Travel To Peru: What Americans Need To Know

Americans do not need a visa to enter Peru, and can stay for up to 183 days. However, there are some important things to keep in mind when planning a trip to Peru as an American citizen. Firstly, it is recommended that you enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to make it easier for the U.S. government to locate you in an emergency. Secondly, Peru is under a Level 2 travel advisory, meaning visitors should Exercise Increased Caution due to the risks of crime, civil unrest, and the potential for kidnapping in specific regions. Therefore, it is important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places and when using public transportation. Lastly, when entering Peru, U.S. citizens must provide proof of onward travel and ensure their passport is stamped on arrival.

Visa-free travel for US citizens

US citizens do not need a visa for tourism purposes when visiting Peru and can stay for up to 183 days. There is a visa-free travel agreement between Peru and the United States, which allows US passport holders to enter the country without needing to apply for a visa in advance.

Upon arrival in Peru, you will be issued a free visitor permit in the form of a passport stamp. This permit is valid for stays ranging from 30 to 183 days, depending on the discretion of the border officials. This visa-free entry is specifically for tourism purposes. If you plan to engage in other activities, such as studying, working, or conducting business in Peru, you may need to obtain a different visa before your trip.

Passport validity

Your passport is the most critical document when travelling to Peru. To avoid any issues, it must meet the following requirements:

• Be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry.
• Contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.

Proof of onward travel

When arriving in Peru, US citizens must provide proof of onward travel. This could include:

• A return flight ticket to the US or another destination.
• A bus, train ticket, or any other valid travel document showing your plans to leave Peru.

Financial requirements

While there isn't a specified financial threshold for entry, travellers should be prepared to show that they have enough funds to cover their expenses during their stay. This could mean having proof of accommodation, meals, and other living costs for the duration of the visit.

Overstaying your permit

If you overstay your visa, you may face a fine of around $1.50 daily. This fee must be paid in cash before you can leave Peru.

Entry stamp on arrival

Ensure that your passport is stamped upon arrival. Failure to obtain an entry stamp can lead to issues when trying to leave the country, as it is an official record of your entry.

Entry requirements for US citizens

Passport

US citizens travelling to Peru require a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. It should also contain at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

Visa

US citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 183 days for tourism purposes. Upon arrival, you will receive a free visitor permit in the form of a passport stamp. This is valid for 30 to 183 days, as determined by border officials.

Proof of Onward Travel

US citizens must provide proof of onward travel, such as a return flight ticket or another valid travel document showing plans to leave Peru.

Financial Requirements

There is no specified financial threshold for entry, but travellers should be prepared to show they have enough funds to cover their expenses. This could include proof of accommodation, meals, and other living costs for the duration of their visit.

Travelling with Minors

If both parents are travelling with a child, a valid passport is sufficient. However, if the child is travelling alone or with only one parent, a notarised travel authorisation (Permiso Notarial de Viaje) from the non-travelling parent(s) is necessary.

Health and Safety Advisory

US citizens are encouraged to check for travel advisories and health information. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides updates on required and recommended vaccinations and health precautions for travel to Peru. The US Department of State recommends enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to be located in an emergency.

Travel Safety Tips

Peru is under a Level 2 travel advisory, meaning visitors should "Exercise Increased Caution" due to the risk of crime, civil unrest, and the potential for kidnappings in specific regions. It is advisable to monitor local news and adjust travel plans as necessary, and to be cautious when travelling at night and in less populated areas. Public transportation may not always be safe or reliable, so it is recommended to use private taxis or ride-share apps.

Safety and security in Peru

Peru is a beautiful country with a vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. The country has worked hard to enhance traveller safety, and it is now one of the safest places for tourists in Latin America. However, it is important to remain vigilant and take certain precautions to ensure a safe trip. Here are some detailed safety and security guidelines for Peru:

Political Issues and Civil Unrest

Demonstrations and strikes commonly occur in Peru and can quickly escalate into violence and civil unrest. These events can cause road closures and travel disruptions, including the suspension of local transportation and immigration services. They usually occur in specific areas near government buildings and transport infrastructure, such as the historic centre of Lima, and other regions like Arequipa, Ayacucho, Cusco, La Libertad, Madre de Dios, and Puno. It is illegal for foreigners to participate in political activities or demonstrations, and doing so may result in detention or deportation. To stay safe during times of civil unrest:

• Avoid large gatherings and protests.
• Stay in a safe place, such as your accommodation.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, tour operators, and police or army officers.
• Monitor local media, including social media, for updates and travel advisories.
• Be wary of unverified or unofficial information.
• Ensure you have enough food, water, local currency, and any necessary medication.
• Allow extra time to reach your destination due to potential road closures and disruptions.

Crime and Personal Security

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and muggings, is common in crowded tourist areas, airports, markets, plazas, and transportation hubs. Violent crimes like armed robberies and carjackings can also occur, and the risk of crime generally increases at night. To protect yourself and your belongings:

• Avoid wearing or displaying expensive items like jewellery or electronics, as this can attract thieves.
• Keep your belongings secure at all times. Do not leave bags unattended, and keep your passport with you during bus journeys.
• Use a cross-body bag or backpack with anti-theft features.
• Be extra cautious in crowded places, and be aware of your surroundings.
• Use licensed and reputable transportation services, such as registered taxis or trusted ride-sharing apps. Avoid hailing taxis on the street, especially at night.
• Avoid isolated or high-risk areas, especially at night. Stick to safer spots like Miraflores and Barranco.
• Be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs, and try to use ATMs inside banks, supermarkets, or large commercial buildings during business hours.
• Follow local laws and carry a valid ID with you at all times.
• Be aware of scams, such as fake police officers or people claiming to be tour operators.
• Do not accept food or drinks from strangers, as there have been cases of tourists being drugged and robbed.
• Enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier for authorities to locate you in an emergency.

Health and Medical Concerns

It is important to take necessary health precautions before and during your trip to Peru. Here are some key recommendations:

• Get recommended vaccines before your trip, such as Hepatitis A, Typhoid Fever, and Yellow Fever.
• Only drink bottled water to stay safe from waterborne illnesses.
• Be cautious with food—eat cooked hot dishes and avoid raw or partially cooked foods.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap, or use hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol if water is unavailable.
• Take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue and Zika by using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves.
• Enrol with the CDC to stay informed about required and recommended vaccinations and health precautions for Peru.

Natural Disasters and Extreme Weather

Peru is prone to natural disasters and extreme weather conditions. The rainy season, from November to May, brings heavy rain and snow to northern Peru, the Andes, Cusco, and other regions. This can cause travel disruptions, rockslides, mudslides, and snow-covered roads. Peru is also in an active earthquake zone and has frequent tremors. Tsunamis are rare, but higher tides can occur after earthquakes or at other times throughout the year. To stay safe during extreme weather and natural disasters:

• Monitor local media and government agencies, such as Peru's National Emergency Operations Centre (COEN), for updates and travel advisories.
• Follow the advice of local authorities and emergency response organisations, such as the US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
• Prepare for extreme weather by travelling with enough food, water, warm clothes, cash in local currency, and any necessary medication.

Other Considerations

• The US State Department advises a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution for Peru as of November 15, 2023, due to concerns about crime, civil unrest, and the potential for kidnapping in specific regions.
• Some areas of Peru have higher risks and are best avoided, including the Colombian-Peruvian border in the Loreto Region and the VRAEM region (Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers), which are associated with high crime rates and terrorism threats.
• Coca-growing regions in northern Peru are off-limits to US government personnel due to safety concerns.
• Always respect local customs and laws. Drug laws in Peru are strict, and even possessing small amounts can lead to severe penalties, including jail time.
• Be cautious when engaging in outdoor activities and adventure tourism. Ensure your insurance covers all planned activities, and only use licensed and reputable tour operators.

Transport options in Peru

Peru has a varied public transport system, including buses, trains, taxis, and even boats. Here is a rundown of the different ways to get around this exciting country.

Buses

Buses are the primary method of transport in Peru for getting between cities. They are inexpensive and widely used by locals, but they are operated by various private companies, so there is no central bus terminal or ticketing system. The most comfortable but expensive options are Cruz del Sur, La Linea, and Movil. A cheaper alternative is the 'colectivo', a small van that departs when full. These are very affordable but require some Spanish to ensure you get on the right one.

Trains

Train travel is not a popular option in Peru, and there are only a few lines. The most well-known route is from Cusco to Machu Picchu, offering verdant valley views. Ferrocarril Central Andino operates the highest elevated train route in the world, from Lima to Huancayo. PeruRail also runs trains from Cusco to Puno and Arequipa.

Boats

In areas like Lake Titicaca and the Amazon jungle, boats are the main form of transport. Passenger boats, called 'lanchas', operate from Yurimaguas and Pucallpa to places like Iquitos. These journeys can take several days and are a great way to experience the jungle. Boats are also used to get around large lakes, like Lake Titicaca.

Flights

Flying domestically is becoming more common in Peru, with airlines like LATAM Peru, Star Peru, and Peruvian Airlines servicing major cities and more isolated destinations.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Within cities, taxis and a local form of transport called 'combis' (micro-buses) are widely used. Combis are crowded and wild but very cheap. Private taxis are the safest option, as public taxis are unregulated and often overcharge tourists. Ride-hailing apps like Uber, Cabify, and Easy Taxi are also available in larger cities.

Bicycles and Walking

In some cities, like Lima, walking is a good way to explore neighbourhoods, but the size of the city makes it difficult to cover large distances on foot. Bicycles are a growing trend in Lima, with programs like City Bike Lima allowing people to rent bikes and explore neighbourhoods like Miraflores, San Isidro, and Barranco.

Renting a Car

Renting a car is not recommended for city travel due to chaotic traffic and aggressive driving styles. However, it can be a good option for exploring less built-up areas and offers freedom and flexibility. Well-known rental companies like Hertz operate in Peru, and most main roads are in good condition.

Lima's Subway System

Lima is the only city in Peru with a subway system, called 'Línea 1', which connects Villa El Salvador in the south to San Juan de Lurigancho in the north. It is affordable and accessible, with ramps and elevators at stations.

Local currency in Peru

The local currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol (S/), which is divided into 100 céntimos (cents). The monetary unit is 1 Sol, and there are coins of 10, 20, and 50 céntimos. Banknotes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 Nuevos Soles. The currency code is PEN.

The Nuevo Sol replaced the Peruvian inti in 1991 and takes its name from the historic currency used in Peru from 1863 to 1985. The inti was named after Inti, the Sun God of the Incas, and the sol means 'sun' in Spanish.

Exchanging Money in Peru

It is recommended that you carry a mix of US Dollars and Nuevos Soles. While the US Dollar is a legally accepted currency in Peru, it is mainly used for expensive purchases. You can exchange money at most tourist spots and in the centres of cities, where you will find money exchange houses. Some people also exchange money on the street, but this is not recommended as it is not a safe practice.

You can also exchange money at hotels, local banks, and ATMs, although be aware that international banks often charge a fee for transactions. ATMs are a common way to obtain money in Peru, and you can withdraw both US Dollars and Nuevos Soles.

Paying with Credit Cards

Credit cards are another safe way to pay in Peru, and most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept them. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted, but American Express is also used in several places. It is recommended that you carry a copy of your card in case of emergencies.

Counterfeit Money

There is a high rate of counterfeit bills in Peru, so always check the money you receive carefully. Both the Nuevo Sol and the US Dollar are susceptible to counterfeiting, and fake bills can be very similar to real ones. Check for small details like watermarks, hidden figures that appear in backlighting, and the security band, which should change colour depending on the lighting and the angle from which the bill is observed.

Other Tips

• Don't accept banknotes that are not in good condition.
• US Dollar bills are not accepted if they are dirty or torn.
• It is common to haggle in Peru, especially for products with no clear price tag.
• Always carry a copy of your credit card and other important documents.
• The US Dollar is usually worth around three Nuevos Soles with fifty cents (S/ 3.50) to four Nuevos Soles (S/ 4.00).

Frequently asked questions