Peru

Peru’s climate varies by region, but the best time to visit depends on your plans:

• May–September (Dry Season): Best for Machu Picchu, trekking, and outdoor activities.
• October–April (Rainy Season): Ideal for Amazon Rainforest and fewer crowds at popular sites.
• December–March: Best for coastal destinations like Lima and Paracas.

• Machu Picchu – The iconic Incan citadel and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
• Sacred Valley & Ollantaytambo – Inca ruins, Andean villages, and breathtaking landscapes.
• Cusco – A UNESCO-listed city with stunning colonial architecture and Incan history.
• Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) – A colorful mountain perfect for adventure seekers.
• Lake Titicaca & Uros Floating Islands – The highest navigable lake in the world, home to indigenous cultures.
• Nazca Lines – Mysterious ancient geoglyphs best seen from the air.
• Colca Canyon – One of the deepest canyons in the world, home to the Andean condor.
• Amazon Rainforest (Iquitos & Puerto Maldonado) – A biodiverse paradise with wildlife and jungle lodges.
• Paracas & Ballestas Islands – A coastal haven for wildlife lovers, known as “Peru’s Galápagos”.
• Lima – The capital city, famous for world-class cuisine, colonial landmarks, and coastal views.

• Ceviche – Fresh fish marinated in lime juice, served with sweet potatoes and corn.
• Lomo Saltado – A stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and fries, influenced by Chinese-Peruvian cuisine.
• Aji de Gallina – A creamy shredded chicken dish with yellow chili sauce.
• Pachamanca – A traditional dish cooked underground using hot stones.
• Rocoto Relleno – Stuffed spicy peppers filled with meat, cheese, and spices.
• Cuy (Guinea Pig) – A traditional Andean delicacy, often roasted or fried.
• Anticuchos – Grilled beef heart skewers, a popular street food.
• Chicha Morada – A sweet purple corn drink.
• Pisco Sour – Peru’s national cocktail made with Pisco, lime juice, egg white, and bitters.

• Domestic Flights: Best for long-distance travel between Lima, Cusco, Iquitos, and Arequipa.
• Buses: A popular way to travel between cities, with luxury bus services available.
• Trains: Used mainly for traveling to Machu Picchu and through the Sacred Valley.
• Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Available in major cities, but use official taxis or apps like Uber.
• Colectivos (Shared Vans): A budget-friendly option for short trips between towns.
• Boats & Cruises: Necessary for Amazon River tours and Lake Titicaca excursions.

• No visa required for stays up to 90–183 days for travelers from the U.S., Canada, U.K., EU, Australia, and many other countries.
• A valid passport with at least six months of validity is required.
• A tourist card (Andean Migration Card) is issued upon arrival and must be kept for departure.

• Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN).
• S. dollars are accepted in many places, but it’s best to use local currency.
• Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but cash is preferred in rural areas.
• ATMs are available, but bring small bills for markets and street vendors.

• Spanish is the official language.
• Quechua and Aymara are spoken in indigenous communities.
• English is spoken in tourist areas, but learning basic Spanish phrases is helpful.
• Common Spanish words to know:
  • Hola! – Hello
  • Gracias – Thank you
  • ¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
  • Baño – Bathroom

• Peruvians are warm and friendly, with a strong sense of hospitality.
• A handshake or a light cheek kiss is common when greeting people.
• Bargaining is accepted in markets, but do so politely.
• Dress modestly when visiting churches or indigenous communities.
• Always ask before taking photos of locals, especially indigenous people.

• Restaurants: A 10% tip is standard if service is not included.
• Taxis: No tip required, but rounding up is appreciated.
• Hotels & Tour Guides: A small tip for good service is customary.

• For peak season (June–September): Book 6–12 months in advance for flights and hotels.
• For off-season (October–May): Book 2–3 months ahead for better deals.
• For popular experiences (Machu Picchu permits, Inca Trail hikes, Amazon lodges): Book at least 3–6 months in advance.

• COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but always check for updates before traveling.
• Machu Picchu has daily visitor limits—booking tickets in advance is essential.
• Altitude sickness is common in Cusco and the Sacred Valley—acclimatize before strenuous activities.

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