The best Peru travel tips for first-timers

Are you heading to Peru for the first time? Or, maybe not the first time but definitely need a refresher on things to know before you go?

Here you will find some suggestions that will help you in your day-to-day life to get to know a little bit of everything

1. About the language

Spanish is the generalized language in Peru.  English is also spoken in many tourist cities.  Quechua and Aymara are the native languages.

2. When you arrive at Lima (the capital city)

Before landing at Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM), the stewards on your flight will hand out one document you need to fill in before going through customs. Customs Declaration Form: The second form you will receive is the customs declaration. The airport is quite modern and they are working on streamlining processes

The airport offers shuttle buses to take you to your hotel.  If you prefer to take a taxi, just be care; it is better to take one from a company

3. The money and cash

At the airport you can exchange a few dollars.  It is important that you have coins. Then, in the city, you can change in a money exchange office and even outside the banks, there are people who change at a good exchange rate.

4. About your medicines

It is very important that you bring with you the medicines you usually take.  Here in Peru, you can buy general medicines in pharmacies but it is preferable that you bring your own.

5. Taxis and buses

Transportation in Peru is generally safe; however, it is best to take cabs from established companies.  As for the buses, you can take them without any problem, trying not to make a mistake on the route.

6.Tipping

With increased tourism and developments in the service sector a tipping etiquette evolved and tipping became widely accepted and partly expected, especially in tourism and service-related areas.

7. Peruvian food

You may already know that the food in Peru is impressive, with several international awards.  Everywhere you go, the food is great.  There are world famous restaurants that offer gourmet menus at high prices; however, if you are careful, you can eat anywhere. You should know that the food here is quite spicy and a lot of chili is used, but try it and you will see.

8. Hotels

There are hotels for all tastes and pockets.  If you are looking for an international chain, you will find Sonesta, Marriott, Belmond, Hyatt, Hilton and others.  There are a lot of 3-star hotels, guesthouses and even many houses or apartments that are rented under the Airbnb system.

9. Tours

It is very convenient to visit the cities and their surroundings by taking excursions, preferably with official operators.  All guides offering excursions speak at least English in addition to Spanish. Especially in tourist cities like Cusco, it is almost mandatory that you see an official tour operator.

10. How to bargain at markets, and how to stay safe

Whenever possible, agree on a price before accepting a service. If you don’t, you might be presented with an unexpectedly large bill. Peruvian taxis are a prime example. With no meters, it’s up to you to negotiate a price before each cab ride. If you think the fare is too high, find another taxi — much easier than arguing over an inflated price at the end of your trip.

11. Weather

Peru contains three climate zones; the tropical Amazon, the variable Andean highlands and the arid western desert. Generally speaking, however, the rainy season is from November through March with the driest months of the year being June through September. This means you can plan Peru vacations in a few different ways.

12. Altitude sickness (Coca or Muña tea)

Mountain climbers are at risk of developing altitude sickness. Altitude sickness is caused by ascending too rapidly, which doesn’t allow the body enough time to adjust to reduced oxygen and changes in air pressure. Symptoms include headache, vomiting, insomnia and reduced performance and coordination.

It is important to know that the altitude can be combated by drinking Mate de Coca (in the mornings), never at night, or Mate de Muña, which is very digestive.

13. Water

It is not safe to drink tap water in Lima or the rest of Peru. However, it is safe to drink boiled water or filtered water. This gives travelers and citizens several options for getting their drinking water.

There are plenty of different options for bottled water in Peru, and all are relatively cheap. The downside of this is the amount of plastic waste that it produces.

14. Clothing and shoes

It is actually variable since everything will depend on the month you travel. In general, you should pack light clothes for Lima when you travel in summer and warmer clothes for winter since it is not very cold. If you go to the jungle, it is important that you bring very light clothing and something for the rain. If you go to Cusco and Puno, thicker clothes but always some polo shirts for when you are hot doing the tours and layered clothes for the night and early morning

As for shoes, they should always be comfortable and suitable for walking when you go to Cusco.

15. Tour operator in Peru

It is very important for your peace of mind to take the services of an operating agency. They will take care of everything for you. Traveling on your own can sometimes be dangerous and not get you what you want. Our company offers you everything you need and more

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