Top 10 tips for travelling in Peru

Travel to Peru is a lifelong dream for many of us, the country has much to offer with a beautiful long coastline, high mountain ranges and thick lush jungle. Ancient ruins from mysterious civilizations to large cosmopolitan cities waiting for you to explore, the markets in Peru are where you will find some of the best souvenirs and handicrafts anywhere in the world. No where in the world will you find such diversity and culture all in the one place. Here we shall give you the top 10 tips for your perfect holiday to Peru.

Number 1. You should never travel to Peru or anywhere before you have researched the country. Use the net to look at what are the best attractions, make a list of all the places you want to see, decide how many days you want to spend in Peru and the budget you wish to spend. Also, you may want to invest in a good travel guidebook to use when you are in Peru, these are so helpful when deciding what you want to do and see. Research the type of hotels you want to stay there are many from Hostels, 3 & 4 Star to many luxury properties housed in old colonial buildings.

Number 2. There are many and varied agencies in Peru, offering a range of cheap tripsand expensive, some with many years’ experience and some not. Talk in length with the agency about your needs, if you want the best tours find a good agency.

Number 3. Travel to Peru can be a bit tricky and trying to do it all yourself can be a rather large headache, with an agent try and book all the tours, hotels and internal flights before you arrive, this will take away some of the pressure and give you peace of mind.

Number 4. Before you leave home talk to your doctor about what you need to travel to Peru. Some countries will not let you return if you haven’t had the Yellow Fever vaccination. This is important and should be done before you take a trip anywhere in the world. When in Peru only drink bottled water, wash your hands often and wear mosquito repellent when you are in jungle areas. Sunscreen is a must when you are in high altitudes.

Number 5. Think about where you are travelling, if you going just to the coast of Peru in summer you may only need summer clothing, if you are travelling to Cusco (known to many as the wonder of the world)and the highlands you will need warm clothing and in the rainy season wet weather gear.

Number 6. Arriving into a strange country in the middle of the night can be a little daunting so arrange a transfer to your hotel, your agentcan help you with this and ensure you arrive safely to your hotel after a long flight.

Number 7. It is always a good idea to change a small amount of money at the airport in case you need some when you arrive. All of the major towns have change houses which is always better than changing money on the street. Peru widely accepts US dollars in larger establishments, use your Peruvian Sol in markets and smaller shops and Credit Card are accepted in hotels and large restaurants.

Number 8. Peru is known for its fine and wonderful cuisine, the coast with its wonderful seafood, the mountain with the stews and the jungle with dishes around the tasty fruits you will find there, all areas have their own special food so you will want to try it all. It is always best to get a recommendation from local people, your hotel reception or your guide. You will not be disappointed with the food; Peru is considered one of the world’s top food destinations.

Number 9. When deciding where to go in Peru give yourself enough time to enjoy each wonderful place. Lima has some wonderful museums that are a must to see to get yourself acquainted with the many different cultures. No trip to Peru is complete without a few days in Cusco the centre of the Inca Empire. Try not to miss Puno and the spectacular Lake Titicaca, so, if possible,give yourself enough time to experience all and miss nothing.

Number 10. The thing on many people’s mind is safety, Peru is a poor country with many living below the poverty line and robbery is common. You need to be wise about your belongings. Do not take large amounts of cash out with you, it is always a good idea just to take what you need. Expensive iPhone will be a target so be careful with those. Flashing your expensive camera around a poor neighbourhood in never a great idea and leave your jewellery at home. The Peruvian people are very kind and appreciate your visit and will treat you with kindness and respect but as in all countries there are those who will not respect you and your possessions.

The number one thing to remember is to enjoy yourself and experience all that Peru has to offer, don’t worry too much Peru is safe to travel around you just need to be sensible.

Date: 2025-05-01