Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens Reconsider Travel and exercise increased caution due to crime, civil unrest, and the possibility of kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is required, but US citizens may obtain the visa upon entering the country.
US Embassy/Consulate
[51] (1) 618-2000; US Embassy in Lima, Avenida La Encalada cdra. 17 s/n, Surco, Lima 33, Peru; LimaACS@state.gov; https://pe.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
51
Local Emergency Phone
011, 5114
Vaccinations
An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Varies from tropical in east to dry desert in west; temperate to frigid in Andes
Currency (Code)
Nuevo sol (PEN)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
220 V / 60 Hz / plug types(s): A, C
Major Languages
Spanish, Quechua, Aymara, Ashaninka
Major Religions
Roman Catholic 60%, Christian 14.6% (includes evangelical 11.1%, other 3.5%)
Time Difference
UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested; additionally, if you plan to drive in Peru, you will need an Inter-American Driving Permit issued by the AAA
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Machu Picchu; Cusco's architectural treasures; Lake Titicaca; Colca Canyon; Lima; Nazca Lines; Qhapaq Nan/Andean Road System
Major Sports
Soccer, volleyball, tennis
Cultural Practices
Greetings in Peru are quite important. For women, between friends, friends of friends and family, whether male or female, it is customary to give a kiss on the cheek (air kiss). If they are close friends or family this is usually accompanied by a hug.
Tipping Guidelines
Most restaurant and bar bills will include a 10% gratuity. It is customary to add an extra 10% tip if the service has been satisfactory. Tipping is not expected for taxis and fares are negotiated beforehand. One Nuevo sol per bag for porters is appreciated.
Souvenirs
Alpaca wool sweaters, scarves, and Chullo hats; pottery; sterling silver jewelry; leather goods; carved gourds
Traditional Cuisine
Ceviche — chunks of raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, chili peppers, and garlic; fish bone broth, salt, and pepper are used for seasoning
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Tuesday, September 12, 2023
