Document checklist for Peru

• Visa (if applicable)
• Valid passport
• Sufficient funds to cover your trip.
• Return or onward ticket

Essential Peru travel information.

Currency – Peruvian sol (S/). $1 is equivalent to approximately S/.3,83.

Daily budget for 1 person – Allow a daily budget of S/.179 ($47).

Languages: Spanish is the country’s official language.

Socket type – Types A, B, C, F, and L, 220V supply voltage and 60Hz.

Time zone – Peru Time Zone (UTC-5).

Top 3 cities to visit – Cuzco, Arequipa, and Lima.

Top 3 landmarks/monuments – The Machu Picchu, Laguna Parón, Monumental Callao

Visa information for Peru

Visas are not required for most travelers from the Americas and Western Europe. However, visitors are permitted to enter the border region and remain in the country for 183 days, according to local authorities.

Typical costs and budget for Peru

Daily spending – Around S/.179 ($47) per person.

Meals – about S/.48 ($13).

Transport – local transportation may cost up to S/.25 ($6.55) daily.

Hotel – A couple’s average price in Peru is S/.150 ($39).

On average, a trip to Peru for two people for one week will cost S/.2,506 ($657).

Transport and best ways to travel around Peru

Buses are a reliable way to travel between cities and explore the local area. Nevertheless, the journey may be lengthy depending on where you are going; for instance, it takes 15 hours to travel from Lima to Máncora Beach. Regardless, the bus terminals can transport you to the major cities, and it’s a cheap way to get around.

Only a few places can be reached by train in Peru. The rail ride to the Inca citadel is a beautiful excursion and departs from either Cusco or the village of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. Tickets for UNESCO World Heritage Site trips are available through both Inca Rail and Peru Rail.

Even though more expensive than public transportation, taxi services can be a better option to get around town fast and for personal safety at night. Only ride in cabs driven by licensed drivers and set the fare in advance because they don’t have meters. You can also utilize ride-sharing applications like Beat and Uber in major cities.

Safety in Peru

In Latin America, Peru is undoubtedly a worthwhile travel destination. To travel securely, travelers must, however, proceed with extreme caution. The following recommendations will guide you in staying safe while in Peru:

• Violent violence and drug trafficking are problems in Peru.
• Pay attention to your possessions and refrain from wearing jewelry in public.
• Natural disasters like earthquakes and floods are common in Peru. To stay informed about potential threats, follow local media and watch the weather.
• There may still be terrorists operating in Southern Highlands. When visiting this area, watch local news and exercise caution.
• Traveling to steep or slippery terrain might be risky during the rainy season.

Weather in Peru

The dry season (May to September) is the appropriate time to travel to Peru. Then, you can visit Machu Picchu on sunny days with clear blue skies. Otherwise, it may be difficult to fully enjoy outdoor activities during the rainy season (November to April). The average annual temperature in Lima ranges from 15°C to 27°C, rarely falling below 13°C or rising above 29°C.

Must do and see in Peru

Discover Huaraz’s Laguna Parón: A spectacular view is provided by the contrast between the green lagoon and the snow-capped mountains.

Visit the Santa Catalina Monastery in Arequipa: One of Peru’s most intriguing religious structures is the one with tall, intimidating walls that date to 1580.

Visit the Callao Monument in Lima: Local painters leave their mark on the barrio’s old streets in this vibrant urban art hub.

Typical Peruvian food to try

Ceviche is a delectable Peruvian meal that every visitor should experience. It is a tasty dish to try on your trip, made with fresh raw fish, lime juice, onions, and cilantro.

The dish Lomo Saltado is a delectable combination of Chinese and Peruvian cooking. It is created with French fries, onions, tomatoes, and beef strips that have been marinated.

Anticuchos are grilled meat skewers, usually made of beef heart, and then marinated in a spicy sauce before being served. They are well-liked Peruvian street food.

Vaccine information for Peru

Check the necessary routine vaccinations and COVID-19 precautions before traveling to Peru, especially if you intend to travel to the jungle or rural regions. In addition, we advise visiting the CDC website for more information on vaccine requirements and any suggested guidelines or medication lists.