Peru Survival Guide

I’ve dreamed of visiting Peru ever since I was a teenager—the allure of its Inca ruins, adorable llamas and alpacas, and the vibrant culture of its people always drew me to this distant destination. After years of daydreaming and nearly a year of planning, I finally made it. Experiencing everything that initially captivated me, along with so much more, was truly an unforgettable adventure. If you’ve also dreamed of visiting this incredible country, I’ve put together some survival tips to help you navigate this unforgettable destination, so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the experience.

1. Visa & Entry Requirements

• Tourist Visa: Most nationalities, including U.S., U.K., and EU citizens, don’t need a visa to enter Peru for tourism. You can stay for up to 90 days.

• Passport Validity: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned departure date. This is also a requirement for visiting most countries.

2. Using Phones and SIM Cards

• SIM Cards: You can purchase local SIM cards in Peru from companies like Claro, Movistar, or Bitel. You can find counters selling SIM cards as soon as you enter the airport, though I bought mine from BeSmart, a small shop in the airport selling phone-related products, at a lower price than the first counters.

• Connectivity: Major cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa have good 4G coverage, but in rural or mountainous areas, coverage might be spotty. I bought a SIM card with 100GB of internet for 24 euros and barely used half of it during my two-week stay, as signals were weak outside the cities. However, Wi-Fi can be found in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants.

• Apps to Use: Download essential apps like Google Translate, Maps.me (for offline maps), and Uber for getting around larger cities. Uber is quite affordable, and I used it frequently for city travel.

3. Altitude Sickness (Soroche)

Cities like Cusco and Puno are at high altitudes (over 3,000 meters). Altitude sickness can affect anyone, even if you’re fit, especially if you’re coming from a low-altitude country like myself. You can’t avoid Cusco and Puno, as they are the starting points for two of the country’s most famous attractions, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, respectively.

Tips to Prevent Soroche:

• Acclimatize Slowly: Spend a few days in lower-altitude areas like Lima or Arequipa before moving higher.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water.

• Coca Leaves & Tea: Locals use coca leaves to help with altitude adjustment. You can find coca tea in most hotels (often offered for free) or buy it from stores and markets. Coca candies can also help and are easy to carry.

• Medication: Consider taking Diamox (acetazolamide) to prevent or ease symptoms, but consult your doctor before your trip.

• Rest: Take it easy on your first few days at high altitude and avoid alcohol.

• Oxygen Bottles: Pharmacies and many hotels sell portable oxygen bottles to help alleviate these symptoms. These can provide quick relief if you’re struggling with altitude sickness and are especially useful when trekking or exploring higher elevations.

4. Taxis and Ridesharing

• Negotiating Fares: Taxis in Peru don’t use meters, so you’ll need to agree on a price before starting the journey. Ask at your accommodation about fair prices or have them call a taxi for you.

• Ridesharing: Apps like Uber and Cabify operate in Lima and some larger cities. They’re a safer and more convenient alternative to traditional taxis.

5. Distances & Public Transport (Buses & Trains)

Peru is a large country, and distances are longer than they seem on Google Maps due to the mountainous terrain. The roads are often curvy and not always in the best condition, and traffic can be heavy when entering big cities.

• Buses: Buses are a common way to travel long distances in Peru. There are different classes, from budget to luxury. For safety and comfort, choose reliable companies like Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, or Excluciva.

• Bus Trips: Expect long rides if traveling between cities (e.g., Lima to Cusco can take 18+ hours). Opt for overnight buses to save time or take a domestic flight instead as I did.

• Local Buses (Combis): These are cheap but often crowded and confusing for first-time travelers. Use them cautiously, or opt for taxis or rideshare apps.

• Trains: To reach Machu Picchu, you can take the train from Ollantaytambo or Poroy. PeruRail and Inca Rail are the main operators. Book tickets early, especially during high season.

Tip: Trains can be pricey, so plan ahead to avoid paying a premium.

6. Money & Payments

• Currency: The currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Always carry cash, especially in small towns, as many places don’t accept cards or may charge a small fee for using Visa.

• ATMs & Fees: ATMs are widely available in cities, but watch out for transaction fees. Some banks, like BCP, offer lower withdrawal fees for international cards. Use Revolut for lower fees, or find a currency exchange shop for better rates.

• Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated in restaurants and expected for services like tourist guides (10% is common).

7. Staying Healthy

• Drinking Water: Stick to bottled water or use a filter. Avoid ice in drinks and fresh salads unless you trust the hygiene of the establishment. I personally had fresh juices and salads without issues but I only tried it in big cities and reputable restaurants.

• Travel Medicine Kit: Pack the essentials: ibuprofen, anti-diarrheal medication (like Imodium), motion sickness tablets, and eye drops.

• Vaccinations: Check if you need vaccines like hepatitis A, typhoid, or yellow fever, especially if visiting the Amazon.

8. Safety Tips

• Pickpocketing: Peru is generally safe, but be cautious in big cities like Lima, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Keep your valuables close and avoid displaying them openly. Stick to safer districts like the historic center, Miraflores, and Barranco, and use taxis when moving between the city districts.

• Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, cancellations, and theft.

9. Weather & Packing

• Layers are Key: Peru has diverse climates, from humid rainforests to chilly highlands and sunny deserts. Pack in layers for warmth and versatility, especially in places like Cusco, where temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. Don’t forget hiking shoes, a raincoat, and sunscreen.

• Rainy Season: In the Andes and Amazon, the rainy season runs from November to March. Bring waterproof clothing and gear if traveling during this period. I visited during the dry season, and all I needed was a good hat, sunscreen, and lots of layers.

10. Visiting Famous Landmarks

Peru is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, from Machu Picchu to the Nazca Lines. Here are a few tips to make the most of your visits:

• Machu Picchu: Book your tickets well in advance (six months ahead is recommended), especially during peak season (May to September). There are two main hiking options: the Inca Trail, originally part of the Royal Road system that connected the Inca Empire and passes through many ancient Inca sites, or the more challenging Salkantay Trek, known for its stunning mountain scenery and wildlife. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Aguas Calientes, the town closest to the landmark, which drops you off right at the entrance. Be sure to arrive at Machu Picchu early to avoid the midday crowds and capture the beautiful morning light.

• Nazca Lines: For the best view, book a small plane tour. These flights can fill up quickly, so plan ahead.

• Rainbow Mountain: Be aware that this trek is physically demanding due to the altitude. Consider acclimating in Cusco first and booking with a reputable tour company.

• Lake Titicaca: To experience the floating Uros Islands, take a guided boat tour from Puno.

Final Thoughts

Peru is a country of breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. From wandering the streets of Cusco to trekking the Andes, you’ll find that every corner of the country offers something unique. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can avoid the typical travel hurdles and focus on soaking in the magic of this extraordinary place. So pack smart, stay safe, and prepare for an adventure you’ll never forget.