Virtual-Countries.com: Essential Information Peru

Essential Information for Peru

When to go

Peru's climate varies by region and altitude. The most favourable time for hiking is from June to September, when the days are long and sunny and the nights are cool. Peru's wettest months are from January to March. The coast is quite hot and humid from January to March, becoming cooler during the rest of the year by the mist blown in from the cold ocean. The mountainous region has considerably cold nights. The eastern parts of the Andes experiences very heavy rainfall during the wet season. The best time to visit Peru is from April to October.

Weather

Peru climate varies from tropical in the east to dry desert in the west. It is temperate to frigid in Andes. Average temperatures are 24°C in summer, 17°C in spring, 13°C in winter and 15°C in Autumn. Pack cool clothes as well as sweaters for summer traveling and heavy clothes for winter traveling.

Visas and Passports

Citizens of the US, Australia, Canada, South Africa, New Zealand and Ireland do not need a visa to visit Peru for stays of up to 90 days. All visitors to Peru need a passport valid for at least 6 months after the end of the journey, to enter the country and to re-enter their own countries.

Health and Safety

Your health shouldn't be at serious risk while visiting Peru and no vaccinations are required, however Peru is a Malaria area, so precautions should be taken. The most common ailments for travelers to Peru are diarrhea and altitude sickness. Drink plenty of bottled water and avoid drinks with ice. Keep your body hydrated at all times especially if you are planning to walk a lot. Wear sunscreen and a hat to avoid heatstroke.

Money and Currency

The official currency of Peru is the Nuevo Sol (New Sol). ATM machines are widespread in Peru, they accept all major credit cards such as, Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club and American Express. No service fees are added to the bills in restaurants and bars, a 10 - 15 % tip will be customary for good service. Taxi driver are not tipped. Bargaining is a way of life in the Peru markets.