What vaccinations do you need for Peru and Machu Picchu?

If you’re embarking on a Machu Picchu trek, one of the most common questions is which vaccinations you need to meet the Peru entry requirements. Thankfully, most Peru vaccinations are standard travel jabs that many people already have or just need topping up before they go.

• Hepatitis A
• Tetanus and diphtheria (routine booster)
• Typhoid

• Hepatitis B
• Rabies: Rabies is not widespread in Peru. However, it can be present in animals such as dogs. While you’re unlikely to be interacting with animals on your trek, it’s definitely something to consider.
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
• Yellow fever: You may need proof of a yellow fever vaccination if you are travelling from or through an area where yellow fever is present, including South America, some regions of Central America, and Sub-Saharan Africa.

• Understand exactly which vaccinations you need for Peru
• Decide which optional vaccines are worth considering
• Schedule your vaccinations around your chosen departure date

• Using 50% DEET-based insect repellent
• Sleeping under mosquito nets treated with insecticide
• Wearing loose clothing that covers your arms and legs during the day (this is when mosquitoes are most active)

For more information on rabies and the other optional vaccines, you can make an appointment with a health clinic, such as Nomad Travel Clinics, to discuss your options. When it comes to these kind of injections and decisions, we can advise you from our personal experience, but we always suggest that you go speak to a medical professional. They can suggest and give you a rundown of exactly what you need for your trip. Remember, if you're booked with us then EverTrekkers benefit from discounted vaccinations with Nomad - find more info here.

You can also check out Fit for Travel which is a great NHS website that gives you the rundown of exactly what you need in terms of your vaccinations for specific areas of the world.

When travelling to South America, you have to also think about the Zika virus which can be present down in this part of the world. More common in areas such as Brazil or Argentina, but we've heard people speaking about it when it comes to Peru, so again, it's something to think about & consider.

Like anything, don't let the viruses or vaccinations put you off. We often talk about ‘managed danger’ - high altitude treks always have an element of danger, but it’s the preparation, research & knowledge that manages it and allows you to embrace your adventure!

Hopefully this has given you a good basis of what you’ll need to consider and discuss with a medical professional, so that you can find out exactly what you need before you head on your awesome trek to Machu Picchu!

Have more questions about the Machu Picchu trek? Read our "Beginners guide to the Inca Trail Hike".