Complete Guide to Travel to Peru: Discovering the New Wonders of Peru

Before packing your bags, make sure you have all the necessary documentation for your trip to Peru. Citizens of most countries can enter Peru with a valid passport and do not need to obtain a prior visa for short-term tourist stays. However, it is always advisable to check the specific visa requirements depending on your country of origin before traveling.

Health is a priority when traveling to a new destination. Before leaving for Peru, it is advisable to consult a medical professional to obtain information on the recommended vaccinations for the country. If you plan to visit remote areas or the Amazon rainforest, you may need additional vaccines, such as yellow fever or malaria. Additionally, consider obtaining travel insurance that provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, evacuation, or trip cancellation.

Peru enjoys a diverse climate due to its varied geography, which includes mountains, coast and jungle. Before planning your trip, research the weather in the regions you plan to visit and choose the season that best suits your preferences. The dry season, which runs from May to October, is generally the best time to visit mountainous regions, such as Cusco and Machu Picchu. However, the north coast and the Amazon rainforest can be enjoyed all year round, with a rainy season from November to March.

Many of Peru’s most popular tourist destinations, such as Cusco, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, are located at high altitude. It is important to be aware of the effects of altitude sickness and take the time necessary to acclimatize properly. If you are traveling from low-altitude locations, consider arriving a few days early at your destination and avoiding intense physical exertion during the first few days to allow your body to gradually adapt to the altitude.

Peru is a safe country to travel to, but as in any tourist destination, it is important to take basic precautions to ensure your safety and well-being. Avoid displaying valuables in public, especially in crowded areas, and keep your belongings safe at all times. Also, avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas at night and keep your important documents and money in a safe place.

The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian Nuevo Sol (PEN). Before you travel, be sure to exchange some money into the local currency for initial expenses such as transportation and food. While it is possible to exchange money at banks and exchange offices in Peru, you can also withdraw cash from ATMs using an international debit or credit card. However, it is important to be aware of the fees and commissions associated with foreign transactions.

When packing for your trip to Peru, keep in mind the weather and the activities you plan to do. Include clothing that is comfortable and suitable for hiking and outdoor activities, as well as extra layers for cool nights in high-altitude regions. Don’t forget to include insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during your adventures.

Peruvian gastronomy is the result of a unique fusion of indigenous, European, African and Asian influences. Since pre-Columbian times, Peru’s indigenous people have grown a wide variety of foods, including potatoes, corn, chili peppers, and quinoa. With the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, new ingredients such as wheat, rice and cattle were introduced, which were fused with native ingredients to create unique dishes. African slavery also left its mark on Peruvian gastronomy, introducing new culinary techniques and flavors. Later, Chinese and Japanese immigration in the 19th century further contributed to the country’s gastronomic diversity.

Peruvian cuisine is characterized by the use of fresh and varied ingredients, many of which are endemic to the region. Among the star ingredients are ají (chili), potato (Peru is home to thousands of varieties of potatoes), corn (used in various forms, from choclo to purple corn flour), quinoa (an Andean superfood ), fish and shellfish (Peru has a coast rich in marine biodiversity) and a wide variety of tropical fruits such as passion fruit, guava and cherimoya.

Peruvian cuisine has a wide range of emblematic dishes that reflect the diversity and culinary richness of the country. Among the most notable are:

Ceviche: One of the most emblematic dishes of Peru, ceviche is a preparation of raw fish marinated in lemon juice, chili and red onion. It is served with camote (sweet potato) and choclo (corn).

Lomo Saltado: Influenced by Chinese-Peruvian cuisine, lomo saltado is a sautéed beef with onion, tomato and chili, accompanied by rice and French fries.

Ají de Gallina: A creamy stew of shredded chicken in a yellow chili sauce, bread, milk and nuts, served with rice and potatoes.

Anticuchos: Beef heart skewers marinated in spices and grilled, served with potatoes and chili sauce.

Papa a la Huancaina: Cooked potatoes covered with a creamy cheese sauce, yellow chili and milk, accompanied by hard-boiled egg and olives.

Peruvian cuisine has gained international recognition in recent decades, becoming a world reference in gastronomy. Peruvian restaurants have won prestigious awards and Peruvian cuisine has been acclaimed by chefs and food critics around the world. Peruvian ingredients such as yellow chili pepper, quinoa and pisco (grape brandy) have become increasingly popular on the international gastronomic scene.