Peru for First‑Time Visitors: What You Need to Know

How to Move Between Cities

Flights · Buses · Taxis · Apps

Domestic flights save significant time between major cities. Lima → Cusco (1 hr vs 22 hrs by bus) is the most common route. Airlines like LATAM, Sky, and Avianca Peru operate reliable domestic connections.

Buses are budget-friendly and cover routes that flights don't. For overnight journeys, choose premium bus companies: Cruz del Sur and Oltursa offer cama (bed) seats, onboard security, and GPS tracking. Avoid unbranded or discount operators on long routes.

In Lima, always use InDriver, Uber, or official airport taxis — never hail a street taxi at night. In Cusco, mototaxis are common but negotiate the price before getting in.

Tip: Download InDriver before arriving — it works offline for booking and is widely used across Peru.

Peru's Three Climate Zones

Coast · Andes · Amazon

Lima and the Coast are desert: dry year-round, with a grey sea mist (garúa) from May to November. Temperatures rarely drop below 15°C or rise above 28°C. Light layers and a windbreaker are sufficient.

Cusco and the Andes have a dry season (April–October) and wet season (November–March). Nights at 3,400 m can be cold (5–10°C), even in summer. Pack a warm fleece, waterproof jacket, and UV sun protection — altitude sun is intense.

The Amazon is humid year-round, with temperatures around 25–35°C. Light, breathable clothes, long sleeves for evening mosquitoes, and waterproof bags are essential.

Tip: Even on a single trip, you may pass through all three zones — pack layers, not bulky items.

Understanding Peruvian Culture

Etiquette · Language · Customs

Peruvians are warm and genuinely welcoming to visitors 🤝. A simple greeting in Spanish goes a long way: "Buenos días" (good morning) or "¿Cómo está?" (how are you?) opens doors everywhere. In Andean communities, a few words of Quechua are received with delight.

When visiting markets, especially in the Andes, ask before photographing local people — it's a sign of respect that is deeply appreciated. At archaeological sites, never climb walls, touch carvings, or remove any stones — these are federal offenses in Peru.

Bargaining is acceptable at craft markets but always done with good humor. Paying the asking price is also perfectly fine and directly supports artisan families.

Tip: Buy handicrafts directly from artisans rather than intermediaries — the quality is higher and all the money reaches the maker.

Staying Healthy at High Altitude

Soroche · Hydration · Medical

Altitude sickness (soroche) can affect anyone regardless of age or fitness level. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. The best prevention is gradual acclimatization — spend at least 2 nights in Cusco (3,400 m) before attempting any high-altitude trek.

Drink coca tea 🍵 — freely available throughout Cusco — which helps the body adapt to altitude. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals for the first 48 hours. Stay well hydrated with bottled water.

Acetazolamide (Diamox) is a prescription medication that speeds acclimatization. Consult your doctor before travel if you have a history of altitude sensitivity.

For general health: drink bottled or filtered water throughout Peru, even in cities. Carry basic medication (anti-diarrheal, pain relief) and travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation.

Tip: Pharmacies (farmacias) in Peru are excellent and over-the-counter medication is widely available and affordable.

Managing Money in Peru

Soles · ATMs · Cards

Peru's currency is the sol (PEN). Cash is essential in rural areas, small restaurants, markets, and transportation. ATMs are widely available in Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, and Puno — but rare in smaller towns and completely absent in rural communities.

Credit cards (Visa most widely accepted) work in most hotels, larger restaurants, and tour agencies, but a surcharge of 3–5% is common. Always have small bills — change for 100-sol notes can be difficult to get at local stalls.

Tip: Withdraw cash in Lima or Cusco before heading to rural areas. Budget roughly 30–50 soles/day for incidentals in the highlands.