Incoming
International flights from Europe, United States and South
America arrive daily to Peru. Commercial airlines operating over
all regions, in modern airport facilities.
The
Panamerican Highway links Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia and Chile,
allowing arrival and departure to and from Peru in modern and
comfortable buses with reclinable and bed seats, on board meals,
bathroom, TV, etc.
Over the
past years, the Peruvian government has been investing in the
construction, maintenance and rehab of thousands of kilometers
of roads, interconnecting the tourist attractions and
destinations across South America.
Arequipa, Puno and Cusco are connected by the Andean train that
runs from the coastal city of Arequipa (2100m) up to the Puno
highlands (3800m), across the Andean valleys in Cusco (3400m),
descending to 2000m on its way to Machu Picchu to finally reach
Aguas Calientes Station (cloudforest).
Peruvian
cuisine is known for its excellence and variety. Its unique
ingredients and traditional dishes together with the Novo Andean
or New Andean movement, have turned Peru into a top Gastronomic
destination. What makes Peruvian cuisine so distinctive is the
combination of its rich natural resources with the traditions of
immigrant groups and the bounty of three clearly different
regions: the coast and its desert, the Andean Mountains and the
Amazon jungle.
CURRENCY AND
CREDIT CARDS
The
official currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol. Dollars and Euros
can be changed in Banks and Exchange establishments. Most hotels,
stores and restaurants accept major credit cards. The best way
to obtain money is through ATM cash machines. Most of them work
with Plus system but there are also some that accept Star,
Cirrus and Interlink. Most banks have ATM from where to withdraw
money with international credit cards.
Hospitals, clinics and drug stores are staffed with experienced
professionals. The Social Security Hospital with modern
facilities is also available.
The
National Police of Peru (PNP) has a special division known as
the Tourist Police, whose mission is to ensure the safety and
well-being of our visitors. They are usually located in places
that are frequently visited by tourists.
60% of
the population speaks Spanish and 36% Quechua, the native
language. The other 4% speak secondary languages such as Aymara
and other dialects from the Amazon jungle.
The
electricity in Peru is 220 volts, 60 Hz. Although most 4 and 5
stars hotels offer 110 volts plugs, it is recommendable to carry
an adaptor for flat plugs.
Telefonica del Peru is the major telecommunications company,
providing local and international call service through home and
mobile phones. Phone calls at public cabins are also available
at less expensive prices.
Public
internet cafe's and or cabins are everywhere, with well-equipped
computers and internet access at one Sol an hour.
The most
important tourist destinations in Peru are:
-
Cultural: the encounter with the Andean culture through the
interaction with the local community, its traditions,
customs, art, food as well as its magical archaeological
legacy.
-
Natural: the encounter with the flora and fauna of Peru'
three different regions, through engagement in adventure
activitities such as trekking, mountain bike excursions,
rafting, 4x4 expeditions, etc.