Insider Travel Tips

Practical Information for Visiting Peru

Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, so confirm them before you travel. Many visitors, including those from North America and much of Europe, do not need a visa for short stays. 

The official currency is the Peruvian sol (PEN). While credit cards are widely accepted in cities, cash in small denominations is preferred in rural or market settings. ATMs are common in major towns, but it’s wise to withdraw before travelling to more remote areas. 

Health and Safety in Peru

Peru is generally safe and its people are known for their warmth and hospitality. Still, use standard precautions in busy areas and keep valuables secure. 

Be respectful at sacred sites such as Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and local churches, as modest dress is expected in rural and religious settings. “Cusco’s altitude can be challenging, so be prepared and pace yourself. If you can I try to fit in a day at leisure here to help with acclimitization” says Destination Specialist Osvaldo Gonzalez.

Tap water in cities is often safe for locals but not recommended for visitors. It is best to opt for bottled or filtered water, especially in rural areas, and try to avoid ice in restaurants.

Culture and Customs in Peru

Peruvians are known for their genuine hospitality and an openness that makes travellers feel at home. A warm handshake or friendly greeting often leads to easy conversation, especially in smaller towns and villages. 

Family ties are strong, and respect for elders is deeply rooted. Visitors are encouraged to engage in local life, whether by learning a few words of Spanish or participating in a village celebration. 

Destination Specialist Ruth Leonty notes that visiting an Indigenous village high in the Andes for a Pachamama ceremony can be a moving and unforgettable experience. Understanding these customs will enrich your trip and foster meaningful connections. 

To learn more about the country’s mores and traditions, consult our Peruvian culture and customs page before you go.

Seasonal Advice for Peru

Peru is a year-round destination, but knowing when to travel can make a big difference to your experience. The dry season from May to October is ideal for trekking and exploring the Andes, while the wet season from November to March brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds. 

Major festivals like Inti Raymi in June attract large numbers, so book early if you want to join the celebrations. 

Destination Specialist Osvaldo Gonzalez advises planning around both weather and altitude changes to ensure a comfortable and well-paced journey. For more insights on timing your trip, visit our guide on when to visit Peru.

Must-Sees for First-Time Travellers to Peru

For a first-ever journey to Peru, the classic route is hard to beat. Begin in Lima for its world-class dining scene and well-preserved colonial architecture, then transfer to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, before venturing into the Sacred Valley with its terraced hillsides and vibrant markets. 

Machu Picchu is the undeniable highlight of this part of Peru, best reached by train or a multi-day trek for spectacular views. 

If you have more time, extend your journey to Lake Titicaca, where the floating Uros Islands offer a glimpse into traditional life on the water. “Colca Canyon is also spectacular,” says Destination Specialist Osvaldo Gonzalez. “It’s twice the depth of the Grand Canyon, with incredible condor sightings and natural hot springs that feel like a secret escape.”

As Destination Specialist Osvaldo Gonzalez points out, world-famous Machu Picchu is only the beginning of what Peru has to offer. Explore more with our tailor-made Peru vacations.

Food and Dining in Peru

Peru has one of the most impressive culinary scene's in the world, if not the greatest, with numerous options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free travellers thanks to staples like quinoa, potatoes, corn, and fresh produce from both the highlands and the coast. 

In cities such as Lima and Cusco, high-end restaurants and boutique cafés cater to a wide range of dietary needs, while in rural areas, meals often feature traditional recipes made with locally sourced ingredients. Late dining is common in urban areas, while in the highlands, you may find earlier mealtimes. Dining in a local home is a warm and welcoming experience, often marked by generosity and genuine hospitality. 

As Destination Specialist Ruth Leonty notes, a traditional cooking class in the Sacred Valley with the Quechua people is a delicious way to immerse yourself in the culture. Learn more in our guide to Peruvian food and drink.

Plan Your Tailor-Made Peru Vacation with Goway

Planning a trip to Peru can be complex, from managing altitude changes to choosing the best season for your itinerary. Goway’s Destination Specialists provide insider knowledge, personalized recommendations, and seamless coordination so you can focus on enjoying the journey. 

Whether you want to combine iconic highlights like Machu Picchu with hidden gems such as Colca Canyon or the Barranco neighbourhood in Lima, our experts will ensure your trip matches your interests and travel style. 

Plan your tailor-made Peru adventure with Goway and experience the country with the confidence of local insight.