The local currency for Peru is the Nuevo Sol. Change some of your money when you get to Lima and request for small bills which make shopping and tipping easier. Denominations of 20s are good. When you receive bills, do not accept any with rips, as most stores and banks will not take them.
Visa and Mastercard are the most accepted credit cards. ATM machines are also available.
Cusco has a subtropical highland climate. It is generally dry and temperate, with two defined seasons. The rainy season is from late December to early April. The rest of the year is dry with occasional showers. Layers are important. With typical mountain weather, the day can start off cold and become very warm by noon. Thermal layers are good for this type of weather and rain gear is a must. For hiking, be sure your boots are comfortable and broken in.
Cusco is located at 11,000 feet above sea level. Being at this height can cause headaches and dehydration otherwise known as altitude sickness. With proper attention and a good night’s sleep this should dissipate in one to two days. When you arrive, the first few days you will want to have plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol and heavy foods. There are some medications you can take to help prevent these symptoms such as Diamox.
Consult with your doctor before you travel to find out what will be best for you. There are pharmacies in Cusco that can prescribe medication if necessary. Your guide will be able to assist you in finding one.
To travel to Peru, American Citizens and Canadians require a valid passport regardless of age. If traveling as a tourist, Americans and Canadians do not need a visa and will receive a travel card valid for 90 days. Keep your passport and travel card in a convenient and safe place to present at each hotel. The travel card will be needed when you leave the country. We recommend travelling with several copies of your passport, so your actual passport can be left in the safe deposit box of the hotel.
Please confirm with your embassy any changes before you travel.
The following vaccinations are recommended when visiting Peru.
Travel to the Amazon requires the yellow fever vaccination. Anti-malaria medication is also recommended. For more information prior to travel, please visit The Center for Disease Control website for immunization information when you come to South America: www.cdc.gov.
Pickpockets are more active around markets and in large crowds. Be sure to keep track of your personal items.
You will see picture hunters looking for an opportunity to take pictures with you to get paid. If you see nicely dressed adults or children with Llamas, while they look friendly and cute, they will want to be paid for a picture.
Peru has amazing cuisine blending the local Inca flavors of the indigenous people with influences from Europe and Asia. The food blends the history of Peru with different people from around the globe who have settled here. There are many options to choose from. Some of our favorites are:
Copyright 2023 Kusirumi Travel