Learn
the essential Peru travel do’s and don’ts before your trip. From
cultural etiquette and safety tips to local customs and communication
advice, travel smart and confidently in Peru.
• Greet with a friendly “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes.” Warm, polite greetings matter in Peruvian culture.
• Show respect for elders and community leaders. Courtesy builds trust, especially in rural areas.
• Dress modestly in villages and sacred sites. Churches and archaeological areas expect covered shoulders and knees.
• Try local foods. Ceviche, lomo saltado, and regional Andean and Amazonian dishes reflect Peru’s rich cuisine.
• Carry small change. Markets and taxis often don’t accept large bills.
• Ask permission before photographing people. Especially Indigenous communities in the Andes and Amazon.
• Learn simple Spanish phrases. Locals appreciate any effort to speak their language.
• Practise eco-friendly habits. Pack out all rubbish to protect fragile landscapes.
• Acclimatise slowly at altitude. Take it easy in Cusco or Puno on arrival.
• Support local artisans. Buy handmade textiles, ceramics, and crafts directly from markets.
• Underestimate altitude sickness. Rest, hydrate, and avoid heavy meals initially.
• Drink tap water. Use bottled, filtered, or boiled water only.
• Touch or climb restricted ruins. Preservation laws are strictly enforced.
• Assume all areas are safe at night. Stick to busy, well-lit areas and registered taxis.
• Fly drones without permits. Many archaeological sites ban them entirely.
• Flash valuables. Avoid displaying jewellery, cameras, or cash in crowds.
• Haggle aggressively. Negotiation is acceptable, but politeness matters.
• Litter on trails. Especially on the Inca Trail and Sacred Valley routes.
• Ignore local strikes (“paros”). They can disrupt transport and services.
• Feed wildlife. This is dangerous and disrupts natural behaviour.
• Andean and Amazonian traditions are deeply rooted. Respect ceremonies and customs.
• Hospitality is warm but humble. Accepting tea or small gestures is polite.
• Quechua and Aymara cultures shape highland identity. Cultural sensitivity is essential.
• Catholic festivals are major events. Expect parades, music, and crowds.
• Punctuality is flexible. Social events may start later than planned.
• Personal space is closer. Conversations may feel more intimate.
• Markets are social hubs. Friendly interaction is part of the experience.
• Greetings matter everywhere. Saying “Buenas” when entering shops is courteous.
• Footwear etiquette varies. Some households prefer shoes removed indoors.
• Storytelling is valued. Listen respectfully and avoid interrupting.
• Book Machu Picchu tickets early. Entry slots sell out weeks ahead.
• Use official taxis or trusted apps. Beat and Cabify are safer options.
• Carry cash in rural areas. Card payments aren’t always available.
• Pack for varied climates. Coast, Andes, and jungle conditions differ greatly.
• Use mosquito repellent in Amazon regions. Protection is essential.
• Bargain gently and fairly. This supports artisans without undercutting them.
• Keep document copies. Useful in case of loss or checks.
• Avoid night buses in remote areas. Choose reputable companies if needed.
• Plan around festival closures. Travel schedules may be affected.
• Download offline maps. Mobile signal drops in mountains and jungle regions.
• Visit Machu Picchu early or late. Crowds thin significantly at these times.
• Eat at family-run picanterías. They offer the most authentic flavours.
• Choose your route to Aguas Calientes wisely. Trains offer comfort; Salkantay offers adventure.
• Explore quieter archaeological sites. Sillustani, Choquequirao, and Maras are less crowded.
• Drink coca tea at altitude. It can help ease symptoms.
• Shop at San Pedro Market in Cusco. Ideal for gifts and local snacks.
• Explore Barranco in Lima. Street art, cafés, and culture thrive here.
• Join guided Amazon tours. Safer and more educational for wildlife viewing.
• Build buffer days into itineraries. Weather can disrupt flights and treks.
• Visit lesser-known Lake Titicaca islands. They offer more authentic local life.
• Know emergency numbers. Police 105, Ambulance 116.
• Take altitude seriously. Descend immediately if symptoms worsen.
• Watch for pickpockets. Especially in Miraflores and Cusco’s main squares.
• Use secure ATMs. Prefer machines inside banks or malls.
• Avoid tap water entirely. Use safe alternatives only.
• Drug laws are strict. Penalties for possession or trafficking are severe.
• Respect protected wildlife zones. Stay with licensed guides in jungle regions.
• Drive cautiously. Road conditions vary widely.
• Follow trekking regulations. Inca Trail permits and limits are enforced.
• Use licensed operators. For treks, rafting, and Amazon activities.
• Spanish is the primary language. Quechua and Aymara are common in rural areas.
• Speak politely and clearly. Respectful tone is appreciated.
• Use common phrases often. Por favor, Gracias, and Disculpe.
• Avoid interrupting. Wait your turn to speak.
• Smile and stay warm. Friendliness builds rapport quickly.
• Be patient with service times. Especially in smaller towns.
• Ask before taking photos. Particularly of Indigenous people.
• WhatsApp is widely used. Common for bookings and communication.
• Avoid sensitive political topics. Unless locals raise them first.
• Compliment food and hospitality. It strengthens genuine connections.