HomeDestinationsLatin America

Peru

Two Ladies Overlooking The Lake

Peru tours

See more trips

Travel tips

Spring

Sep-Dec

Average temperature:

15°C-25°C

Summer

Dec-Mar

Average temperature:

20°C-30°C

Autumn

Mar-Jun

Average temperature:

15°C-25°C

Winter

Jun-Sep

Average temperature:

10°C-20°C

Ancient wall carvings

Country dialing code

+51

Capital city

Lima

Official language

Spanish, Quechua, Aymara 

Currency

Peruvian sol (PEN)

Peru's weather varies significantly across its regions—coast, highlands and jungle. Elevation plays a key role in the temperature you will experience, with cooler conditions at higher altitudes. The peak tourist season runs from June to August, aligning with the cooler, dry season in the Andean Highlands. Machu Picchu is very busy from June to August when the weather is optimal. If you prefer quieter trails and despise queues, consider visiting outside the peak season.

    Highlights

    Cusco

    Cusco is the historic heart of the Incan Empire. Explore cobblestone streets, marvel at colonial architecture, and be immersed in tradition. Discover vibrant markets, ancient ruins, and the Sacred Valley. 

    Machu Picchu

    A UNESCO World Heritage site and once home to an ancient empire, explore the mystical ruins perched high in the Andes. Uncover the secrets of this ancient citadel and its fascinating history.

    The Nazca Lines

    The enigmatic Nazca Lines, massive geoglyphs etched into the desert floor, depict animals, plants and geometric shapes. Delve into their mystery, a testament to Peru's rich archaeological heritage. 

    Chan Chan

    Located in northern Peru, the city flourished in the 15th century before being conquered by the Incas. Palaces, plazas and temples of this ancient Chimu civilization make up the world’s largest adobe city.  

    Lake Titicaca

    The waters of Lake Titicaca are the world’s highest navigable lake. The floating Uros Islands, crafted from reeds, and traditional communities offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

    Amazon Rainforest

    The vibrant ecosystem of the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest can be explored from Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado. Encounter diverse wildlife and lush jungle trails, expertly led by Inkaterra guides.

    Request a quote

    Useful information

    Your search for ""

    clear search

    Communications

    Country Code for Country name: +51 

    Official Travel advice for Australians: Peru Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller 

    Official Travel advice for New Zealanders: Peru 

    Fire and rescue services: 116, Medical emergencies: 117, Police 105. 

     

    Australian Embassy, Lima 

    Avenida La Paz 1049, 10th Floor, Miraflores, Lima, 18, Peru 

    Phone: +51 1 630 0500 

    Email: consular.lima@dfat.gov.au  

     

    Australia has a Consulate headed by an Honorary Consul in Cusco. The Consulate provides limited consular assistance. It does not provide visa and immigration services, notarial services or issue passports.  

    Australian Consulate, Cusco 

    Calle Ruinas 477, Cusco, Peru 

    Phone: +51 0 84 259230 

    Email: tammy@australiacusco.com  

     

    New Zealand Embassy Santiago, Chile 

    Isidora Goyenechea 3000, 12th Floor, Las Condes, Santiago, Chile 

    Telephone: +56 2 2616 3000 

    Email: embajada@nzembassy.cl  

    www.mfat.govt.nz/chile 

    Customs

    Most Peruvians are Roman Catholic, a remnant of Spanish colonisation. Catholicism is deeply integrated into daily life in Peru. Many Peruvians, especially in the Andes, practice a form of syncretism, combining Catholic rituals with traditional Andean practices. For example, it's common to see offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth) alongside Catholic ceremonies. 

     

    When visiting religious sites, such as churches or indigenous sacred places, dress modestly and behave respectfully. Always ask permission when taking photos in sacred sites.  

    Electricity

    Electrical Socket type: Types A and C. Type A has two flat parallel prongs and Type C has two round prongs.

    Voltage: 220-240 volts (same as Australia and New Zealand). 

    Health

    You're at risk of altitude sickness if you travel above 2,500m. The risk is greater if your ascent is rapid. Altitude sickness can be life-threatening and can affect anyone, even if you're very fit and healthy. Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of 2,430m above sea level. This can sometimes cause altitude sickness, so it's important to acclimatise. Cusco, the gateway city to Machu Picchu, has an even higher altitude at 3,399m where acclimatisation is essential. The Sacred Valley ranges 2,050m-3,000m and is an excellent place to spend a few days as it’s lower than Cusco but still high enough to help your body adjust. 

     

    High altitude impacts the body by reducing oxygen levels, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, headaches, dizziness, fatigue and nausea – altitude sickness.  

     

    How can you avoid developing altitude sickness? 

    • Acclimatise gradually by spending a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before heading to Machu Picchu. Avoid strenuous activities and gradually increase your activity level as your body adjusts. 
    • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.  
    • Avoid alcohol, smoking and caffeine.  
    • Eat foods rich in carbohydrates to maintain energy levels. Avoid heavy or greasy food. 
    • Take long, slow, deep breaths to increase your oxygen intake and help your body adjust to the lower oxygen levels. 
    • Consult your doctor about medications which may reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness. Also consider using local Andean remedies such as mate de coca, a tea made from coca leaves. 

     

     

    Insect-borne diseases: Peru may experience dengue fever outbreaks. Yellow fever is widespread in Peru and is prevented by vaccination. Zika virus and malaria are also prevalent. To protect yourself from Insect-borne diseases: 

    • Stay in insect-proof accommodation 
    • use insect repellent and wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing 
    • Consult your doctor about how to prevent malaria. 

     

    For further information please visit: 

    Peru Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) or Safe Travel | Peru (New Zealand) 

    How to Get There & Getting Around

    The most common way to reach Peru is by flying into Lima - Jorge Chávez International Airport.  

    If you’re covering long distances within Peru, domestic flights are the quickest option. Airlines like LATAM, Avianca, and Sky Airline connect major cities such as Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, and Iquitos. 

    In cities, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available. Always use registered taxis or apps for safety. In the Peruvian Amazon region, boats are essential to navigate the waterways around Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado. 

    Holidays & Festivals

    • Semana Santa (Holy Week): A major Catholic celebration in the week leading up to Easter Sunday with processions and reenactments of the Passion of Christ. 
    • Corpus Christi: Celebrated 60 days after Easter, a procession of saints and virgins from various Cusco churches, and a grand celebration in the main square takes place. 
    • Qoyllur Rit'i: Held in late May or early June, this important pilgrimage involves thousands of people trekking to the Sinakara Valley near Cusco. Catholic and indigenous traditions are combined. 
    • Inti Raymi (24 June): An ancient Incan festival honouring the sun god Inti, celebrated around the winter solstice in June. 
    • Fiestas Patrias (Independence Day): Held on 28-29 July, this national holiday celebrates Peru's independence from Spain. 
    • Señor de los Milagros (Lord of Miracles): In October, Lima hosts one of the largest religious processions in the world, honouring the city's patron saint.

    Language

    While Spanish is the official language of Peru, many indigenous people in the Andes speak Quechua or Aymara. Learning a few basic phrases in these languages will be appreciated by locals. 

    Money, Tipping & Shopping

    The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian sol (PEN). While the sol is widely accepted, it's also useful to carry US Dollars as they are often accepted and can be easily exchanged. 

     

    Tipping in Peru is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, a 10% tip is appreciated unless a service charge is included. For hotel staff, tip porters 2-5 soles per bag and housekeeping 2-5 soles per night. Taxi drivers don't expect tips, but rounding up the fare is a nice gesture. For tour guides, a tip of 10-20% of the tour cost is welcomed.  

     

    Peruvian textiles are renowned for their vibrant colours and patterns. Blankets, scarves, hats, gloves and ponchos, often made from alpaca wool are popular buys. Handcrafted silver jewellery featuring Andean designs and semi-precious stones, paintings and carvings are also in demand with travellers. Peru is known for its high-quality chocolate and coffee, along with pisco, a traditional Peruvian spirit.  

     

    Haggling is common in markets, so don't hesitate to negotiate your prices. When shopping for textiles, be aware that not all items labelled as "alpaca" are genuine. For higher quality and fair-trade products, visit reputable shops and artisan communities.  

    Visas

    The Travel Corporation has partnered with the company Sherpa to provide travellers with the latest government and health restrictions. Simply enter the country you want to travel to for information on safety regulations, border closures, quarantine requirements, your travel visa and more using the Sherpa travel tool: Visa Advice 

     

    Australian and New Zealand passport holders don't need a visa for Peru. You can get a permit to stay for up to 90 days when you arrive. The maximum stay permitted is 183 days in one year.  

     

    Inca Trail permits: If you plan on hiking the Inca Trail, please note a permit is required and these sell out months in advance. The maximum number of Inca Trail permits is 500 per day, including crew and porters, leaving only about 200 permits per day for tourists. In mid-October, the Inca Trail government authority releases the permits for the following year. If you plan to visit during peak season (June-August), you should try to book at least six months in advance.  

     
    For further information please visit: 

    Peru Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) or Safe Travel | Peru (New Zealand)

    From the blog

    Peru Machu Picchu Rear View Of Woman Looking At Mountains Against Sky

    Read more

    Destinations

    About Us

    © Adventure World 2024. All Rights Reserved.
    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is a trademark of The TreadRight Foundation, registered in the U.S. and other countries and regions, and is being used under license.

    Cookie Policy

    Privacy Policy

    Terms and Conditions

    Sitemap

    TreadRightTTCCatoAFTA