FAQ about Equipment and what to bring

Are sturdy hiking boots necessary for trekking in Peru, or will regular or running shoes do?

Sturdy hiking boots are advisable due to rough terrains and uneven paths, providing better support and protection. Regular shoes or runners may not offer enough grip or protection.

If you’ve forgotten a power bank or other gear, is it easy to find them in Peru?

Yes, electronics like power banks and other accessories are available in larger cities and tourist areas. However, prices might be higher, and it’s best to check for compatibility.

Should I take a drone to Peru or leave it due to theft concerns?

Taking a drone is generally fine. Drones can be flown without many problems except at restricted sites like the Nazca Lines, where extra permissions or fees might be required.

What’s the highest DEET percentage available in Peru? In Colombia, it’s up to 25%. Do you know where they had DEET 50?

Higher DEET concentrations (up to 50%) can sometimes be found at pharmacies. Asking locals or experienced travelers might help locate specific pharmacies.

Are altitude sickness pills easily and affordably available in Arequipa or Cusco?

Yes, altitude sickness pills can be purchased in pharmacies in Arequipa for around 22 soles per 10 pills.

For trekking, are thick, waterproof gloves necessary, or will lighter, windproof gloves suffice?

While waterproof gloves can help in case of rain, lighter windproof gloves should suffice as long as there’s no heavy rainfall.

Can you buy blister bandages anywhere in Cusco? No pharmacies seem to have them, or am I using the wrong term?

Blister bandages can be tricky to find, but you can try asking for “curitas” or “banditas,” or look for them at larger pharmacies or travel gear stores.

Did you take malaria pills to Peru?

It depends on the region. For Lima and the southeast, they’re generally not necessary, but it’s best to consult a travel doctor for specific areas.

Should I bring my travel vaccination booklet to Peru?

Bringing your vaccination booklet is a good idea, especially if you’re on prescribed medication. It rarely takes up much space and could be essential if needed.

Are mandatory vaccinations required to enter Bolivia from Peru, such as yellow fever?

Yellow fever vaccination is typically required if you have been in Peru for over 10 days, especially because yellow fever is also present there.

Do you recommend wearing hiking pants during treks?

Convertible pants are useful since they can be turned into shorts in warm weather. Lightweight long pants offer protection from bugs, sun, and vegetation.

Should you take malaria pills in Iquitos?

Malaria pills might be necessary in the Iquitos region due to a higher risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.

What’s the highest DEET percentage available in Peru, and where can I find DEET 50?

You can sometimes find DEET 50 at specific pharmacies, but availability can vary. Try asking for recommendations from other travelers or check larger pharmacy chains.