Useful tips for traveling in Peru

If you’re reading this, you’re either in Peru, are going, or want to travel there. Either way, we’ve collected a few useful tips for traveling in Peru here because it’s always good to be a bit prepared! Peru is an incredible country that has something to offer for everyone – yes, everyone! And that is why we at Native Tours are so passionate about showing all that this impressive country has to offer. Here are our useful tips for traveling in Peru.

Clothes to bring 

There are three climatic regions in Peru, each with its own ecosystem and weather patterns. This means that you should bring both lighter and warmer clothes. The locals don’t think about the weather as “summer” or “winter” as the weather is mostly affected by the altitude and whether it is the dry or rainy season. However, even if you’re traveling during the dry season, we still recommend you to bring rain resistant, warm clothes. 

The dry season (April-October) is best for travelers as the weather is great for traveling. Towns are unflooded and jungle rivers are lower. December, January, and February are extremely wet and not great for hiking. Moreover, Machu Picchu is closed for maintenance and climatic conditions in February. 

How to fight the altitude sickness

If you’re traveling to Peru, be prepared to get altitude sickness. There are ways to prevent feeling sick, such as staying hydrated and resting for a few hours upon arrival. Take it easy the first few days and try to eat light meals. Avoid or minimize alcohol and tobacco consumption as it can heighten the feeling of altitude sickness. There are also some remedies for altitude sickness such as buying over-the-counter brands. Drinking coca tea (mate de coca) is also a popular local remedy that may help alleviate symptoms naturally, but it may also cause insomnia as it works as an energy drink. 

Staying safe in Peru 

Peru is a relatively safe country, but it’s still important to be aware of your surroundings. Some things you can do to stay safe in Peru:

• Leave your valuables in a hotel safe. Take only what you need for the day. 
• Carry a copy of your passport and leave the original somewhere safe
• If you can, try to avoid the public transportation and go with a private tour bus/van instead
• Avoid quiet streets or streets with poor lighting at night, especially if you’re alone. Don’t walk on the streets alone, rather use taxis or order Uber’s if available. 
• You should never leave your bags unattended, especially in hotel lobbies, airports, and bus terminals. 

Here are emergency contacts that are good to have: 

• Peru country code: +51
• Police: 105
• Tourist police: +51 0800 22221 (English-speaking operators available 24 hours)
• Ambulance: 106
• Fire brigade: 116
• iPeru information offices for English-language tourism information in major cities: +51 1 574 8000, 24 hours a day. 
• Consumer protection agency: INDECOPI operates a 24-hour hotline with English-speaking operators on +51 1 224 7777
• For consular emergencies: The Consular Emergency Centre is available 24/7 on +61 2 6261 3305

Tipping culture in Peru

It’s normal to tip in Latin America and it will also be expected from you. The norm in restaurants is approximately 10%. If you go on trekking, jungle, hiking, and biking expeditions, local staff will often look to group members for recognition of their services. The tip will depend on satisfaction with service provided and length of time spent with staff.

Tips for community immersions and homestays 

• As part of our own practice, when we take a group to visit the communities, we alos take fruit as a token of our appreciation for their hospitality. Additional gifts are not necessary. 
• If you want to support the community buy one of their weavings. Although there are absolutely no obligations to do so, it’s a good way to support them. The handicrafts and textiles they sell are made by each individual and if you choose to purchase them, the prices are up to each individual and the proceeds go to that specific individual. 
• Please bring plenty of small change if you plan on buying handicrafts or souvenirs at the communities or in the markets. It is often difficult to change larger bank notes. It is always best to pay with local currency, even though Peru is highly dollarized. 
• Always ask before you take a photo. 
• If you enjoyed your stay with the community, please try to help promote the project by telling other travelers about your experience and write a review.

We are always up for a chat if you have more questions. You can reach us here: https://www.nativetours.org/contact-us/