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Staying in Peru

Peru, located on the western edge of South America, is a megadiverse nation featuring habitats ranging from the arid Pacific coastal plains to the towering Andes mountains and the tropical Amazon rainforest. With a history tracing back to the Caral-Supe civilization in the 10th millennium BCE, it holds one of the longest civilizational heritages in the Americas. The capital, Lima, serves as the largest city and the site of the Americas' first university, established in 1551. For frequent-flyer hotel travelers, Peru offers a blend of urban business hubs in Lima and Cusco, alongside remote cultural sites. The country's vast geography necessitates strategic planning for domestic connectivity, making understanding local transport and gateway options essential for efficient itineraries.

Entry & visa
Visa required· CN passport
Full visa details →

Entry & getting around

Entry & Getting Around

Peru shares borders with Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, and Chile. Lima serves as the primary international gateway, while domestic air travel is crucial for connecting the Andean highlands and Amazon regions. Visa requirements should always be verified directly with the Peruvian consulate for the most current official regulations.

Where to Base

Accommodation in Peru follows a distinct regional structure. Lima, the capital and largest city, acts as the primary hub for urban business and leisure. Cusco serves as the central node for exploring Inca heritage. Given the country's large size and complex terrain, it is advisable to select city bases or specific resorts based on itinerary focus rather than relying on a single national center.

Loyalty Landscape

Major international hotel groups (such as Marriott, Hilton, and IHG) have a significant footprint in Lima and key tourist cities. As the Peruvian market is dominated by international brands, frequent travelers should prioritize leveraging benefits from these global programs. Local chain brands have limited influence, so international programs are recommended as the primary accumulation channel.

Practical info

Currency
PEN (S/.) · Peruvian sol
Languages
Aymara · Quechua · Spanish
Calling code
+51
Driving
Right

Upcoming public holidays

  • 2026-07-28 · Independence Day
  • 2026-07-29 · Independence Day
  • 2026-08-30 · Santa Rosa de Lima
  • 2026-10-08 · Battle of Angamos
  • 2026-11-01 · All Saints Day

As of 2026-06-20 — confirm with official sources.

Travel safety advisory

Level 2 · Exercise increased caution

Exercise Increased Caution — due to crime, civil unrest, and the risk of kidnapping.

Source: US State Department · as of 2026-06-20 (US perspective — also check your own government's guidance)

Trip preparation

Health

Use safe food/water habits, especially during flooding or rural travel. Mosquito-borne risks include dengue, Zika, chikungunya and, in parts of the Amazon/east of the Andes below about 2,500 m, malaria. Cusco, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca involve altitude; ascend gradually and discuss prevention with a clinician. Plan for strong sun, heat on the coast/jungle, cold highlands, and avoid untreated freshwater.

Vaccinations

Consult a doctor or travel clinic at least 1 month before travel. Be up to date on routine vaccines, COVID-19 and measles/MMR. CDC commonly recommends hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid for Peru; rabies may be considered for higher-risk animal exposure or remote travel. Yellow fever vaccine is recommended for many Amazon/eastern-Andes areas below 2,300 m, but not for Lima, Cusco city, the Inca Trail or Machu Picchu, and Peru does not require a yellow-fever certificate for entry. Ask about malaria prevention if visiting risk areas.

eSIM / connectivity

eSIM is practical for many visitors through international travel-eSIM providers, especially for Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and other urban/tourist routes. Local mobile networks are Claro, Movistar, Entel and Bitel; local eSIM availability can depend on carrier, plan, device and in-store identity checks, so a physical prepaid SIM remains a reliable fallback. Tourist data is usually handled through prepaid SIM/data packages from carrier shops or airport/retail counters; verify coverage for Amazon, mountain and remote routes.

Health/vaccine info is reference only, not medical advice — consult a doctor or travel clinic; defer to CDC/WHO and official sources (as of 2026-06-20).

Festivals worth timing a trip around

Virgen de la Candelaria, PunoFebruary

UNESCO-listed Andean music, dance and religious processions.

Semana Santa, AyacuchoMarch/April

One of Peru’s most famous Holy Week celebrations.

Qoyllur Rit’i, Cusco RegionMay/June

High-Andes pilgrimage blending Catholic and Quechua traditions.

Inti Raymi, CuscoJune

Inca sun-festival reenactment centered on June 24.

Fiesta de San Juan, Amazon PeruJune

Amazon towns celebrate with food, music and river traditions.

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Reference data as of 2026-06-20.

Peru — hotel loyalty & city coverage | FlyerKey