PERU

Peru is a large country on the Pacific coast of South America, encompassing a desert coastline, tropical rainforest, and soaring mountains, each with distinct environments. These dramatic landscapes offer an exceptional opportunity for travelers to experience a variety of adventures, an abundance of wildlife, a rich history and archaeological heritage, and the vivacious character of durable native cultures, all within one nation.

An interesting history of ancient civilizations, tales of lost cities, undiscovered treasures, and unsolved mysteries make Peru one of the most exciting countries in the world. Travelers can marvel at the sophistication of pre-Colombian cultures and explore the many legacies left by the Inca Empire, particularly the ancient Inca capital of Cuzco. Hiking along the legendary royal Inca highway brings visitors to the awesome, majestic 'Lost City of the Incas', Machu Picchu. Boats transport tourists to the unique floating islands and the traditional world of the island people on Lake Titicaca. Travelers can wander around splendid colonial cities that have preserved their Spanish architecture, look into the depths of the world's deepest canyon, and contemplate the intriguing mystery of the Nazca Lines.

Peru, 'Land of the Incas', offers a stimulating and rewarding travel experience and is one of the most diverse and exhilarating of the South American destinations.

Currency. The official currency is Sol (PEN), divided into 100 céntimos. Visa is the most widely accepted credit card, but all major international credit cards are accepted in many, but not all, establishments. Outside of big cities, facilities may be more limited. US Dollars are the easiest currency to exchange and plenty of restaurants, hotels, and shops in the main cities accept dollars for payment. 

Electricity. Electrical current is 220 volts, 60Hz. Two-pronged plugs with flat blades as well as plugs with two round prongs are in use.

Language: Spanish is the official language. In areas where they are predominant, Quechua, Aymara and other aboriginal languages also have official status. English is spoken only in major tourist centres and hotels.

Climate. Peru has three climate zones, one of which governs the coastal region. Its desert landscape is caused by the cold Humboldt Current, which prevents cloud formation over the land. Lima is generally sunny and humid, with next to no rainfall, though it experiences heavy sea mists from April to November. The northern coast has hot, sunny summers, with occasional rain showers. The coast gets less arid farther north, as the effect of the Humboldt Current decreases.

The Andes region is cool, and its wet season runs from October to April. Its dry season lasts from May to September. During the dry season, days in the highlands are clear and sunny, though nights become very cold - especially at altitude.

The forested region of the Amazon Basin has an equatorial climate, where conditions involve hot weather and frequent rain throughout the year.

The peak tourist season runs from May to October, particularly in July and August. Winter (June to September) is the best time to walk the Inca Trail, given the wonderful visibility travelers can expect during the clear, sunny days. This is also a good time to visit the jungle basin, as there are fewer mosquitoes.