When walking Peru you’ll come across a country that’s so different from the western hemispheres that walking the landscapes can prove to be both awe-inspiring and at the same time disconcerting. You can make your Peru walking trip a little easier by making sure that you’re fully prepared before your travels.

What languages do they speak in Peru?

When walking Peru you’ll come across a whole range of different languages and dialects. Spanish and Quechan are the two official languages of the country. Although when you pass through the Lake Titicaca area you’ll hear Aymara spoken. In the jungle areas many different dialects are spoken, but English is widely spoken in the tourist areas of the country.

Do I need a visa to travel to Peru?

If you hold a British, Australian, Canadian, American or EU passport then you won’t need a visa to travel to Peru, unless you’re a Latvian national. You will need a return ticket though and at least six months remaining in your passport.

What is the Peruvian currency?

When walking Peru you’ll be buying your souvenirs in New Sol (PEN). There is roughly 4.1 PEN to 1 GBP. However, US dollars are also widely used and accepted in the major tourist areas. All major credit cards are accepted but outside of Lima and the tourist areas usage is somewhat limited. Traveller’s cheques are also limited outside of Lima.

What vaccinations do I need to travel to Peru?

Vaccinations are set to change at short notice, so it’s important to check the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website at least two months before your date of travel. Most inoculations need to be taken at least eight weeks before you travel, so make sure you’re up-to-date. At the moment the Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid inoculations are the only ones needed for travel in Peru. A yellow fever vaccination is also required if you’re planning on visiting the jungle areas, but is not needed for travellers only visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Can I drink the water in Peru?

No, the water in Peru isn’t safe to drink and it is recommended that guests only drink bottled water, which is widely available.

Is it safe to eat meat and dairy in Peru?

Whilst walking Peru visitors should avoid eating dairy products that have been made from unboiled milk. This shouldn’t be a problem as pasteurised milk is widely available in most hotels and guest houses. As in all countries, visitors should only eat meat and fish that has been well cooked.

Do I need to tip in Peru?

Most restaurants will automatically add a service charge of 10% to your bill. However, additional tips of 5-10% are expected in better restaurants, whilst smaller restaurants generally appreciate you just rounding up the bill.

What’s the time difference in Peru?

GMT -5 is Peru’s time zone.

What kind of plug socket will I need when walking Peru?

Whilst walking Peru you’ll need to bring a 220v standard Continental Europe or Europlug plug socket. Both these plug sockets are widely used on the European continent so should be fairly easy to get hold of within the United Kingdom.

Author Bio: Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While walking Peru with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

Category: Advice
Keywords: walking Peru