Latin America is bigger than you might realize.
From afar, it’s easy to dismiss this entire continent as all in the same, especially since most of them are Spanish-speaking countries, with a few dominant in Portuguese and French.
Because a lot of their practices seem similar to each other, ignorance will lead you to conclude that there’s little to no difference between them. But this is absolutely wrong as Latin America is a whole host of colourful cultures as vibrant as they can be.
One of the many highlights is the South American gem, Peru.
Peru has one of the richest cultures and heritages in the entire world. It boasts a treasure trove of interesting sights and experiences that date all the way back to ancient times.
Travelling here has become popular nowadays, and if you’ve decided to go here, you won’t regret it. There are, however, some tips that can help you on your trip, and here are a few of them. Plus don’t forget to bring your favourite books when you travel, to help you pass some downtime in between airports.
Book Your Accommodations Early!
As with any other destination, Peru is a busy country full of tourists and business travellers alike. If you wait too long to book your accommodations, it might be too late. Even before booking your ticket, already reserve about 80% of your lodgings there.
This includes the places you’ll be staying in outside the more urban cities. Another great Peru travel tip is to book an airport hotel when you have an early morning flight. This way, you’re more assured to reach your flight in time!
Going on a Honeymoon Trip?
Read Next Best Romantic Travel Spots for Couples to Enjoy
Try Combis for Transportation
Transportation can be quite challenging in this South American country, but they do have one service that’s unique to them, the combi. This interesting vehicle is a mini-bus that can take you to various places around the city for an incredibly cheap price.
If you’re on a budget, this mode of transportation is most likely for you. However, these combis can get pretty packed during the rush hours, so you might have to squeeze in a bit when riding one. If you are a female travelling alone, don’t forget to know some safety tips before hitting the road.
Visit Machu Picchu in the Morning
Let’s face it, the highlight of your trip to Peru, and possibly the main reason you went to the country in the first place, is to see Macchu Picchu. This man-made marvel is a relic of the ancient Inca civilization that once ruled over the vast lands of the country.
Although it’s beautiful whatever time of day it is, nothing really beats seeing it slowly being lit up by the sunrise. If you’re planning to here, go in the morning when the brightness of the sun is just right and the air is still cool and fresh.
Tick Some of the Items Off Your Bucketlist
Read Next Must-Try Bucket List Adventures for Travelers
Sleep Near Machu Picchu
If you’re already planning on going to Machu Picchu in the morning, one of the best Peru travel tips on this list is to book accommodation near the tourist spot. Unbeknown to many, there are a few towns near the ancient citadel, most famously that of Aguas Calientes, that can accommodate tourists visiting the famous site.
This way, you’ll have better chances going up the mountains in the morning and avoiding hordes and hordes of tourists when you’re up there in the middle of Machu Picchu.
Respect Indigenous Communities
Near Machu Picchu, and practically everywhere else in Peru, you might find that there are certain members of the country’s indigenous communities just hanging around. And although it’s become common to take pictures with them, a good Peru travel tip is to show some respect to them.
Remember that these are still human beings are they’re not props for souvenir pictures. If you want to take a picture with them, ask them first. If they say yes, go on right ahead, and if they say no, respect their decision and move along.
Bring Insect Repellent and Sun Screen
Since Peru is relatively a tropical country, you’re going to be faced with a lot of sunshine and insects. Even in the more urban areas, the sun still shines just as bright and hot and there will still be a few bugs out there that’ll annoy you.
In order to avoid them having to ruin your trip, make sure to pack some sunscreen and insect repellant inside your carry-on. Where you go, if you feel the sun’s becoming too intense or the bugs keep on biting you, just put them on and you’ll be fine.
Try their Coca Tea
Some countries have their own unique beverage that are either exclusive to them or that their versions have become the most popular. In Peru, it’s their special Coca tea. This herbal and soothing drink is made out of the leaves of the coca plant, which are found in various parts in Central and South America, especially Peru.
When visiting this country, have a sip to see why it’s become a favourite among many locals and tourists alike. Just don’t attempt to bring some for home as this is prohibited.
Go for Local Restaurants
When you’re in Peru, you must try their local cuisine! Theirs is quite unique for Latin America, as several dishes have both Western and Eastern influences on them. As opposed to other countries in the region, where the food is more so influenced by European cuisines.
Here, they have a special focus on seafood dishes. many of which are tangy, savoury and spicy. A good Peru travel tip is to seek out local and family-owned restaurants to really get the authentic taste of the country’s extraordinary cuisine.
Always Bring Small Change with You
Shopping in Peru is fun and cheap. The country has a bevy of both big businesses and local markets offering well-made clothing for extremely low prices.
If you want to shop yourself, make sure to always bring small change with you as a lot of the merchants prefer it that way. Subsequently, tipping is also common in Peru, and you’ll have an easier time doing it when you have some change in your carry-on or pockets.
Know the Voltage of Electricity Before Plugging in Anything
You might be tempted to watch a few movies while on your trip, and before your battery drains out – make sure to avoid any drastic accidents by knowing the common voltage of electricity in Peru.
In most places, they usually have 220 volts of power, which is far higher than the more common 120 volts in the US and in many other countries. If you want to charge your phone, you’re going to have to ask which sockets have the right voltage percentage that will still be safe and secure for you to plug your charger in.
You can also bring along your own converter for an easier time charging your gadgets in Peru.
The next time you’re planning to go to South America, try visiting Peru. It’s a magical place full of history and vibrancy, and this list of Peru travel tips will surely help you navigate the country better.
Craving For Some Sun, Sand, and Sea…?
Read Next A Definitive List of the Best Family Beaches in Florida
