Peru is most famous for the sacred archaeological site of Machu Picchu – visited each year by scores of intrepid hikers who brave the Inca Trail’s arduous slopes to explore the age-old ruins. The country’s attractions extend far beyond the mystical allure of this legendary location and include palm-fringed beaches, quaint Andean villages and archaeological treasures that predate Machu Picchu by hundreds of years – all imbued with the nation’s rich melange of indigenous and colonial cultures.
General Guidance
Can I travel to Perú without a visa?
To travel to Peru, you’ll only need your passport! To enter the country, citizens from the American and European continent do not need to apply for a tourist visa. In fact, you’ll automatically get one the moment you enter Peru, which will allow you to travel freely throughout the country for a maximum 90 days. However, to avoid any inconveniences for your journey back, it’s always recommended that visitors have their return ticket bought and handy.
Can I travel to Peru without a passport?
Only If you have an official photo ID or documentation from countries such as Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Uruguay, then you can enter Peru without having to present your passport. Otherwise, you will have to bring your passport with you! Remember that it is highly important that make you make sure your passport has at least six months of validity (before your return date from Peru).
What language is spoken in Peru?
Spanish is the main language in Peru. However, you may very well encounter Peruvians that speak English, particularly in commercial establishments, restaurants, and/or other touristic sites. Aside from Spanish, the languages of aimara and quechua are also spoken in Peru, these of which are ancestral tongues and are not used in every region of the country.
What currency is used in Peru?
The currency that’s used in Peru is known as the “sol.” Granted, certain establishments throughout the country do accept US dollars and Euros, but nevertheless, we do recommend changing your money to Peru’s local currency upon arriving at the airport in Peru. This way, you’ll be able to benefit from a better overall exchange rate, given said rate is established by the local authorities.
Does Peru accept and use credit/debit cards?
Certain establishments in Peru also accept international credit and debit cards (Visa, American Express, and Mastercard, among others). However, you should always keep in mind that such cards can only be used at major establishments. If you’re looking to buy handicrafts at the markets, take a taxi, or eat at a small, typical restaurant, then take your “soles” out.
When is the best time to travel to Peru?
You can travel throughout the year, but keep in mind the rainy season that occurs in Andean region of Peru, from november to march, and the closure of the Inca trail that happens once a year, specifically in the month of February.
What’s the electricity and voltage in Peru?
Voltage in Peru is 220 volts, with a frequency of 60 hertz, which is almost double that of what the U.S. uses (120 volts).
What type of electrical plug will I be needing for Peru?
With respect to electrical outlets, there are two kinds in Peru: Type A and Type C. Type A are those that are commonly seen in the US and Canada, consisting of two parallel flat prongs, one being slightly larger than the other. Type C are those that have rounded prongs and are often seen in European countries. If you’re planning on visiting Peru, you’ll most likely want to take an adaptor with you (voltage and connector converter, if possible), given electrical outlets are only compatible with the types.
What vaccines or vaccinations do I need to travel to Peru?
If you’re going to enter the country of Peru from Angola, Brazil, Congo, and/or Uganda, then you’ll need to have a certificate of having received your Yellow Fever vaccine.
Do I need to have health insurance to travel to Peru?
Despite there being no medical insurance requirements to enter Peru, it’s always advised (with any international destination in the world, really) to carry medical insurance with you. This way, you’ll have that extra peace of mind should any unexpected incident arise.
