Currency
Peru's official currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Credit cards are widely accepted in the cities, but smaller towns and markets often require cash.
Travel tips
Arrive prepared, travel relaxed
Honest, practical tips for traveling in Peru, the kind of advice a local friend would give you. Start with the fast facts and our packing list, then ask us anything on WhatsApp.
This guide keeps growing
Before you travel Peru Fast Facts
The practical side of Peru at a glance, told by the people who live here.
Language
The primary language is Spanish. Quechua and Aymara are also spoken in certain regions of the country.
Visa requirements
Most travelers (U.S., Canada, Europe) can enter Peru visa-free for up to 90 days, and your passport usually needs to be valid for at least 6 months on entry. Always check the current requirements before you travel.
Best time to visit
The dry season (May to October) is ideal for hiking, Machu Picchu and the Andes. The wet season (November to April) is best for the Amazon or the coast. Rain is possible in the mountains.
Altitude
Many destinations, like Cusco and Lake Titicaca, sit at high altitude. Give yourself time to acclimatize, stay hydrated and take it slow the first days.
Transportation
Domestic flights are the fastest way between major cities (Lima, Cusco, Arequipa). Buses are affordable and common, from budget to luxury. For taxis and rideshares, use apps like inDrive or Uber.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated. In restaurants, 10% is standard if service is not already included.
Pack smart
The Peru packing list
Peru's climate varies greatly by region: the coast, the Andes and the Amazon can each feel like a different country.
Layers are key!
Clothing
- T-shirts & long-sleeve shirts
- Sweater or fleece
- Waterproof jacket or poncho
- Hiking pants
- Comfortable city pants
- Walking shorts
- Beanie & gloves
- Sun hat or cap
- Swimsuit
- Undergarments & socks
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hiking boots
- Sandals
Toiletries & medicine
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Moisturizer
- Hand sanitizer
- Band-aids
- Pain relievers
- Motion sickness tablets
- Altitude sickness medicine
- Your personal medicine
Essentials
- Daypack
- Reusable water bottle
- Travel towel
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- SPF lip balm
- Insect repellent
- Dry bag
- Power bank
Documents
- Passport & visa
- Travel insurance info
- Cash in soles & cards: notify your bank before you travel
- Copies of important documents
- Offline maps (Google Maps / Maps.me)
Miscellaneous & electronics
- Notebook or journal
- Camera or smartphone
- Universal adapter
- Headphones
Have a question right now?
Ask us anything about altitude, packing or logistics, and you'll get a real answer from someone who lives here. And this guide keeps growing: we add new tips all the time.