Overview of Peru
Peru is a large country on the Pacific coast of South America, encompassing a desert coastline, tropical rainforest, and soaring mountains, each with distinct environments. These dramatic landscapes offer an exceptional opportunity for travellers to experience a variety of adventures, an abundance of wildlife, a rich history and archaeological heritage, and the vivacious character of durable native cultures, all within one nation.
Fishing villages, fine beaches, agricultural lands, and Peru's major towns and cities, including the capital of Lima, are interspersed along the narrow belt of desert coastline that stretches the length of the country. The lush Amazon Basin takes up half of Peru and is an ecologically rich area of tropical rainforest that encompasses some of the world's most remote and least explored areas, sparsely populated and for the most part, inaccessible. Separating the coastal desert from the jungle is the splendid Andes mountain range, an endless chain of soaring peaks over 22,000 feet (7,000m) high, and home to millions of indigenous highland people, speaking the ancient Inca language of Quechua, and living in traditional villages with steeply terraced agricultural fields, with their wandering herds of llamas and alpacas.
An interesting history of ancient civilisations, tales of lost cities, undiscovered treasures, and unsolved mysteries make Peru one of the most exciting countries in the world. Travellers can marvel at the sophistication of pre-Colombian cultures and explore the many legacies left by the Inca Empire, particularly the ancient Inca capital of Cuzco. Hiking along the legendary royal Inca highway brings visitors to the awesome, majestic 'Lost City of the Incas', Machu Picchu. Boats transport tourists to the unique floating islands and the traditional world of the island people on Lake Titicaca. Travellers can wander around splendid colonial cities that have preserved their Spanish architecture, look into the depths of the world's deepest canyon, and contemplate the intriguing mystery of the Nazca Lines.
Peru, 'Land of the Incas', offers a stimulating and rewarding travel experience and is one of the most diverse and exhilarating of the South American destinations.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Spanish is the official language. In areas where they are predominant, Quechua, Aymara and other aboriginal languages also have official status. English is spoken only in major tourist centres and hotels.
- Passport/Visa:
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All travellers require passports, return or onward tickets, all documents required for onward travel and proof of funds. If travelling for business purposes, a visa is required. Visas cannot be obtained on arrival. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the visitor's intended date of departure from the travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
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The official currency is Sol (PEN), divided into 100 céntimos. Visa is the most widely accepted credit card, but all major international credit cards are accepted in many, but not all, establishments. Outside of big cities, facilities may be more limited. US Dollars are the easiest currency to exchange and plenty of restaurants, hotels, and shops in the main cities accept dollars for payment. Casas de cambio (exchange bureaux) often give better rates than hotels and banks and can be found in any town on the tourist circuit. ATMs are available in the main cities.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 220 volts, 60Hz. Two-pronged plugs with flat blades as well as plugs with two round prongs are in use.
Travel to Peru
Overview
If there's one place in South America brimming with fascinating and awe-inspiring attractions, it's Peru. With wonders such as Macchu Pichu, the Colca Canyon, the mysterious Nazca lines, the Coricancha Inca Ruins and Pisco, it's no wonder Peru is one of South America's most popular tourist destinations. The country is a favourite with backpackers and budget travellers and it is possible to travel cheaply if necessary. However, Peru's most famous tourist activity, hiking the Inca Trail, is expensive and must be organised in advance as permits are required and very limited.
Cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa are charming and atmospheric, if a little shabby, with lots of colour and run-down colonial buildings. Peru has an interesting and refreshingly unique cuisine and the restaurant scene in places like Lima is fun to investigate. Lima also has a vibrant nightlife and some decent museums.
Getting around Peru is fairly cheap and easy with plenty of internal flights operating on an almost daily basis and an affordable and reasonably reliable public transport system. It's advisable to fly between cities when possible or rent a car and explore all this mystical country has to offer, although long-haul bus trips are also an option.
Climate in Peru
Peru has three climate zones, one of which governs the coastal region. Its desert landscape is caused by the cold Humboldt Current, which prevents cloud formation over the land. Lima is generally sunny and humid, with next to no rainfall, though it experiences heavy sea mists from April to November. The northern coast has hot, sunny summers, with occasional rain showers. The coast gets less arid farther north, as the effect of the Humboldt Current decreases.
The Andes region is cool, and its wet season runs from October to April. Its dry season lasts from May to September. During the dry season, days in the highlands are clear and sunny, though nights become very cold - especially at altitude.
The forested region of the Amazon Basin has an equatorial climate, where conditions involve hot weather and frequent rain throughout the year.
The peak tourist season runs from May to October, particularly in July and August. Winter (June to September) is the best time to walk the Inca Trail, given the wonderful visibility travellers can expect during the clear, sunny days. This is also a good time to visit the jungle basin, as there are fewer mosquitoes.
Health Notes when travelling to Peru
Travellers heading to Peru will need a yellow fever certificate if they're entering from an infected area. They should also remember that Peru experiences some outbreaks of the disease. Travellers will need to receive vaccinations for certain regions, though not for Cuzco, Lima and Machu Picchu.
They won't officially need any other vaccinations, but are advised to take precautions if travelling to jungle regions. Immunisation against typhoid is sensible. Malaria is a year-round risk in the lowland areas (except Lima and the coastal regions to the south), and dengue fever is on the increase. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and hepatitis B are recommended as well, and incidents of bat-bite-transmitted rabies have been reported in the Puno and Madre de Dios provinces, and near the border with Ecuador. Visitors should have a course of rabies injections and not sleep in the open if they plan to spend time in these areas.
Diarrhoea and altitude sickness are the most common ailments for visitors. As precautionary measures, travellers should only drink bottled water, avoid drinks with ice, and be wary of street-vendor food. Healthcare is good in the major cities, particularly at private clinics rather than public hospitals. It's expensive, though, and health insurance is essential. Screening for HIV is inadequate and visitors should avoid blood transfusions.
The zika virus is a factor, though rarely at elevations above 2000 metres (6500 feet). For this reason, Cuzco and Machu Picchu should be zika-free. Travellers should still protect themselves from mosquito bites.
Safety Notes when travelling to Peru
Most visits to Peru are trouble-free and the usual sensible precautions should be enough to keep travellers safe. That said, thieves remain a problem. Travellers should be especially cautious in crowded areas, on public transport, at bus and train stations, and in the centre of Lima at night. Visitors should take extra care in Lima and Cuzco, where there's a risk of street and violent crime.
Foreigners have also been attacked while trekking in the Huayhuash region near Huaraz and should seek safety advice before setting out. Thieves and muggers operate in Huaraz and Arequipa as well.
Women in particular should only take taxis that have been pre-booked by a hotel or an official company. Travellers arriving at Lima International Airport should be wary of thieves posing as taxi drivers or tour operators.
Visitors should avoid all political gatherings and demonstrations, as these have the potential for violence.
Customs in Peru
Visitors should not take photographs of anything relating to the military. Many locals will ask for a tip in return for being the subject of a photograph. In some places, this is the primary source of income. Homosexuality, although legal, is frowned upon. Gay travellers should keep a low profile outside gay clubs. Visitors should avoid wearing any native Indian clothing as this will be seen as insulting, regardless of their intentions.
Duty Free in Peru
Travellers over the age of 18 do not have to pay duty on 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 3 litres of alcoholic beverages; and gifts to the value of US$500. Items such as sausages, salami, ham and cheese may only be brought in if accompanied by an original sanitary certificate. The import of ham from Italy and Portugal is prohibited. The export of cultural or artistic items from the country is not permitted.
Doing Business in Peru
Business centres on the capital, Lima, and is usually conducted in a formal and somewhat conservative manner. It's worth noting that foreigners will need a business visa from a local Peruvian Consulate.
Dress should be formal, with suits and ties being the norm. Titles and surnames are usually used upon greeting, and handshakes are standard for men and women. Business cards are usually exchanged and it is useful to have them printed in Spanish on one side, though English is fairly common. In fact, any effort to speak Spanish will be well received.
Women may encounter sexism. Punctuality is important, though meetings are not likely to begin on time. Business hours can vary but are usually from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday. Some businesses close for a siesta from 1pm to 3pm.
Communication in Peru
The international access code for Peru is +51. Wifi access is available in most hotels, modern restaurants and cafés.
Tipping in Peru
Most restaurants add a service charge of 10 percent, which will be indicated by the words propina or servicio near the bottom of the bill. Even if a service charge has been added, the waiter can be offered an additional 10 percent for exceptional service; this is also the going rate for tipping where a service charge has not been added. In hotels, porters expect about US$1 per bag. Taxi drivers are not tipped (the fare should be set before departure). Tour guides are customarily tipped.
Passport/Visa Note
All travellers require passports, return or onward tickets, all documents required for onward travel and proof of funds. If travelling for business purposes, a visa is required. Visas cannot be obtained on arrival. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the visitor's intended date of departure from the travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
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US nationals do not require a visa for touristic stays of up to 183 days. A passport valid for 6 months from the arrival date is required.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
-
Canadian nationals do not require a visa for touristic stays of up to 183 days. A passport valid for 6 months from the arrival date is required.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
-
British nationals do not require a visa for touristic stays of up to 183 days. A passport valid for 6 months from the arrival date is required.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
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Australian nationals do not require a visa for touristic stays of up to 183 days. Holders of APEC Business Travel Cards validated for travel to Peru do not require visas for stays of up to three months. A passport valid for 6 months from the arrival date is required.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
-
Irish nationals do not require a visa for touristic stays of up to 183 days. A passport valid for 6 months from the arrival date is required.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
-
New Zealand nationals do not require a visa for touristic stays of up to 183 days. Holders of APEC Business Travel Cards validated for travel to Peru do not require visas for stays of up to three months. A passport valid for 6 months from the arrival date is required.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
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South African nationals do not require a visa for touristic stays of up to 183 days. A passport valid for 6 months from the arrival date is required.
Tourist Offices
PROMPERU (Commission for the Promotion of Peru), Lima: +51 1 616 7300 or https://www.peru.travel/biddingbook/home_en.html
Peru Embassies
- In the United States:
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Peruvian Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 833 9860.
- In Canada:
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Peruvian Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 238 1777.
- In the United Kingdom:
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Peruvian Embassy, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 20 7235 3802.
- In Australia:
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Peruvian Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 2 6273 7351.
- In Ireland:
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Peruvian Consulate, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 567 6951.
- In New Zealand:
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Peruvian Embassy, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 4 213 8943.
- In South Africa:
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Peruvian Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 440 1030.
Foreign Embassies in Peru
- American Embassy
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United States Embassy, Lima: +51 1 618 2000.
- Canadian Embassy
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Canadian Embassy, Lima: +51 1 319 3200.
- British Embassy
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British Embassy, Lima: +51 1 617 3000.
- Australian Embassy
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Australian Embassy, Lima: +51 1 630 0500.
- Irish Embassy
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Irish Honorary Consulate, Lima, Peru: +51 1 222 5252.
- New Zealand Embassy
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New Zealand Embassy in Chile (also responsible for Peru): +56 2 2616 3000.
- South African Embassy
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South African Embassy, Lima: +51 1 612 4848.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Peru
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hide Vaccines and Medicines
Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor (ideally, 4-6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.
| | Find Out Why | Protect Yourself |
All travelers You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel. |
| Routine vaccines | Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. |   |
Most travelers Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting. |
| Hepatitis A | CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Peru, regardless of where you are eating or staying. |  |
| Typhoid | You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Peru. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater. | |
Some travelers Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US. |
| Hepatitis B | You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures. |   |
| Malaria | When traveling in Peru, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, depending on your travel plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling, and if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or sleeping outside. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in Peru, see malaria in Peru. |   |
| Rabies | Although rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Peru, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends this vaccine only for these groups: - Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
- People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
- People who are taking long trips or moving to remote areas in Peru
- Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
|  |
| Yellow Fever | Yellow fever is a risk in certain parts of Peru, so CDC recommends the yellow fever vaccine for travelers 9 months of age or older to these areas. For more information on this recommendation, see yellow fever recommendations and requirements for Peru.Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans. | |
All travelers
You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Peru, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Peru. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
When traveling in Peru, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, depending on your travel plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling, and if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or sleeping outside. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in Peru, see malaria in Peru.
Although rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Peru, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends this vaccine only for these groups:
- Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
- People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
- People who are taking long trips or moving to remote areas in Peru
- Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
Yellow fever is a risk in certain parts of Peru, so CDC recommends the yellow fever vaccine for travelers 9 months of age or older to these areas. For more information on this recommendation, see yellow fever recommendations and requirements for Peru.Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans.
Key
- Get vaccinated
- Take antimalarial meds
- Eat and drink safely
- Prevent bug bites
- Keep away from animals
- Reduce your exposure to germs
- Avoid sharing body fluids
- Avoid non-sterile medical or cosmetic equipment
Top
Hide Stay Healthy and Safe
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Peru, so your behaviors are important.
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
- Food that is cooked and served hot
- Hard-cooked eggs
- Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
- Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
- Food served at room temperature
- Food from street vendors
- Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
- Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
- Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
- Unpasteurized dairy products
- ”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
- Bottled water that is sealed
- Water that has been disinfected
- Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
- Carbonated drinks
- Hot coffee or tea
- Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
- Tap or well water
- Ice made with tap or well water
- Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
- Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Ceviche is a popular Peruvian dish of raw fish or seafood that is “cooked” in an acidic marinade. CDC recommends that travelers avoid raw seafood, but if you must try the ceviche in Peru, stick to clean, established restaurants.
Hide Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Peru. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
- Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
- Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
- Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
- Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
- Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
- DEET
- Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD
- IR3535
- Always use insect repellent as directed.
What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?
- Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
- Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.
What can I do to avoid bed bugs?
Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs.
For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites.
Some diseases in Peru—such as dengue, louse-borne typhus, and Chagas disease—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.
Note: Zika is a risk in Peru. For more information, see Zika Virus in Peru.
Hide If your travel plans in Peru include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
- Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
- Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
- Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
- Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
- If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
- Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
- Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
- Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
- Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
- Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
- Do not dive into shallow water.
- Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
- Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
- To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Many popular destinations in Peru, such as Machu Picchu, are at high altitudes. You may experience altitude sickness as a result. Talk to your doctor about ways to prevent and treat altitude sickness.
See Travel to High Altitudes.
Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Peru. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.
Hide Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
- Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
- Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
- Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
- Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
- If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
- Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
- Go to a doctor right away.
- Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Hide Reduce your exposure to germs
Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:
- Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
- If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
Hide Avoid sharing body fluids
Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.
Protect yourself:
- Use latex condoms correctly.
- Do not inject drugs.
- Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
- Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
- If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.
Hide Know how to get medical care while traveling
Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:
- Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
- Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
- Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
- Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Peru’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
- Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Malaria is a risk in some parts of Peru. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.
Hide Select safe transportation
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
- Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
- Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
- Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
- Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
- Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
- Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
- Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
- Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
- Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
- Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
- Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
- Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
- Wear a seatbelt at all times.
- Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
- When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
- Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Peru may be poor.
- Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
- Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
- If you choose to drive a vehicle in Peru, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
- Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
- Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
- Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
- If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
- Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.
For information traffic safety and road conditions in Peru, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Peru.
Hide Maintain personal security
Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Before you leave
- Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
- Monitor travel warnings and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
- Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.
While at your destination(s)
- Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
- Follow all local laws and social customs.
- Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
- Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
- If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
To call for emergency services while in Peru, dial 116 for the fire department and 105 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you during your trip.
Learn as much as you can about Peru before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Peru from the US Department of State.
Hide Top
Hide Healthy Travel Packing List
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Peru for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
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Hide Travel Health Notices
Be aware of current health issues in Peru. Learn how to protect yourself.
Alert Level 2, Practice Enhanced Precautions
- Zika Virus in Peru August 29, 2017 Zika virus (or Zika) has been reported. Public health officials have reported that mosquitoes are infected with Zika and spreading it to people.
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If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.
Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.
For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel.
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Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The official currency is Sol (PEN), divided into 100 céntimos. Visa is the most widely accepted credit card, but all major international credit cards are accepted in many, but not all, establishments. Outside of big cities, facilities may be more limited. US Dollars are the easiest currency to exchange and plenty of restaurants, hotels, and shops in the main cities accept dollars for payment. Casas de cambio (exchange bureaux) often give better rates than hotels and banks and can be found in any town on the tourist circuit. ATMs are available in the main cities.
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Exchange rate for 1 PEN - Peruvian Nuevo Sol
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0.30 BMD
Bermudan Dollar
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0.27 EUR
Euro
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0.30 USD
U.S. Dollar
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0.21 GBP
U.K. Pound Sterling
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32.32 JPY
Japanese Yen
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0.39 CAD
Canadian Dollar
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0.29 CHF
Swiss Franc
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0.41 AUD
Australian Dollar
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7.45 UAH
Ukrainian Hryvnia
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100.23 KZT
Kazakhstani Tenge
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446.95 LBP
Lebanese Pound
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0.21 LYD
Libyan Dinar
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2.04 BOB
Bolivian Boliviano
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32.02 NPR
Nepalese Rupee
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0.11 OMR
Omani Rial
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1.08 QAR
Qatari Rial
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0.41 SGD
Singapore Dollar
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2.46 SEK
Swedish Krona
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1.97 TTD
Trinidad Tobago Dollar
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2.96 VEF
Venezuelan Bolivar
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13.60 DOP
Dominican Peso
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1.99 HRK
Croatian Kuna
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5.53 MXN
Mexican Peso
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174.02 XOF
West African CFA Franc
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0.94 PGK
Papua New Guinean kina
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0.30 BSD
Bahamian Dollar
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0.63 FJD
Fiji Dollar
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6.72 HNL
Honduran Lempira
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32.81 DZD
Algerian Dinar
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353.59 MMK
Myanma Kyat
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3.32 BWP
Botswana Pula
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205.84 CLP
Chilean Peso
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141.90 AMD
Armenia Dram
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7.17 CZK
Czech Koruna
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5.93 MDL
Moldova Lei
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36.89 ISK
Icelandic Krona
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872.25 UZS
Uzbekistan Sum
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1.14 ILS
Israeli New Sheqel
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0.21 JOD
Jordanian Dinar
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0.09 KWD
Kuwaiti Dinar
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9.30 UYU
Uruguayan Peso
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10.54 MUR
Mauritian Rupee
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8.46 NIO
Nicaraguan Córdoba
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2.48 NOK
Norwegian Krone
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1.16 PLN
Polish Zloty
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1.11 SAR
Saudi Riyal
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43.34 LKR
Sri Lanka Rupee
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10.57 THB
Thai Baht
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1.09 AED
U.A.E Dirham
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1.07 BRL
Brazilian Real
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1.20 RON
Romanian New Leu
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2.31 HKD
Hong Kong Dollar
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174.42 XAF
Central African CFA Franc
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6,670.69 VND
Vietnamese Dong
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4.14 ARS
Argentine Peso
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0.80 XCD
East Caribbean Dollar
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2.32 GTQ
Guatemalan Quetzal
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2.90 MAD
Moroccan Dirham
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0.11 BHD
Bahrain Dinar
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0.30 PAB
Panamanian Balboa
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0.44 AZN
Azerbaijan Manat
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925.39 COP
Colombian Peso
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20.27 KGS
Kyrgyzstan Som
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83.03 HUF
Hungarian Forint
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2.34 TJS
Tajikistan Ruble
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4,061.27 IDR
Indonesian Rupiah
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2.64 EGP
Egyptian Pound
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353.53 KRW
South Korean Won
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1,682.73 PYG
Paraguayan Guaraní
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1.23 MYR
Malaysian Ringgit
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159.91 CRC
Costa Rican Colón
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0.44 NZD
New Zealand Dollar
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31.09 PKR
Pakistani Rupee
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19.83 RUB
Russian Rouble
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4.63 ZAR
South African Rand
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0.63 TND
Tunisian Dinar
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0.59 BBD
Barbadian Dollar
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0.52 BGN
Bulgarian Lev
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0.88 TRY
Turkish Lira
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13.84 PHP
Philippine Peso
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9.68 TWD
New Taiwan Dollar
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58.32 NGN
Nigerian Naira
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31.80 XPF
CFP Franc
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1.16 GHS
Ghanaian Cedi
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37.08 JMD
Jamaican Dollar
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0.54 ANG
Neth. Antillean Guilder
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0.41 BND
Brunei Dollar
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32.81 RSD
Serbian Dinar
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1.95 CNY
Chinese Yuan
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5,906.05 BYR
Belarussian Ruble
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1.97 DKK
Danish Krone
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1.02 TMT
New Turkmenistan Manat
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19.96 INR
Indian Rupee
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Exchange Rate for
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Canadian Dollar to Peruvian Nuevo Sol
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U.K. Pound Sterling to Peruvian Nuevo Sol
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Australian Dollar to Peruvian Nuevo Sol
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New Zealand Dollar to Peruvian Nuevo Sol
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Lima International (LIM)
Jorge Chávez International Airport
http://www.lima-airport.com
Location: Lima The airport is situated seven miles (12km) from Lima.
Time: Local time is GMT -5.
Contacts:
Switchboard: +51 1 517 3100. Flight Information: +51 1 511 6055.
Getting to the city:
Buses and minibuses service the city centre. Travellers will find their stops outside the airport gates. They travel to the city, stopping along the main avenues.
Car rental:
Avis, Budget and Hertz offer services at the airport.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis can be pre-booked or found outside the airport terminals.
Facilities:
Facilities at the airport include banks, bureaux de change, ATMs, a post office, a couple of restaurants, shops, left luggage and a tourist information desk. There are disabled facilities; those with special needs should contact their airline in advance.
Parking:
Parking is charged at PEN 7 per hour and PEN 49 per day, and is located across from the main terminal building.
Cuzco Airport (CUZ)
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport
Location: Cuzco The airport is located two miles (3km) from downtown Cuzco.
Time: Local time is GMT -5
Getting to the city:
There are no trains or buses from the airport, so taxis or a rented car are the only options to reach destinations in the city. Some hotels offer a pick-up service from the airport that should be arranged prior to arrival.
Car rental:
Car rental companies represented at the airport include Hertz, Avis, and Europcar.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis from the airport can be arranged from booths within the terminal. Visitors should not use unmarked taxis and should negotiate a price before setting off to their destination.
Facilities:
Airport facilities include restaurants, a club lounge, shops, ATMs, and massage facilities.
Parking:
Parking is available at the airport.
Overview of the Attractions in Peru
If there's one place in South America brimming with fascinating and awe-inspiring attractions, it's Peru. With wonders such as Macchu Pichu, the Colca Canyon, the mysterious Nazca lines, the Coricancha Inca Ruins and Pisco, it's no wonder Peru is one of South America's most popular tourist destinations. The country is a favourite with backpackers and budget travellers and it is possible to travel cheaply if necessary. However, Peru's most famous tourist activity, hiking the Inca Trail, is expensive and must be organised in advance as permits are required and very limited.
Cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa are charming and atmospheric, if a little shabby, with lots of colour and run-down colonial buildings. Peru has an interesting and refreshingly unique cuisine and the restaurant scene in places like Lima is fun to investigate. Lima also has a vibrant nightlife and some decent museums.
Getting around Peru is fairly cheap and easy with plenty of internal flights operating on an almost daily basis and an affordable and reasonably reliable public transport system. It's advisable to fly between cities when possible or rent a car and explore all this mystical country has to offer, although long-haul bus trips are also an option.
Plaza Mayor and Plaza San Martin
Lima
Shoppers, vendors and sightseers crowd the long pedestrian street that connects the striking Plaza Mayor to Lima's other main square, Plaza de Armas. Visitors will find the heart of the old town in these two locations, and invariably begin their sightseeing at one of them. Plaza de Armas' bronze fountain and old street lamps give it a gracefully colonial feel. Indeed, its story stretches back to the era of Spanish rule, when it was the central marketplace and the venue for bullfights. Today, several notable buildings surround the square, including the grand Spanish Baroque Cathedral, which occupies the site of an ancient Inca temple and houses the Museum of Religious Art and Treasures, and the impressive Government Palace, where the changing of the guard takes place. The Archbishop's Palace is also in the vicinity. Tourists should take in the Plaza San Martin as well. The square is a hive of activity, where shoe-shiners, street artists, and soapbox speakers surround its
central fountain. On a cautionary note, visitors should avoid the usually peaceful and jovial Plaza San Martin when political protests and rallies are underway, as these can occasionally turn violent.
Address: Jr. Junin and Jr. Carabaya.
Museo de la Nacion (National Museum)
Lima
Located in Lima, the anthropological and archaeological museum's exhibits trace the history of Peru's ancient civilisations. All in all, they provide an outstanding overview of the country's archaeological richness. The museum's chronological layout guides visitors through the complicated ancient history, highlighting the many conquering cultures and their achievements. Among other things, visitors can view the art and history of the original inhabitants, and the Inca Empire. Regarding more recent history, one of the museum's highlights is an exhibition on Peru's internal conflict (1980 - 2000). Visitors can enjoy guided tours for a small fee, and will marvel at the size of the collection, which spans a few floors.
Getting there: Bus marked Javier Prado/Aviacion or taxi from Lima Centro or Miraflores.
Address: Avenida Javier Prado Este 2465, San Borja.
Museo de Oro del Peru (Gold Museum)
Lima
The Museo de Oro del Peru showcases several centuries of Peruvian gold craftsmanship. Its safe-rooms are housed in a fortress-like building and are crammed with treasures from the Incas and their predecessors. In fact, most of the artefacts are pre-Incan. The massive collection of jewellery, weaponry, gleaming gold statues and ceremonial objects has been exhibited around the world and is truly outstanding. Visitors will also see many other cultural artefacts, such as masks, clothing, mummies, wooden staffs, pre-Incan weapons and exquisite tapestries. Regarding access, travellers should note that the museum is in a residential area beyond the normal tourist route. It's well worth seeking out, though.
Address: Avenida Alonso de Molina 1100, Monterrico.
Website: http://www.museoroperu.com.pe
Museo Rafael Larco Herrera
Lima
The museum houses a world-class collection of ancient ceramic items, with thousands of pre-Columbian clay pots on display. Most of its pieces come from the Moche Dynasty, whose people lived along Peru's northern coast between 100 and 700 AD. The Moche culture is recognised as having accomplished one of ancient Peru's most imaginative languages through the use of creative pottery. Indeed, their work provides wordless clues to all aspects of their civilisation. Visitors can learn about their dance, music, transport, religion and agriculture through their ceramic shapes and designs. The Moche are also renowned for their fascinating erotic pottery. Museum visitors will find examples on display in the separate 'Erotic Hall', and they depict ancient Peruvian sexual practices in a lifelike, explicit and often humorous way. Beyond pottery, the museum's collection includes crowns, masks, garments, statues and jewellery from around 4 000 years of pre-Columbian Peruvian history. The
Larco Museum is housed in an 18th-century mansion and is surrounded by a beautiful, award-winning garden. It remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lima.
Address: 1515 Avenida Bolivar, Pueblo Libre.
Website: http://www.museolarco.org
Church of San Francisco
Lima
San Francisco is the most spectacular of Lima's colonial churches. Thankfully, locals and visitors can still enjoy its striking white and yellow towers and stone façade, as its one of the few buildings to survive the earthquake of 1746. Its famous underground catacombs contain the bones and skulls of around 70 000 people, while arches, columns, mosaic tiles and a Moorish-style ceiling decorate its exquisite interior. The Baroque church also has a superb 17th-century library full of antique texts, and a room of painted masterpieces by Flemish greats Rubens, Jordaens and Van Dyck. Visitors must take a guided tour if they want to explore the church and catacombs. Tours are available in English. The Church of San Francisco is located just one block away from the Plaza Mayor, which is a UNESCO-listed site.
Address: Corner of Lampa and Ancash Avenues.
Pisco
Lima
Pisco is a small port and fishing village, and is best known for its fiery white-grape brandy of the same name. One of Peru's major ancient civilisations, the Paracas, established their culture in the area. They left an astounding collection of antiquities, which travellers can see in Lima's museums. The area's main appeal is as a base from which to explore the nearby Paracas National Reserve, where visitors can view an incredible variety of birds and marine life. Boat tours of the Ballestas Islands are another of the area's drawcards. The islands are off limits to people, but the boat tours afford spectacular close up views of the wildlife. Visitors will see thousands of resident and migratory birds, including terns, penguins, cormorants, flamingos, pelicans and red boobies. Huge colonies of sea lions line the shores, and dolphins, turtles and whales populate the surrounding waters. Boats also pass the famous Candelabra on their way to the islands. The pre-historic drawing
is etched into the sandstone cliffs overlooking the bay.
Address: Pisco is 150 miles (95km) south of Lima.
The Nazca Lines
Lima
Nazca is a small desert town in southern Peru. Named after the Nazca civilisation, the area is famous for the mysterious lines and diagrams etched into the surrounding desert floor. Visitors will also find some interesting museums and archaeological sites, including the Chauchilla Cemetery, where 12 exposed underground tombs contain skeletons and preserved mummified forms. That said, the town's main attraction is an aerial flight over the Nazca Lines, which are spread over miles of the region's vast desert terrain. The dimensions of these enormous figures, spirals and geometric designs are so large, the only way to view them is from the air. Pilots will point out the outlines of intriguing bird and animal representations, such as the Condor, Monkey, Spider, Hummingbird, and the unusual cartoon-like character known as the Astronaut. These figures were made by removing sun-darkened stones from the desert floor to expose the lighter coloured stones below, and were created over
a thousand years ago.
Experts have not discovered why they were created, nor how they were designed. For tourists, the Nazca Lines are among the strangest and most unforgettable sights in the country. They're a legacy of the ancient Nazca culture and one of South America's great mysteries.
Getting there: Ormeno and Civa are two of the best bus companies with offices in Nazca.
Address: Nazca is a few miles in from the coast, 238 miles (383km) southeast of Lima.
Plaza de Armas
Cuzco
The Plaza de Armas is Cuzco's graceful main square, and is lined with colonial-style covered walkways, and houses that contain souvenir shops. Visitors will also find bars, restaurants and travel agencies. A large cathedral is the most prominent structure overlooking the square. Its elaborately carved wooden altar is covered in gold and silver plate, and its carved wooden choir stalls are regarded as Peru's finest. Cathedral visitors usually linger over The Last Supper painting, which portrays Jesus Christ and his disciples gathered around a table, which presents a platter of the local Inca delicacy, cuy (roasted guinea pig). La Compania is also on the plaza. It's one of Cuzco's most ornately decorated churches and is often floodlit at night. History lovers should make a point of walking the alleyway of Loreta, as it's lined with Incan stone walls.
Coricancha Inca Ruins
Cuzco
The sacred complex of Coricancha was considered the centre of the Inca world. Its name means something like 'Golden Enclosure', though Inca stonework is all that remains of the ancient Temple of the Sun. The walls and floors were once covered in sheets of solid gold, and the courtyard was filled with golden statues. Spanish reports tell of opulence that was 'fabulous beyond belief'. Spanish colonists constructed the Church of Santa Domingo on the site, destroying the temple and using its foundations for the cathedral. Major earthquakes have severely damaged the church, though the Inca stone walls still stand, and are a testament to their superb architectural skills and sophisticated stone masonry. Visitors will find an underground archaeological site museum nearby. It contains a number of interesting pieces, including mummies, textiles and sacred idols. Tourists will have the best experience if they explore the site with a guide, as good tours provide context and bring the
place to life.
Address: Pampa del Castillo at Plazoleta Santo Domingo.
Sacsayhuamán
Cuzco
Of the four ruins near Cuzco, Sacsayhuamán is the closest and most remarkable. Spanish conquistadors used it as a quarry during their day, given its proximity to Cuzco and the dimensions of its stones. Indeed, the site provided many of the materials for the city's colonial buildings. The Spanish destroyed the original complex to such an extent that little is known about the actual purpose these magnificent buildings once served. That said, the complex is usually referred to as a fortress because of its high, impenetrable walls. Some believe it may just as easily have been a religious or ceremonial centre. The ruins cover an enormous area, but only 40 percent of the original complex remains. History lovers must visit, as the site offers a fine example of the Inca's extraordinary stone masonry. According to estimates, the complex took about 100 years to build, requiring thousands of labourers. The massive blocks of stone fit together perfectly without the aid of mortar. Each
one weighs between 90 and 125 tonnes, and stands around 16ft (5m) tall.
History buffs will note that the Inca and Spanish fought at the centre during the infamously bloody battle of 1536. The conflict left thousands of native people dead, providing food for circling condors. Since then, Cuzco's Coat of Arms has featured eight condors in memory of the event. Today, the site holds the annual celebrations of Cuzco's most important festival, Inti Raymi: the sun festival. Tourists should attend the colourful and spectacular affair if at all possible.
Getting there: A steep 40 minute (2km) walk up from the Plaza de Armas.
The Sacred Valley (Urubamba River Valley)
Cuzco
Known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas, this breathtakingly beautiful and fertile valley stretches between the villages of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Travellers will navigate it on the winding Urubamba River, with ancient Inca ruins watching from the hilltops above. The river's course also passes a sprinkling of small, traditional settlements. Visitors should note that the centrally situated Urubamba town has a decent tourist infrastructure, and is becoming a popular base from which to explore the valley. The region's most-visited sites are the citadel above Pisac and the fortress of Ollantaytambo. Culture lovers will enjoy the quaint village of Pisac, which is known for its interesting Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday morning markets. Agricultural terraces flank the steep sides of the mountain and have seen many centuries of use. Alarmingly narrow trails lie above them and lead to the cliff-hugging citadel. Visitors will find massive stone doorways and stairways cut into the
rock.
The road terminates at the far end of the Sacred Valley, where travellers will encounter the ancient traditional town of Ollantaytambo. Its temple-fortress clings to the nearby cliffs. Originally developed as an Inca administrative centre, the town's layout is one of the few remaining models of an Inca grid plan, and the existing town lies on the remaining Inca foundations. The ruins include the Royal Chamber, the Princess Baths and the Temple of the Sun.
Getting there: Pisac is a one-hour bus journey from Cuzco. The Pisac citadel is a 30-minute walk from behind the main square or 20 minutes by taxi. Ollantaytambo is situated on the Cusco-Machu Picchu train route, or can be reached by bus with a change at Urubamba.
Chan Chan
History lovers should make a point of visiting Chan Chan while they're in Peru. Once the Chimu Kingdom's capital, it was home to around 60 000 inhabitants, and was wealthy in gold, silver and ceramics. Most of its treasures disappeared with Spanish looters generations ago, though it remains the largest pre-Columbian city in the Americas, and the largest adobe city in the world. Today, it is considered an endangered UNESCO site, given that its adobe buildings are sensitive to time and the elements. Indeed, only one of the site's nine palaces has been properly excavated and opened to the public. Visitors will still see more than enough to paint a picture of what the city must have looked like. Highlights include the intricate depictions of birds, fish and otters on the walls, which add mesmerizing details to the massive site. Travellers will have the best experience if they visit with a guide.
Address: Moche Valley, outside Trujillo.
Website: http://www.chanchan.gob.pe
Machu Picchu
Cuzco
Opening time: Daily 6am-5pm. Huayna Picchu closes at 3pm.
The ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is regarded as the most significant archaeological site in South America, and one of the finest examples of landscape architecture in the world. It is the most enthralling of the region's citadels, and lies high in the Andes. Fortunately, Spanish colonists didn't discover and destroy the structure, as it's completely concealed from below. In fact, the western world didn't find it until an American explorer stumbled across its thickly overgrown ruins in 1911. The site is surrounded by grazing llamas and steep agricultural terraces, and consists of a central plaza, towers, palaces, water canals, ornate fountains, food storehouses, perfectly balanced archways and a sacred ceremonial area of royal tombs and intricately carved temples. The sacred Temple of the Sun is one of the site's highlights. Another is the mountain called, Huayna Picchu, which forms a dramatic backdrop to the city. All told, 'The Lost City of the Incas' has an
abiding sense of majesty and mystery, despite its popularity among tourists.
Getting there: Trains leave from Cuzco and Urubamba to Aguas Calientes, where a bus transports passengers to the ruins. There is also a path leading up to the ruins from Aguas Calientes for those who prefer to walk.
Website: http://www.machupicchu.gob.pe
Santa Catalina Monastery
Arequipa
The Santa Catalina Monastery is an enormous complex of rooms, chapels, plazas, ornate fountains, narrow cobbled streets, and beautifully decorated archways. High walls enclose these marvellous features. The thick and brightly painted walls also contain a number of cells, which once housed over 200 members of the female nobility. These women chose to shut themselves away from the world and devote their lives to prayer. The monastery opened its doors to the world some 400 years later, allowing visitors to wander through its exquisitely finished gates and admire its valuable collection of Spanish American religious art. Today, about 30 resident nuns live out of sight in the northern part of the complex. Visitors should make a point of seeing the monastery's Orange Tree Cloister, which is painted sky-blue and has wonderful murals on its vaulted arches. The huge 17th-century kitchen is another highly recommended sight.
Tourists should walk along the narrow street known as Calle Toledo as well. It is the oldest part of the monastery and leads to the open-air laundry, where nuns washed their clothes in large jugs filled from the canal. Unlike any other church compound, Santa Catalina is a masterpiece of colonial architecture, and is the most fascinating religious complex in Peru.
Address: Santa Catalina 301.
Website: http://www.santacatalina.org.pe
Museo Santuarios Andinos (Museum of Andean Sanctuaries)
Arequipa
This small museum's most famous attraction is the 600-year-old frozen body of a young Inca girl named, Juanita. It was discovered in near-perfect condition on the top of the Ampato Volcano in 1995. She was sacrificed to the mountain gods and buried in a tomb with a number of funeral offerings - which are also on display. The body was encased in ice and preserved by the freezing temperatures for hundreds of years. It was found along with other ice mummies after a volcanic eruption melted the ice and exposed the tomb. The Ice Maiden is displayed in a refrigerated glass case, and analysis of her DNA has afforded great insights into the Inca culture. An interesting video documents the discovery and is included as part of the compulsory tour. Visitors will encounter other interesting artefacts from archaeological sites in the surrounding mountains. The museum is located very near the Plaza des Armas in Arequipa, in the historic area of the city.
Address: Calle la Merced 110, Arequipa
The Colca Canyon
Arequipa
The Colca Canyon is the most popular excursion from Arequipa, and the world's second deepest canyon. Culture lovers will relish the extremely picturesque valley, which is home to huge mountains, grand churches, lively market places and herds of wandering llamas. The Crux del Condor Lookout is the region's most popular viewing point, and the best place to see giant condors soaring above the dramatic depths of the canyon below. Many people stay in the quaint market town of Chivay, which is some three hours from Arequipa. It offers a good range of restaurants, bus services and accommodation, and is an excellent base from which to explore the area. Hikers will find many trails in the surrounding hills. They can also venture down to the bottom of the canyon and overnight in one of the tiny Indian settlements below. Travellers can choose from a number of tour operators, whose packages range from hikes to multi-day adventures. Visitors can set off alone and enjoy self-guided tours
too.
Getting there: Public bus from Terminal Terrestre or San Juan de Dios 510, Arequipa. Organised tours also visit the canyon daily. It is a five-hour journey.
Ayacucho
Cuzco
Located in Peru's central highlands and crossed by two mountain ranges, Ayacucho has much to delight history lovers. Indeed, the region is home to some of the country's most significant archaeological attractions, as well as gorgeous, pastel-coloured colonial buildings. An ancient capital city, some of the oldest pre-historic remains found in America, and richly decorated churches are all part of the destination's inheritance. Ayacucho is a relatively unknown tourism gem, though, due largely to political unrest. That is, as the capital of an isolated and traditionally poor department, it allowed Professor Abimael Guzman to foster the Sendero Luminoso (Shining Path) Maoist Revolutionary movement, causing thousands of deaths in the region during the 1980s and 1990s. Fortunately, travellers are rediscovering Ayacucho. The best time to visit is around Easter, when the city's carnival celebrations are in full swing.
Marcahuasi
Lima
Marcahuasi is a plateau in the Andes. Travellers who are interested in the mythical side of Peruvian culture will find it a wonderful excursion from nearby Lima. The mountains are home to some massive and remarkable rock formations of mysterious origin, which seem to depict various animals, human faces, and other symbols. There is debate about whether the formations are natural or man-made, and theories abound as to how the sculptures could have been made and why. Visitors will also see ruins on the north side of the plateau, where more than 50 structures stand in varying states of dilapidation. Some locals view the plateau with superstitious awe, and consider it a spiritual site of great power. The dramatic landscape doesn't see many tourists. Marcahuasi has camp sites and the views from the plateau are breathtakingly beautiful. Nights can be freezing cold, though. Visitors can rent tents, mattresses and other equipment in the village of San Pedro de Casta, which is the
gateway to Marcahuasi. Local guides are also available.
The Inca Trail
The world-famous Inca Trail is the toast of South America's hikes. Constructed as a royal road to the citadel of Machu Picchu, the dramatic, stone-paved walk ventures deep into cloud forests, and climbs the mountains to the sky.
The beautiful but arduous four-day trail is part of the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary, and a World Heritage Natural and Cultural Site. Hikers who begin it will cross over three high-altitude mountain passes, and see scattered Inca ruins on their way to the citadel. The region's forests, exotic vegetation and breath-taking mountain views are ever-present companions. Ultimately, the ancient royal route reaches the stone Sun Gate, from where Machu Picchu becomes visible. Huayna Picchu's looming peak dominates the background.
Regarding access, travellers must arrange their hikes through an official Inca Trail tour agency, and go as part of an organised group. Independent trekking is prohibited. The number of hikers permitted on the trail at any time is limited, and all parties will require permits. Travellers should book permits long in advance to avoid disappointment.
Otherwise, visitors should remember that the trail is steep, and that the high-altitude makes it especially challenging.
Kayaking and Rafting
A number of powerful rivers race within Peru's borders, including the mighty Amazon. Experienced paddlers will find some challenging stretches of white-water, while novices can enjoy the country's gentler runs. The Urubamba Valley, the Colca and Cotahuasi Canyons, and the Rio Santa and Tambopata Rivers have terrific options. Adventurers can also tackle many wonderful stretches near Arequipa, which makes a great base for rafting and kayaking holidays.
Adrenalin rush aside, river trips allow travellers to access landscapes that might otherwise be very difficult to explore. Many of the country's steep desert canyons and overgrown jungle valleys are best traversed by boat, with wildlife sometimes appearing along the banks.
May through September are the best months for white-water rafting, when water levels are low. Rivers become dangerous during the rainy season (summer). Travellers should note that many of Peru's tour operators offer white-water trips.
Surfing
A reliable swell, fairly warm water and consistent offshore winds make Peru a tremendous surfing destination. The north coast in particular has long, empty waves in beautiful locations, plus one of the world's largest left-hand point breaks.
Local surfers generally head to Lima, which receives an almost daily bounty of good waves, and has popular surf spots. The region's barrels, beach breaks, point breaks, sandbars and rocky bottoms cater for all levels of experience.
Regarding conditions, many surfers go without wetsuits during summer, but wear short-sleeved suits in spring and autumn. Full-body 3.2mm suits and booties are a good idea in winter. The water is warmer than on the Californian coast, but can get chilly. Sharks are not an issue.
Public Holidays in Peru
| |
2020 |
2021 |
| New Year's Day |
Wed. January 1 |
Wed. January 1 |
| Good Friday |
Thu. April 10 |
Wed. April 2 |
| Maundy Thursday |
Wed. April 9 |
Tue. April 1 |
| Labour Day |
Thu. May 1 |
Thu. May 1 |
| St Peter & St Paul's Day |
Sun. June 29 |
Sun. June 29 |
| Independence Day |
Mon. July 28 to Tue. July 29 |
Mon. July 28 to Tue. July 29 |
| Santa Rosa Day |
Sat. August 30 |
Sat. August 30 |
| Battle of Angamos Day |
Wed. October 8 |
Wed. October 8 |
| All Saints' Day |
Sat. November 1 |
Sat. November 1 |
| Immaculate Conception |
Mon. December 8 |
Mon. December 8 |
| Christmas Day |
Thu. December 25 |
Thu. December 25 |
