Travel Tips for Peru
Traveling in a foreign country can be very difficult, especially when there’s a language barrier. Even if you speak Spanish, you may find that navigating Peru is a bit tough and that you need some tips as far as issues like currency, lodging, dining, shopping, health, and safety are concerned. Hence, it’s a good idea to compile some important travel information before you board the plane for Lima.
Health
It isn’t necessary to have any particular vaccinations when heading to Peru, but malaria and yellow fever are a risk to anyone who is heading to the Amazon region. If you are staying in Lima or in the highlands region, there’s no reason to be concerned. However, if the jungle is your destination, talk to your doctor about medications for those two diseases that you can begin to take before your trip. It is also suggested that all vaccines be updated, including MMR and tetanus. Also check the website of the Centers for Disease Control for up-to-date info about particular outbreaks. www.cdc.gov
It’s very possible that you may experience altitude sickness in Peru if you’re going to Machu Picchu. Visitors to the highlands should always rest at least a day or two before hiking or doing anything else strenuous. Drinking lots of fluids is essential. You may also want to try coca tea, the favorite local remedy for altitude sickness, made from coca leaves.
Beware of tainted drinking water. You’ll want to stick with bottled water and avoid drinks with ice. Also be sure to wash fruits with purified water as well and brush your teeth with it, too.
Getting into
Peru
Americans are not required to obtain a visa to enter Peru. A simple passport is all that is needed. Landing cards will be distributed when you arrive at the airport in Lima. Keep it with you. It’s good for 90 days and you’ll need to present it at departure. (Those who lose their cards are subject to an additional fee when leaving the country.)
Currency
The official currency of Peru is the Nuevo Sol. This is divided into 100 centavos. You’ll find that when you exchange your US dollars, you’ll be receiving coins in 5, 10, 20, and 50 centavo denominations and bills in 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 soles. Go to an exchange house for your best exchange rate or use an ATM. Historically, banks offer the lowest exchange rates. Exchange a few dollars before you get to Peru so you can handle travel-related expenses that may occur like airport fees.
Accommodations
Accommodations in Peru have names that may seem foreign to Americans. Aside from hotels, you’ll also find hostels and pensions. These are all different levels of lodging as far as amenities and other features are concerned, so be sure you know what you’re getting before you make a deposit that can’t be refunded. Mid-priced accommodations are usually suitable for most American travelers but luxury lodging is available if so desired. Check out eco-lodges, too!
Safety
Street crime is quite common in Peru as in theft of luggage aboard trains or buses. In addition, women should not travel alone as they are often targets of unsolicited advances – which may or may not be harmless. Groping is not unheard of and this unwanted attention can really ruin a vacation and frighten travelers.
Gay and lesbian travelers may have problems as well as homosexuality is considered deviant behavior by this very conservative population. Outward displays of affection between gay individuals are best avoided. Black travelers may also experience some discrimination and may be victims of harassment or violence. It’s best to remain in groups so as to avoid any unsafe scenarios.
It is also best not to hail a taxi off the street. Ask your hotel’s front desk to call you a taxi or use a phone yourself to summon a ride.
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