Peru is the heart of the Inca Empire with Machu Picchu, spectacular Andean landscapes, and one of the best cuisines in the world. The country combines indigenous culture with Spanish colonial heritage.
Sights
Machu Picchu is the highlight of every trip to Peru – best via the Inca Trail or train from Cusco. Cusco itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the perfect starting point. The Sacred Valley offers more Inca ruins.
Lima surprises with world-class restaurants and colonial architecture. Arequipa is picturesquely situated in front of volcanoes. Colca Canyon is deeper than the Grand Canyon. Nazca Lines are a mysterious wonder of the world.
Tipping
Restaurants: 10% is customary in tourist restaurants. Tour guides: $5-10 USD per day. Porters (Inca Trail): $15-20 USD for the entire tour. Hotels: 5-10 Soles per day. Taxis: Round up.
Traffic rules
Highway: 100-120 km/h
Rural roads: 60-90 km/h
Urban areas: 35-60 km/h
Mountain roads: 25-40 km/h
Caution: Mountain roads are winding and steep. Altitude sickness possible in Cusco (3,400m). Road conditions vary greatly. Alcohol limit: 0.5 per mille.
Currency & Payment
Peru uses the Sol (PEN). US Dollars are often accepted, especially for tourist activities. Card payment is possible in hotels and restaurants. Cash is essential for markets and rural areas.
¡Qué chévere! Coca tea helps with altitude sickness in Cusco!
Important phone numbers
Emergency: 105 (police), 116 (fire service), 117 (ambulance)
Tourist police: 01 574 8000
iPeru (tourist information): 01 574 8000
SAT (mountain rescue): 084 237 689
Paying with kingpay in Peru
With your kingpay Mastercard®, you pay contactless worldwide, see every transaction in real time in the app, and earn cashback along the way.
