Peru Travel Tips: Visa, Money, Safety & Info 2025

Essential Peru travel tips. Learn about visas, currency, altitude sickness, safety, SIM cards, insurance, and everything you need to know.

Before you travel to Peru, it helps to know about visas, money, safety, altitude, and other important tips. This guide explains everything in simple terms to help you plan a safe and enjoyable trip.

Do You Need a Visa for Peru?

Visa Requirements

Most travelers from the United States, Canada, European Union, Australia, New Zealand, and many other countries do not need a visa to visit Peru as tourists. You can usually stay for up to 90 days.

You need a valid passport that is good for at least 6 more months
Tourist visits are usually allowed for up to 90 days
You can extend your stay at immigration offices in Peru if needed
Always check the latest visa rules for your country before you travel
If you plan to visit the Amazon, you may need a yellow fever vaccination

Check official sources: Peru Immigration (Migraciones) | U.S. State Department Peru Info

What Money Do You Use in Peru?

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

The official money is called the Peruvian Sol (PEN)
US dollars work in many tourist places
You will need local money (soles) for markets, taxis, and small shops
Check current exchange rates before you travel
Credit cards work in most hotels, restaurants, and stores

Peru Central Bank (exchange rates)

ATMs and Banks

You can find ATMs in most cities and towns
Big banks include BBVA, BCP, and Interbank
ATM fees are usually $3 to $5 USD per use
Tell your bank you are traveling before you leave
Bring more than one way to pay, just in case

BBVA | BCP | Interbank

How to Avoid Altitude Sickness in Peru

Important: Altitude Sickness

Many places in Peru are very high up. Cusco is at 3,400 meters (11,152 feet), and Lake Titicaca is at 3,812 meters (12,507 feet). Altitude sickness can happen to anyone, even if you are very fit.

What you might feel: Headache, feeling sick, tired, hard to breathe, dizzy
How to prevent it: Give yourself time to get used to the height, drink lots of water, don't drink alcohol, take things slow
What to do if it happens: Rest, drink coca tea, some hotels have oxygen, talk to a doctor about medicine if needed
Getting used to the height: Stay 2 to 3 days at high places before doing hard activities

CDC Travel Health: Peru | WHO: Altitude Sickness Info

Is Peru Safe for Tourists?

Safety Tips

Stay in safe areas: Pick places to stay in safe neighborhoods like Miraflores or Barranco in Lima, or the historic center in Cusco
Use safe transportation: Take official taxis, use Uber, or ask your hotel to arrange a ride
Keep valuables hidden: Don't show expensive things, use hotel safes for important items
Be careful in busy places: Watch out for pickpockets, especially in markets and tourist spots
Pay attention: Notice what's around you and trust your feelings if something seems wrong
Keep your things safe: Use locks, hotel safes, and be careful with your bags

U.S. State Department: Peru Travel Advisory

How to Get a SIM Card and Internet in Peru

SIM Cards

Big phone companies: Claro, Movistar, Entel
You can buy SIM cards at airports and phone shops
Bring your passport to register
You can buy prepaid plans that you pay for before you use them
Phone service works well in cities, but may be weak in rural areas

Claro | Movistar | Entel

WiFi and Internet

You can find WiFi in hotels, hostels, and cafes
Internet speed can be different in different places, sometimes slow
Using mobile data on your phone is often more reliable
In remote areas, internet may not work well or at all

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Peru?

Travel insurance is a good idea for Peru. It can help with medical emergencies, canceled trips, stolen items, and problems from high altitude. Make sure your insurance covers high altitude activities and adventure travel if you plan to hike or do outdoor activities.

Get Travel Insurance for Peru

Protect your trip with comprehensive travel insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for Peru?

Most travelers from the United States, Canada, European Union, Australia, New Zealand, and many other countries do not need a visa to visit Peru as tourists. You can usually stay for up to 90 days. You need a valid passport that is good for at least 6 more months. Always check the latest visa rules for your country before you travel. Learn more in our complete Peru visa requirements guide.

What currency is used in Peru?

Peru uses the Peruvian Sol (PEN). US dollars work in many tourist places, but it's better to have local money (soles) for small purchases, markets, and transportation. You can find ATMs in most cities and towns. Learn more in our complete Peru currency guide.

Is Peru safe for tourists?

Peru is usually safe for tourists if you follow basic safety tips. Stay in safe neighborhoods in cities, use safe transportation like official taxis or Uber, don't show expensive things, and pay attention to what's around you. Small theft can happen in busy places, so be careful.

What should I know about altitude sickness in Peru?

Many places in Peru are very high up. Cusco is at 3,400 meters and Lake Titicaca is at 3,812 meters. Altitude sickness (called soroche) can happen to anyone, even if you are very fit. You might get a headache, feel sick, tired, or have trouble breathing. Give yourself time to get used to the height, drink lots of water, don't drink alcohol, and talk to a doctor about medicine if needed.