Peru

Travel tips for Peru: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. While tap-to-pay is increasingly common in cities and tourist spots, travelers advise carrying cash for markets, street vendors, taxis, and to avoid 3-5% card surcharges.

Try the food

Ceviche: Fresh raw fish cured in freshly squeezed lime juice, spiced with ají peppers, and served with sliced onions, sweet potatoes, and toasted corn.
Lomo Saltado: A hearty Peruvian-Chinese fusion stir-fry combining marinated strips of beef sirloin, onions, tomatoes, and french fries, typically served with rice.
Ají de Gallina: Tender shredded chicken bathed in a rich, creamy sauce made from yellow ají peppers, walnuts, cheese, and milk, served over boiled potatoes and rice.

Say it in Spanish

Hello: Hola
Thank you: Gracias
Please: Por favor
Excuse me: Perdón
How much is this?: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
The bill please: La cuenta, por favor
Yes/No: Sí/No
Goodbye: Adiós

Essentials

Plugs: Type A / Type B / Type C
Voltage: 220V, 60Hz
Driving: Right side
Tap water: Avoid — buy bottled
Emergency: 105 (police), 106 (ambulance), 116 (fire)
SIM tip: Pick up a prepaid Claro or Movistar SIM card at the Lima airport or official city kiosks, ensuring you have your passport handy for mandatory registration.

Etiquette

A 10 percent tip is customary in restaurants if a service charge is not already included, and it is polite to greet shopkeepers with 'buenos días' or 'buenas tardes' upon entering.