1. Passport

• A valid passport is required for entry into Peru.

• Carry a second form of photo ID (driver’s license recommended) and a photocopy of the passport’s personal data page.

• A copy of your passport is the easiest way to prove your identity if lost.

• Note: Tourist requirements can change—contact the Peruvian embassy or consulate in your country for current visa and passport requirements.

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2. Flights

• You are responsible for booking your own flights to and from Peru.

• If arriving before the expedition start date, you are responsible for extra nights at Aranwa Sacred Valley & Wellness Hotel, where the group is meeting.

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3. Travel Insurance

• The Four Winds Society STRONGLY recommends purchasing travel insurance.

• Deposit is non-refundable; to protect yourself in case extenuating circumstances force you to cancel your trip.

• Purchase within three weeks of your deposit for best coverage.

• Travelex Insurance: www.travelexinsurance.com | 1-800-228-9792 (Mon-Fri, 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. CST)

• Please refer to Location reference: 09-0821

 

4. Extra Nights

• Book extra nights directly with Aranwa Hotel via Expedia or other booking services if arriving early or staying after the expedition ends.

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5. Meals

• Breakfast: Included daily at the hotel.

• Lunch: Light picnic provided on most hiking days; bring energy bars or organic snacks.

• Dinner: Not included; average cost $28–$40 USD.

• Hotel meals charged to your room and paid at checkout.

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6. Vegetarians

• Plenty of options available. Peruvian cuisine is natural and pure.

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7. Supplements & Special Dietary Products

• Bring all essential supplements, protein powders, teas, or other dietary products.

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8. Prescription Medications

• Pack enough medication for your trip, in containers clearly labeled with prescription forms to avoid problems at Customs.

• Packing a standard first aid kit is advisable, as well as bringing your own favorite personal “remedies.”

• Consider moleskin dressings for blisters.

• Local pharmacies carry common pharmaceuticals.

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9.   Health & Safety

• Check CDC Peru Travel for recommended vaccinations.

• Four Winds Society cannot provide medical advice; consult your physician.

• Common travel illnesses are food- or water-related:

  • Drink bottled water only; avoid ice unless safe.

  • Do not drink from streams.

  • Eat only cooked foods and peeled fruits.

  • Avoid street vendors.

• Hotels maintain excellent hygiene.

 

   Hydration & Altitude:

• Drink at least 2 liters of water daily.

• Alcohol dehydrates—limit consumption.

• Use Emergen-C or electrolyte packets as needed (add to your bottled water)

• Dehydration may cause sleeplessness, hydrate immediately.

• Recommended: purchase Emergency Evacuation Insurance.

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10. Money

• Bring $300–$500 USD in new bills for tips and incidentals.  When you bring US dollars or Euros into Peru, they must be new bills with no tears or rips.

• ATMs available in Lima, Cusco, and Urubamba.

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11. Tips

• We collect tips for our guides, drivers, and porters: $10/day suggested.  

• Plan $90–$110 USD total, collected by a volunteer for group donation at the end of each outing.

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12. Airport Taxes

• Peruvian airports charge Exit Taxes, often included in ticket price. Confirm with your airline.

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13. Optional Healing Sessions

• Energy medicine sessions by shamans: $285 USD per session

• Book at hotel with Four Winds team; cash only (USD or Euros).

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14. Temperatures & Altitude

• Sacred Valley: Daytime ~70°F | Nighttime 40–50°F

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15. Packing Tips

• Daypack for carry-on; main suitcase for checked luggage.

• Leave space for souvenirs or bring an extra bag.

• Laundry facilities available at hotels.

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16. What to Pack

• Each of us reacts to temperature differently. The following list is meant to provide a guideline, but you may need to adjust based on your temperature comfort level and needs. 

• Sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen

• Lightweight hiking boots (Gore-Tex/water-resistant, ankle support)

• Cotton or hiking socks (extra pairs)

• Blue jeans or hiking pants

• Layered clothing for hiking

• Long-sleeved lightweight shirts (moisture-wicking recommended)

• Fleece jacket

• Rain poncho

• Daypack or waist pack

• Pocketknife (for fruit, etc.)

• Organic/healthy snacks

• Small flashlight + extra batteries

• Camera + memory cards + extra batteries

• Emergen-C/electrolyte packets

• Water bottle

• Personal care items: tissues, wet wipes, Ziplock bags for day hikes