F.A.Q's Peru

1. When is the best time to go?

Travellers can visit Peru any time of the year. Dry season runs from May to November and this is typically the time that is most recommended. Night time temperatures can drop to below freezing at the height of the dry season. June, July and August are the most popular months to visit so you will tend to encounter much larger crowds during these months.

2. How is the weather like?

Generally speaking, Peru has two seasons, wet and dry, but in a country as geographically diverse as Peru, local weather patterns vary greatly.

In the highlands, the dry season is between June and October, but even the mountains' wet season isn't always really wet and the dry season sees its share of downpours. Temperatures during the day in the dry season can get hot making shorts rather inviting.

3. How concern should be travellers about the altitude?

Altitude affects each traveller differently and until you have visited an area with high altitude, it is impossible to predict how your body will react. You should take it easy on the first two days until your body gets used to the altitude.

4. Which clothes should I pack?

Since the Peruvian climate varies dramatically depending upon elevation and season, it is difficult to offer many generalizations. Comfort is the rule and fancy clothes are not necessary for any of our Peru tours. Peruvians are used to seeing travellers with shorts, sandals, and jeans are perfectly acceptable.

5. What do I do in case of emergency?

In case of emergency you can contact Tourism Police.

Lima

Jr. Moore 268, Magdalena del Mar.

Tel: (01) 460-1060 / 460-0965 / 460-0921 / 460-4525

Cusco

Calle Saphi s/n

Tel: (084) 24-9654

6. Do I need a passport or visa to enter Peru?

Travellers will all need a passport valid for at least 6 months after they depart. Currently, citizens from the US, Canada, Scandinavia, Western Europe, Japan, Latin America, South Africa, South Korea, and the Caribbean (except Cuba) do not need a visa. Australians and New Zealanders do need a visa. Travellers from other nationalities should check with the Peruvian Embassy for visa information. It is each traveller’s responsibility to check with the consulate for the most up-to-date visa information.

7. What is the official language of Peru?

Although Spanish is commonly spoken across the country, Quechua is a major legacy of the Inca empire, and is still spoken with regional dialects in many parts of Peru.

8. Is the water safe to drink?

The tap water is generally not safe to drink in Peru. Bottled water is readily available at tourist sites, hotels, and restaurants. Don't forget to use bottled water when brushing your teeth as well! Ice is not always made with boiled/ bottled water. Order your beverages without ice ("sin hielo") or ask your tour leader if the ice is safe in a particular restaurant.

9. What is the voltage of electricity supply in Peru? Do I need to take a converter?

Peru uses 220 volt, 60 cycle electricity. Travellers will require a voltage converter for 110 volt devices. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat type found in the US, though some facilities have been noted to use the 2 rounded prongs instead.