Latin America is more significant than you might realize.
From afar, it’s easy to dismiss this entire continent as all the same, especially since most are Spanish-speaking countries, with a few dominant in Portuguese and French.
Because many 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. It might be too late if you wait too long to book your accommodations. 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!
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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 ancient structure is a testament to the ingenuity of the Inca civilization that once reigned over this vast land.
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 sun’s brightness is just right and the air is still cool and fresh.
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Sleep Near Machu Picchu
If you plan to go 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 of going up the mountains in the morning and avoiding hordes and 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 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, and 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 a relatively tropical country, you will face 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 biting you, just put them on, and you’ll be fine.
Try their Coca Tea
Some countries have their own unique beverage that is either exclusive to them or 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 is found in various parts of Central and South America, especially Peru.
When visiting this country, sip to see why it’s become a favourite among many locals and tourists alike. Just don’t attempt to bring some 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
If you are planning a trip to Peru and you want to watch movies on your devices while on the go, it’s important to be aware of the common voltage of electricity in the country. 220 volts which is higher than the common 120 volts used in the US and many other countries. Therefore, you should be cautious while charging your phone and make sure to ask which sockets have the correct voltage percentage that will be safe and secure for you to plug in your charger. This will help you avoid any accidents that may result from using the wrong voltage. In most places, the voltage is
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.
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