Peru

Region

Western South America

Area

1,285,220 km² (496,225 sq miles).

Population

28.7 million (CIA estimate 2007).

Population density

22 per km².

Capital

Lima. Population: 8.27 million (2004).

Government

Republic. Gained independence from Spain in 1824, having declared it in 1821.

Geography

Peru is a large, mountainous country on the Pacific coast of South America. It has borders with Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil and Bolivia to the east, and Chile to the south. The Pacific Ocean lies to the west.

There are three natural zones:

The Costa region, which contains Lima (the capital), is a narrow coastal plain consisting of large tracts of desert broken by fertile valleys. The cotton, sugar and rice plantations and most of the so-far exploited oil fields lie in this area.

The Sierra contains the Andes, with peaks over 6,000m (20,000ft), most of the country's mineral resources (silver, zinc, lead, copper and gold) and the greater part of its livestock.

The Selva, an area of fertile, subtropical land, lies between the Andes and the border with Brazil. The Amazonian jungle has vast natural resources. The absence of land communications, however, left the area largely uncharted until full-scale oil exploration began in 1973.

The population is largely Indian and Mestizo with a noticeable influence from African, Chinese and European (mainly Spanish) settlers.

Language

Spanish and Quechua are the official languages. Aymara is spoken in some areas of the region of Lake Titicaca. Many other dialects exist in the jungle regions. English is spoken in major tourist areas.

Religion

81% Roman Catholic, 2.1% other denominations, 16.3% unspecified or none.

Time

GMT - 5.

Social Conventions

Shaking hands is the customary form of greeting. Visitors should follow normal social courtesies and the atmosphere is generally informal. A small gift from a company or home country is sufficient. Dress is usually informal, although for some business meetings and social occasions men wear a jacket and tie.

Electricity

220 volts AC, 60Hz. (110 volts AC is available in most 4- and 5-star hotels.)

Head of State

President Alan Garcia since 2006.

Recent History

Alejandro Toledo (in office from 2001 to 2006) was Peru's first indigenous president, but this did not stop his time in government being characterised by street protests, a string of scandals and plummeting popularity. Ex-president Alan García then won the 2006 presidential elections, beating nationalist rival Ollanta Humala, who had received support from Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez.

García previously served as president from 1985-1990. Coastal Peru was hit by a devastating earthquake in August 2007.

Climate

Varies according to area. On the coast winter lasts from June to September. During this period, the mountainous areas are often sunny during the day but cold at night. Heavy rains in the mountains and jungle last from December to April. It hardly ever rains in Lima nor most of the coast, except for Tumbes and Piura, which have tropical climates.

Required Clothing

Lightweights during summer with much warmer clothes worn in upland areas, especially at night. Mediumweights are advised during cooler months.

Hotels

Lima has the largest choice of hotels in Peru. Other cities where 5- and 4-star hotels can be found are Arequipa, Cajamarca, Chiclayo, Cusco, Ica, Iquitos, Puno and Trujillo (the grading does not always match international standards).

Throughout Lima and in most major towns, there are many economical pensiones and hospedajes (guest houses) to be found. The quality of accommodation in the provinces varies considerably, but hotels are frequently of a good standard. Hotel prices in the provinces are lower than in the capital.

Grading: Hotels are classified by the star system, the highest and most luxurious being 5 stars. The level of comfort, quality of service and general infrastructure are the criteria for inclusion in each grade. Prices vary accordingly. All accommodation prices are subject to 19% tax (IGV). Hotels of the higher categories might also add 1 to 13% service charges. It is advisable to reserve a room during the peak tourist season (June to September).

Homestay

It is possible to arrange a stay in a Peruvian family home, particularly if you enrol in a Spanish-language course. PromPerú are able to offer further information

Camping / Caravanning

Other than designated spots on popular trekking routes, no formal arrangements exist in Peru.

Youth Hostels

There are around 20 youth hostels in the country with dormitory, single or twin rooms. They usually have a bar or cafe and a kitchen.

GDP

US$77.1 billion (2006 estimate).

Main exports

Copper, gold, zinc, petroleum and petroleum products and coffee.

Main imports

Petroleum and petroleum products, plastics, machinery and vehicles.

Main trade partners

USA, China, Chile, Canada and Brazil.

Economy

The Peruvian economy is divided into two distinct parts: a relatively modern industrial and service economy concentrated on the coastal plain, and a subsistence agricultural economy in the interior. Inevitably, one consequence has been huge migration from the interior to the coastal cities. Most foreign investment is directed towards Peru's major industry, mining, which accounts for about half of export earnings. Meanwhile, tourism has snowballed and now brings in almost US$1 billion annually.

During the early to mid 1990s, Peru implemented important market-oriented reforms, including privatisation of key industries, trade deregulation and measures to attract foreign investment. The strategy was reasonably successful, and the country's economy is relatively stable.

The unemployment rate was 8.5% in 2006, but it is estimated that up to 40% of the workforce are underemployed. Peru's annual growth was estimated to be 8% in 2006. The inflation rate was 1.1%.

Business Etiquette

Although the majority speak Spanish, many businesspeople speak some English.

Office Hours

Mon-Fri 0900-1800.

Money

Currency

New Sol (PEN; symbol S/.) = 100 céntimos.

New Sol notes are in denominations of S/.200, 100, 50, 20 and 10.

Coins are in denominations of S/.5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 céntimos.

Currency Exchange

Only a few bureaux de change in Lima will exchange currencies other than US Dollars. Outside Lima, it is virtually impossible. US Dollars can be exchanged everywhere and banks, hotels and many shops also readily accept US Dollars (although very old, torn or damaged notes are usually rejected). It is not recommended to exchange money from street vendors.

Credit / Debit Cars

All major credit cards are accepted, but usage may be limited outside of Lima. ATMs are now generally regarded as one of the best ways to obtain money in Peru.

Travelers Cheques

Banks will exchange traveller's cheques although it can be a slow process outside Lima. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars. The ability to use traveller's cheques is also quite limited in some areas so you should check whether or not they will be accepted in the area you are visiting prior to travel.

Banking Hours

Mon-Fri 0900-1800, Sat 0900-1300 (may vary during the summer).

Exchange Rates

Date Jan 2009

£1.00 = S/.4.70

$1.00 = S/.3.15

€1.00 = S/.4.29

Duty Free

The following items may be imported by visitors over 18 years of age into Peru without incurring customs duty:

400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco;

Alcoholic beverages not exceeding 2.5l;

Gifts or new articles for personal use up to a value of US$300;

2kg of processed food.
Note: If importing sausages, salami, ham or cheese, a sanitary certificate from the manufacturer is required.

Prohibited Exports

The export of artistic or cultural articles is prohibited.

Shopping

There are many attractive Peruvian handicrafts such as alpaca wool sweaters, alpaca and llama rugs, Indian masks, colourful weaving and jewellery. Galleries and handicraft shops abound in Cusco and the Miraflores, Pueblo Libre and downtown districts of Lima.

Handicrafts markets are located in Miraflores (Avenida Petit Thouars, blocks 52 to 53) and Pueblo Libre (Avenida La Marina, blocks 8 to 10). Bargaining (regateo) is an expected practice with beach vendors and at markets.

Shopping hours

Hours vary significantly, but the standard is Mon-Sat 1000-1300 and 1600-2000.

Food and Drink

The hot and spicy nature of Peruvian food, created by ají and ajo (hot pepper and garlic), has become celebrated at home and abroad. Peruvians enjoy a wide variety of vegetables; there are over 2,000 kinds of indigenous and cultivated potatoes alone. Table service is the norm in hotels and restaurants and many also offer buffet-type lunches.

National specialties

Ceviche (uncooked fish marinated in lemon or lime juice and hot chilli pepper)

Chupe de camarones (chowder-type soup made with shrimps, milk, eggs, potatoes and peppers)

Causa relleña (potato cakes with chicken in the centre, but also cooked with avocado or crabmeat)

Tamales (boiled corn dumplings filled with meat and wrapped in a banana leaf)

Mazamorra morada (purple maize and sweet potato starch jelly cooked with lemons, dried fruits, cinnamon and cloves)

National drinks

Pisco sour (bittersweet cocktail made from a potent grape brandy)

Other pisco-based drinks are algarrobina (pisco and carob syrup), chilcano (pisco and ginger ale) and capitán (pisco and vermouth)

Chicha de jora (fermented corn juice) and chicha morada (non-alcoholic purple corn juice) are popular drinks dating from Inca times

Peruvian beers and wines are good

Tipping

Service charges of 10% are added to bills. Additional tips of 5% are expected in better restaurants.

Nightlife

There are many good bars, pubs, discos and casinos in the major towns and tourist resorts. Peñasalways serve snacks and some serve full meals. Here you can enjoy criolla or folk music, especially at weekends. Nightlife in Lima and Cusco has a wide array of choices. Most discos, peñas, pubs and karaokes are open until 0300 or 0400 in the morning.

Health

Diphtheria - Sometimes;

Hepatitis A - Yes;

Malaria - Sometimes;

Rabies - Sometimes;

Tetanus - Yes;

Typhoid - Yes;

Yellow Fever - Sometimes*.

NOTE: * Vaccination is recommended for travellers visiting jungle areas below 2,300m (7,546ft). Travellers who are only visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu do not require a vaccination.

Health Care

International travellers are strongly advised to take out full health insurance and should be prepared to pay up front for medical services.

Public Holidays

Below are listed Public Holidays for the January 2009-December 2010 period:

2009

1 Jan New Year's Day; 9 Apr Maundy Thursday; 10 Apr Good Friday; 1 May Labour Day; 29 Jun St Peter's and St Paul's Day; 28-29 Jul Independence Day Celebrations; 30 Aug St Rosa of Lima Day; 8 Oct Angamos Battle; 1 Nov All Saints' Day; 8 Dec Immaculate Conception; 24 Dec Christmas Eve (half day); 25 Dec Christmas Day.

2010

1 Jan New Year's Day; 1 Apr Maundy Thursday; 2 Apr Good Friday; 1 May Labour Day; 29 Jun St Peter's and St Paul's Day; 28-29 Jul Independence Day Celebrations; 30 Aug St Rosa of Lima Day; 8 Oct Angamos Battle; 1 Nov All Saints' Day; 8 Dec Immaculate Conception; 24 Dec Christmas Eve (half day); 25 Dec Christmas Day.

Things to Do

Fly above the ancient Nazca Lines, vast and spectacular geoglyphs etched into the desert 420km (265 miles) south of Lima. The most notable designs represent animals (birds, felines and reptiles), and date back to between 200BC and AD600.

Puff your way around one of the world's most famous mountain treks, the (literally) breathtaking Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This ancient trail passes through snow-capped mountains, cloud forest and a string of 12 Inca ceremonial centres, including Phuyupatamarca and Wiñay Wayna.

Explore the magnificent Incan ceremonial centre Sacsayhuamán on horseback. This is the most impressive of Cusco's four neighbouring Inca ruins (the others are Puca Pucara, Qenko and Tambo Machay). On 24 June, thousands celebrate the Inti Raymi festival here.

On 30 August, marvel at the religious processions honouring Lima's patron saint, Santa Rosa de Lima. Later, on 18 October, a purple haze descends upon the city as the faithful march in purple robes to praise El Señor de los Milagros.

Browse for exquisite handicrafts in areas like Ayacucho (specialising in pottery, leatherwork, textiles and jewellery) or Cajamarca. There is also a colourful daily market in Lima's Chinatown district that should not be missed.

Go to Cajamarca's Carnival, famous throughout Peru for its annual celebrations that last for an entire month. One word of warning - try to avoid getting soaked with water, since it is the traditional Cajamarca Carnival greeting!

Trek around glacial lakes and spectacular snow-capped peaks near Huaraz, in the central Andes. It is also possible to ski on the Pastoruri Glacier, see giant bromeliads (up to 15m/49ft high) and wildlife like the viscacha, puma, vicuña and the rare spectacled bear.

Hike the extraordinarily beautiful Cordillera Blanca trail, a 180km- (112.5-mile-) long paradise of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, emerald-green lakes and archaeological sites, containing a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Take your pick of more world-famous treks, including the Olleros-Chavín Llama Trek to the impressive archaeological site Chavín de Huántar; the Cordillera Huayhuash (Huaraz); the deep Colca Valley; and the demanding Mount Ausangate trek.

Things to See

Ascend to Peru's top attraction, the awe-inspiring Inca city of Machu Picchu, perched atop a remote mountain northwest of Cusco. This World Heritage Site, rediscovered in 1911, is arguably the most important archaeological site in South America, not to mention the most dramatically located.

Don't miss a trip to capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco. This World Heritage Site, founded in AD1100, is a fascinating mix of Inca and colonial Spanish architecture. Murals depicting historical scenes splash across walls and local women still wear traditional dress.

Trawl through five centuries of colonial history in Lima, admiring the handsome plazas and opulent mansions with their Moorish latticed wooden balconies. The main square, Plaza de Armas, is home to the impressive 18th-century cathedral and the lavish Government Palace.

See one of the few buildings to withstand Lima's 1746 earthquake, UNESCO-listed Church of San Francisco. Inside are an extraordinary domed roof, a vast library, masterpieces by Jordeans, Rubens and Van Dyck, and catacombs complete with ghoulish circular displays of the bones of some 70,000 souls.

Drift out upon Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, and visit the unique waterborne reed islands and boats of the native Uros people. Covering 8,379 km² (3,235 sq miles), Lake Titicaca is surrounded by ancient ruins and is home to 19th-century steamship, the Yavari.

Delve into Manu National Park, Peru's greatest treasure in biodiversity. Covering 20,000 km² (7,722 sq miles) of tropical rainforest, this World Natural Heritage Site is home to around 2,000 plant species, 1,200 butterfly species, 800 bird types and 200 different mammals, including monkeys, tapirs, sloth, jaguar and capybaras.

Visit the 5,000-year-old city of Caral, near Lima. Caral was discovered in 1994 and has recently opened to tourists following years of excavation.

Discover more of Peru's countless archaeological treasures, including UNESCO-protected Chan Chan, the largest pre-Inca mud city (20 km²/8 sq miles) and the nearby huacas (religious centres) of the Sunand the Moon. The beautifully restored Huaca Arco Iris is covered with pre-Inca hieroglyphics.

Venture into the Tambopata-Candamo Reserved Zone, 45km (28 miles) from Puerto Maldonado by river, which specialists say contains the largest and richest biodiversity of the world. The flora and fauna within includes more than 2,000 flower varieties, 1,000 birds and 900 butterflies and dragonflies.

Travel Advice

Most visits are trouble-free. However, street crime is a problem, particularly in Lima and other big cities. Robberies by rogue taxi drivers in the main tourist areas, including Lima airport, Cusco and Arequipa, are an increasing problem. Travellers are advised to book taxis through reputable companies rather than hailing them in the street. The Ministry of Transport & Communications has suspended the activities of the CIAL bus company on the route between Lima and La Paz via Cusco following a fatal bus crash on 4 December 2007.

Peru was struck by an earthquake measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale on 15 August 2007. About 595 people died, mostly in the cities of Ica and Pisco (around 100 miles south of Lima), the area most affected. 318 are still missing. Local travel and communications were affected, but previously suspended bus services have now resumed. The area is still suffering from the devastation caused by the quake, with infrastructure seriously affected.

Since late June 2007, there has been an increasing number of civil disturbances, including strikes, demonstrations and street protests, which have now spread to all areas of the country. While the demonstrations have been mainly peaceful, there have been incidents of violence. There is also disruption to travel in many areas including blocked highways and airport closures. In particular, road and rail services between Puno and Cusco are severely disrupted. Travellers are strongly advised to check with your travel company or airline before travelling within Peru.

There is a risk of "express kidnappings". Travellers should exercise caution when arriving in, and travelling around Peru and be aware of the general risks of crime for visitors. Heavy rainfall has led to several instances of flooding and landslides in central Peru, and the blockage of many roads. Travellers are advised to check before travelling to the central areas of the country.

There has been a marked increase in cases of dengue fever in Trujillo, La Libertad province. Street demonstrations and protests are commonplace in Peru, and sometimes turn violent. Travellers should take care to avoid any area in which large crowds are gathering. The Inca Trail is closed during the month of February. This is an annual closure in order to carry out maintenance and conservation works.

Travellers should carry some form of identification at all times. A photocopy of your passport's relevant pages is sufficient. You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

Passport note

Valid passport required by all nationals referred to in the chart above.

Visas

Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above, travelling as tourists for stays of up to 90 days, except: 1. nationals of Latvia who do require a visa.

Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).

Note: 2. A business visa is required for all nationals if the purpose of the visit is business. Any business-related unpaid work can be made on a tourist visa. Upon arrival in Peru, the business visa holder must register at the Dirección General de Contribuciones for taxation purposes.

Business visa holders can remain in Peru for 90 days. If wishing to extend the visit, an application must be lodged with the Dirección General de Migraciones. Nationals applying for a tourist visa require a bank statement showing a minimum balance of £1,000 and a mini statement taken from a cash machine on the date of application. Nationals applying for a business visa require a bank statement showing a minimum balance of £1,000 and a mini statement taken from a cash machine on the date of application.

All nationals are advised to check with the Peruvian Consulate prior to departure to obtain current details of any documentation which might be required. Postal visa applications are not accepted unless submitted through a travel agency.

Types of Visa and costs

Tourist: £19.50;

Business: £22.20.

Costs are subject to change according to exchange rates.

Working days required

At least 24 hours; longer if authorisation from the immigration office in Lima is required.

Telephone

Country code: 51.

Telephone cards are available in the main cities from stands and supermarkets.

Mobil Mobile Phones

Roaming agreements exist with some international mobile phone companies. Mobile phones can be rented in Lima and the main cities. Coverage is sporadic.

Internet

Public Internet booths and Internet cafes are widely available in cities and most towns.

Media

Privately-run broadcasters and newspapers dominate the Peruvian media scene, with the state-run media having relatively small audiences. The airwaves of Lima are home to dozens of radio stations and several TV services. Many radio stations and regional newspapers are available in the provinces.

Post

Airmail to Western Europe takes up to one week. Postal facilities are limited outside Lima. First-class airmail from Europe or North America addressed to PO boxes in Peru usually takes only a few days, but may be subject to delay. The main post office (Correo Central de Lima) is near the Plaza de Armas.

Mon-Fri 0800-2000; Sat 0900-1330.

Press

Morning dailies include El Comercioand La República.

Radio

Radio Programas de Peru (RPP) is a popular Lima-based news and talk station.

Radio Panamericana and Radio America are commercial FM stations based in Lima.

News and music radio station Radio Nacional is state run.

Getting there by Air

The principal international airlines are Lan (LP) (website: www.lan.com) and Taca Perú (website: www.taca.com). There are no direct flights from London; however, airlines with regular services to Peru include Air Canada, American Airlines, Avianca, Continental, Iberia and KLM.

Departure tax

US$30.25 from Lima's airport. Transit passengers and children under two years of age are exempt. Payment must be paid in cash prior to boarding.

Main airports

Lima (LIM) (Jorge Chávez International Airport) (website: www.lap.com.pe) is 16km (10 miles) northwest of the city centre (journey time - 25 minutes).
To/from the airport: Taxis to the city centre are available.
Facilities: Duty-free and handicrafts shop, banks/bureaux de change, left luggage, pharmacy, medical centre, Internet cafe, car hire, coffee shops, bars and restaurants and tourist information.

Cusco (CUZ), located in the central south, receives flights from La Paz (Bolivia).

Getting there by Road

The main international highway is the Pan-American Highway running north-south through the coastal desert of Peru from Tumbes to Tacna.

Coach: Transport from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Uruguay and Venezuela is available through companies like Bus Tas Choapa Internacional (tel: (01) 431 1400; www.taschoapa.cl), El Rápido and Rutas de América. It is also possible to go from La Paz in Bolivia to Puno on Lake Titicaca (south Peru) by coach.