may require a minimum commitment period, so you might be better off going with the prepaid option. As far as carriers go, Movistar, Entel and Claro are some of the biggest and will offer you decent coverage, though it may be poor or cut off completely in more rural or mountainous areas like the Andes.

WHAT ARE THE TOILETS LIKE IN PERU?

Peru has a mix of both squat toilets and western-style flushable toilets. It’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, as they are not always provided. Some public toilets charge a small usage fee. Expect to use squat toilets if travelling on the Inca Trail.

WHAT IS ATM ACCESS LIKE IN PERU?

ATMs can be found in most of Peru’s major cities and tourist areas. ATMs are far less common in rural areas and small villages so have enough cash to cover purchases when travelling away from the larger cities.

 ANDEAN GREAT TREKS TOURS DIFFERENCE

ANDEAN GREAT TREKS TOURS DIFFERENCE

UNRIVALLED KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE

Every Andean Great Treks  holiday has been thoughtfully planned and crafted by our specialists. They draw on their own extensive travel experience and the guidance and expertise of our local partners to create superb holidays. Our specialists are committed to making every aspect smooth and enjoyable; they genuinely want to ensure that the holidays they create leave you with wonderful lasting memories.

AMAZING TOURS & AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES

Every Andean Great Treks traveller is accompanied by an experienced tour guide, you will be immersed in Historic cities, ancient ruins and unfamiliar landscapes are all brought to life by our carefully selected local guides. They want to share their expertise and help you make your own discoveries too; their sole mission is to ensure you enjoy every moment.

FLEXIBILITY & CHOICE

Giving you the freedom to make your holiday even more memorable. We know how much our customers look forward to their holiday and we pride ourselves on the choice and flexibility that we offer to enhance every aspect of your experience. Whether it’s getting to the airport, upgrading your room or booking an additional excursion, we can help.

GUIDED BY THE LOCAL GUIDES, TRUE EXPERTS!

GUIDED BY THE LOCAL GUIDES, TRUE EXPERTS!

Our guides are the stars of the show; it is their unrivalled knowledge, passion and expertise that will transform your tour experience from good to truly extraordinary!

Because the have grown up in the area and know it like the back of their hand, so they can help you experience whichever aspects most interest you. They’re passionate about sharing their corner of the world with you, and as you explore together, they’ll open your eyes to the intricate details, provide background to enhance your understanding of what you’re seeing, and share stories that will bring everything to life.

ALL OF OUR NATIONAL TOUR GUIDES…

  • Have at least five years guiding experience
  • Are fluent in English
  • Are born and raised in Cusco, Lima, Manu Jungle, Puno
  • Go through rigorous and ongoing training programmes
  • Are at your service 24 hours a day

OUR TRAVELS SHAPE YOURS

OUR TRAVELS SHAPE YOURS

“Your inspiration for a trip can be a single word or a highly evolved outline, but it’s the conversations we have that help us understand the experience you’re looking for. Meanwhile, I’m looking back on the time I spent at the destination.

‘The great thing about working with a specialist at Andean Great Treks is how they take your  complete jumble of ideas and turn them into  something absolutely spectacular.’

As you begin to share your ideas with your specialist, it will connect them immediately back to a time in their own travels. Conjuring a picture of the ­rest time they made that same discovery, reminding them how it felt.

Your specialist understands that, when the journey is right, it has the power to excite your emotions in the most profound ways after all, that was the effect on them.

They carry a treasure box of moments, captured over many  journeys, into every suggestion they’ll share with you, as  they ask you how you want to feel on your trip.

MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES, REAL CONNECTIONS

MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES,  REAL CONNECTIONS

EXPERIENCES THAT CALL TO YOU

It’s what you do in a destination that helps bring it to life. It’s why we strive to choose experiences that help you connect to a place, absorbing a little of its complex character. Wherever your passions lie, we’ll recommend experiences that speak to you, and we’ll recommend the guide or local expert who’s most qualifi­ed to help you explore. Packing your holiday full of special experiences means some early starts and long days, but you can be sure that you’ll return home with many incredible memories! Read our Tours and check the Physical Ratings to see if the pace and activity levels are right for you.

STAYS WITH DIFFERENCE

We know that where you stay is a cherished part of your travels. So, we go to great lengths to ­find places to stay that exceed expectations, or go above and beyond the ordinary, whether in their character, hospitality, or location. Over the years, we’ve discovered the very best properties, trying and testing them, so we can choose the right one for you. We’ve nourished long-standing relationships with these establishments and the people who founded them, and we’ve stayed there many times often, we’ll even know which rooms have the best views (and reserve them for you).

TRAVELLING THE RIGHT WAY

TRAVELLING THE RIGHT WAY

Our style of travel — authentic, thoughtful, and focused on building meaningful connections to the people and places you visit — is inherently respectful and considerate of the destinations we love. We design each aspect of your trip exactly as you want it, which includes its sustainability. That might mean choosing a train journey instead of a flight, staying at eco-friendly wildlife lodges, or opting for experiences that give back to the communities you’re visiting. The choice is yours.

Responsible travel has always been at the heart of what we do. First and foremost, because it gives you the best experience, but, also because it helps to preserve the communities and landscapes you visit. This isn’t new for us we collaborated with local communities and outside experts so we can grow to be better ambassadors.

The most authentic and interesting experiences often directly benefit the local people. We prefer to buy local products that are produced in the organic farms of the Sacred Valley, we also have alliances with local artisan organizations who provide us with souvenir items for our clients, your money directly benefits the local economy.

Our style of travel — authentic, thoughtful, and focused on building meaningful connections to the people and places you visit — is inherently respectful and considerate of the destinations we love. We design each aspect of your trip exactly as you want it, which includes its sustainability. That might mean choosing a train journey instead of a flight, staying at eco-friendly wildlife lodges, or opting for experiences that give back to the communities you’re visiting. The choice is yours.

Responsible travel has always been at the heart of what we do. First and foremost, because it gives you the best experience, but, also because it helps to preserve the communities and landscapes you visit. This isn’t new for us we collaborated with local communities and outside experts so we can grow to be better ambassadors.

The most authentic and interesting experiences often directly benefit the local people. We prefer to buy local products that are produced in the organic farms of the Sacred Valley, we also have alliances with local artisan organizations who provide us with souvenir items for our clients, your money directly benefits the local economy.

WE EXPLORE WITHOUT AFFECTING THE ECOSYSTEM

WE EXPLORE WITHOUT AFFECTING THE ECOSYSTEM

We want travel to change us, and not the World

‘There’s a saying: we don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children. When we show you our country, this philosophy guides everything we do. It’s our responsibility to preserve the environment and wildlife, and support communities. That means using slower modes of transport, like cycling, employing local people, and working with communities who’ll benefit directly from your visit. This also gives you the best, most authentic impression of the places we want to share with you.

We prefer to buy local products in ecological bags, to avoid the use of plastic bags, likewise we teach the use of soaps and ecological products in each tour that we organize. We also work on reforestation projects with local communities who take care of landscape resources such as communal reserves, national parks.

We want travel to change us, and not the World

‘There’s a saying: we don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children. When we show you our country, this philosophy guides everything we do. It’s our responsibility to preserve the environment and wildlife, and support communities. That means using slower modes of transport, like cycling, employing local people, and working with communities who’ll benefit directly from your visit. This also gives you the best, most authentic impression of the places we want to share with you.

We prefer to buy local products in ecological bags, to avoid the use of plastic bags, likewise we teach the use of soaps and ecological products in each tour that we organize. We also work on reforestation projects with local communities who take care of landscape resources such as communal reserves, national parks.

DISCOVER MORE SIMILAR TOURS: AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY

AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY

AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY

From $ 390 US $ 360 USD

The ayahuasca ceremony is one of the most sacred, in the ethnic and cultural world of the tribes of the Amazon. In Peru we have good indigenous priests who will care for and treat your bodily and psychological ills with this sacred plant.

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AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN SACRED VALLEY  3 DAYS

AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN SACRED VALLEY 3 DAYS

From $ 890 US $ 830 USD

Our 3-day Ayahuasca program in the sacred valley is perfect for those who do not have much time available; but who seek to have a genuine and intense experience with their inner being and the energy that surrounds us. Make your Ayahuasca retreat; in a magical, immersive, safe, authentic and unforgettable place.

food https://andeangreattreks.com
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AYAHUASCA RETREAT CEREMONY IN CUSCO  5 DAYS
BEST SELLER

AYAHUASCA RETREAT CEREMONY IN CUSCO 5 DAYS

From $ 1790 US $ 1650 USD

Taking part in this 5 days Ayahuasca Retreat you can participate in a deep process of healing, cleansing, purification; and physical, psychological and spiritual detoxification. This retreat includes 3 ayahuasca ceremonies in our retreat house, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas plus 2 Ancient Inca rituals, done by professional Masters and healers from the Amazon jungle and Andean Shamans.

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