How far is Peru from my home?

In order to provide you with useful references we have created a table including the approximate arrival flight times.

Direct Flights

Flights with stopovers

Do I need a visa to visit Peru?

Citizens of most American and Western European countries are not required visa to enter Peru. Citizens of Bolivia, Ecuador and Chile do not require passports or visa to visit certain regions of Peru. Contact the Peruvian diplomatic representative in your country for further information. Addresses and phone numbers are included in the website of Peru’s Ministry of Foreign Relations: www.rree.gob.pe If the purpose of your visit is tourism, the maximum length of your stay will be 90 days (you can apply for extensions with the immigration authority). All travelers must carry a valid passport, or a safe-conduct issued by the Peruvian immigration authority.

Is it safe to travel in Peru?

Reality shows that it is very safe. You may have read or heard on TV, websites or newspapers about terrorism, crime and economic and political instability. But the truth is that terrorism has been defeated a long time ago; Peruvians live in peace and work very hard every day to build a democratic and safe society. We can assure visitors that all they need to do is follow the normal precautions taken in order to visit other destinations.

When visiting the cities:

• Take the logical precautions to avoid pickpockets and purse-snatchers.
• Carry a copy of your identification documents. Keep the originals and the rest of valuable personal effects in the safety deposit box of your hotel.
• Wear valuable items discretely; don’t carry large sums of cash and watch your bags and luggage.
• Refrain from exchanging currency on the street.
• It is advisable to use taxi companies for transportation (they can be requested by phone) or cabs authorized by the municipal authorities (in Lima they are painted yellow and carry a bright identification sign on the roof).

Road tourism:

• Always carry your driver’s license, a copy of your passport and the rental agreement if you’re driving a rental car.
• If a traffic officer signals you to stop, you must stop. Traffic officers must be wearing uniform and carry identification.
• Bear in mind that traffic officers are not allowed retain any personal or vehicle documents. Under no circumstances should you offer or agree to pay money to traffic officers.
• In case of an accident or collision, call a traffic officer.

Prohibitions:

• It is forbidden to take photographs of airports, military bases, police stations and areas surrounding high voltage towers.

Are there services for tourists with special needs in Peru?

In Peru we believe in the idea of “Tourism for Everybody”. This is why many public and private organizations have been working for years to ensure that their services are equally accessible for the differently-abled. We advise you to contact your service provider in advance to ensure that your accessibility needs will be met.

What’s the weather like throughout the year?

Peru is a very large country that is crossed by the Andes and has a vast Amazonian region, so you are likely to notice differences from one place to the other. It hardly ever rains on the coast, where there are usually two seasons: a warm season (November 15th to end of March) and a cold, humid season (April to mid-November). The mountains and jungle have a rainy season from mid-November to late March and a drier, cooler season from April to mid-November.

Average temperatures by city:

(and many more cities listed in the original)

How much money should I expect to spend on my trip?

This answer depends on your personal preferences and the level of comfort you desire. Bartering is common except in large stores and restaurants. Prices are higher in Lima and during holidays.

Reference prices (in US Dollars):

Other frequently Asked Questions about Treks and tours

What to Bring Original passport, insurance card, rain gear, strong footwear, warm clothes (layers), sleeping bag (can be hired), torch, sun block, insect repellent, snacks, water bottle, personal medical kit, etc.

Equipment

Tents (2 people in a 4-person tent), foam mattress, cook & cooking equipment, dining tent, toilet tent.

Hiring Extra Equipment

Sleeping bags (-10°C or -15°C), inflatable mattresses, walking poles, extra mules/porters.

Luggage Storage & Load Limits

8 kg per person in provided duffel bag (for alternative treks), day pack for personal items, main luggage stored at hotel in Cusco.

Do you need an extra luggage mule/or riding mule?

8 kg included. Extra mule available if needed (shared). One emergency horse included.

Extra Charges

Single tent supplement, private tour supplement, name/date changes, etc.

Train Tickets

Backpacker trains usually depart afternoon. Changes possible with fees.

Cooking & Meals

Hygienic Peruvian & Western food. Vegetarian options available if advised in advance.

Bathing

Limited; warm water provided for washing face/hands. Cold showers on some routes.

Toilets

Toilet tent provided or existing facilities. Follow “leave no trace” rules.

Medical Kit

Basic kit + oxygen bottle carried. Bring your own specific medications.

How much money should I take?

Enough for snacks, souvenirs, meals in Aguas Calientes, and tips. ATM in Aguas Calientes but not always reliable.

Tips

Completely optional but appreciated. Suggested amounts: guide $10-20/day, cook $5-10/day, porters/muleteers $3-5/day (per person, divided among the group).

Safety

Generally very safe. Keep valuables inside tent, be cautious but not paranoid. Minimal theft risk on popular routes.