Peru FAQs

Tour Details

What are the accommodations like?

In each location, we use charming accommodations that are locally owned and characteristic of the area. They can best be compared to small, family run bed and breakfasts rather than international chain hotels. All of our Peru hotels have private baths, hot water and clean, comfortable rooms. Usually they are located within walking distance of the town center and the reception generally speaks English.

What are the tour leaders like?

All of our tour leaders are exceptional! They are fluent in English, Spanish and also speak the local language of Quechua. All of our tour leaders treat our travelers like friends, showing visitors both the major highlights and the local treasures. For instance, in the past, we have had tour leaders take visiting teachers to visit a local school or doctors to visit a local clinic. Who knows, you may even be asked to visit the tour leaderchr(39)s home for a family birthday party or other celebration!

What type of transportation is used? 

Our Peru tours utilize a variety of transportation including private vans/ cars, comfortable tourist buses, etc to provide travelers with the safest and most efficient transportation in each area.

What types of planes are used for internal flights?

Most internal flights use 727s or similar size jet planes with a capacity of 80-120 passengers.

Planning Your Trip

When is the best time to go?

Travelers can visit Peru any time of the year. Dry season runs from April to November and this is typically the time that is most recommended. However, this is also the cooler time of year. Nighttime temperatures can drop to below freezing at the height of the dry season. June, July and August are the most popular months to visit so you will tend to encounter much larger crowds during these months.

Are these trips suitable for kids?

It depends. We have received rave reviews from families visiting the Amazon, Machu Picchu, and even hiking the Inca trail. If your children enjoy wildlife, learning about other cultures, and meeting new people, Peru may be a great choice.

Keep in mind that US food, Nintendo, television, etc. may not be readily available so prepare your kids ahead of time so that they will have reasonable expectations. We realize that you know your kids best so we will be happy to answer all of your questions and try to give you the most accurate impression of what to expect. However, please remember that these are adventure and sacred tours and flexibility is essential!

To make family tours easier, we often recommend having a private group and guide.

How much should I budget for tips are important?

It is customary in Perú to offer a tips for exceptional service. Tipping amounts vary widely, though some travelers report that ~$5-$10/ day for your guide and ~$1-$3/ day for your driver is common. We recommend you to bring school supplies to share with the children along the way

Can I extend or change my stay?

Absolutely! can also be arranged in Cusco, Lima, Machu Picchu, or other areas if desired. Let us know how you would like to customize your trip and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Before You Go

What should I pack?

You will receive a detailed packing list after you book your tour. Since the Peruvian climate varies dramatically depending upon elevation and season, it is difficult to offer many generalizations. Comfort is the rule and fancy clothes are not necessary for any of our Peru tours. Peruvians are used to seeing travelers so shorts, sandals, and jeans are perfectly acceptable.

How safe is Perú?

Peru has a stable government and tourism has boomed in recent years. The government has made a concerted effort to keep travelers and their valuables safe.

Travelers should take the same precautions that they would in a major city in the US. Pay attention to the advice of your tour leader and hotel reception and take common-sense precautions such as not going into unfamiliar areas alone, especially at night.

For more Information Check out the US State Department travel advisories for the latest information at:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_998.html

What time zone is Peru?

Peru is five hours behind GMT (same as EST). They do not observe daylight-savings time so during these months (April-October), Peru is on CST.

Do I need a converter/ adaptor for the electricity?

Peru uses 220 volt, 60 cycle electricity. Travelers will require a voltage converter for 110 volt devices. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat type found in the US, though some facilities have been noted to use the 2 rounded prongs instead.

Is the water safe to drink?

The tap water is generally not safe to drink in Peru. Bottled water is readily available at tourist sites, hotels, and restaurants. Donchr(39)t forget to use bottled water when brushing your teeth as well! Ice is not always made with boiled/ bottled water. Order your beverages without ice (“sin hielo”) or ask your tour leader if the ice is safe in a particular restaurant.

Can I use US dollars, or do I need local currency? What is the local currency, exchange rate, etc.?

Most restaurants, markets, and other service providers readily accept US dollars as long as they donchr(39)t have any rips. They will generally give you change in local currency. The local currency is the Sol. It is handy to use local currency in markets as you will have smaller denominations to bargain/ tip with and donchr(39)t need to worry about your currency looking pristine (ripped Soles are common and readily accepted).

Should I bring cash or Travelerchr(39)s checks? Are ATMs available? Can I use credit cards?

Most travelers bring a small amount of US cash with them and withdraw from ATMs as they need it along they way. ATMs are readily available in the larger towns and cities. Travelers can withdraw US dollars or local currency at fair exchange rates. Travelerchr(39)s checks are fine, but they can be more difficult to exchange and you will usually receive a poorer rate or be charged an additional fee. Credit cards are accepted only in the larger restaurants and stores. Although it is helpful to bring a credit card along for emergencies, donchr(39)t count on using it for most purchases.

Can I use my cell phone?

Check with your cell phone provider. Each company is different and they can give you the most up-to-date information.

Do I need a visa/passport?

Travelers will all need a passport valid for at least 6 months after they depart. Currently, citizens from the US, Canada, Scandinavia, Western Europe, Japan, Latin America, South Africa, South Korea, and the Caribbean (except Cuba) do not need a visa. Australians and New Zealanders do need a visa. Travelers from other nationalities should check with the Peruvian Embassy for visa information. Entry requirements change with surprising frequency. It is each traveler’s responsibility to check with the consulate for the most up-to-date visa information.