Peru is one of the world’s most varied countries. It is a multicultural nation, filled with traditions, a unique gastronomy and vast natural reserves. It is home to 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 84 of the planet’s 117 life zones. Peru is situated in the western part of South America and shares borders with Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia and Chile. Its enormous territory, covering more than 1.2 million square kilometers, is composed of three regions: Coast, Highlands and Jungle. Its current population exceeds 31.5 million inhabitants.

Spanish is the official language of Peru; however, 47 indigenous languages are also spoken in the country, including Quechua and Aymara

Peru, a country of ancient traditions, delicious gastronomy, and breathtaking landscapes
Do you want to know why you should visit Peru?
Being in Peru means immersing yourself in an astonishing culture, with people who are incredibly warm and welcoming, with amazing landscapes, creating unforgettable memories. Peru's richness lies in the tradition of a market, the tip of a fork, your feet on the sand, the touch of leaves in the Peruvian Amazon, the breeze at the top of a mountain, the warmth on your face as the sun shines while you explore the beautiful beaches in the Costa Verde.

In Peru, you will always find a place that will amaze you. Whether you are in the Sacred Valley learning about Cusco's millenary history, in Mancora enjoying a delicious cebiche, on the beaches of La Libertad riding majestic waves, in Tambopata having direct contact with its dazzling flora and fauna, or exploring Machupicchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

What are you waiting for? Peru is here, waiting for you today, tomorrow, and always.

Passport and Visa information
Your passport needs to be valid for at least six (6) months after your journey ends, and should have a minimum of one (1) blank visa page for entry and exit stamps.

Holders of U.S. and Canadian passports are not required to obtain a tourist visa for entry into Peru for stays of up to 183 days.

Covid-19 country entry requirements & travel advisories
Peru currently has no COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements for entry for U.S. and Canadian residents. Visit the U.S. Department of State at travel.state.gov or the Government of Canada at travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories for up-to-date information.

Local health & safety protocols
If your journey includes travel to high-altitude Andean destinations in Peru including Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Puno and Lake Titicaca, you may experience altitude sickness. Please consult your healthcare provider for suggestions on prevention and treatment. If you will be hiking the Inca Trail from KM 104 to Machu Picchu, be aware that this full-day, high-altitude hike is challenging and over steep and uneven terrain. A good level of physical fitness and appropriate footwear is necessary.

Cash & credit cards
The U.S. dollar is as readily accepted throughout Peru as the local currency. Carry recently issued bills in smaller denominations. High-end restaurants, hotels and shops accept major credit cards. Smaller shops and local tourist venues prefer cash. When leaving a small gratuity, it is best to tip in local currency. ATM access is available in Lima, Cusco and major towns and most ATMs allow withdrawals of up to US$200 or the equivalent in soles per transaction.

Of special note
Please note that if you will be using professional photographic equipment in Machu Picchu, including tripods, you are required to obtain special authorization and pay a fee. If you plan to carry more than one camera or any specialized lenses, contact us in advance of your departure. To avoid problems, you may choose to carry only a smaller camera into the site.

Guests whose itinerary includes a visit to a project supported by “Orbithearth” Philanthropy, may choose to pack some small items to give as gifts. Suggested items include toothpaste, toothbrushes, towels and soap.

Packing list & baggage restrictions
On domestic flights within Peru, each traveller is limited to one (1) checked bag weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kilograms), with linear dimensions (height+width+depth) not to exceed 62 inches (158 centimeters). In addition you may bring one (1) personal item (such as a purse orlaptop), which must fit under the seat in front of you, and one (1) carry-on weighing up to 17 pounds (8 kilograms), maximum dimensions not to exceed 21 inches (55 centimeters) x 13 inches (33 centimeters) x 9 inches (25 centimeters) (height, depth and width), including the pockets, wheels and handle.

Baggage on trains to and from Machu Picchu is limited to one (1) bag or backpack not to exceed 17 pounds (8 kilograms), and linear dimensions of 62 inches (158 centimeters). Luggage storage may be arranged, if necessary, with your guide. Depending on your itinerary, tagged luggage can be stored at your hotel in Cusco until you return from Machu Picchu. (Additional costs may apply.)

When visiting Machu Picchu, please note any type of bag/backpack measuring more than 15.7 inches (40 centimeters) x 14 inches (35 centimeters) x 8 inches (20 centimeters) is not permitted, and must be placed in storage (near the entrance of the citadel).

Please use the provided Orbithearth luggage tags, even if your bags already have ID tags. This makes it easier for Orbithearth staff to find and manage your luggage for you.

Clothing
Choose versatile, casual clothing that can be layered if the weather (or level of air-conditioning) requires. Temperatures will change as altitudes and time of day change, so it’s best to bring shorts as well as long trousers.

If visiting the Peruvian Amazon: expedition type ventilated long-sleeved shirts and pants (including some pants with zip-off legs that convert long-pants into shorts). Light and neutral colors are best; black, navy or other dark colors tend to attract insects.

• Smart casual attire is appropriate for evenings. Formal clothing is not necessary.
• Casual slacks
• Polo shirts, casual short-sleeve shirts or blouses
• Lightweight raincoat or poncho
• Sweater or lightweight fleece jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes with low or no heels
• Waterproof, lightweight, well-broken in hiking boots for trekking activities in the Andes or Amazon rainforest regions (if applicable)
• River sport walking shoes or sandals such as Tevas
• Long sleeve shirts or blouses
• Personal garments
• Swimwear/cover-up
• Sleepwear
• Socks
• Wide-brimmed sunhat that ties on

Other Recommended Items
• Face masks and hand sanitizer
• Simple first-aid kit
• Prescriptions and medications (in their original bottles and/or packaging)
• Extra eyeglasses/contact lenses
• Charging cables for electronics
• Sun block and lip balm
• Sunglasses
• Mosquito repellent
• Smartphone
• Global travel adapter

Optional Items
• Small LED flashlight
• Lightweight binoculars
• Foldable walking stick (rubber pointed tips only)
• Small waterproof daypack

Laundry service is available at most hotels and dry cleaning is available in large cities. Check cost and return times before using these services.

Tipping guidelines
While decisions regarding tipping rest entirely with you, we suggest the following gratuities (noted in U.S. dollars) depending on the type of journey:

Included Meals	Included
Restaurants or Room Service on own	10-15% unless already added
Porters (Inca Trail	$30 to each porter for the 4 days 3nights hike.
Chef and team(Inca Trail)	$100 for the 4 days 3nights hike.
Cruise vessels / Trains and others.	$10-$15 per person, per day – Gratuities accepted on board the boat/train and shared among the staff.