Are you thinking about traveling to Peru? Already have your trip booked and you’re stressed with what to know before you leave? Being a large, beautiful, unique country, it can be overwhelming with all that there is to know in preparation for your trip. Here are 10 things to know before traveling to Peru!

1. Make sure you see the whole country!

Though Machu Picchu is incredible and a must-see on your trip to Peru, there is so much more than that! Peru has coasts, mountains, and jungles. There is also a lot more history to the country than just Machu Picchu. Peru is known as the land of the Incas and you can see the Incan influence all over the country. 

2. Don’t skip Lima! 

With almost 10 million inhabitants, Lima is a thriving and growing metropolis. All up and down the Costa Verde you can find various beaches, fishing, and surfers. In the town center, you can see Spanish colonial government buildings and churches. With Lima being a port city, you can get some of the freshest and best fish in the world. Make sure to add Lima to your itinerary. 

3. Food

Peru is big on food. Each region has its own typical dishes and they are proud of it. Having a large Asian influence, rice is a staple and so are Asian condiments. Some favorites are the lomo saltado, pollo a la brasa, and ceviche. You need to try their ceviche — Peru beats them all! One of the most unique delicacies in Peru is the guinea pig. Be sure to try at least a bite! 

4. Language

Make sure you know a little bit of Spanish, or travel with someone who does. If you go to touristy areas, most everyone will speak a little English because a lot of Peruvians will major in tourism, but if you stray too far from the path you most likely will need to learn a few of the basics of Spanish. So download Duolingo when you book your flights and start practicing. 

5. Weather

Peru is in the southern hemisphere, so when it’s summer in the United States, it’s winter there. So when booking a flight and packing make sure to check the weather in Peru. 

6. Altitude

Cuzco is at 11,152 feet so you may get altitude sickness! Don’t worry though — a lot of hotels will have humidifiers and coca tea to help you feel better. The coca leaf is traditionally a big part of Incan/Peruvian culture and is believed to help cure the side effects of altitude sickness.

7. Money

While most touristy places accept Visa, many of your local stores and market artisans don’t. Make sure you exchange some money at the airport into Soles. (Fun fact: the Peruvian sol literally translates to “sun”). Also, just a heads up about the $30.25 airport tax on international flights going home.

8. Feet TLC

Make sure you have comfortable walking/hiking shoes. No one goes to Peru without visiting Machu Picchu where you will definitely want good shoes. With all the other ruins, hiking, and ancient stone streets of Cuzco you will want to make sure to get on board with this investment. 

9. Warning!!

Don’t trust all food — especially the tap water. They sell large bottles of water everywhere. Drink that instead. Try not to eat lettuce, strawberries, or street food. A good rule of thumb is to just check and make sure wherever you are eating is clean. 

10. Fake it ‘til you make it

Know where you are going and have a plan. Most Peruvians are amazing, kind people. Though, like any country or big city, you need to be aware. Tourists can be targeted for theft. Make sure you know what you are doing and where you are going (or at least look like you do). There is no one easier to rob than a tourist who looks lost.   

You are going to LOVE Peru. The people are incredible and the country is beautiful. Enjoy every moment and make sure to document your trip with lots of photos! You’ll be wanting to show everyone how amazing Peru is.

Post written by Mallory Moss