The short answer
- Visa
- Not needed for many nationalities
- Stay allowed
- Usually up to 90 days
- Passport
- Valid for 6 months after arrival
- Currency
- Peruvian sol (S/)
Peru is straightforward to visit. Most tourists need no visa, there is no arrival form to fill in, and US dollars are accepted for many tours. The things that catch people out are local: altitude, booking Machu Picchu in time, and strikes that can block roads and railways at short notice.
Entry rules
- Visa: Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, the UK, EU countries, the US, Canada and many others can visit as tourists without a visa. Check your own government's advice, as rules can change.
- Length of stay: Officers usually grant up to 90 days, and by law tourists can stay up to 183 days in a year at the officer's discretion. Overstaying means a daily fine when you leave.
- Passport: It should be valid for at least six months after you arrive, with blank pages.
- Digital entry record: The old paper Andean migration card (TAM) is now digital. Your entry is recorded when your passport is scanned, and you can download the record from the migration office website.
- Hotel tax: Foreign tourists are exempt from Peru's 18% sales tax on hotel rooms when they show their passport and entry record, so check it is not on your bill.
Money
- The currency is the sol (S/). Prices in tourist areas are often also given in US dollars.
- ATMs are easy to find in cities. Carry some cash in small notes for markets, taxis and tips; many small places do not take cards.
- Tip about 10% in restaurants if service is not included, and tip guides, drivers and trek crews. See our cost guide.
Safety
- Peru is generally safe for tourists, but petty theft is common in busy places. Keep phones out of sight in crowds and on buses.
- In Lima, most visitors stay in Miraflores or Barranco. Use ride hailing apps or taxis booked by your hotel rather than hailing cars in the street.
- Strikes and protests (paros) can close roads and the Machu Picchu railway at short notice. Follow local news and keep a spare day in your plans.
Health
- Altitude is the main health issue for most visitors. Read our altitude guide.
- Do not drink tap water. Bottled and filtered water are everywhere.
- Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for the Amazon, and some neighbouring countries may ask for proof if you arrive from there. Ask a travel clinic about other vaccines.
- Sun at altitude is strong even when it is cold: bring a hat, sunglasses and high factor sunscreen.
Your pre-trip checklist
Tick these off as you go. You can print the list too.
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Frequently asked questions
Do Australians need a visa for Peru?
No. Australians can visit Peru as tourists without a visa, usually for up to 90 days. Check Smartraveller before you go in case the rules change.
Is Peru safe for tourists?
Generally yes. Take normal city precautions against theft, use registered taxis or apps, and keep an eye on local news for strikes and protests.
Can I use US dollars in Peru?
Often, for tours and hotels, but you will need soles for everyday spending, markets, taxis and local restaurants.
What plugs does Peru use?
Types A and C, at 220 volts. Many hotels have sockets that take both.
Sources we checked
Peru month by month
More Peru guides
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