Peru
South America · Americas
- Capital
- Lima
- Currency
- Peruvian Sol (PEN)
- Language
- Spanish, Quechua
- Timezone
- UTC-5
- Safety rating
- 6.5/10
- Best time to visit
- May to October for the highland sites (Machu Picchu, Cusco) — dry season with clear skies. November to April for the Amazon jungle. Lima has year-round grey skies but is always worth visiting.
Overview
Peru is one of travel's greatest experiences — home to the iconic Machu Picchu, the mysterious Nazca Lines, the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, and the Amazon jungle. Lima has emerged as South America's premier food destination, with more top-50 world restaurants per capita than almost anywhere.
Visa requirements
Citizens of 60+ countries enter visa-free for up to 183 days including USA, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada. A valid passport is sufficient.
Safety information
Tourist areas are generally safe with vigilance. Watch for pickpockets in Lima, Cusco markets, and bus stations. Use official taxis or apps. Altitude sickness is a genuine risk in Cusco (3,400m) and the Inca Trail — acclimatize before strenuous activity.
Travel tips
Book Machu Picchu tickets months in advance — daily entry is capped and sold out frequently. Take altitude sickness seriously in Cusco — arrive a day early, drink coca tea, avoid alcohol initially. Ceviche at a Lima cevichería is a life-changing meal.