ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Please check your own country’s international travel advice as well as the airline requirements before travel.
US guests, please see the Travel State website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/peru-travel-advisory.html
Many of our Peru tours also combine Ecuador (including the Galapagos Islands). Please ensure you also check the requirements for entry to Ecuador, as they may differ to those for Peru.
PASSPORTS
Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond the period of stay. It is advised to have 1 blank page in your passport. Please be sure to fill out the “Emergency Next of Kin” section in your passport.
VISAS
British nationals are normally given permission to stay for up to 30 days when you arrive. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for permission on arrival. Immigration officials can grant you up to 180 days a year as a visitor or tourist.
U.S., Canadian, Australian and most European citizens may enter Peru for 30–180 days for tourist purposes without a visa (determined by border officials at the time of entry). All other nationalities must check the visa entry requirements before your departure. You need sufficient funds and a return airline ticket.
Note: If entering Peru from Ecuador, make sure your passport is stamped with an exit stamp from Ecuador as well as a Peruvian entry stamp at the immigration office. Ensure the date of entry on your Peru entry stamp is correct. Failure to do so may result in a fine or issues when leaving Peru.
It is your responsibility to ensure you have the necessary travel documentation prior to departure.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
All passengers must have valid travel insurance before traveling, including health and cancellation insurance. Please ensure you have a copy of your insurer’s 24-hour emergency telephone number and your policy number.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS & PERSONAL MEDICATION
Please advise us before travel if you have any medical conditions requiring special attention during your trip. If you have a specific medical condition, it is wise to carry the relevant doctor’s prescription with you. Pack a sufficient supply of your medications, in their original containers, along with a copy of the prescription and your doctor’s contact details.
TRAVELLING WITH CPAP OR OTHER MEDICAL DEVICES
If you require CPAP or similar medical equipment, please notify The Big Journey Company at the time of booking. If distilled or ionised water is required, please let us know in advance so that our ground agents can prepare. Additional charges may apply.
LUGGAGE
What to Pack and Wear:
Pack for both hot and cooler weather in Peru, including a warm, waterproof jacket. Comfortable clothes, good walking shoes, and absorbent socks are essential. For the Amazon, bring long-sleeved, lightweight cotton clothes, waterproof footwear, and insect repellent.
We recommend packing:
• Lightweight breathable clothing
• A jacket for cooler highland evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes and hiking boots
• Swimwear for thermal springs or hotel pools
• A sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• A camera with charger, spare batteries, and memory cards
• Smart-casual attire for dinners or special occasions
Luggage Allowances:
Most Peru tours include internal flights. Allowances are:
• Checked baggage: 23 kg (51 lb)
• Cabin baggage: 10 kg (22 lb), max dimensions 55cm x 35cm x 25cm
Check with your international airline for specific restrictions.
LANGUAGE
The main languages of Peru are Spanish and Quechua. Indigenous languages are also official in the areas where they are spoken. English is widely spoken in the hospitality sector.
WEATHER
Peru has diverse climates depending on the region:
• Coast: Summer temps can exceed 29°C; winter (Jun–Sep) is cooler and humid
• Highlands (e.g., Cusco): Warm days (~18°C), cold nights (~5°C), dry winters
• Lima: Summer ~25°C, winter 12–15°C, generally mild year-round
Pack accordingly for varying conditions.
ELECTRICITY
In Peru, the standard voltage is 220V and the frequency is 60Hz. They use both Type A (US) and Type C (European) plugs. Bring suitable adapters and converters as needed.
MOBILES & INTERNET COMMUNICATION
Mobile coverage is widely available across Peru. Check with your provider before travel for coverage and international roaming rates.
MONEY
Currency:
The official currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Credit cards are accepted in many hotels and restaurants in cities, but cash is essential in rural areas.
Gratuities:
After feedback from previous guests, we offer a group tipping package for this tour, more information on this will be shared in the 'Pre-Tour Emails'.
WATER
Tap water in Peru is not safe to drink. Please stick to bottled water, which is widely available.
SAFETY & SECURITY
Peru is generally safe, but tourists may be targets for petty theft, particularly in crowded areas. Always remain alert and take basic precautions with your belongings.
RELIGION
Peru is predominantly Catholic, though indigenous beliefs and traditions are deeply embedded in daily life and local customs.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Peru offers some of the world’s most breathtaking photo opportunities. Don’t forget your camera, charger, spare memory cards, and batteries. Lightweight binoculars are also useful for wildlife viewing.
ARRIVAL IN PERU
Please note, standard hotel check-in is around 3pm. If you arrive earlier, we will do our best to secure an early check-in, but this cannot be guaranteed. In the meantime, luggage can be stored at the hotel while you explore or relax.
If you have any other questions that we have not covered here, please send us an email at: info@thebigjourneycompany.com
Disclaimer: The above information is provided as a guideline only. The Big Journey Company assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in this document.
Updated July 2025