Peru is known as the Land of the Incas, as the Inca Empire covered much of Peru and neighboring countries, with its center at Cusco. Incan sites like Machu Picchu still draw over one million tourists each year.
The Amazon rainforest is also an important tourism attraction, as well as the capital city of Lima, a colonial city with important art museums.
QUICK PERU FACTS
Currency: Peruvian Sol can be withdrawn from ATMs throughout Peru, however keep in mind that smaller cities or towns may not have access to ATMs and its recommended to withdraw cash and take it with you.
Power Points: Most power points are the same as US power points (2 flat prongs). I would recommend you take a Travel Adapter especially for non Australians.
Official Language: The official language of Peru is Spanish, which is different to Spanish spoken in Spain.
Health: There are a number major health concerns in Peru for travellers such as yellow fever, zika, malaria, dengue as well as other waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common. I would recommend that you contact your doctor a few weeks before you travel as in some cases you need to start any medication a few days before your trip or you may need to get a vaccination.
Drinking Tap Water: The tap water is not safe to drink, it’s best to drink bottled water.
Visa: Most countries don’t require a visa for short stays, to visit Peru.
Popular foods:
– Lomo Saltado (stir fried soy-marinated beef with veggies).
– Papas a la Huancaina (yellow potatoes in spicy cheese sauce, served with yellow-yolked hard boiled eggs).
– Causa (potato casserole, perved with Shredded tuna, salmon, or chicken).
– Arroz con Pato (cilantro rice served with roast duck).
When to go: The best time of year to travel is during the winter (May to September), which is also the driest season. This is especially true if you want to visit Cusco or hike to Machu Picchu. Of course, the summer (December to March) is warmer, but it’s also the wettest with lots of heavy rain.
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