Country Facts

• Official Name: Republic of Peru
• Continent: South America
• Time zone: Peru Time (PET), UTC -5
• Capital: Lima
• Population: Approximately 33 million (as of 2023)
• Official Language: Spanish
• Government: Unitary presidential republic
• Economy: Mixed economy with a focus on mining, agriculture, and tourism
• Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN)
• Voltage and Plugs: 220V, 60Hz; Plug types A, B, and C

Regions at a Glance

No related destinations found for this zone.

Trip Planning

When to go?

• Climate Type: Peru features a diverse range of climates, including tropical, arid, and temperate, due to its varied geography. The coastal region is arid, the Andean highlands are temperate, and the Amazon rainforest is tropical.
• Average Temperatures: Coastal areas average 18-24°C (64-75°F) year-round. In the Andes, temperatures range from 10-20°C (50-68°F) during the day but can drop below freezing at night. The Amazon region averages 25-30°C (77-86°F) throughout the year.
• Rainfall & Precipitation: The coastal region receives minimal rainfall, often less than 50 mm annually. The Andes experience a wet season (November to March) with heavy rainfall, while the Amazon region sees consistent rainfall year-round, averaging 2,000-3,000 mm annually.
• Seasonal Variations: Coastal Peru has a dry season (April to October) and a humid, foggy season (November to March). The Andes have distinct wet and dry seasons, while the Amazon remains humid and rainy year-round with slight temperature fluctuations.
• Natural Disasters: Peru is prone to earthquakes, particularly along the Pacific coast. The El Niño phenomenon can cause severe flooding and landslides. The Amazon region may experience localized flooding during heavy rains.
• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit coastal Peru is during the dry season (April to October). For the Andes, the dry season (May to September) is best for trekking. The Amazon can be visited year-round, but the drier months (May to October) are more comfortable.

Practical Info

Healthcare Requirements

Peru's diverse geography, ranging from coastal deserts to high-altitude Andes and the Amazon rainforest, requires careful health preparation. Below are key health care requirements and advice for travelers:

Vaccinations

Before traveling to Peru, ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines such as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. Additionally, the following vaccines are recommended:

• Yellow Fever: Required if visiting the Amazon rainforest. Proof of vaccination may be requested upon entry.
• Hepatitis A and B: Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through food, water, or medical procedures.
• Typhoid: Advised for those traveling to rural areas or staying for extended periods.

Altitude Sickness

If visiting high-altitude regions like Cusco or Machu Picchu, be aware of altitude sickness (soroche). Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and dizziness. To minimize risks:

• Ascend gradually and allow time for acclimatization.
• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and heavy meals upon arrival.
• Consider medications like acetazolamide (Diamox) after consulting a doctor.

Food and Water Safety

To avoid foodborne illnesses:

• Drink only bottled or purified water.
• Avoid raw or undercooked foods, especially in street markets.
• Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer.

Insect-Borne Diseases

In the Amazon and other tropical regions, protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, malaria, and Zika:

• Use insect repellent containing DEET.
• Wear long-sleeved clothing and sleep under mosquito nets.
• Consider antimalarial medication if traveling to high-risk areas.

Seasonal Considerations

Peru's climate varies by region and season:

• Coastal Areas: Mild and humid, with a risk of respiratory infections during the cooler, foggy season (May-October).
• Andes: Dry and sunny during the day, but temperatures drop significantly at night. Pack warm clothing.
• Amazon: Hot and humid year-round, with heavy rainfall from December to March. Be prepared for muddy conditions and increased insect activity.

Medical Facilities

Major cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa have well-equipped hospitals and clinics. However, rural areas may have limited medical resources. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation.

By taking these precautions, you can enjoy Peru's incredible landscapes and culture while staying healthy and safe.

On the Road

Getting Around

Peru offers a variety of transportation options, but planning ahead is essential due to the country's diverse terrain. In cities like Lima and Cusco, taxis and ride-sharing apps are convenient, though always negotiate fares or ensure the meter is used. For long distances, domestic flights are the fastest way to travel, especially to destinations like Cusco or Arequipa. Buses are a popular and affordable option, with reputable companies like Cruz del Sur offering comfortable and reliable services. In rural areas, colectivos (shared vans) are common but can be crowded. For the Inca Trail or Amazon regions, guided tours often include transportation. Always carry cash for local transport, as card payments are rarely accepted.

Culture

• Traditions & Customs: Peru is a country rich in traditions, deeply rooted in its indigenous heritage and colonial history. One of the most iconic customs is the Inti Raymi, or Festival of the Sun, celebrated in Cusco every June 24th, which honors the Inca sun god Inti. Another significant tradition is the Qoyllur Rit'i pilgrimage, where thousands of Andean people gather to honor the Lord of Qoyllur Rit'i, blending Catholic and indigenous beliefs. Additionally, the practice of offering a "pago a la tierra" (payment to the earth) is common in rural areas, where locals make offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth) to ensure good harvests and prosperity.
• Arts & Literature: Peruvian art is a vibrant mix of pre-Columbian, colonial, and contemporary influences. The ancient Nazca lines and intricate Inca stonework are testaments to the country's artistic legacy. In literature, Peru has produced world-renowned authors such as Mario Vargas Llosa, a Nobel Prize winner, whose works often explore themes of identity, politics, and history. The country is also known for its colonial-era religious art, particularly the Cusco School of painting, which blended European techniques with indigenous motifs.
• Music & Dance: Peruvian music is incredibly diverse, with genres like huayno, marinera, and Afro-Peruvian rhythms such as festejo and landó. The charango, a small stringed instrument, and the quena, a traditional Andean flute, are central to Andean music. Traditional dances like the marinera, a graceful courtship dance, and the energetic huayno, often performed during festivals, are integral to Peruvian culture. In the coastal regions, Afro-Peruvian music and dance have a strong presence, reflecting the country's African heritage.
• Food & Cuisine: Peruvian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its diversity and flavor. Iconic dishes include ceviche, a marinated seafood dish, and lomo saltado, a stir-fry that blends Peruvian and Chinese influences. The country is also famous for its potatoes, with over 4,000 varieties, and its use of native ingredients like quinoa and ají peppers. In the highlands, dishes like pachamanca, a traditional Andean feast cooked underground, are a culinary highlight. Peruvian cuisine is a fusion of indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences, making it one of the most unique in the world.
• Languages & Dialects: Spanish is the official language of Peru, but the country is linguistically diverse. Quechua, the language of the Inca Empire, is widely spoken in the Andean regions, while Aymara is common in the southern highlands. In the Amazon, numerous indigenous languages are still spoken, such as Asháninka and Shipibo. This linguistic diversity reflects Peru's rich cultural heritage and the resilience of its indigenous communities.
• Religion & Spirituality: The majority of Peruvians identify as Roman Catholic, a legacy of Spanish colonization. However, indigenous spiritual practices remain deeply ingrained, particularly in rural areas. Many Peruvians practice a syncretic form of Catholicism that incorporates indigenous beliefs, such as the veneration of Pachamama and mountain spirits (apus). In the Amazon, shamanism plays a significant role in spiritual and healing practices, often involving the use of ayahuasca, a sacred plant medicine.
• Festivals & Holidays: Peru's calendar is filled with vibrant festivals and holidays. Carnival, celebrated in February or March, is marked by water fights and parades. Semana Santa (Holy Week) is observed with solemn processions, particularly in Ayacucho and Cusco. The Fiesta de la Candelaria in Puno, held in February, is one of the largest and most colorful festivals in South America, featuring elaborate costumes and traditional dances. Independence Day on July 28th is celebrated nationwide with parades, fireworks, and patriotic displays.
• Social Norms & Etiquette: Peruvians are known for their warmth and hospitality. Greetings are important, and it is customary to shake hands or give a light kiss on the cheek, depending on the level of familiarity. Punctuality is flexible, especially in social settings, but being on time is appreciated in formal contexts. Respect for elders and authority figures is emphasized, and it is polite to address people with their titles (e.g., "Señor" or "Señora"). In rural areas, it is common to share food and drink as a sign of friendship and trust.