Tourist Information
Tourist Information and assistance
Peru has the i Peru information system for tourists where you can find help and assistance with any problems or queries you may have.
Security
We recommend that you take the normal precautions when traveling to any tourist destination.
Take care with pickpockets
Carry a copy of your documents and store the originals in the safe box of your hotel
Carry valuable items discreetly, do not carry large sums of cash and be vigilant with bags and belongings
Do not change money in the street
We recommend using taxi firms (ordered by phone) or those authorized by the government (in Lima these are yellow with a luminous sign on the roof)
Telephones:
You can make national and international calls from public telephones. Country codes are available in most call centers.
To make an international call mark: 00 + country code + city code + telephone number.
To call between cities: 0 + city code + phone number
Public phones accept coins and phone cards, available at many kiosks and supermarkets.
For information on phone numbers dial: 103
Internet:
All major cities have internet cafes.
The average price per hour is S/. 2.00 soles.
Accommodation:
There are lodging establishments of various types and cost. In the high tourist season (June to September) it is recommended to make advanced reservations. It is also possible to stay over at family homes authorized by the National Tourism Board.
Make sure you always know the check out time.
Travel agencies
Travel agencies can facilitate your travel throughout Peru. Hire the services of those accredited with the National Tourism Board, in Lima, and by the pertinent entities in other cities. Compare services and make sure they are clearly specified in the document issued by the company (commonly known as "voucher" or "service coupon"). Demand a receipt of payment; the agency is obliged to issue both documents. Do not hire services offered by individuals appearing in the vicinity of airports and main squares, as this method of selling is prohibited.
Food and beverage
Peruvian cuisine offers a great variety of dishes typical of the Coast, the Highlands and the Jungle. Always first ask about their ingredients, since some dishes can contain hot pepper or be highly spiced. You will also find establishments where international food is prepared. As far as drinks are concerned, try the very Peruvian Pisco (grape brandy) in any of its various recipes, as well as "chicha morada" (purple corn juice) and "chicha de jora" (fermented red or yellow corn juice).
Health matters
- Only drink bottled or previously boiled water.
- Be careful with raw vegetables and fruits.
- Avoid eating from street vendors.
- Rest on the first day of your arrival to the Highlands, and consume light meals to prevent altitude illness (soroche). Drinking "coca tea" is recommended.
- If you travel to the Highlands or to the Jungle, make sure to carry insect repellent and a raincoat.
- To obtain medical services, contact the staff of your hotel or travel agent.
- If you wish to take travelers' insurance, contact your favorite travel agency.
Banks
Banking hours in Peru are normally from Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. In addition, most banks open for the public half day on Saturdays. In the streets of the main cities there are teller machines installed by the different banks.
Money exchange
It is recommended that money should be exchanged in hotels, banks and authorized money exchange offices (Service hours: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., approximately). The exchange rate against the US Dollar is variable. Inquire before changing your money. For exchanging other currencies inquiry at money exchange offices
Night life
Most of the cities of Peru have a wide variety of night life entertainment. Information about places of interest can be obtained where you are staying. If you wish to enjoy typical Peruvian music, you can visit the so-called "peñas".
In Lima, the most popular discotheques, pubs and night clubs are in the Districts of Miraflores, San Isidro and Barranco. In other cities they are normally found in city centers (main square and vicinity).
Tipping
The amount of the tip in Peru varies with the degree of satisfaction you have with the service provided.
TRANSPORT
- By air:
There are flights and connections from Lima to all the main cities of Peru except for Huancayo, Huaraz and Ica, where you can go by road using inter-provincial buses. Always make reservations in advance.
Travel re-confirmation
Re-confirm your trip ahead of time: For domestic flights: 48 hours in advance; for international flights: 72 hours in advance.
Airport tax (T.U.U.A.)
- Domestic flights: S/. 12,00.
- International flights:: US$ 25,00.
Payment to be made in cash before boarding the flight.
By land:
Inter-provincial buses
The inter-provincial bus service covers all destinations in Peru, except for certain cities in the Jungle. Inquire into the comfort available depending on the fare paid; and whether or not the service is non-stop.
At airports, it is advisable to hire the services of taxis authorized by the management authority.
Urban buses (the most economical alternative) are of the colors and numbers assigned for the specific route. Most of them travel long treks and they may turn out to be uncomfortable. Inquire before taking them; and do not take them too late at night.
Trains
The tourist rail service covers three routes:
- Arequipa - Sumbay - Juliaca - Puno.
- Puno - Cusco.
- Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Machu-Picchu.
Information: Peru Rail
Tourism by Road
- Always carry with you your driver's license and a copy of your passport. If the vehicle is rented, carry the car rental agreement. If you have an international driver's license, it is valid for one year. If you have your country's driver's license, it is good for 30 days.
- Abide by the speed limits posted on the road.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you do so, you may be subject to criminal charges.
- If a traffic officer orders you to stop, do so. He or she must be in uniform and wearing an identification badge (the surname is printed on a plate fixed at his chest). Under no circumstance must the traffic officer enter your vehicle.
- Keep in mind that your documents and the vehicle's documents cannot be retained and that under no circumstances should you have to pay any money.
- In case of an accident or collision, call a traffic officer. If the vehicle is rented, also call the representative of the insurance company where you rented the vehicle. Wait there, do not move from the place.
- Do not stop if unknown persons make signs at you on the road.
- Do not park in dark places. Do not leave objects which can be seen by passers by.
Prohibitions
It is absolutely prohibited to take photographs or shoot film of airports, military bases, places near high tension towers and police stations. In some churches and museums it is prohibited to take photographs or film. Ask first.
|
