From embarking on a culinary exploration in South America’s foodie capital, Lima to trekking to the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu to snapping away at the awe-inspiring Nazca Lines from above, Peru boasts a host of exciting and remarkable journeys to enjoy and explore.
Here are a few key things you should know when travelling to Peru:
Currency
Peru’s official currency is the Nuevos Sol (S/). The USD is the second currency; many hotels post their rates in dollars, and plenty of shops, taxi drivers, restaurants, and hotels across Peru accept USD for payment. Exchange houses, or by using credit or debit card ATMs, are the best way to exchange cash.
Photography
Guests must ensure that they bring sufficient memory cards and batteries as these may not be readily available. Guests must remember to ask permission before taking a photograph of any local resident. South Americans are renowned for being friendly; however it is courteous to ask permission before snapping away.
Passport and visa requirements
Guests are advised to check with their consulate for the latest visa information. It is a mandatory requirement that guests travel to South America with at least two blank passport pages per country visited and that their passport is valid for six months after the date of travel. If there is insufficient space in the passport, entry into a country could be denied. We advise you make copies of all your important documents (visa, passport, credit cards, air tickets, etc.), in case they are misplaced as it will make replacing them much easier.
No visa is necessary for U.S citizens or citizens of most other countries. Please consult with your local Peruvian embassy.
Please keep your landing card with you throughout your travels in Peru as you will be asked for the card at hotels, which will exempt you from local taxes and immigration upon departure.
Luggage allowance
Flights:
- Carry-on baggage: 8 kg (17 lbs)
- Checked baggage allowance : 23 kg (50 lbs) – one bag
- Train to Machu Picchu:
- There are strict luggage restrictions for the train rides to Machu Picchu because there is no room for luggage on the train
- Passengers should carry small hand luggage, which can fit below the passenger’s seat or in the above compartment
- Maximum luggage weight per passenger is 5 kg (11 lbs) – Perurail and Incarail lines
- &Beyond will handle the storing and logistics of the rest of luggage for this portion of the trip
Climate
The contrasting climate of Peru dramatically varies just like its landscapes. Temperatures fluctuate during the different seasons.
Summer (December to March): 17°C/63°F to 27°C/80°F
Winter (June to September): 14°C/57°F to 17°C/63°F
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