Tuesday, January 3, 2023

19 Essential Tips for Planning Your First Trip to Peru - From Visa Requirements to Must-See Destinations


Peru is a must-see destination for any traveler with its incredible museums and restaurants in Lima, the mysterious Machu Picchu, the beautiful handicrafts in the Sacred Valley and Lake Titicaca, and the allure of the Amazon. But, to make the most of your Peru trip, it's important to do some research beforehand. Here are 19 things to know before visiting Peru for the first time.

1 You don't need a visa to enter Peru as a US citizen. According to the US Department of State, all you need is a valid passport and proof of onward or return travel. You're allowed to stay in Peru for up to 90 days at a time.
2 Book your airport hotel early, especially if you're planning to stay at the Wyndham Costa del Sol, which is located in the airport and tends to book up quickly. Rates at the hotel range from $120 to more than $200 per night, depending on how far in advance you book.

3 Don't drink the tap water in Peru. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the public drinking water in Peru has not been treated to US standards and is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled water to avoid getting sick.

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4 Budget extra time and money for your Peru vacation, as getting around the country can be expensive. According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Peru is lower than in the US, but transportation costs can be higher. For instance, a one-way ticket on a local flight within Peru can cost anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on the route and carrier.

5 Peru has two main seasons: wet and dry. The wet season runs from November to April, while the dry season is from May to October. Keep this in mind when planning your Peru trip, as some destinations may be more difficult to visit during the wet season. For example, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is closed in February due to heavy rainfall.


6 Spanish is the primary language in Peru, so it's a good idea to brush up on your Spanish before your visit. According to the US Census Bureau, around 69% of Peru's population speaks Spanish as their first language.

7 Consider purchasing travel insurance for your Peru vacation, as it can help protect you in case of any unexpected issues during your trip. According to Squaremouth, a leading travel insurance comparison site, the most popular types of coverage for Peru are trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and emergency evacuation.

8 Peru is home to many different ecosystems, from the desert coast to the Andes mountains to the Amazon rainforest. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing for the different regions you'll be visiting. For example, you'll need warm layers for the Andes, but lightweight, breathable clothing for the rainforest.

9 Lima is a large, modern city, but outside of the city, you may find that amenities are more limited. Be prepared for this and bring any necessary items with you. According to the World Bank, around 28% of Peru's population lives in rural areas.

READ:⭐️⭐️⭐️ Discovering Peru's Rich Cultural Traditions through its Festivals 

10 Credit cards are widely accepted in Peru, but it's a good idea to also bring some cash, as some smaller businesses may not accept cards. The local currency is the Peruvian sol. According to XE, the exchange rate as of January 4, 2023 is 1 US dollar to 3.9 Peruvian soles.

11 Tipping is not expected in Peru, but it is appreciated in the tourism industry. If you receive good service, you can

12 Peru is home to many amazing culinary experiences, from traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado to international cuisine. Be sure to try some local specialties during your trip. According to the World Travel Guide, Peruvian cuisine is a blend of indigenous, Spanish, and Asian influences.


13 Peru is a country with a rich history and culture, and there are many opportunities to learn about and engage with it during your visit. For example, you can visit ancient sites like Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, or attend a cultural event like the Inti Raymi festival in Cusco.

14 There are many outdoor adventures to be had in Peru, from hiking and climbing to rafting and kayaking. According to the Peru Tourism Board, Peru has over 1,800 miles of coastline, the Andes mountain range, and the Amazon rainforest, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.




15 Lima is known for its lively nightlife, with many bars and clubs to choose from. According to the Culture Trip, the Barranco neighborhood in Lima is known for its bohemian atmosphere and vibrant nightlife scene.

16 Peru has a large indigenous population, and there are many opportunities to learn about and engage with their cultures during your visit. According to the Peru Tourism Board, Peru is home to 52 indigenous cultures, each with their own unique traditions and customs.

17 If you're planning to visit Machu Picchu, be sure to book your tickets in advance, as they can sell out quickly. According to the Peru Tourism Board, there are a limited number of tickets available per day to visit the site, and they can sell out months in advance.

18 Peru is home to many beautiful beaches, making it a great destination for beach lovers. According to the World Travel Guide, Peru has over 1,800 miles of coastline with a variety of beaches to choose from, including the popular surf spot of Mancora and the scenic beaches of the Paracas National Reserve.

19 Peru vacation packages are a convenient way to plan and book your trip, including activities, accommodation, and transportation. According to the Peru Tourism Board, there are many tour operators and travel agencies that offer Peru vacation packages, ranging from luxury to budget options. Some popular Peru vacation packages include visits to Lima, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the Amazon rainforest.

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