Specific Information for Your Trip to Peru

Do I need a visa to enter Peru?

Tourists from the USA, Canada, the European Union, Australia, and New Zealand are not required to obtain a visa for entry into Peru. Similarly, visitors from select Asian countries, including China, Hong Kong, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, and Israel, are also exempt from visa requirements. Please refer to the complete list for individuals from countries not mentioned here.

However, Indian citizens without a US/Canadian/EU passport do need a visa, which must be obtained from a Peruvian Embassy or Consulate in their home country.

Regarding passport validity, passports must be valid upon entry to Peru, but there is no specific minimum validity requirement after entry.

What kind of weather conditions can we anticipate in Peru?

The climate in Peru is influenced by two important factors: The Andes Mountains and the cold Humboldt Current, also known as the Peru Current. The Andes Mountains have varying altitudes, resulting in a variety of climates. On the other hand, the Humboldt Current brings cold waters to the surface, cooling the atmosphere and causing lower temperatures than expected for the latitude. As a result, the seasons in Peru are distributed as follows:

1. Spring (September 23 to December 21): It has a pleasant and cool climate. At the beginning, you may feel the cold of winter, and there may be sporadic and unpredictable rainfall. Nights are often accompanied by a cool breeze. This season is considered unstable compared to the others. Average temperatures range from 19 to 22 degrees Celsius.
2. Summer (December 21 to March 20): Warm temperatures with rainy weather. This climate is present in the Sierra and Jungle regions of Peru, with drizzles during the afternoons. It is during this period that people often visit the beautiful beaches of the country, with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius. It is a popular time for rest and enjoyment.
3. Autumn (March 20 to June 21): Moderate temperatures with less rainfall. The weather during this season is pleasant and fresh, with mild temperatures ranging from 19 to 24 degrees Celsius. It is considered a recommended time to visit Peru due to the lower influx of tourists.
4. Winter (June 21 to September 23): The main characteristic of winter is humidity. During this time of year, there are usually morning rains, fog, and cold winds. Temperatures reach around 15 degrees Celsius. In the Peruvian highlands, temperatures are lower, ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, and during the night, they can drop to 5 degrees Celsius.

Are vaccinations required prior to traveling to Peru?

The yellow fever vaccine is mandatory if you plan to visit the Amazon rainforest (which might be your case). However, it is advisable to consult with your doctor and ensure that you are up to date with the recommended vaccines.

M.A.M - Mountain Sickness?

A trip to Peru inevitably involves traveling to high altitudes, but a simple tip can help prevent this inconvenience.

Mountain Sickness, also known as M.A.M (Mal Aigu des Montagnes), is a syndrome that can be experienced during a stay at high altitude. It consists of a range of symptoms that may occur separately, such as headaches, nausea, irritating dry cough, vomiting, insomnia, dizziness, and general fatigue.

First and foremost, consider gradually acclimatizing to the altitude, especially before trekking or climbing. Avoid strenuous activities during the acclimatization period.

Regularly hydrate yourself with water or herbal tea. Avoid alcohol and cigarettes during the acclimatization process. You can also drink herbal teas made with coca leaves.

Is it advisable to bring euros or dollars for a trip to Peru?

We recommend using an anti-theft bag to keep your passport, cash, cards, and personal documents secure. Carrying large amounts of cash is not necessary. It is more convenient to withdraw money in the local currency, the "Nuevo Sol," and have some dollars (or euros) as a backup. Our guide can provide information about official exchange offices. In case of emergencies, there are Western Union and Money Gram offices throughout the country.

Is it essential to carry an adapter?

In Peru, the voltage is 220 V. The majority of hotels feature sockets compatible with both American and European plugs, accommodating both flat and round pins. Nevertheless, it might be advisable to bring an adapter with flat pins (American type) as a precautionary measure.

Which language is commonly spoken in Peru?

Peru's official language is Spanish. In the mountainous areas, many indigenous individuals are bilingual, with Spanish as their second language. Quechua is spoken in most regions, while Aymara is common near Lake Titicaca. Approximately one to two million people in Peru do not speak Spanish. English and French find limited use, primarily in hotels and airlines.