Essential Tips for Traveling to Peru: Top 10 Must-Knows

Peru is an exceptionally diverse nation, presenting a myriad of adventures and cultural encounters for the adventurous traveler. However, this diversity may also lead to potential challenges for the unprepared traveler.

Whether your intention is to remain in the capital or explore various geographical regions, it is beneficial to possess local knowledge. Here are several essential insights to consider prior to embarking on your journey to Peru.

1. Peru’s only international airport is in Lima

Until the Chinchero Airport (which is situated a 45-minute drive from Cuzco) becomes operational, all international travelers arriving in Peru will initially land in the metropolitan area of Lima, specifically at the Jorge Chávez International Airport.

The taxi journey from the airport to tourist-friendly districts such as San Isidro, Miraflores, or Barranco typically takes around 40 minutes when traffic is not congested.

Refrain from hailing a taxi immediately outside the arrivals area or from the busy street just beyond the airport’s vicinity; instead, utilize one of the authorized companies that can be found just after customs. For budget-conscious travelers, the most reliable option is the Airport Express Lima bus, which provides transfers solely to and from Miraflores.

2. The shoulder months are the best time to visit Cuzco

The Cuzco region experiences two distinct seasons: the rainy season (November to April) and the dry season (May to October). During the rainy season, picturesque areas such as the Sacred Valley become lush with diverse crops, and tourist numbers remain relatively low.

Nonetheless, the rainy conditions render the period between January and March particularly challenging, and at times hazardous, for strenuous hikes.

The dry months present ideal conditions for trekking and various adventure sports; however, the influx of tourists peaks during this time. The optimal period to visit Cuzco? Consider the shoulder months, just prior to the onset of rain (October) or at the end of the dry period (May).

3. Make advance arrangements for Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and the Inca Trail

Is it feasible to acquire last-minute entry tickets to Machu Picchu? While it can occur, it is inadvisable to take such a risk given that it is Peru’s most frequented tourist destination.

Secure your entry ticket at least one month beforehand, particularly if your visit coincides with the peak season between June and August.

While you’re planning, consider adding the entry to Huayna Picchu, the prominent peak that serves as a backdrop in traditional Machu Picchu images. Only 200 individuals per day are permitted to undertake the steep, hour-long trek that provides a unique vantage point of the archaeological site.

The dry months in Cuzco coincide with the high season for one of Peru’s most renowned hikes, the Inca Trail. This trek necessitates a permit, which can only be secured through an organized tour. Be aware that the trail is closed every February for maintenance.

4. In Peru, just one cheek kiss is sufficient for greetings

For some visitors, the customary Peruvian greeting may seem excessively intimate, while for others, it may feel incomplete.

When encountering someone of the opposite sex or among two women, Peruvians typically offer a light kiss on one side of the face. While this reflects a degree of machismo culture, men usually greet each other with a handshake or a hug.

Make sure to acknowledge everyone at a gathering when arriving or departing, either with a hug or a light kiss, as neglecting to do so may be perceived as disrespectful.

5. Keep soles and centimos on hand, particularly outside of major tourist areas

While credit card usage and payment applications are widespread in bustling cities like Lima and Cuzco, it is advisable to carry local currency (sol) at all times.

A visit to open-air markets, such as those in Lima’s Surquillo neighborhood and the San Pedro market in Cuzco is a must, where vendors typically prefer cash. During your visit, it might be wise to acquire a small coin purse, as public transportation and restroom facilities often require small change.

In areas far from the typical tourist circuit, such as Tumbes in the north or Ayacucho in south-central Peru, ensuring you have cash is essential.

6. Tipping may not be a local practice, but it is appreciated

Regarding dining experiences in Peru, there is no customary standard for tipping. However, it is advisable for visitors to consider tipping their server, barista, or host based on their satisfaction with the service received.

7. No, your watch doesn’t need to be reset, it’s just the “hora Peruana”

The term la hora Peruana (Peruvian time) describes the tendency for Peruvians to arrive late—often by not just a few minutes, but sometimes as much as an hour.

This stereotype is often discussed among both Peruvians and expatriates, as many have encountered situations where friends, landlords, or colleagues state they will arrive in the morning only to show up well after lunch.

While la hora Peruana might be a generalized notion, it is advisable to remain mentally prepared in situations where a planned participant may not arrive on time.

8. Keep spare toilet paper in your pocket – but never flush it!

Public restrooms in Peru have become notorious among international travelers. From toilets lacking seats to basic pit latrines, visitors can encounter various facilities; however, these experiences are generally manageable.

It is vital to practice restroom etiquette by discarding toilet paper into waste bins rather than attempting to flush it. Most public restrooms do not supply toilet paper, so it is wise to carry a travel-sized roll or expect to purchase a few squares upon entry for approximately 50 cents.

9. Prioritize your gut health regarding food and beverages

It is likely that Peru was chosen as your destination, at least in part, due to its renowned and celebrated culinary offerings.

Your palate will be excited by the distinctive flavor of ají peppers in ceviche, the sound of sizzling suri (palm-weevil larvae), or the refreshing pink froth of frutillada (a blend of chicha or fermented corn beer with strawberries) – all classic street food delights that vary by region in Peru.

When considering street food, particularly beverages, it’s important to be cautious, as the tap water in Peru is not safe for consumption. If in doubt, it is best to wait until reaching a reputable restaurant to try any tempting dish.

10. Allow a full day (if not two) to acclimatize before engaging in high-altitude activities

Regardless of the extent of physical training you may have undergone at sea level prior to your journey, arriving at high-altitude locations, such as Cuzco at an elevation of 3399m (11,152ft) above sea level, can be challenging.

What could be worse than experiencing dizziness, nausea, and other symptoms associated with soroche (altitude sickness), which could impede your ability to enjoy pinnacle hikes such as Vinicunca, located at 5200m (17,060ft) above sea level?

While preparing for your travel, ensure to reserve a day or two for acclimatization before undertaking any rigorous activities. Maintain hydration and avoid heavy foods and alcohol. Moreover, whether you opt to use altitude medications, consider local remedies such as muña tea and coca leaves.