Introduction
Peru is one of those countries that instantly captures your imagination. From the misty heights of Machu Picchu and the vibrant streets of Cusco, to the mysterious Nazca Lines and the culinary heaven of Lima, it’s a place that offers endless variety. But like any adventure, there are a few things I wish I had known before traveling to Peru—the kind of tips that would have made my experience smoother, more comfortable, and even more rewarding.
Whether you’re planning your first Peruvian journey or you’re deep in the itinerary stage, this guide is packed with real-world travel tips, local know-how, and a few things I learned the hard way—so you don’t have to.
1. Altitude Is No Joke — Prepare Ahead
One of the first things that hit me—literally—was the altitude. Cities like Cusco (11,152 ft) and Puno (12,556 ft) sit far above sea level, and if you’re not acclimated, it can knock you flat.
Tips:
- Spend your first day taking it slow. Don’t plan big hikes or exertion-heavy tours on arrival.
- Coca tea is your new best friend. Locals swear by it, and it really helps ease symptoms.
- Consider altitude medication like Diamox, especially if you plan to hike the Inca Trail or visit Rainbow Mountain.
2. You’ll Need Cash More Often Than You Think
Peru is slowly modernizing, but in many towns, markets, or transport hubs—cash is king.
Know this:
- Peruvian Sol (PEN) is the local currency, and ATMs are widely available in big cities.
- Always carry small bills and coins. Getting change for a 100-sol note at a street stall is next to impossible.
- Tipping is appreciated but not expected. A few soles for waiters or guides goes a long way.
3. Peru Is Bigger Than You Think — Plan Accordingly
On a map, it may look like you can hop from Lima to Arequipa or Cusco to Lake Titicaca in a few hours, but that’s rarely the case.
Tips:
- Travel times can be deceptive due to winding roads and mountainous terrain.
- Buses are a popular and cost-effective way to travel, but overnight buses are common—bring a neck pillow and snacks.
- Domestic flights are worth considering. Airlines like LATAM and Sky Airline connect major cities and can save you time.
4. Lima Deserves More Time Than You Think
Many travelers treat Lima as just a stopover before heading to Machu Picchu, but that’s a mistake. It’s a cultural and culinary hub worth exploring.
Must-do in Lima:
- Explore Barranco: A bohemian district with street art, live music, and creative energy.
- Eat like royalty in Miraflores. Try ceviche, anticuchos, and fresh seafood dishes.
- Visit Larco Museum, not just for artifacts, but for its stunning gardens and café.
5. You Can’t Visit Machu Picchu Without a Plan
Yes, Machu Picchu is a bucket-list destination, but it requires advance planning, especially if you’re hiking.
Here’s what I learned:
- Entrance tickets often sell out weeks or even months ahead—especially for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- The Inca Trail requires a permit and a guide; book through a certified tour operator.
- If hiking isn’t your thing, you can take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, then a short bus up to the ruins.
Pro Tip: Book your Machu Picchu ticket, train, and bus separately and well in advance. Tour packages can be more expensive but offer peace of mind.
6. Street Food Is Delicious (But Be Selective)
Peru is known for its world-class cuisine, and yes, the street food is amazing—but it pays to be cautious.
What I learned:
- Stick to stalls that have a line of locals—that’s a great sign of freshness and turnover.
- Bring your own bottle of hand sanitizer or wet wipes.
- Be cautious with raw foods (like ceviche from a street cart) unless you’re 100% sure it’s safe.
7. You’ll Need to Know Basic Spanish
While English is common in tourist hubs, most of Peru’s everyday life runs in Spanish—and in some places, even Quechua.
What helped me:
- Downloading Google Translate offline.
- Learning key phrases like “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much does it cost?) or “¿Dónde está el baño?” (Where is the bathroom?).
- Smiling and using gestures when words failed. Peruvians are incredibly patient and kind.
8. Travel Insurance Isn’t Optional
This might sound boring, but trust me—travel insurance is a must. I had a friend get food poisoning in Puno and another twist an ankle during a hike. Accidents and illnesses happen.
Make sure your policy covers:
- High-altitude trekking
- Emergency evacuation
- Medical care (especially in remote areas)
- Flight or tour cancellations
9. Don’t Skip the Lesser-Known Destinations
Everyone flocks to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, but Peru is full of hidden gems.
Add these to your list:
- Arequipa & Colca Canyon – see majestic Andean condors soaring over one of the world’s deepest canyons.
- Huaraz & the Cordillera Blanca – home to stunning alpine lakes like Laguna 69.
- Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado – gateways to the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest.
You’ll escape the crowds and experience a whole other side of the country.
10. Peruvians Are Warm, Proud, and Incredibly Helpful
Whether you’re asking for directions in a market, taking a colectivo (shared taxi), or sipping tea in a family-run hostel, you’ll quickly notice that hospitality is central to Peruvian culture.
My advice:
- Say hello (“¡Hola!”) and thank you (“¡Gracias!”) often.
- Support local artisans and family-owned restaurants.
- Be open to spontaneous connections. Some of my favorite memories came from unexpected conversations.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Peru is an incredible experience, rich with culture, natural wonders, and unforgettable encounters. But like any foreign adventure, it comes with a learning curve. These are the things I wish someone had told me before I went—the practical stuff, the cultural insights, and the little hacks that made a big difference.
If you’re headed to Peru soon, take these lessons to heart, stay flexible, and soak it all in. This country has a way of surprising you in the best possible way.
Have you traveled to Peru or are you planning to? Drop your questions or tips in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
Quick Recap: Things to Know Before Visiting Peru
Embrace the kindness of locals
Acclimatize to altitude slowly
Always carry cash
Don’t underestimate travel time
Lima is worth more than a stopover
Plan Machu Picchu logistics early
Eat selectively but don’t fear street food
Basic Spanish goes a long way
Travel insurance = peace of mind
Explore beyond the tourist trail
