Travel Tips for Peru

Peru is an amazing and colorful country that attracts travelers from all over the world with its history, culture and numerous sights. However, for a trip to Peru to be really enjoyable and interesting, you should know and take into account some of the local traditions and rules of conduct.

The Peruvian coast has a hot and dry climate all year round.
In summer (from December to March) it is hot on the coast and there is practically no rainfall. Daytime temperatures are +28+32°C and the sea water warms up to +22+24°C. This is an ideal time for swimming and sunbathing.
In winter (from June to September) there is dense Garua fog on the coast. Temperatures drop to +12+18°C. Swimming is possible, but the water is cool.
In the highlands, summer (May to October) is dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures of +15+22°C. This is an ideal time for hiking and sightseeing.
In winter (November to April) there is often heavy rain and fog in the mountains. Temperatures drop to 0°C and there is a high risk of mudslides and flooding.
The Amazon jungle has a hot and humid climate with heavy rainfall all year round.
Daytime temperatures are around +30+32°C all year round. At night, the temperature drops to +18°C in winter and rarely falls below +22°C in summer.

Precautionary measures

• Do not carry your passport, large amounts of cash or jewelry with you. Leave valuables in the hotel safe.
• Only take copies of documents, a small amount of cash for expenses and a credit card.
• Carry a rucksack at the front, a bag with a long strap over your shoulder. Do not leave your belongings unattended.
• Avoid unlit, deserted places at night. Stay away from busy streets.
• Keep your bag clearly visible on public transport and close your bags with a zipper.

Scammers

• Do not immediately accept offers from strangers - it could be a scam.
• Be wary of people who pretend to be friends and want to show you the sights.
• Do not accept food or drink from strangers - risk of poisoning or robbery.
• Be careful with the bill in restaurants and cabs - it is possible to be overcharged.

Thefts

• Do not leave your belongings open in the car, preferably in the trunk.
• Use safes in hotels and hostels to store valuables and documents.
• Do not put your wallet in the back pocket of your trousers or bag - easy prey for pickpockets.
• Check the room when you leave a hotel - sometimes things are stolen during cleaning.

High-risk areas

• The La Victoria neighborhood in Lima, especially at night.
• Markets and bus stations in larger cities.
• Deserted beaches near Lima and Trujillo.
• The surroundings of airports and train stations at night.

If you take basic precautions, you can feel quite safe in Peru.

• Comfortable shoes for city walks and trekking tours. Sneakers or light trekking boots are best.
• A light jacket or sweatshirt. It's hot in the cities, but it can get cool in the mountains in the evening.
• Sunglasses and a hat/panama to protect you from the bright sun.
• Sunscreen with a high SPF. Due to the proximity to the equator, UV light is very active.
• Moisturizer for the face. The air is very dry in some areas.
• Chargers for devices and adapters for local sockets.
• Flashlight or headlamp for hikes in the mountains.
• Light, quick-drying clothing. Shirts, shorts, dresses or skirts made of cotton.
• Swimwear for beach vacations.
• Mackintosh or umbrella - November to April is the rainy season in the mountains and jungle.
• Medication for stomach upsets, first aid kit.

To make traveling in Peru as pleasant and safe as possible, it is advisable to find out in advance about the special features of the places and sights you want to visit. Choose trustworthy airlines and hotels, do not show valuables and be careful on the road. If you follow these simple tips, you will gain many impressions and have fond memories of your trip to the fascinating country of Peru!