There are NO required vaccinations or shots for travel to Peru. However, you should consult your doctor to ensure that all of your immunizations are up-to-date.
We recommend that you consult with your local travel clinic for recommended inoculations for travel to Peru. Your local travel clinic may have some recommendations specifically for you. To find out the most current travel health information, we recommend that you contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
As you prepare for your exciting hiking adventure in Peru, it’s important to be aware of the possibility of altitude sickness. This itinerary is designed to take you to high-altitude regions, where the air has less oxygen, and your body may need time to adjust. Certain people are affected by high altitude and may experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. This is known as "altitude sickness" or "mountain sickness". Altitude sickness may occur in travelers who ascend rapidly to altitudes greater than 2,500 meters and can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level.
To help prevent altitude sickness and ensure a smooth experience, we strongly recommend consulting with your doctor before the trip. Your doctor may advise taking Acetazolamide (Diamox), a prescription medication that can help your body acclimatize more quickly to the high altitudes. This medication is typically taken in advance of your trip to help prevent symptoms. Taking Diamox in advance can help prevent altitude sickness symptoms, however, it may not be suitable for everyone, so it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional to determine if it's the right option based on individual health conditions and needs.
Please consult your doctor before your trip. To help alleviate altitude sickness, we recommend you get enough rest, drink lots of liquids (still water, coca tea, and avoid anything carbonated), and eat lightly. We also recommend avoiding heavy foods the first days upon arrival as digestion takes longer in altitude (digestion requires oxygen).