Bookings timeline
What to book, in roughly the order you should be booking it.
Inca Trail permits are the only thing that's genuinely unforgiving. Everything else has slack — but Cusco around Easter week tightens fast.
When
Once the date is set
1 item
Hotels in Lima around wedding
HighWedding is Friday, March 27. Other guests will be booking the same area — book the cluster of nights early.
Where · Booking.com, hotel direct
When
4–6 months out
2 items
Inca Trail permits (if doing it)
CriticalPermits sell out 6 months ahead even in shoulder season. NO same-day permits ever.
Where · Licensed operators only (Llama Path, Alpaca Expeditions, etc.)
International flights to Lima
HighDirect from Miami, Atlanta, JFK, LAX, Houston. Avianca and LATAM are options.
Where · Google Flights, airline direct
When
2–3 months out
2 items
Machu Picchu entry tickets
HighPick a circuit (1, 2, or 3). Add Huayna Picchu or Huchuy Picchu separately if hiking.
Where · machupicchu.gob.pe (official) or via tour operator
Train to Machu Picchu
HighVistadome and 360 cars are worth it for the views. Book same days as MP entry.
Where · perurail.com or incarail.com
When
1–2 months out
5 items
Domestic flights (Lima ↔ Cusco etc.)
HighCusco flights can be tight in late March — closer to Easter (April 5), the worse it gets.
Where · LATAM, Sky Airline, JetSmart
Yellow Fever vaccine (if Amazon)
HighRequired for some lodges. Allow 10 days post-vax for effectiveness.
Where · Travel clinic
Cusco / Sacred Valley / Aguas Calientes hotels
MediumPlenty of options but late March can be busy — close to Easter.
Where · Booking.com
Salkantay Trek (Inca Trail alternative)
MediumNo permit cap so easier to book late.
Where · Tour operators
Amazon lodge (Tambopata)
MediumAll-inclusive packages. 3 nights minimum recommended.
Where · Lodge direct (Refugio Amazonas, Posada Amazonas, etc.)
When
1 month out
2 items
Travel insurance
HighStrongly recommended given altitude activities and Amazon.
Where · World Nomads, SafetyWing, IMG
Doctor visit — Diamox (altitude meds)
MediumEven Denver folks may benefit. Discuss with doctor.
Where · Primary care
When
1 week out
1 item
Group SIM/eSIM plan
LoweSIMs work great in Peru. ~$15 for the trip.
Where · Airalo, Holafly
When
Before departure
1 item
Pack waterproof gear
HighLate March = rain. Rain jacket and pack cover essential, especially for highlands and MP.