Peru is a land of ancient mysteries and breathtaking landscapes, where the Andes meet the Amazon and history whispers from every stone. From the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant culture of Cusco and the culinary delights of Lima, Peru offers a mesmerizing blend of adventure, tradition, and flavor. Discover a country where past and present collide in unforgettable ways.

Country Facts

• Official Name: Republic of Peru
• Continent: South America
• Time zone(s): Peru Time (PET, UTC-5)
• Capital City: Lima
• Population: Approximately 34 million (2023 estimate)
• Official Language(s): Spanish, Quechua, Aymara
• Government Type: Unitary presidential republic
• Primary Economy Sectors: Mining, agriculture, manufacturing, tourism
• Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN)
• Voltage and Plug Type(s): 220V, Type A and C plugs
• International Calling Code: +51
• Main International Airport(s): Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM, Lima)

Regions at a Glance

The Andean Highlands (Sierra)

• Geographical Features: Towering Andes mountains, high-altitude plateaus, deep valleys, and glacial lakes.
• Main Cities & Attractions: Cusco (gateway to Machu Picchu), Arequipa (white-stone colonial architecture), Lake Titicaca (world's highest navigable lake).
• Cultural & Historical Highlights: Heartland of the Inca Empire, vibrant Quechua and Aymara cultures, traditional festivals like Inti Raymi.
• Economic & Lifestyle Characteristics: Agriculture (potatoes, quinoa), alpaca herding, tourism-driven economy, and artisanal crafts like textiles.

The Coastal Desert (Costa)

• Geographical Features: Arid desert plains, fertile river valleys, and a long Pacific coastline with dramatic cliffs and beaches.
• Main Cities & Attractions: Lima (capital, culinary hub), Trujillo (Chan Chan ruins), Paracas (wildlife-rich national reserve).
• Cultural & Historical Highlights: Pre-Columbian sites (Nazca Lines, Moche temples), Spanish colonial heritage, Afro-Peruvian influences.
• Economic & Lifestyle Characteristics: Fishing industry, agriculture (asparagus, grapes), modern urban centers, and a thriving gastronomic scene.

The Amazon Rainforest (Selva)

• Geographical Features: Dense tropical rainforest, winding rivers (Amazon, Ucayali), and biodiverse ecosystems.
• Main Cities & Attractions: Iquitos (largest city inaccessible by road), Puerto Maldonado (gateway to Tambopata Reserve), Manu National Park.
• Cultural & Historical Highlights: Indigenous tribes (e.g., Asháninka, Shipibo-Conibo), traditional shamanic practices, rubber boom history.
• Economic & Lifestyle Characteristics: Ecotourism, rubber and timber industries, subsistence farming, and remote riverine communities.

No related destinations found for this zone.

Money Matters

Currency

The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). While some tourist areas, hotels, and larger establishments may accept US Dollars (USD), it's best to carry local currency for smaller purchases, markets, and rural areas. Exchange rates for USD cash are often better than for other foreign currencies.

Cash & ATMs

Carrying some cash is essential, especially outside major cities. ATMs are widely available in urban areas and tourist hubs, with Banco de Crédito (BCP), Interbank, and Scotiabank being the most reliable. Most ATMs allow withdrawals in both PEN and USD, but local currency is recommended to avoid unfavorable exchange rates. Withdrawal limits typically range from 400 to 1,000 PEN per transaction, and fees vary by bank (expect 10–20 PEN per withdrawal). Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks.

Credit & Debit Cards

Major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger shops, but American Express is less common. Smaller establishments, markets, and rural businesses often operate on cash only. Some places may add a 3–10% surcharge for card payments, so always ask beforehand.

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a 10% tip is customary if service isn't already included. For tour guides, 10–20 PEN per day is typical, while drivers and hotel staff may receive 5–10 PEN for exceptional service. Taxis generally don’t expect tips, but rounding up the fare is common.

Bargaining/Haggling

Bargaining is common in markets, especially for handicrafts, souvenirs, and informal services like taxi rides (agree on a price before starting). However, fixed-price stores and restaurants do not negotiate.

General Cost of Travel

Peru is generally budget-friendly compared to the USA or Western Europe. Budget travelers can manage on 30–50 USD per day, while mid-range travelers might spend 60–100 USD. Luxury options are available in cities like Lima and Cusco. Food is inexpensive, with local meals costing 5–15 PEN, while transportation (buses, colectivos) is affordable. Accommodation ranges from 10 USD for hostels to 150+ USD for high-end hotels.

Taxes

Peru has an 18% VAT (IGV) on goods and services, often included in displayed prices. Tourists can claim VAT refunds on purchases over 200 PEN from participating stores—ask for a tax refund form and present it at the airport upon departure. Some hotels and tours may also charge additional tourist taxes (usually minimal).

Packing List

Clothing

Peru's diverse climates require versatile packing. For the coastal region, pack lightweight, breathable clothing for summer (Dec–Mar) and a light jacket or sweater for winter (Jun–Sep). The Andean highlands demand layered clothing—thermal base layers, fleece jackets, and a waterproof outer shell for wet season treks. Nights can be freezing, so pack a warm hat and gloves. In the Amazon, opt for quick-dry, long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect against insects, plus a rain jacket. Modest attire (covered shoulders/knees) is recommended for visiting churches or rural communities.

• Lightweight, moisture-wicking tops (coast/Amazon)
• Thermal layers and fleece (Andes)
• Waterproof jacket (Andes wet season/Amazon)
• Swimwear (coastal beaches, some hotels)
• Sun hat and warm hat (for altitude)
• Modest clothing for religious sites

Footwear

Sturdy footwear is essential for Peru's varied terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are ideal for cities, while waterproof hiking boots are a must for the Andes or Amazon. Sandals (with grip) work for coastal areas or hostel showers.

• Hiking boots (waterproof for Andes/Amazon)
• Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestone streets)
• Sandals (beach/shower use)
• Wool socks (for cold Andean nights)

Toiletries & Medications

Pack travel-sized toiletries, including high-SPF sunscreen (strong equatorial sun) and lip balm. Insect repellent with DEET is critical for the Amazon. Altitude sickness pills (soroche) are recommended for Cusco or Lake Titicaca. Bring a basic first-aid kit with diarrhea relief and rehydration salts.

• DEET-based insect repellent
• Altitude sickness medication (e.g., Diamox)
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• Prescription medications (with copies of prescriptions)

Electronics

Peru uses Type A/B plugs (120V). A universal adapter is useful, especially in older buildings. A power bank is handy for long treks or bus rides. A waterproof phone case or dry bag protects electronics in the Amazon.

• Universal adapter (Type A/B)
• Power bank (for multi-day hikes)
• Waterproof phone case/dry bag
• Camera with extra memory cards

Documents & Money

Carry your passport (with photocopies), visa (if required), and travel insurance details. Credit cards are widely accepted, but small bills in Peruvian soles (PEN) are essential for markets or rural areas.

• Passport (valid for 6+ months)
• Photocopies of important documents
• Travel insurance details
• Credit cards + cash (small bills)

Miscellaneous/Useful Items

A reusable water bottle with a filter (tap water isn’t drinkable) and a daypack for hikes are invaluable. Pack a Spanish phrasebook and a lightweight scarf (for sun/wind protection).

• Reusable water bottle (with filter)
• Small backpack (for day trips)
• Spanish phrasebook or app
• Lightweight scarf or buff
• Ziplock bags (for organizing)

Practical Packing Tips

• Roll clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles.
• Pack a foldable duffel for souvenirs (Peruvian textiles are a must!).
• Check airline baggage restrictions—domestic flights often have strict weight limits.
• Leave valuables at home; use a money belt for cash/passport.

Healthcare Requirements

Recommended & Required Vaccinations

Before traveling to Peru, ensure routine vaccinations (e.g., MMR, Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis, Varicella) are up-to-date. The following are recommended:

• Hepatitis A & B: Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through contaminated food/water or medical procedures.
• Typhoid: Advised, especially for those visiting rural areas or eating street food.
• Yellow Fever: Required if traveling to jungle regions (e.g., Amazon Basin). Proof of vaccination may be requested.
• Rabies: Consider for long-term travelers or those at risk of animal bites.

Malaria & Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

Malaria is a risk in low-altitude regions, particularly the Amazon Basin. Dengue and Zika are also present in tropical areas. Prevention tips:

• Use EPA-registered insect repellent (containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535).
• Wear long-sleeved clothing and sleep under mosquito nets in high-risk areas.
• Consider antimalarial medication if visiting endemic zones—consult a doctor.

Food & Water Safety

To avoid traveler’s diarrhea and other illnesses:

• Drink bottled or boiled/filtered water; avoid ice in drinks.
• Eat thoroughly cooked food and avoid raw vegetables/fruits you can’t peel.
• Choose busy restaurants with high turnover to ensure freshness.

Sun & Heat Protection

Peru’s climate varies, but high-altitude areas have intense UV exposure. Coastal regions can be hot and humid:

• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), even on cloudy days.
• Wear a hat and sunglasses; stay hydrated.

Altitude Sickness

Many destinations (e.g., Cusco, Machu Picchu) are above 2,500m. To acclimatize:

• Ascend gradually; rest upon arrival.
• Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and consider acetazolamide (consult a doctor).
• Recognize symptoms (headache, nausea) and descend if severe.

Local Medical Facilities

Major cities (Lima, Cusco) have private clinics with good standards, but rural areas lack advanced care. Pharmacies are widely available, but bring essential medications.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and adventure activities (e.g., hiking) is strongly recommended.

Specific Local Health Risks

Other risks include:

• Chagas Disease: Rare but possible in rural areas; avoid sleeping in mud/thatch huts.
• Leishmaniasis: Sandfly-borne; use insect repellent in jungle regions.

Disclaimer: This information is general advice. Consult a healthcare provider or travel clinic for personalized recommendations before your trip.

Visa Requirements

General Visa Policy

Peru welcomes tourists from many countries with a visa-free entry policy for short stays. Most visitors can enter for tourism without a visa, typically for up to 90 or 183 days, depending on nationality. However, requirements can vary, so it's essential to verify specifics based on your citizenship.

Specific Nationalities

• USA: No visa required for tourism. Maximum stay of 183 days per entry.
• Canada: No visa required for tourism. Maximum stay of 183 days per entry.
• UK: No visa required for tourism. Maximum stay of 183 days per entry.
• Schengen Area countries: No visa required for tourism. Maximum stay of 90 days per entry (extendable up to 183 days in some cases).
• Australia: No visa required for tourism. Maximum stay of 90 days per entry.

Passport Validity

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Peru. Some airlines may enforce this strictly, so ensure compliance before travel.

Other Entry Requirements

• Proof of onward travel (e.g., return or onward ticket) may be requested upon arrival.
• Proof of sufficient funds for your stay is occasionally checked, though enforcement varies.
• Travel insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended for medical emergencies and trip disruptions.

Official Sources

Always verify current visa requirements with the official embassy or consulate of Peru in your country of residence, or an official government immigration website, well in advance of travel, as policies can change. For the most accurate information, visit: [Link to Official Government Visa Portal or Embassy Website].

Safety

• General Safety Level: Peru is generally safe for tourists, especially in well-traveled areas like Cusco, Lima, and Arequipa. However, petty crime and opportunistic theft are common in crowded places. Stay alert, but don’t let fear overshadow your experience.
• Petty Crime: Pickpocketing and bag-snatching occur in busy markets, public transport, and tourist hotspots like Miraflores (Lima) or Plaza de Armas (Cusco).
  • Protect Valuables: Use a money belt or hidden pouch for passports and cash. Avoid flashing expensive electronics.
  • Scams: Be wary of overly friendly strangers, fake tour operators, or "helpful" taxi drivers offering unsolicited services.
• Transportation Safety:
  • Taxis: Use official taxi apps (Uber, Beat) or pre-booked taxis from reputable companies. Avoid hailing cabs on the street.
  • Public Transport: Buses can be crowded; keep bags close. Opt for registered intercity bus companies (e.g., Cruz del Sur) for long-distance travel.
  • Driving: Road conditions vary, and aggressive driving is common. Avoid night driving in rural areas.
• Solo Travel Considerations: Solo travelers, including women, should exercise standard precautions.
  • Accommodation: Choose well-reviewed hostels/hotels in safe neighborhoods.
  • Night Outings: Avoid walking alone at night; use trusted transport.
  • Socializing: Be cautious about sharing travel plans with strangers.
• Areas to Be Cautious: Exercise extra caution in Lima’s La Victoria and Callao districts, and avoid remote areas near borders (e.g., Colombia/Ecuador) due to sporadic crime or illegal activities.
• Night Safety: Stick to well-lit, populated areas after dark. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can make you a target.
• Natural Hazards: Peru is prone to earthquakes, especially along the coast. Know evacuation routes in your hotel. Altitude sickness is also a risk in highland regions (e.g., Cusco); acclimatize gradually.
• Local Laws & Customs:
  • Drugs: Possession or trafficking carries severe penalties, even for small amounts.
  • Cultural Respect: Ask permission before photographing locals, especially in indigenous communities.
  • Protests: Avoid demonstrations, which can turn confrontational.
• Emergency Preparedness:
  • Documents: Carry photocopies of your passport and visa; store originals securely.
  • Insurance: Ensure your policy covers theft, medical emergencies, and adventure activities (e.g., hiking).
  • Contacts: Save local emergency numbers (105 for police, 116 for tourism police) and your embassy’s details.

Safety conditions can change; check your government’s travel advisories for Peru before departure.

Getting Around

Public Transportation

Peru’s public transportation is affordable but can be crowded, especially in cities like Lima and Cusco. Buses are the most common option, with both urban and long-distance services. Companies like Cruz del Sur and Oltursa offer comfortable intercity buses with amenities like Wi-Fi and reclining seats. In Lima, the Metropolitano bus rapid transit system is efficient for navigating the city. Trains are limited but scenic, such as the PeruRail and Inca Rail routes to Machu Picchu.

• Urban buses cost around PEN 1-3 (USD 0.25-0.75); long-distance fares vary by distance and comfort level.
• Book long-distance buses in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Keep belongings secure, as pickpocketing can occur on crowded buses.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis are widely available but unmetered, so negotiate fares before boarding. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Beat are safer and more reliable, particularly in Lima. Official taxis (with stickers or roof lights) are preferable to informal ones.

• Short rides in cities cost PEN 10-20 (USD 2.50-5).
• Use apps for fixed fares and driver accountability.
• Avoid hailing taxis at night; opt for app-based services or hotel-arranged rides.

Car Rentals

Renting a car is feasible but challenging due to chaotic traffic in cities and varying road conditions in rural areas. Highways are generally decent, but mountain roads can be narrow and unpaved. International licenses are accepted, but driving in Peru requires caution.

• Daily rentals start at PEN 100-200 (USD 25-50), excluding insurance.
• 4×4 vehicles are recommended for remote areas like the Sacred Valley.
• Park in secure lots; theft is a concern in urban areas.

Domestic Flights

Domestic flights save time for long distances, with LATAM, Sky Airline, and JetSmart as main carriers. Popular routes include Lima to Cusco, Arequipa, and Iquitos. Flights to Cusco often sell out due to high demand for Machu Picchu.

• Book early for the best fares; last-minute tickets can be expensive.
• Flights to jungle destinations (e.g., Iquitos) may have limited schedules.
• Check baggage allowances, as budget airlines charge extra.

Ferries & Boats

Boats are essential for Amazon travel, with ferries and speedboats operating from ports like Pucallpa and Iquitos. Lake Titicaca also has ferry services to islands like Taquile and Amantani.

• Public ferries are cheap but slow; private speedboats cost more but save time.
• Wear life jackets, as safety standards vary.
• Book tours through reputable agencies for guided Amazon river trips.

Other Local Transport

In smaller towns and rural areas, colectivos (shared vans) and mototaxis (tuk-tuks) are common. Colectivos follow fixed routes and are cheaper than taxis. Biking is popular in places like Huaraz and the Sacred Valley, with rentals available for scenic routes.

• Colectivos cost PEN 5-15 (USD 1.25-3.75) depending on distance.
• Negotiate mototaxi fares upfront; short rides cost PEN 3-10 (USD 0.75-2.50).
• Bike rentals average PEN 30-50 (USD 7.50-12.50) per day.

Culture

• Traditions & Customs: Peruvians deeply respect their ancestral roots, blending pre-Columbian and Spanish customs. A notable tradition is the “pago a la tierra” (payment to the earth), a ritual offering to Pachamama (Mother Earth) for blessings. In daily life, sharing food is a sign of trust and camaraderie.
• Arts & Literature: Peru’s art spans ancient Nazca pottery to colonial Cusco School paintings. Writer Mario Vargas Llosa, a Nobel laureate, captures Peru’s complex identity in works like “The Time of the Hero.” Traditional crafts like alpaca wool textiles and retablos (intricate religious dioramas) remain vibrant.
• Music & Dance: The haunting melodies of the quena (Andean flute) and charango (small guitar) define traditional music. Marinera, a graceful courtship dance, and huayno, a lively Andean genre, are cultural staples. Afro-Peruvian rhythms like festejo showcase coastal influences.
• Food & Cuisine: Peru is a culinary powerhouse, with ceviche (citrus-marinated seafood) as its flagship dish. Staples like quinoa, ají peppers, and potatoes (native to Peru) feature heavily. Dining etiquette includes waiting for the host to say “Buen provecho” before eating.
• Languages & Dialects: Spanish is the official language, but Quechua and Aymara thrive in the Andes. Indigenous languages like Asháninka are spoken in the Amazon. Travelers might hear “chévere” (cool) or “pata” (friend) in casual conversation.
• Religion & Spirituality: Catholicism dominates, often syncretized with indigenous beliefs—Virgin Mary statues may resemble Pachamama. Ayahuasca ceremonies in the Amazon blend shamanism with spiritual healing, attracting seekers worldwide.
• Festivals & Holidays: Inti Raymi (June), the Inca Sun Festival in Cusco, dazzles with reenactments. Qoyllur Rit’i (May/June) blends Catholic and Andean rites in a high-altitude pilgrimage. Independence Day (July 28–29) bursts with parades and fireworks.
• Social Norms & Etiquette: Greetings involve a handshake or cheek kiss among women. Punctuality is flexible (“hora peruana”). Tipping 10% in restaurants is customary, and small gifts (like chocolates) are appreciated when invited to homes.
• Family & Community Structure: Extended families often live together, with elders highly respected. Community labor (“minka”) persists in rural areas, where collective farming or building projects strengthen bonds.
• Clothing & Attire: Andean women wear polleras (colorful skirts) and bowler hats, while men don ponchos. In cities, Western attire is common, but modest dress is expected in churches. The iconic “chullo” (knit hat with ear flaps) is both functional and cultural.