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Travel & Tours Information:
Destination Overview > Travel Information > 10 Things to do in Perú > A Sojourn to Machu Picchu
Travel Information
Entry Requirements - Visas
Most citizens from the Americas and Western Europe do not need a visa to enter Perú. Citizens from Bolivia, Chile and Ecuador are exempt from passport and visa requirements when visiting certain areas.
For further information you may visit the Perúvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website: www.rree.gob.pe.
Time Zone
The hour in Perú is the same as Eastern Standard Time in the United States. Perú is 5 hours behind GMT (Greenwich mean time). Perú does not observe daylight saving time.
Vaccines
If you are thinking of visiting the jungle, remember that a yellow fever vaccination is mandatory.
Language
Perú has two official languages: Spanish and Quechua. English is spoken at four and five star hotels and main tourist shops.
Electricity
The electric voltage in Perú is 220 volts, 60 cycles.
Currency
Perú’s official currency is the Nuevo Sol (S/.), divided in 100 cents. There are 5,10,20 and 50 cents coins and S/. 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 banknotes.
US dollars are welcome at most shops, restaurant and service stations at the current exchange rate.
Credit Card
Most establishments accept the main credit cards, including Visa, Master Card, Diners and American Express. The use of traveler’s checks may be restricted. Ask the individual establishment if they are accepted.
When using a credit card, make sure you are charged the right amount for your purchase. Visa is the most widely accepted card in Perú.
Traveler Assistance
Perú has organized a traveler assistance service to help tourists. A hotline attends calls 24 hours a day. For assistance call: in Lima 421-1227; outside of Lima dial 01 followed by this number.
For Your Safety
While touring or shopping take sensible percautions when carrying money. You would be wise to leave valuables at the hotel's safebox. Take a copy of the picture page of your passport to carry in your wallet you may need to exchange traveler’s checks or in case your passport is lost. Do not use street money changers.
Internet Access
Public internet booths or cabinas are widely available in major cities throughout Perú, but few are of the cybercafe variety. Most are simple cubicles with terminals. The average cost for 1 hour is less than $ 1. Many cabinas now feature software to make very inexpensive international phone calls via the internet.
Health
Visitors should drink only bottled water, which is widely available. Do not drink tap water even in major hotels.
Taxes
A general sales tax (IGV) is added automatically to most consumer bills (19%). Restaurants and hotels add a 10% service fee.
Airport Departure Tax
At all airports, passengers must pay a departure tax: $30.25 for international flights and about $5.00 for domestic flights. Tax must be paid in cash before boarding. An arrival fee of $15.00 is required for passengers arriving to Perú.
Taxis
There are plenty of taxis in Lima and the main cities with very affordable rates. Because none use taximeters, we recommend you check the likely rate with the hotel and negociate a price before (not after) accepting a ride. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip.
Tips
Tips vary and depend on the traveler’s satisfaction with the quality of the service rendered. It is customary in many Indian populated areas to give a small tip to the subject of your photographs.
Shopping
Perú is one of the top shopping destinations in Latin American, with some of the finest and best - priced crafts. Most shops, malls and handicrafts markets are open every day (including holidays) from 10am to 8 pm. Bargaining for prices is acceptable in most establishments.
