The timeless jewel of South America: trendy gastronomy, mythical Machu Picchu and ancestral cultures. An absolute must!
Les Essentials
Peru in detail
Click on regions to see related articles.
Capital :
Lima
Area :
1,28 millions km²
Population :
32 millions
Currency :
Nuevo sol | 4 PEN = 1 USD
Language :
Spanish
Time difference :
GMT-5 and does not observe daylight saving time
Best seasons :
Coast & Lima: December to March / Andes & sites: May to SeptemberCoast & Lima: December to March / Andes & sites: May to September
Pérou
Practical info
Gastronomy
A trip to Peru will be incomplete without tasting the delicious cuisine that is currently very fashionable because it uses fresh, healthy products and the ancestral know-how of the Indian, Afro-Peruvian and Spanish communities.
There are many restaurants where great chefs offer traditional and contemporary cuisine. Some tables must be booked well in advance. Check out our advice in each chapter of this site. A very sophisticated and delicious cocktail, the "Pisco Sour", has become the national aperitif. For Peruvian beers, Cristal and Pilsen. Some wines like Tacama are starting to be recognized for their quality. And of course the coca leaf mate served in particular in the Andean part. It helps fight against altitude sickness "soroche" in Quechua.
Embassy
List : www.embassy-worldwide.com/country/peru/
Crafts
The crafts are rich and vary from region to region. Alpaca or Vicuna wool clothing, gold and silver jewelry from Cusco, and copies of pre-Columbian pieces on sale in museum shops are beautiful souvenirs.
Credit cards
To withdraw money, Visa or Mastercard ATMs are available in major cities. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and bars.
Route selection
Climate
In the Andes, mountain climate. It is cold between June and September with negative temperatures at night. The rainy season extends from December to March. Humid tropical climate in the Amazon and dry and hot on the coast where rains are rarer.
Electricity
The voltage is 220 volts, and outlets are often hybrid. It is advisable to bring a universal adapter.
Public holidays
Opening hours
Peru operates on GMT-5 and does not observe daylight saving time. During winter (GMT+1), the time difference with Central Europe is -6 hours, and in summer (GMT+2), it is -7 hours.
Internet
Language
Money & Change
There are plenty of exchange houses where you can change the Euro and US Dollar for the local currency: the Sol.
Clothes
For trips between June and September, pack very warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night. Choose comfortable shoes with "grip" soles for better traction on varied terrains. Important: heating is not as common as in Europe, so be sure to bring nightwear suited to cold temperatures.
Taxis
It is advised to agree on the fare with the driver before getting into the taxi.
Health
Tap water is not drinkable, so it is recommended to consume only bottled water. If you are on a specific medical treatment, ensure you bring all necessary medications. An insect repellent and preventive treatment for malaria are advised if your itinerary includes the Amazon region. For altitude sickness prevention and treatment, consult a doctor before your trip. Finally, it is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance to cover potential medical expenses or unforeseen situations.
Security
In cities and markets, it is crucial to stay alert and keep a close eye on your belongings to prevent theft. Avoid nighttime walks outside lively and well-populated areas.
