Home to part of the Amazon rainforest and Machu Picchu, Peru is a country that stands above all others. It’s rich in history, culture, diversity, kind people, and delicious cuisine. It’s also the perfect place for the adventure traveler, as Peru offers thrill-seeking experiences like no other.
Read on below for this handy travel guide when you visit Peru.
Useful Travel Tips
Before you visit any country, especially if it’s your first time there, you need to be prepared. Make sure you do your research about the places you will visit, in order to be equipped about the do’s and dont’s of the area. If it’s your first time in Peru, here are some things you need to remember and be wary of:
- When visiting most attractions, you might experience altitude sickness; some might even experience as early as when they land in Peru. Take your precautions beforehand to treat altitude sickness. Locals swear by chewing coca leaves to alleviate altitude symptoms.
- If you’re a hardcore trekker, hiker, or even an adventure traveler, make sure you pack smart with items that will help you on your hike. Most trails take days to finish, so you’ll need the proper shoes, clothes, and gear.
- Research restaurants and eateries to truly experience Peruvian cuisine. And if you’re eating seafood like Ceviche, eat it in the morning because that’s when it’s fresher.
- Expect weather changes, so pack for all types of weather. Peru’s climate is quite unpredictable.
- Carry cash with you at all times because many places in Peru don’t take credit cards, especially in their beautiful markets. However, be sure to exchange your cash into their local currency: Sol.
- Peru is pretty safe but you still need to be wary of petty theft and pick-pocketing.
Experiences to Try
From sand dunes, peaks, to ancient trails, these are some of the experiences you should definitely try on your next visit.
Trek the Inca Trail
A visit to Peru is never complete without visiting the architectural wonder Machu Picchu. The ancient Inca ruins are considered one of the world’s greatest wonders and many hikers flock there for an experience of a lifetime. There are many Machu Picchu travel experiences you can sign up for to check out this legendary lost city yourself. You can opt for the multi-day 26-mile trek, or you can visit it by train to explore the ruins and temples.
Go on the Gringo Trail
This trail is one of the most popular routes among tourists and globetrotters, and for a good reason. It takes you around some of the most popular sites, landmarks, and destinations in Peru, making you witness and experience everything it has to offer. You’ll check out many attractions starting in Lima, Peru’s metropolis city; Sandboarding in Ica or Huacachina; to witnessing the famous and ancient geoglyphs lines at Nazca.
Visit Rainbow Mountain
Located in the Peruvian Andes, Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, is a popular destination for its colorful mineralogical composition. It’s 5,200 meters above sea-level, and the hike takes around 5 hours; totally worth it for a view of these gorgeous, picturesque hills.
Tour Lake Titicaca
Considered to be one of the largest lakes in South America, Lake Titicaca is the birthplace of the Incas, so it’s filled with ancient ruins as well as aquatic wildlife. You can also discover the man-made floating island Uros and experience the island life of its people.
Peru is a culturally-diverse and historically rich country with experience for every kind of traveler. Do your research well before visiting, and you’ll be guaranteed a travel experience of a lifetime!