9 Day Itinerary to Peru

No one can change my mind about this: we have created the perfect day-to-day itinerary for a 9-day trip to Peru. And the best part is we’re sharing it with you! This itinerary has been created and refined over the course of many years and covers a wide variety of cuisines, experiences, and regions of Peru.

Day 1

Arrive at the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco and drive through the mountains to a lodge in the Sacred Valley, surrounded by beautiful gardens, trees, and mountains. Begin your introduction to Peruvian food with a multi-course lunch with traditional food from the Sacred Valley. During lunch, you can also watch the Peruvian Paso Horse Show.

Take a few hours to relax and explore, and then head to our friend Gabriel’s house for a traditional pachamanca. A pachamanca, which is Quechua for "earth oven", is a traditional Andean way of using the earth to cook a variety of meats, herbs, and vegetables underground. 

Day 2

Start with a visit to the local market and continue on to a nearby lake to try your hand at paddleboarding. Enjoy a picnic lunch right by the lake, taking in the serene surroundings of the mountains before moving on for a walk around the Moray ruins. Finally, descend to the Maras Salt Mines and learn why these salt pans are so important to local families.

Peru might not be known for its wines, but you’ll have an opportunity to have some Peruvian and South American wines paired with a 10-course tasting menu for dinner. Sit back and relax and let your taste buds be dazzled!

Day 3

Throw on your hiking boots for a mild, three-hour, mostly downhill hike. During the casual stroll through the mountains, stop for breaks to learn from a local guide about the traditional farming terraces you pass on our way down to the town of Ollantaytambo.

After the hike, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local hotel's onsite restaurant, which first started operating in 1925! The menu is inspired by traditional Andean ingredients, and the chefs apply artisanal recipes using fresh produce from the hotel's organic farm. After lunch, board the train with a panoramic roof in Ollantaytambo for the 90-minute ride down to Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly known as Aguas Calientes).

Day 4

Prepare for a day of exquisite views and spiritual connection as you take the bus from Machu Picchu Pueblo to the archeological site. There, you will have a short introduction and walk around with your guide, and optional hikes like Huayna Picchu Mountain or Huchuy Picchu Mountain. Recharge with a buffet lunch, and then head back into the site for an in-depth tour of Machu Picchu with plenty of time to learn about the intricate details of the ruins and take plenty of photos.

Day 5

In the morning, board the train at Machu Picchu for the return ride to Ollantaytambo, and then drive about an hour to the local mountain community called Patacancha and attend a textiles workshop with local weavers. For decades, artisans in Patacancha have been weaving textiles on backstrap looms, creating colorful and intricate designs from the materials that are endemic to the lush and vibrant region. During this workshop, you’ll experience their ancestral textile-making process from start to finish. You’ll get to help wash the alpaca wool, tint it with natural and botanical dyes, and spin the yarn with the help of the local weavers. After saying goodbye to the weavers, head to Cusco and check in to your hotel.

Day 6

In the morning, take a one-hour walking tour of the historical city center with a local guide. Then, meet up with our friends Andre and Sonya from Aulita who will show you around the bustling San Pedro market, which sells everything from textiles to meat and dry goods, to prepared food and freshly squeezed juices.

After the market, walk a few blocks to Aulita Cafe where Andre, the cocktail master, will teach you how to make cocktails using traditional spirits. Afterwards, we will have lunch at Aulita and experience their Mesa Llena, Spanish for “Full Table”. A variety of dishes will be served to the table to share family style in order to taste a bit of everything Aulita has to offer. Explore the city in the afternoon, taking in the beautiful colonial architecture and charming cobblestone streets. 

Day 7

In the morning, fly from Cusco to Lima. The flight is non-stop, and approximately 1.5 hours. Once you arrive, head straight to Maido and get ready for the most luxurious lunch of your life. During the multi-course tasting menu, you will experience Chef Mitsuharu 'Micha' Tsumura's astounding Nikkei cuisine (a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian foods). After you’ve been stuffed to the brim, take the afternoon to relax and stroll around the artsy neighborhood of Barranco.

Day 8

Time for more food! Experience the best of Barranco on a private Barranco Food Tour with a local guide. This walking food tour is a fun way to explore the authentic Peruvian culinary scene, sampling delicious bites in unpretentious hole-in-the-wall eateries called huariques.

Traditional food is served, most of the time by the proprietors/cooks, just like grandma used to make it. Take the afternoon to do some shopping or to walk along the Malecón. For your final dinner in Peru, indulge in Astrid & Gaston’s tasting menu. Like other tasting menus, make sure to pace yourself; the whole experience lasts about 3 - 4 hours.

Day 9

Bid Peru farewell as your driver takes you back to the Lima airport for your international flight, or onward if you’d like to explore more of this amazing country!

By the end of the trip, you’re leaving with a belly full of delicious cuisines, new friends, and a deeper connection with Peruvian culture and way of life. As one of our signature trips, travelers can’t believe the experiences they have when they travel with us. See what they’ve said about our trips!

If this itinerary is of interest to you, there are two ways to experience this trip! 

1. Join us on our small group trip in 2023 or 2024.

2. Book this itinerary for your own group trip. Perfect for multi-generation families or a group of friends. You can experience our signature itinerary for just YOUR group.

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

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Our 5 Favorite Peruvian Foods and Easy Places to Find Them

Peru is a foodie paradise, not only because it is home to three of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, but also because it offers a wide variety of flavors. Each region - the jungle, the mountains, and the coast - has unique dishes and distinctive flavors that are rooted in local ingredients and traditional cooking practices specific to each area.

Christiana, our Taste of Peru tour host, has been living in Peru for the last 10 years and she’s here to share some of her favorite Peruvian foods and where to find them. With so many delicious foods to try and Peru’s massive portion sizes, you definitely won’t be hungry during your trip.

Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado is to Peru as sushi is to Japan; it is one of the most iconic Peruvian dishes and you can’t leave the country without trying it at least once. 

Lomo Saltado is a stir-fry made of tender, flambeed beef, crispy red onion, and juicy tomato strips. And because we’re in Peru, it’s served with a side of rice and fried potatoes. 

The dish is so popular that there are variations like Pollo Saltado (same idea but with chicken) and Tallarín Saltado (Lomo Saltado with noodles, similar to chow mein).

You’ll find Lomo Saltado in just about every restaurant, but not every Lomo Saltado is created equal. Sometimes the beef is overcooked or isn’t flambeed, so it doesn’t have the rich, smoky notes that elevate the dish, or the sauce is too thin, or the vegetables are mushy. 

One place you can count on getting a good Lomo Saltado is Tanta. Tanta is a chain restaurant started by Gastón Acurio, a chef and restaurateur famous for introducing Peruvian cuisine to the rest of the world. We don’t typically recommend chain restaurants, but the benefit is that you know what you’re getting when you sit down at any location and can be fairly confident that you’re going to get a good Lomo Saltado. 

Tanta’s menu is full of Peruvian classics, like Ceviche and Ají de Gallina, so take advantage and order a few different dishes. Make sure to go hungry and with a few friends to help you eat - the portions are large.

Choclo con Queso

Choclo con queso is Andean corn with fresh cheese. It’s served in the corn husk and makes a delicious snack. 

You can often find choclo con queso around the markets in the Andes - look for the ladies with the huge steaming pots. In Lima, you will sometimes find street vendors with stalls serving it. 

Pachamanca

Pachamanca is often translated to “earth oven" or “earth pot” from the Quechua language and is a traditional Inca meal cooked on hot rocks in the ground. Pachamanca is often served in the Andes for special occasions or celebrations, so not only is it a way of cooking, but it’s also a time to come together and enjoy delicious food that has come from Pachamama, or Mother Earth.

People in the Andes have been making Pachamanca for centuries; archaeologists have found remains of underground ovens that are 7,000 - 8,000 years old.

What is included in a Pachamanca varies depending on who is preparing it, but often there will be two to three different types of meat (pork, chicken, and lamb are common), sweet potatoes, different varieties of Andean potatoes, Andean corn, and fava beans.

As we’ve stated, Pachamanca is more than just a meal, it’s an experience full of history and tradition. For the full experience, we enjoy having Pachamanca at El Albergue Hotel & Organic Farm in Ollantaytambo. Not only is the food delicious, but the views of the farm are the perfect backdrop for this traditional Andean culinary experience. 

Picarones

Peruvians love sugar, and we’re so glad they do because it led them to invent picarones, which look like a skinny donut. Unlike traditional donuts that have flour as their main ingredient, picarones are primarily made up of squash and sweet potato, which explains their soft texture underneath their crunchy exterior. After frying, they’re covered in a brown sugar syrup flavored with clove, anis, cinnamon, and orange peel.

Picarones were invented in Lima, and you can find street vendors all over the city with carts frying them fresh. You’ll usually find some carts in Parque Kennedy in the Miraflores neighborhood, or near anticucho restaurants. Make sure to get them fresh right as they come out of the oil!

Mango Sour Catedral

Ok, so this one isn’t a food, but we had to include one of our favorite Peruvian cocktails to round out the list. You may have heard of the Pisco Sour - which you should definitely try during your trip - but Mangos Restaurant at Larcomar in Lima serves a Mango Sour Catedral that is delicious and strong. Make sure you’re taking a taxi once you leave the restaurant - you’ll need one!

The restaurant has a great view of the Pacific Ocean from its patio. It gets very busy in the summer months (December - March), so make sure you get a reservation, especially if you want to enjoy the sunset.

We hope we’ve awoken your taste buds and inspired you to try some of Peru’s tasty treats. Join us on our Taste of Peru and Machu Picchu Tour and experience the vibrant culture, incredible history, and delicious flavors this beautiful country has to offer. Contact us here if you have any questions or concerns and we’d be happy to set up a time to talk.

If you’re traveling to Peru on your own and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our customized travel coaching and optional booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - who offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

Written by Christiana Jones, Administrative Assistant & Taste of Peru Tour Host

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What to Do in Peru Besides Visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is without a doubt the most popular tourist attraction in Peru, and understandably so. The history behind the ancient Incan ruins is incredible, and visiting the site is an unforgettable experience.

The good news is that Peru is full of even more unforgettable experiences. 

Christiana, our Taste of Peru tour host, has been living in Peru for the last 10 years and she’s here to share some of her favorite things to do all around the country. With so many incredible things to experience, one visit to Peru just isn’t enough. 

Kayaking & Kitesurfing in Paracas 

Paracas is known for its popular tour to the Islas Ballestas to see the sea lions, but there’s so much more Paracas has to offer. Hop in a kayak and paddle your way around the peaceful Pacific Ocean, or kick the adrenaline up a notch and take a kitesurfing lesson. After you’ve dried off, explore the Paracas National Reserve either on a bike or ATV tour. The sight of the desert right next to the ocean is pretty incredible. 

Insider Tip: Paracas is home to some beautiful 4 and 5-star hotels, so it makes a great home base if you’re exploring other places in the area such as Pisco, Ica, and Huacachina.

Insider Tip: Many tour operators offer day tours from Lima to Paracas, but we highly recommend renting a car and going for a whole weekend. That way you can go at your own pace and you have the freedom to explore the surrounding areas.

Dune Buggies and Sandboarding in Huacachina

After you’ve explored Paracas, head down to Huacachina and get ready for a wild ride on the dunes! This is one of our favorite things to do in Peru. You’ll be completely covered in sand once it’s over, but the adrenaline rush and the view of the sunset over the dunes are worth it.  

Insider Tip: Make sure you purchase your spot directly through a tour operator that has the vehicles on site so you can see how they are maintained. Many other tour agencies in the area are resellers and you can’t see the state of the vehicles before buying a ticket. 

Insider Tip: Schedule the last time slot available so that you can see the sunset over the dunes. 

Nazca Lines

If you have the time, keep going further south to Nazca, hop on a plane, and take to the skies to get a bird's eye view of the incredible Nazca lines. The lines are estimated to have been created between 500 BC and 500 AD but are still clearly visible today due to the lack of wind in the area and its dry, stable climate. Some of the designs you’ll see are of plants and animals, suggesting that they were created for religious purposes.

Insider Tip: Many people experience nausea or dizziness on the plane ride, so you may want to take some Dramamine before you head up. 

kayaking in Paracas

Surfing

If you’re in Lima, head down to the beach along the Costa Verde where there are many surfing instructors offering lessons. If you’re in the north exploring the city of Trujillo, check out the small beach town of Huanchaco - it’s a great place for beginning surfers to get their feet wet…literally. ;) 

Insider Tip: Be prepared to don a wetsuit before heading in; the Pacific Ocean is chilly.

Paragliding & Para-triking in Lima

If running off of cliffs and floating over the coastline is your thing, you should definitely check out paragliding from the Malecón. If you still want to take to the skies but prefer to have a motor propelling you, para-triking might be more your style. You can find numerous para-triking operators on the Costa Verde in the Magdalena area. The flights are about 10 minutes and include a GoPro recording of your ride.

Insider Tip: A long sleeve shirt, pants, and sunglasses make the para-triking experience more comfortable.

Amazon River Cruise

Peru is more than just mountains and deserts - it’s also home to part of the Amazon River and Rainforest. You can experience the Amazon by staying at an ecolodge in the rainforest, but we personally prefer taking it in by floating down the Amazon River. Trust us - it’s not nearly as hot. 

If you’re worried you’ll get bored sitting on a boat, fear not! Many cruises have scheduled activities such as early-morning bird watching, a night safari to spot caimans and other nocturnal animals, sloth spotting, piranha fishing, swimming with the pink dolphins, and nature walks through the rainforest to see the massive, ancient trees. It’s a great choice for nature enthusiasts.

Insider Tip: BUG SPRAY. ‘Nuf said.

We hope we’ve awoken your travel bug and inspired you to explore more of Peru than just Machu Picchu. Join us on our Taste of Peru and Machu Picchu Tour and experience the vibrant culture, incredible history, and delicious flavors this beautiful country has to offer.

If you’re traveling to Peru but don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our customized travel coaching and optional booking service. 

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - who offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

Written by Christiana Jones, Administrative Assistant & Taste of Peru Tour Host

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Why 2023 is the Best Year to Travel to Peru

You might have read that title and thought, “But isn’t it dangerous to travel to Peru right now? Aren’t people protesting?”

Christiana, our Taste of Peru tour host, is a US expat that has been living in Peru for the last 10 years and is here to share what the situation is really like in Peru today.  

Peru experienced political unrest and protests from December 2022 to February 2023, as it has experienced many times before. Peruvians often express their discontent with political or social situations through roadblocks and peaceful strikes or protests. This time, however, the situation made international headlines when roadblocks and demonstrations turned violent.

To be clear, tourists were never targeted in any Peruvian demonstrations, and it’s always been safe - albeit sometimes logistically difficult due to road closures - to move around the country.

“What caused the protests?” you might ask. This Aljazeera article explains what sparked the most recent protests, but ultimately the frustration and discontent are rooted in decades of political corruption, large political and social systemic issues, and discrimination.

Many Peruvians are still unhappy with the current political situation, but the protests have lost a lot of public support because they have caused many people to suffer financially, especially those in the tourism, hospitality, and agricultural industries. As a result, life in Peru has gone back to normal since late February - roads are open, markets are bustling, children are in school, parents are at work, and tourist attractions like Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are open. 

Not only are tourist attractions open, but they’re practically empty, which is why now is the time to visit Peru. As a result of the situation earlier this year, many people canceled their travel plans, which means that the normally crowded archeological sites are peaceful and intimate. One of our tour guides described the Inca Trail as “deliciously quiet” right now, since he and his group didn’t run into a single person during their four days on the trail. 

We’ve recently heard from numerous Peruvian small business owners in the hospitality industry, and they all say the same thing: (1) the media haven’t accurately portrayed the situation, (2) the political and social situation has stabilized, (3) the tourist sector is open and operating normally, and (4) there are fewer crowds and more discounts or upgrades on offer. 

No matter where you travel and no matter the political climate, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy.  

Ready to visit Peru? Join us on our Taste of Peru and Machu Picchu Tour and experience the vibrant culture, incredible history, and delicious flavors this beautiful country has to offer. Contact us here if you have any questions or concerns and we’d be happy to set up a time to talk.

If you’re traveling to Peru on your own and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our customized travel coaching and optional booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - who offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

Written by Christiana Jones, Administrative Assistant & Taste of Peru Tour Host

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71 Things to Know When Traveling to Peru

If you want to be prepared for your upcoming trip to Peru, our guide will help you get there. 

These 71 tips come from our extensive travel expertise and 7+ years of traveling to Peru from the United States and exploring the country. It’s also the list we send to TTLT travelers on the Taste of Peru Tour. 

The list is broken down into sections from weather to health & altitude for easy reading and searching. 

Let’s get started!

Pre-Departure Information | Currency | Hotels | Weather & Outdoor Activities | Transportation | Health & Altitude | Internet & Phones | Voltage | Safety | Food & Water | Bathrooms | Cultural Norms | Basic Spanish (with pronunciation!)

Pre-Departure Information

1. For U.S. Citizens - register for the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

2. Talk with your cell phone carrier. If you’re planning on using your cell phone while abroad, find out the best international plan that will suit your needs.

3. Research current COVID entry requirements and make sure you’re in compliance. Please stay up to date on the State Department website.

4. If you have any concerns about altitude, we advise that you talk with your doctor about altitude medication.

5. Notify your banks of your travel plans and itinerary for the international use of your credit cards and ATM cards.

6. Check your passport expiration date. For U.S. Citizens - passports must be valid for 6 months after the return of your journey and should also have sufficient blank pages for visas and immigration stamps.

7. Visit a doctor or travel pharmacist 4-6 weeks prior to departure. Give your doctor your itinerary and history of vaccines. Ask for routine vaccinations and prescriptions as necessary (including a backup supply of antibiotics). For more information visit the CDC.

8. Download books/shows/movies to electronic devices.

9. Make two (2) copies of your important documents such as passports, credit cards, and driver's licenses. Leave one copy with your emergency contact and store another copy in a safe place in your luggage (separate from the actual documents).

Currency

10. The Sol (plural = Soles) (S/.) is used in Peru, and the best exchange rates are usually found by direct withdrawals from ATMs as opposed to exchanging cash. There are many people exchanging cash on the streets, especially in Lima. We do not advise this as there is some risk of counterfeit money. 

11. Do not accept torn or taped bills since they will often not be accepted by Peruvians. US Dollars are often accepted in tourist areas, however vendors typically charge unfavorable exchange rates to use USD for payments.

12. Contact your bank prior to departure to notify them of your intended use of cards overseas. Ask your bank what your foreign transaction fees are and any ATM withdrawal fees.

13. Credit cards are accepted in most areas but it is a good idea to extract some local currency for use in small shops or cafes.

14. When paying by credit card, vendors will often ask you or show you the option to select "local currency" or "convert to USD" - in which case you should always select local currency. If you choose to convert to USD the local bank gives you a conversion rate to accept and it is usually unfavorable. Typically allowing your credit card company to make the conversion offers a much better rate.

15. We do not recommend bringing traveler’s checks, exchanging cash in advance, or using foreign currencies (like USD) even when possible. Those methods typically incur hefty fees or the exchange rates are not the best.

16. In Peru, a 18% IGV (impuesto general a las ventas) or general sales tax equivalent to VAT is typically already built into prices.

Hotels

17. Please note that passports are required for check-in to each hotel. 

18. For Peruvian citizens, hotels are subject to an 18% tax. By showing your international passport upon check-in, the 18% tax will be automatically removed for foreign nationals.

Weather & Outdoor Activities

19. Peru’s weather ranges from the coastal areas to the highlands. In the highlands, from May to September the days are often clear and sunny and it is the dry season. Daytime temperatures are warm between 65 – 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Night temperatures can drop to near freezing. 

20. From October to November the days are often clear and sunny, but intermittent rain is possible as the dry season gives way to the wet season. Daytime temperatures are warm, between 65 – 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Night temperatures can drop to near freezing.

21. Regardless of the time of year, it is important to always carry drinking water, stay hydrated, and wear sunblock and hats as necessary to reduce your sun exposure. Air conditioning and heating in vehicles and hotels are generally available but are not guaranteed. 

22. If during your trip you are in mountain conditions there is potential for close proximity to wild animals. Although animal attacks are rare, nobody can guarantee this will not occur. It is important that you follow all guides and staff safety instructions carefully. Respect your surroundings and do not get close to any animals.

23. If you’re participating in outdoor activities in the mountains, we recommend bringing hiking shoes. We also recommend bringing a small day pack where you can carry water, cameras, and other essentials.

Transportation

24. In most cities in Peru it is easy to walk around and take taxis for further distances. Private taxis are often not regulated and charge much lower fares. Regulated taxis are those which have a lit company number on the roof and are reached by phone. They are more expensive than taxis you can wave down on the street. You can also ask your hotel to coordinate a taxi service for you.

25. There are no meters in taxis, so the fares should be requested before getting in. You can negotiate the rate. Taxi drivers do not expect tips, however you can round up the fare if you wish.

Health & Altitude

26. Medical care is generally good in Lima with many doctors who speak English. In other areas of Peru, the healthcare is generally inadequate for serious medical conditions and travelers should return to Lima for care. Pharmacies, however, are well equipped throughout the country and carry most medications available in other countries.

27. Many travelers going to the Andes Mountains are prone to altitude sickness, which can be a serious life-threatening disease or one which can exacerbate existing medical conditions. Altitude can affect you regardless of your physical fitness.

28. It is recommended to acclimatize for a few nights after arriving at a higher altitude. During the first 36-48 hours you should avoid physical exertion and alcohol, and eat light and healthy meals. It is important to stay hydrated and drink lots of clean water.

29. Our itinerary accommodates for acclimatization, starting in the Sacred Valley at approximately 9,000 feet and then toward Machu Picchu at approximately 8,000 feet, and finally to the highest point in Cusco at approximately 11,000 feet.

30. We recommend consulting with your doctor and or a travel pharmacist regarding any vaccines or medicines you may need, including Diamox for altitude sickness prevention.

31. All travelers should have health insurance before traveling to Peru. If your current health insurance provider does not cover medical expenses abroad, we recommend supplemental traveler’s insurance.

32. Please review with a travel pharmacist or doctor whether you are up to date on routine vaccinations and other vaccinations that are relevant to your travel to Peru. You can visit the CDC for more information.

Internet & Phones

33. Most often Wifi internet access will be available via hotel internet connections throughout the duration of your trip; quality of the internet connection is not guaranteed. The connection at many hotels is not typically very strong or reliable.

34. During day excursions there is typically no cell reception or internet.

Voltage

35. The voltage in Peru is 220 volts at 60 hertz. Most of our electronics these days come with chargers that automatically convert, so you only need to bring an adapter. Peruvian sockets are often designed to receive 2 round or flat pins, but occasionally there are round -only sockets. It's best to bring an adapter that converts flat to round, as well as 3 prong to 2.

36. Items such as hair dryers and curling irons usually require a power adapter.

Safety

37. Pickpocketing is common in Peru. Be aware of your surroundings and keep cash and valuables concealed in zipped bags or zipped pockets. Thieves generally target people who look unaware or whose bags are not secured. You should be extra alert if somebody approaches you or “accidentally” runs into you or spills something on you as they may try to “assist” you and use that opportunity to distract you, or they may have a partner who will pickpocket you.

38. Always pay close attention to your belongings, especially important travel documents such as your passport and Peruvian tourist card (received upon entry), which should be kept with you at all times. 

39. It is best to carry bags or purses that have cross-body straps and to keep your hand on them for extra security. When your electronics are not in use, do not carry them in hand; instead secure them inside bags or pockets, especially phones and cameras which are targets for snatching while held in hand.

40. Lock your valuables in safes in your hotel room and don’t take more cash than necessary when walking around. When you pay for something, conceal your cash so it’s not out in the open.

41. Do not put your bags down unattended, as they can be snatched quickly. Additionally, when traveling in vehicles such as taxis maintain your bag in your lap or secured in your hands. There have been thefts from people on motorbikes opening car doors as they drive by. Lock your car doors while driving.

Food & Water

42. It is not safe to drink the tap water in Peru. We do not recommend drinking water in Peru that is not bottled, boiled, or filtered. We recommend you bring a filtration bottle to use.

43. We do not recommend eating street food; exercise caution in what you eat and drink.

44.We advise all guests to drink with caution and bear in mind that it is not culturally appropriate to overindulge or become intoxicated. 

Bathrooms

45. Public restrooms in most cities in Peru are difficult to find. Some restaurants and other small shops will offer their restrooms for paid use. 

46. You should always carry your own supply of toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes since only some restrooms have proper sinks.

47. Due to old plumbing and sewer systems, you should not flush toilet paper down the toilet. Instead, you will notice a small waste basket next to the toilet where you should deposit your used paper.

48. Our recommendation is to always use a bathroom when it’s accessible instead of waiting until you need one.

Cultural Norms

49. Photographing military, police, or airport installations is strictly forbidden. Many churches, convents, and museums also do not allow photography or video.

50. Do not take pictures of people without their permission, especially when taking photos of indigenous people and children.

51. Peruvians place importance on relationships and people over a strict adherence to schedules so meetings are often late, often up to 30 minutes.

52. Peruvians communicate in close proximity. When they stand nearby, do not back away as that can be offensive.

53. It is considered rude to refuse a dinner invitation or to refuse to eat something when you are a guest.

54. Avoid resting your elbows on the table while eating; using your wrists is acceptable.

55. Avoid putting your feet up on a chair, desk, or table.

56. Avoid crossing your legs by resting the ankle of one leg on the opposite knee. Cross your legs at the knees instead.

57. When talking with locals it is considered taboo to discuss government, politics, terrorism, religion, and a person’s ancestry.

58. Bargaining is common in Peru, especially in shops and markets. Don’t go overboard, though. It’s best to offer about 20 percent below the price that you’re quoted and typically vendors and shoppers meet in the middle.49.

Basic Spanish

59. Hello – Hola (OH-la)

60. Good morning – Buenos días (booEHN-os DEE-as)

61. Good afternoon / evening – Buenas tardes (booEHN-as TAR-dehs)

62. Good night – Buenas noches (booEHN-as NO-chehs) *used at the end of the night

63. Good appetite (before eating) – Buen provecho (booEHN pro-ve-cho)

64. Please – Por favor (pohr fah-VOR)

65. Thank You – Gracias (gra-see-ahs)

66. You’re Welcome – De nada (deh NA-da)

67. I do not understand - No comprendo (no kom-PREN-doh)

68. Yes – Si (see)

69. No – No (noh)

70. Cheers - Salud (Sah-LOOD)

71. Goodbye – Adiós (ah-dee-OHS)

Interested in a dream trip to Peru with exclusive access to private venues and local chefs, with all the details arranged for you? We’ve got you covered - check out our Taste of Peru Tour!

If you’re traveling to Peru on your own and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our customized travel coaching and optional booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - who offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

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