About

Peru is a land of wonders. Machu Picchu one of the Seven Wonder of the World, the mysterious Inca enclave high in the Andes, is the most famous among them, but the country’s incredible diversity also encompasses Spanish colonial architecture, treasure-filled pre-Colombian tombs, a network of Inca roads in South America.

 

 

Best time to visit

In general terms, the best time of year to visit Peru would be during its dry season: between May and October. Nonetheless, if you travel during these months, make sure to book your flights, accommodations, and tours far in advance.

Peru Tours

$799 Tour list image

Experience Peru

Getaway 4 days
$1,399 Tour list image

Amazing Peru

Cultural 7 days

Agent Resources

Passport

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.

Visa

Check if your country requires a visa for entry into Peru. Many countries have visa-exempt agreements, allowing tourists to stay for a specified period (usually up to 90 days).

Vaccinations

Depending on your home country and travel history, certain vaccinations might be recommended or required. Consult your healthcare provider for advice on vaccinations, including hepatitis A and typhoid.

Travel Insurance

It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost belongings.

Currency

The official currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). It's a good idea to have some local currency for small purchases, but credit cards are widely accepted in most places.

What to Bring

  • Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Also, bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially in higher altitude regions like Cusco or Arequipa.
  • Comfortable Shoes: Peru often involves walking and hiking, so bring comfortable shoes for exploring cities and trekking in nature.
  • Outdoor Gear: If you plan to visit places like the Amazon Rainforest or the Andes Mountains, pack appropriate gear such as insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, a rain jacket, and sturdy hiking shoes.
  • Medications: Carry any necessary medications, as well as a small first aid kit, including remedies for common ailments like headaches, upset stomachs, and altitude sickness.
  • Travel Adapter: Peru uses type A and type C power outlets, so bring a universal travel adapter if your devices have different plug types.
  • Portable Charger: It's helpful to have a portable charger to keep your electronic devices powered on the go.

How to Dress

  • Casual and Comfortable: Peru has a relatively relaxed dress code. Comfortable and casual attire is suitable for most situations.
  • Conservative Dressing: When visiting religious sites or rural communities, it's respectful to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.

Best Time to Visit

  • High Season: The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, which typically spans from May to September. This period offers clearer skies and more pleasant temperatures, especially for popular tourist destinations like Machu Picchu and Cusco.
  • Low Season: The rainy season, from November to April, brings lush landscapes but also occasional disruptions due to heavy rains, especially in the Amazon region. However, this period can be less crowded, and prices may be lower.

Weather

  • Coastal Region: The coastal areas, including Lima, experience a mild desert climate with warm temperatures and low rainfall throughout the year.
  • Andes Mountains: The highland regions have cooler temperatures, especially at higher altitudes, and can experience temperature variations between day and night. Cusco and Machu Picchu fall into this category.
  • Amazon Rainforest: The Amazon region is typically hot and humid, with frequent rainfall year-round.

Food

  1. Traditional Dishes: Peru is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine. Must-try dishes include ceviche (marinated seafood), lomo saltado (stir-fried beef), and causa (a potato-based dish).
  2. Street Food: Peru has a vibrant street food scene. Be adventurous and sample local delights such as anticuchos (grilled skewered meat) or empanadas.
  3. Drinking Water: Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid any potential stomach issues.

Phone Connectivity/Internet

  • Mobile Network: Peru has good mobile network coverage in most urban areas. Check with your service provider regarding international roaming plans or consider purchasing a local SIM card for data and calls.
  • Wi-Fi: Most hotels, restaurants, and cafes offer Wi-Fi services, which can vary in speed and reliability.

Power Adapters

  • Power Supply: Peru operates on a 220V electrical system with sockets accepting type A and type C plugs.
  • Adapter: Depending on your home country's plug type, you may need a travel adapter to fit your devices into Peruvian outlets.

Culture

  • Language: The official language is Spanish, although many Peruvians also speak Quechua, Aymara, or other indigenous languages.
  • Respect for Culture: Peru has a rich cultural heritage, and it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Modesty, courtesy, and a friendly demeanor are valued.
  • Tipping: It's customary to tip in Peru. A typical tip is around 10% of the bill in restaurants, and a small tip is appreciated for services such as hotel staff or tour guides.
  • Bargaining: Bargaining is common in local markets, but not in formal stores or establishments.

It’s worth noting that specific details and circumstances may vary, so it’s always a good idea to research and consult updated travel resources before your trip to Peru.