Practical Information

The altitude of Peru is significantly higher than the US or Europe, so give yourself a few days to acclimate yourself before going off to hike to Machu Picchu. I would recommend a trip in which the altitude progresses gradually.

The altitude in Peru varies from it's coastal region to it's mountain regions and of course, the jungles and deserts in between.  Yes, you might be sucking for air in Machu Picchu but that is not indicative of the country as a whole.  Coca tea, which is legal, will help with any altititude-related discomfort/illness.

The "better" restaurants in Lima tend to charge what's called a cubierto which is basically an added fee that covers nothing.  It's not a tip for the wait staff.  It varies from restaurant to restaurant.  Don't be surprised to see it - when I asked what it was for I was told by one manager that it covered the napkins, the silverware, the bread, the decor, etc...  It would appear just to be a way to rip off the consumer but they pretty much all charge it.  Does anyone out there have an explanation?