Peru is not a travel destination that can be summarized in three bullet points. The country connects the Andes, the Amazon, the Pacific, the desert, colonial cities, indigenous cultures, long distances, and some of South America's most famous landmarks.
Anyone traveling to Peru should not only think about Machu Picchu. Lima, Cusco, Lake Titicaca, the Colca Canyon, and the Amazon region also heavily define a trip.
This page summarizes the most important travel tips and updates the previous article with a clear structure, realistic advice, and relevant internal links.
Take altitude sickness seriously
Many classic Peruvian destinations are located at high altitudes. Cusco sits at around 3,400 meters, Lake Titicaca at about 3,800 meters, and some trekking passes reach more than 4,500 meters.
Altitude sickness can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, sleep problems, or shortness of breath. It is not a sign of weakness, but rather the body’s reaction to high altitude.
Plan your first few days slowly. After arriving in Cusco or Puno, light walks are more sensible than immediate strenuous hikes. Before trekking tours, the Inca Trail, or high-altitude excursions, acclimatization should be firmly scheduled.
Do not continue to ascend if you have severe symptoms. Rest, hydration, and medical help in case of doubt are more important than a daily schedule.
Coca tea: Culture, altitude, and caution
Coca tea, often called mate de coca in Peru, is widely used in the Andes. Many people drink it for altitude sickness or as part of their daily routine.
The coca plant has a long-standing cultural significance in the Andean region. Nevertheless, travelers should be cautious: coca products can be legally problematic outside of Peru and should not simply be taken into other countries.
Caution is also advised regarding drug tests, as coca products can leave traces. If you are unsure, it is better to abstain.
Money in Peru: Cash remains important
The official currency is the Peruvian Sol. Card payments are common in larger cities, hotels, restaurants, and tourist establishments, but cash remains important.
In smaller towns, at markets, for taxis, local tours, or basic accommodations, cash is often more practical or necessary. At the same time, you should not carry unnecessarily large sums openly.
Before your trip, it is worth checking fees, foreign transaction charges, withdrawal limits, and exchange rates. You can find more basics at Currency in Peru and Payment Methods in Peru.
Sights in Peru
All sightsYou can find more information under "All sights".
Toilet paper, drinking water, and everyday life
In many accommodations, restaurants, and public restrooms in Peru, toilet paper is not flushed down the toilet, but disposed of in a wastebasket next to it. This is due to plumbing and sewage systems that are not designed for it in all areas.
The same applies to drinking water: as a traveler, you should generally not drink tap water. Use boiled water, filtered water, secure water stations, or suitable filter bottles. This is not only cheaper but also reduces plastic waste.
When it comes to street food, alertness rather than panic is needed. Freshly prepared dishes, busy stalls, and clean preparation are better signs than a fancy sign.
Night buses and transport
Peru is large. Many routes between the coast, the Andes, and the Amazon take many hours. Night buses are therefore a practical solution to save time and cover long distances.
Rely on reputable bus companies, book in advance, and check departure points carefully. Good providers offer more comfortable seats, luggage checks, and better safety standards.
In cities, traffic can seem chaotic. Taxis, apps, minibuses, and shared taxis (colectivos) are part of everyday life, but not every option is equally reliable. You can find more on this at Transport in Peru.
Peruvian cuisine: Cuy, ceviche, and more
Peru is culinarily extremely diverse. On the coast, fish and seafood play a major role, while in the Andes, potatoes, corn, quinoa, herbs, and meat dishes are staples. In the Amazon region, other ingredients are added to the mix.
Cuy, or guinea pig, is a traditional dish in the Andes. For many travelers, this is unusual, but for many families in Peru, it is part of the regional food culture.
In addition, ceviche, ají de gallina, lomo saltado, anticuchos, chicha morada, and pisco sour are among the country's well-known culinary themes.
Latest news from Peru
All newsYou can find more information under "All news".
Amazon region in Peru
The Amazon region is a completely different Peru experience than Lima, Cusco, or Arequipa. Places like Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado, or reserves like Pacaya Samiria and Tambopata show the tropical side of the country.
Anyone traveling to the rainforest should plan enough time. Three days are often the minimum; a longer tour allows for much deeper impressions. Reputable providers, appropriate clothing, mosquito protection, and realistic expectations are essential.
You can find more background information on the region at Amazon Peru.
Dry season, rainy season, and regional differences
Peru does not have the same climate everywhere. The coast, the Andes, and the Amazon region differ significantly. A simple rule helps, however: in the Andes, the dry season from approximately May to September is particularly popular for trekking and clear visibility.
The rainy season in the Andes lies roughly between October and April, with heavier rainfall usually between December and March. On the other hand, landscapes can look greener and some prices may be lower.
The climate on the coast is different. Lima is often gray and humid in winter, but dry. In the north, it can be significantly warmer and sunnier. Therefore, plan according to the region, not just the calendar month. You can find more at Geography of Peru.
Planning Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail correctly
Machu Picchu is one of the most important travel destinations in Peru, but visiting it doesn't work spontaneously like a walk through the city. Tickets, time slots, and routes are officially regulated.
For 2026, the Peruvian Ministry of Culture has officially regulated the sale of tickets for Machu Picchu and the Red de Caminos Inka. Entrance tickets should be planned through official channels or authorized, reputable providers.
The Inca Trail is strictly limited and must be booked early. Alternatives like Salkantay, Lares, or Choquequirao can also be impressive, but they also require preparation, physical fitness, and appropriate gear.
When it comes to Machu Picchu, never rely solely on the statements of individual providers. Availability, route, date, time, and ticket type must match your own trip.
Events in Peru
To the calendarYou can find more information under "To the calendar".
Safety in Peru
Peru is well within reach for many travelers, but safety should not be taken lightly. Pickpocketing, scams, unsafe taxis, protests, roadblocks, and regional risks can affect a trip.
Do not carry valuables openly. You should not walk through unfamiliar neighborhoods at night without a plan. Accommodations, transport, and tours should be chosen from reputable sources.
Current advice is important because situations can change. Before traveling, it is worth checking official travel and safety advisories. You can also find a compact overview at Safety in Peru.
Relevant PeruMagazin topics
These pages help with further planning and fit directly with the most important travel topics.
Frequently asked questions about Peru travel tips
Can you drink tap water in Peru?
As a traveler, you should normally not drink tap water in Peru. Boiled, filtered, or treated water is safer.
Is cash important in Peru?
Yes. Cards work more frequently in cities, but cash is often necessary in small towns, markets, taxis, and with local providers.
When is the best time to travel to Peru?
For the Andes, the dry season from May to September is particularly popular. Depending on the region, however, the best travel time may vary.
How dangerous is altitude sickness?
It can start mildly but become serious. Slow acclimatization and cautious behavior when experiencing symptoms are important.
Do you have to book Machu Picchu early?
Yes. Tickets, time slots, and routes are limited and should be planned in advance through official or reputable channels.
Is Peru safe for travelers?
Many trips go smoothly, but you should check official advisories, protect valuables, and choose reputable providers.
Federal Foreign Office – Travel and security advice for Peru
Federal Foreign Office – Information on altitude sickness
Ministry of Culture of Peru – Information on Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail Network 2026
Central Reserve Bank of Peru – Information on the Sol currency
PromPerú – tourist information on Peru, regions, and travel planning
General travel guides and specialist literature on Peru, altitude acclimatization, the Amazon region, and travel in the Andes
