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Peru Travel: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Electricity in Peru
If you're taking electrical appliances to Peru, you'll need to know about Peru's electrical system, including voltage and electrical outlets.
Tips for Picking a Machu Picchu Tour
The following tips for picking a Machu Picchu tour will help you choose a reliable and recommendable tour agency.
Tips for Traveling in Peru on a Budget
If you want to travel in Peru on a budget, the following tips will help you stretch your cash as far as possible.
Best Inca Trail Tour Operators
See our list of the best Inca Trail tour operators in Peru -- companies that also offer alternative Machu Picchu treks and Sacred Valley tours.
Major Cities in Peru
Learn more about the major cities in Peru with our list of Peruvian cities ordered by population.
Is Machu Picchu Closed?
Is Machu Picchu closed or closing in the near future? Probably not, but find out for sure right here...
Top 10 Things to Do in Lima
Discover the highlights of the Peruvian capital with a list of the top 10 things to do in Lima.
Peru Route Planner: Classic Itinerary
If you want to see Peru's most famous attractions during a 10 day to one-month trip, the classic Peru itinerary, also known as the Gringo Trail, could be the route for you.
Vaccinations for Peru
There are no required vaccinations for Peru, but a number of immunizations are highly recommended for travelers, including hepatitis A and typhoid.
Top 10 Reasons to Visit Peru
The top 10 reasons to visit Peru - a visitor's guide to the best things to see and do in Peru.
Tipping in Peru
Our guide to tipping in Peru will help you decide how much to tip Peruvian tour guides, waiters, hotel staff and more.
Altitude Sickness in Peru
Learn how to cope with altitude sickness in Peru with our guide to symptoms, preparation and high altitude locations.
Backpacking in Peru
When you go backpacking in Peru, you're never far from your next adventure. The country is affordable and easy enough to explore independently, making it a prime backpacking destination.
Facts About Peru
Learn key facts about Peru, including facts and figures covering Peru's society, geography, economy and more.
Before You Go to Peru
Find out what you need to do before going to Peru with our guide to the fiddly details of trip planning, including vaccinations, visas and financial matters.
Machu Picchu Altitude
For many people planning a trip to Machu Picchu, altitude sickness is one of the main concerns. Learn more about altitude sickness at the site and in Cusco.
Mountains in Peru
Ice-capped and imposing, the highest mountains in Peru rise up from the Andes, reaching heights above 20,000 feet.
Peruvian Greetings and Introductions
Learn the basic expressions and etiquette for Peruvian greetings and introductions, including formal and informal ways to say hello in Peru.
Domestic Airlines in Peru
Domestic airlines in Peru offer scheduled flights to most of the nation's major destinations. Read about Peru’s five main airlines: StarPeru, LAN, TACA, Peruvian Airlines and LC Busre.
Machu Picchu Entrance Fees
Find out how much you'll need to pay for your Machu Picchu entrance fee, as well as what ticket types are available.
Famous People From Peru
The following famous people from Peru have become well known internationally, at least within their niche or field of expertise.
Languages of Peru
Peru is a multilingual country with a complex array of languages. Spanish is the most common language in Peru, but indigenous tongues still exist throughout much of the nation.
Trains to Machu Picchu
There are a number of trains to Machu Picchu station in Aguas Calientes, with three companies offering a variety of services from Cusco, Ollantaytambo and Urubamba.
Peru by Bus
Traveling Peru by bus is a cheap way to get from place to place, but you should avoid the cheaper operators and stick with the midrange to top-end Peru bus companies.
A More Rewarding Peru Experience
Get the most out of your time in Peru with these six tips for a more rewarding Peru travel experience.
Do You Need a Tourist Visa for Peru?
Find out if you can enter Peru with a simple Tarjeta Andina de Migración, or if you need to apply for a Peru tourist visa before traveling.
Ormeño Bus Company Profile
Ormeño is one of the most established bus companies in Peru, serving numerous domestic and international destinations.
Peruvian Customs Regulations
Find out what items you can take to Peru without paying extra on arrival due to Peruvian customs regulations.
Where is Peru?
Find out where Peru is located on the world map, its exact location in South America and its size.
Cruz del Sur Profile
For overland travelers in Peru, Cruz del Sur remains one of the top bus companies for long distance trips, with good service and excellent coverage.
Geography of Peru: Coast, Mountains and Jungle
Peru is a geographically diverse nation with three distinct regions running roughly from north to south. The coast lies to the west, the Andes run through the middle, and the Amazon jungle lies to the east.
Yellow Fever in Peru
Learn more about yellow fever in Peru, including yellow fever requirements and general recommendations for travelers.
Malaria in Peru
Many travelers are concerned about the risk of malaria in Peru, but the actual risk is low. Read more about the risk areas, malaria prevention and symptoms.
Scams in Peru
Staying clear of scams in Peru is all about prior knowledge. If you can spot a scam before it sucks you in, you won't have much to worry about.
National Holidays in Peru
There are a number of national holidays in Peru, some of which are familiar to most travelers while others are unique to the Peruvian calendar.
Money in Peru FAQ
If you're not familiar with Peruvian currency or handling money in Peru, read on for some frequently asked questions.
Peruvian Currency
Learn more about Peruvian currency with our guide to the nuevo sol, including denominations, designs and dealing with fake and damaged money in Peru.
Lunch in Peru
Lunch in Peru is a great time for travelers to sample some of the nation’s traditional dishes. You can also save money by making the most of the set lunch Peruvian menu.
Internet in Peru
Read about internet access in Peru, including internet cafes, hostel and hotel connections and Wi-Fi access.
How to Fill Out the Tarjeta Andina
When you enter Peru, be it by air, land or water, you will need to fill out a form called the Tarjeta Andina de Migración.
Movil Tours Profile
Movil Tours is a midrange bus company that operates mainly to the north of Lima, but also has services to Cusco, Puerto Maldonado and Rio Branco in Brazil.
Public Transport in Peru
There are various types of public transport in Peru, ranging from modern air fleets to antiquated trucks. Here is an overview of Peru flights, buses, boats and more.
Sport in Peru
Learn more about sport in Peru, from the popular pastimes of soccer and volleyball to traditional events such as bullfighting and cockfighting.
Concerts in Peru 2013
A full schedule of all the major concerts and music festivals taking place in Peru in 2013, including international acts.
Talking to Peruvians
If you're looking for some conversation starters in Peru, here are a few topic tips and some subjects to possibly avoid.
Is Marijuana Legal in Peru?
Marijuana is not legal in Peru, but possession of certain quantities is officially legal. Realistically, however, even small amounts can cause big problems.
Crime in Peru: Theft
Tourists are not often the victims of violent crime in Peru, but opportunistic theft is common. By developing certain habits, you can reduce the risk of petty theft.
Maps of Peru
A political map of Peru gives clear details regarding settlements, national boundaries and neighboring countries.
Lima to Cusco
Independent travelers have two main ways of getting from Lima to Cusco: quick and easy flights or more scenic, adventurous and time-consuming bus journeys.
Boleto Turistico: Cusco Tourist Ticket
The Boleto Turístico del Cusco, or Cusco Tourist Ticket, grants access to a wide range of museums and archaeological sites in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
The Minimum Wage in Peru
A brief overview of the minimum wage in Peru, with comparisons to the USA and the UK.
Peru Border Crossing Basics
Border crossing between Peru and its five neighboring countries can be an intimidating process. In reality, it's not too difficult. Learn the basics with our border-crossing guide.
The Art of Haggling in Peru
Learn the basics of haggling in Peru and avoid spending too much on souvenirs and other items at city markets and village stalls.
Machu Picchu Facts
Dive in to our list of Machu Picchu facts -- and a few theories -- and pick up some interesting tidbits of information about Peru’s most famous attraction.
Taxis in Peru
Taking taxis in Peru is not always as straightforward as in more developed countries. There are no meters and safety is an issue, so choose your Peruvian taxis carefully.
How Much to Tip on the Inca Trail
Find out how much to tip on the Inca Trail, including recommended tipping for guides, porters and cooks.
Beer in Peru
Beer is the most popular alcoholic drink in Peru. It's cheap, it's available everywhere and it comes with its own beer drinking traditions.
Trains in Peru
There are only a handful of trains in Peru, with rail networks limited to just a few parts of the country. The existing lines, however, are often spectacular.
Breakfast in Peru
Breakfast in Peru can be as simple as bread, jam and a cup of coffee, but you'll also come across substantial breakfasts, often with a regional twist.
Oltursa Bus Company
Oltursa is primarily a coastal bus company, but continues to expand its coverage inland while modernizing its fleet.
Lima Airport
Jorge Chávez International Airport, Lima, is the point of entrance for many visitors to Peru. Get to know Lima airport before you arrive with our guide to flights and facilities.
Using US Dollars in Peru
Do you need to take US dollars to Peru? Or can you get by on Peruvian currency alone? Learn more with our guide to using dollars in Peru.
Types of Accommodation in Peru
Accommodation in Peru ranges from rustic homestays to luxury lodges, with a little bit of everything in between. Prices also vary greatly, but you’ll soon learn what type of lodging is best suited to your budget and your style of travel.
Francisco Pizarro Timeline
A timeline of the life of Francisco Pizarro highlighting key events in the biography of the Spanish conquistador and conqueror of Peru.
Licensed Inca Trail Tour Operators 2013
The following tour operators carry official licenses for taking tour groups along the Inca Trail in 2013.
Peruvian Independence Day
Following a struggle against its Spanish colonial masters, Peru finally proclaimed its independence on July 28, 1821.
Machu Picchu Visiting Rules
Find out what you can and can't take into Machu Picchu -- and how you're expected to behave -- with our guide to Machu Picchu visiting rules.
Snacks in Peru
Empanadas are sold throughout Latin America. They are a popular snack in Peru, where typical fillings include meat, cheese and vegetables.
Plaza de Armas, Lima
The Plaza de Armas in Lima, also known as the Plaza Mayor, is located in the heart of Lima's historic center.
Flores Bus Company
Flores is a midrange Peru bus company. The company’s more costly services are generally good, but the economy class options are not recommended for long distance travel.
Lima Airport ATMs and Currency Exchange
Find out how and where to exchange money or use an ATM in Lima airport -- or how to avoid the process altogether.
Religion in Peru
Learn more about religion in Peru, from the dominant Catholic faith to evangelicalism and the survival of Inca traditions.
The North Coast of Peru
Take the Pan-American Highway north from Lima to Ecuador and explore the highlights of Peru's north coast.
Friend’s House Hostel, Miraflores
If you're looking for a comfortable but cheap hostel in Lima, Friend's House is a great option in the heart of Miraflores.
Meals and Mealtimes in Peru
There are three main mealtimes in Peru: desayuno (breakfast), almuerzo (lunch) and cena (supper or dinner).
Watch the Peru Soccer Team
Find out all you need to know about watching Peru play soccer, including buying tickets, venues and key games.
Peperas and Drink Spiking in Peru
Drink spiking is a common crime in Peru, where female perpetrators -- known as peperas -- drug men in order to rob their possessions while unconscious.
Circuito Magico del Agua, Lima
The Circuito Mágico del Agua, or Magic Water Circuit, is a series of illuminated water fountains in the Parque de la Reserva in Lima.
Peru in May
Various religious events take place across Peru in May, including the Fiesta de las Cruces and the Virgin de Chapi pilgrimage.
Peru Postal Codes
Peru introduced postal codes for the entire country in February 2011. The five-digit codes can be difficult to find -- a reason why many Peruvians decide not to use them.
Peru Blogs
Discover the best Peru blogs on the web with our selection of the most insightful, original and knowledgeable blogs about Peru.
Soccer in Peru
Learn more about soccer in Peru with our guide to club teams, the national selection and famous Peruvian soccer players.
Tarapoto, Peru
A guide to the city of Tarapoto in the San Martin region of Peru, including attractions, accommodation, restaurants and more.
Festival of San Juan in Peru
The Festival of San Juan, or Saint John, is one of the most important events in the Peruvian jungle, held each year on June 24.
Who Discovered Machu Picchu?
Did Hiram Bingham discover Machu Picchu, or had the Inca citadel been found before Bingham arrived in 1911?
Nazca Lines Photos
Before you fly over the Nazca Lines, a few things will probably cross your mind. Will I get airsick? Is this going to be worth the money? Will I be able to take some good photos?
Discos and Nightclubs in Peru
Peruvian nightlife revolves around dancing, with Peru's nightclubs and discos being the main venues for late night revelry.
Civa Bus Company
Civa is a midrange Peruvian bus company with excellent coverage and a few top-end options.
Essential Spanish for Peru
If you can learn some basic Spanish essentials before you go to Peru, your entire trip will be more relaxing and more rewarding.
Festivals in Cusco
Find out what's happening in Cusco throughout the year with our list of annual festivals and events.
Cial Bus Company
Expreso Cial is one of Peru's midrange bus companies, with good coverage along the entire coast and services inland to Cusco.
Natural Hazards in Peru
Peru is a region prone to natural hazards, including earthquakes, flooding, landslides and climatic shifts brought about by El Niño.
Prevent Mosquito Bites in Peru
Knowing how to prevent mosquito bites in Peru will help you avoid diseases like malaria, dengue and yellow fever.
The Best Historic Hotels in Cusco
If you enjoy the idea of relaxing in a colonial courtyard built on ancient Inca foundations, consider a stay at one of Cusco’s historic hotels.
Apu Mountain Spirits
The apu mountain spirits were powerful forces in the Inca world, and mountains remain sacred in the Andean regions of modern Peru.
Peru in July
July in Peru is packed with festivals and events, including Independence Day, the Virgen del Carmen festival and the Fiesta del Sol in Huánuco.
Tingo Maria
A travel guide to the city of Tingo Maria in the Huánuco region of Peru, including attractions, places to stay and Tingo Maria National Park.
Cancha Toasted Corn
Cancha is a type of Peruvian toasted corn served as a nibble in restaurants and bars and as an additional ingredient in many ceviches.
Línea Bus Company
The Transportes Línea bus company serves numerous destinations to the north of Lima, with basic economy buses and more luxurious options.
Peru in August
Find out what's happening in Peru during August, including Saint Rose of Lima Day and the Cruz de Chalpón pilgrimage.
Regions of Peru
There are 25 administrative regions in Peru, known as departments. Find out more with our guide to Peru's departamentos.
National Ceviche Day in Peru
Each year on June 28, Peruvians honor their most famous national dish with the Día Nacional del Cebiche, or National Ceviche Day.
World Heritage Sites in Peru
There are currently 11 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Peru, ranging from colonial city centers to high-altitude national parks.
Caminos del Inca Rally
The Caminos del Inca Rally is an annual city-to-city rally event organized by the Automóvil Club Peruano.
Embassies in Peru
The following list of embassies in Peru includes all major embassies located in Lima. It does not include consulates or other diplomatic missions in Peru.
La Lucha Sandwich Bar, Miraflores
For late night sandwiches in Miraflores, Lima, La Lucha Sandwich Bar is an excellent option right on Parque Kennedy.
The Estadio Nacional in Lima
The Estadio Nacional in Lima, Peru, is the home stadium of the Peruvian national soccer team and a venue for major music concerts.
TEPSA Bus Company
TEPSA has one of the most modern bus fleets in Peru, operating all along the coast and inland to Cusco.
Driving Licenses in Peru
International travelers can drive in Peru for a maximum of six months using their home driving license. An International Driving Permit may also be a good idea...
Peru in October
Peru in October offers a good selection of religious and cultural festivals, from massed pilgrimages to colorful dances.
Peru Travel Options
There are many different ways to travel in Peru. Learn more about these travel options, from package tours to budget backpacking.
Dengue Fever in Peru
Dengue fever outbreaks are becoming increasingly common in Peru. Learn how to spot the symptoms and protect yourself against the mosquito-borne infection.
Bruning Museum
Many Moche ceramics feature ocean imagery, as can be seen in pottery housed in the Brüning Museum.
Emergency Phone Numbers in Peru
A list of important emergency numbers in Peru, including police, fire brigade and ambulance services.
Rabies in Peru
Most travelers do not need the rabies vaccination for Peru, unless engaging in specific activities that carry a risk of infection.
Mototaxis in Peru
Mototaxis offer a cheap and easy way to get around in many Peruvian towns and cities. Read more about these three-wheeled contraptions, including their history, cost and safety.
Parque Kennedy and Parque Central, Miraflores
Parque Kennedy sits to the south of Parque Central in the center of Miraflores, Lima.
Traffic Jam Thieves in Peru
Peru's traffic jam thieves target static and even slow-moving vehicles, most commonly in Lima's chaotic stream of cars and buses.
Peru in February
February in Peru is carnival season, so you'll never be far from a party or two. The other key highlight is the Virgen de la Candelaria festival in Puno.
Mercado de Pulgas, Parque Kennedy, Miraflores
It's hard to find bargains in Miraflores, Lima, but the mercado de pulgas in Parque Kennedy is a good spot for a browse.
September Festivals and Events in Peru
Despite a lack of national holidays, September in Peru is not without its fair share of colorful festivals and events, from regional religious pilgramges to vibrant cultural showcases.
Cusqueña Beer
Cerveza Cusqueña is one of the most popular beers in Peru, and arguably one of the best domestic brews.
Tips for Shopping in Peru
Shopping in Peru can be slightly confusing for first time visitors. Here are some tips to help make your shopping experience as smooth as possible.
Perú Mucho Gusto
If you want to sample a range of traditional dishes from across Peru, try to catch a Perú Mucho Gusto gastronomic fair.
Register Your Trip to Peru
When you register your trip to Peru, you give your travels an extra layer of security through enhanced communication.
Do Peruvians Like Americans?
As a U.S. citizen heading to Peru, you might be wondering whether Peruvians like Americans or if they hold any anti-American feelings...
Post in Peru
Sending and receiving post in Peru is reasonably reliable, but it's not cheap and things do sometimes go astray...
How to Get a Replacement Tarjeta Andina
If you have lost your Tarjeta Andina, there's no need to panic. Getting a replacement TAM is fairly easy, and it's not expensive.
Earthquakes in Peru
Peru is a region of major seismic activity, with as many as 200 minor earthquakes occurring on average each year.
Airports in Peru
There are more than 230 airports in Peru, but only 20 airports have regular scheduled flights, most of which are domestic rather than international.
Legal Drinking Age in Peru
Peru has a minimum legal drinking age, although the enforcement of the law is variable at best...
Peru in June
Find out what's happening in Peru in June, including Inti Raymi and the Festival of San Juan.
Volleyball in Peru
Volleyball is the second most popular sport in Peru, and the most popular sport among Peruvian women.
Saint Rose of Lima
Saint Rose of Lima, born in Lima in 1586, was the first Catholic saint of the Americas and remains a highly venerated figure in Peru, Latin America and beyond.
Luggage on Buses in Peru
When you travel in Peru by bus, you’ll need to decide what to do with your bags. You can put your luggage in the below-decks compartment or take it on the bus with you.
Peru Tourist Visa Extensions
If you want to extend your tourist visa, one option is to border hop and re-enter Peru. Alternatively, pay a fine for each day you have overstayed your allotted time.
Toilets in Peru
Toilets in Peru range from bearable to hideously unclean. Knowing where to find a decent option is an unglamorous but essential part of traveling.
Protected Natural Areas of Peru
There are more than 20 million hectares of protected natural areas in Peru, including national parks, historic sanctuaries and wildlife refuges.
Flag of Peru
The flag of Peru, as used today, was first introduced in 1825 by the great military and political leader Simón Bolívar.
Tarapoto Tourist Attractions
Tarapoto isn't a major tourist destination in Peru, but the city and its surrounding area are home to a good selection of tourist attractions.
Lambayeque Museums
There are four world-class museums in the Lambayeque region of Peru: the Museo Tumbas Reales de Sípan, the Brüning Museum, the Museo Nacional Sicán and the Museo de Sitio de Huaca Rajada-Sipán.
Money in Peru: Lack of Change
When you start using money in Peru, you'll soon notice that some stores and other small businesses have a lack of change. Find out how to avoid the change shortage issue.
Solis Dies Hotel, Miraflores
The Solis Dies Hotel is an affordable two-star option right at the heart of the Miraflores district of Lima.
Peruvian Pima Cotton
Peruvian Pima cotton (Gossypium barbadense) is grown in coastal valleys in northern Peru. This luxury cotton is highly valued on the global market; souvenir and bargain hunters take note...
Concerts in Peru 2012
Find out which international artists are playing concerts in Peru during 2012. Lima attracts a wide range of major acts, so check back regularly for updates.
Inca Kola
Inca Kola is a hugely popular and altogether iconic Peruvian beverage. It may not be to everyone's taste, but you have to try it when you go to Peru.
ITTSA Bus Company
ITTSA is a midrange to top-end bus company operating from Lima along the north coast of Peru.
Kuelap Fortress Photo Gallery
The Chachapoyas region, tucked away in Peru’s northern interior, is a treasure trove of natural and archeological attractions. The fortress of Kuelap takes pride of place.
Telephone Scams From Peru
Telephone scams from Peru do not target travelers directly, but instead use them as a means to extract money from family or friends back home.

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