Travel Information

CLIMATE

Peru's climate can be divided into two seasons, wet and dry, although this can vary by region. Temperature is mainly influenced by altitude: the higher you go, the cooler it gets. Peru boasts 84 out of the world's 104 ecosystems but has three distinct regions:

Coast and Surrounding Areas - Lima, Paracas, Trujillo, Chiclayo, Tumbes, Piura

Peru's coastal region is cool for its latitude and quite dry throughout the year. Temperatures are warmer during the summer months (December to March), with hot and humid days around 29°C (84°F) and cool nights just below 20°C (68°F). Winters (from April to November) aren't too cold but are extremely humid.

Highlands (Andes) - Cusco, Puno, Arequipa

The highlands experience a rainy season (November to April) and a dry season (May to October), with clear and sunny days but very cold nights, especially at altitude. Hence, the dry season is ideal for trekking and mountaineering. Daytime temperatures generally range between 16°C and 21°C (60°F and 70°F), although it can feel warmer under intense midday sunlight. Nighttime temperatures can drop as low as -7°C (20°F).

Rainforest (Amazon) - Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado

Though the Amazon jungle remains consistently humid and tropical with significant rainfall year-round, it also has two clearly distinct seasons. During the dry season (May to October), daytime temperatures reach 30°C – 38°C (86°F and 100°F). From November to April, frequent rain showers occur, lasting only a few hours each time, causing rivers to swell.

ALTITUDE SICKNESS

When properly prepared for, there's a marginal risk of altitude sickness for a healthy person traveling to the Andes. It's crucial to take enough time to acclimatize, especially in Andean cities like Cusco (3,360m/11,023ft) or Puno (3,827m/12,556ft). Avoid physical exertion upon arrival, refrain from alcohol during acclimatization, opt for light meals, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Local coca tea is highly recommended for alleviating altitude sickness symptoms.

CURRENCY

It's advisable to carry USD cash for the initial days, including some $1 bills for tipping at restaurants, to drivers, or at luxury hotels offering luggage assistance. US dollars are widely accepted in many establishments; however, caution is advised with street money-changers to avoid counterfeit bills. Using exchange houses ('Casas de cambio') provides a safer environment. Alternatively, ATMs are available in most cities (but not in smaller towns), and credit cards are widely accepted.

TIPPING

Porters at hotels and airports typically expect a $1 tip for every piece of luggage. In most restaurants, a 10% tip suffices unless service has been exceptional. Taxi drivers generally don't expect tips as fares are negotiated beforehand. At the end of a tour, it's customary to offer around $20-$30 for guides and $10-$20 for drivers, depending on service duration and group satisfaction.

VISAS

Most travelers don't require visas for tourist visits of up to 90 days. However, it's essential for each passenger to confirm if Peru requires a visa for travelers of their nationality.

e-SIM CARDS

Peru is served by five major mobile network operators offering 4G services: Claro, Movistar, Entel, and Bitel. Currently, 5G services are available only in major coastal cities for local households/companies with fixed plans. Claro is reported to provide the fastest mobile speed according to local authority Osiptel. These providers offer prepaid SIM card packages purchasable in their official stores, authorized resellers, and kiosks in major cities. However, buying at Lima Airport, especially in the arrival hall, is significantly more expensive. For urgent needs and devices supporting e-SIM, visit Holafly's user-friendly website for detailed instructions.

https://esim.holafly.com/esim-peru

Holafly utilizes Movistar in Peru. Entel also offers e-SIM cards, requiring a visit to one of their physical stores.

TIME ZONE IN PERU

GMT -5 hours

TAXIS

In larger cities, options like Uber or Cabify exist. While local taxis can be found outside airports, caution is advised as they may not be safe. Street taxis are cheaper but less secure and might overcharge. It's essential to negotiate fares upfront, considering there are no meters in Peru. Taxi fares typically increase by 35-50% after midnight and on holidays. Registered taxis in Cusco are usually white and display their plate numbers on the car's side.

ELECTRICITY

Peruvian outlets provide 220 volts at 60 Hz (50 Hz in Arequipa), accommodating both flat and round prongs. For 110-volt appliances, a power adapter is necessary. Some upscale hotels may offer outlets compatible with 110 volts. Common plug types in Peru are compatible with European and American plugs.