What should I know before visiting Peru?

Direct answer

You should prepare for varied climates, high altitudes, and a mix of urban and rural experiences. Plan entry documents, health precautions, and internal travel logistics in advance to make the most of Peru’s cultural sites, Amazon, and Andes.

Visa / entry requirements

• Many nationalities (including US, Canada, EU, Australia) do not need a tourist visa for stays up to 90 or 183 days—check your country specifics with the nearest Peruvian consulate before travel.
• Passport must be valid for the duration of stay (some airlines request 6 months).
• You may be asked for return/onward ticket and proof of funds.
• Customs: restricted items include certain food products and cultural artifacts; you must declare large amounts of local currency (over $10,000 equivalent) and some biological materials.

Best time to visit

• Dry season (May–September): best for Andes, hiking (Machu Picchu, Cusco, Sacred Valley). Clear skies, colder nights.
• Shoulder months (April, October): fewer crowds, decent weather.
• Wet season (November–March): heavy rains in the Andes, landslide risk; Amazon accessible year-round but wetter.
• Coastal Lima: mild year-round; summer (Dec–Mar) is warmer and sunnier.

Safety tips

• Peru is generally safe for tourists but exercise normal precautions: avoid poorly lit/empty areas at night, use hotel safes for valuables, and watch out for pickpocketing in crowded markets and buses.
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps (Beat, Uber) rather than street-hailing.
• Keep photocopies of passport/ID separate from originals.
• Altitude sickness: ascend gradually, stay hydrated, avoid heavy exertion first 24–48 hours; coca tea, acetazolamide (Diamox) can help—consult your doctor.
• Health: bring insect repellent for Amazon (DEET), vaccinations as recommended (yellow fever may be recommended/required for some regions), and travel insurance covering medical evacuation.

Local customs and etiquette

• Greet with a handshake in business contexts; friends often kiss one cheek.
• Use polite forms (usted) with elders or in formal situations.
• When visiting Indigenous communities, ask permission before photographing people; bringing a small gift is appreciated.
• Tipping: 10% in restaurants if service isn’t included; small tips for guides and drivers expected.

Currency and money

• Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN). Cash is widely used outside major cities; carry small bills and change.
• Credit cards accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops in cities. ATMs available in urban areas; use bank ATMs and cover PIN.
• Exchange money at banks or official exchange houses (casa de cambio); airports/hostels may have rates less favorable.

Transportation

• Domestic flights: efficient for long distances (Lima-Cusco/Iquitos/Arequipa). Book early in high season.
• Buses: extensive network; opt for reputable companies (Cruz del Sur, Movil Tours) with comfortable long-distance buses. Night buses common but research safety and comfort.
• Trains: scenic routes to Machu Picchu (PeruRail, Inca Rail). Book ahead.
• Local transit: colectivos, combis and micros are cheap but can be crowded and chaotic. Use taxis or ride-hailing in cities.
• Driving: roads vary; rural mountain roads can be challenging. Renting a car is fine for coastal and Arequipa areas but avoid driving at night in remote regions.

Must-know tips & practical advice

• Altitude: spend 1-2 nights in Cusco acclimatizing before strenuous hikes. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and heavy meals initially.
• Machu Picchu: book permits/tickets and trains well in advance (especially for the Inca Trail). Entry times are staggered; follow rules to protect the site.
• Packing: layerable clothing for Andes, sun protection, rain jacket for wet season, sturdy walking shoes, power adapter (Type A/B electrical sockets common), small daypack, reusable water bottle with filter or purification tablets.
• Food & water: enjoy ceviche and street food from reputable stalls; avoid tap water—drink bottled or treated water.
• Language: Spanish is dominant; Quechua and Aymara are spoken in the highlands. Learn basic Spanish phrases; locals appreciate the effort.
• Connectivity: SIM cards (Claro, Movistar) available at airport or city shops; data coverage is patchy in remote areas.
• Respect sites: many ruins are archaeological and sacred; follow signs, don’t climb restricted structures.

Local insights

• Lima is a culinary capital—try diverse dishes in Miraflores and Barranco.
• The Sacred Valley offers cultural experiences at lower altitude than Cusco.
• Consider guided multi-day treks (Salkantay, Lares) as alternatives to the Inca Trail; they require less advance quota.
• Visit lesser-known regions (Northern beaches, Huaraz for trekking, Manu for biodiversity) for fewer crowds.

Final practical checklist

• Check visa rules and passport validity.
• Book major permits/tickets (Machu Picchu, trains, domestic flights) early.
• Pack for altitude and variable weather.
• Get travel insurance covering medical/evacuation.
• Carry local currency and a backup payment method.

Enjoy Peru: respect local cultures, take time to acclimatize, and savor the landscapes and cuisine.