TIPS & CUSTOMS

Tipping: When eating at a restaurant tips are usually not included. The standard tip is 10%. It is not usual to tip taxis or other services, however use your best judgement - particularly if going on a tour/excursion.

Loo roll: When going to the toilet, remember to throw the loo roll in the bins provided instead of down the drain. Pipes in Peru unfortunately cannot handle paper, so although it might feel a little unpleasant its better than a clogged toilet...

Do not feel shy about speaking Spanish, even few words goes a long way!! A few useful sentences here.

Don’t take photos of people without asking! If you want to take a photo of an individual or a small group of people, always ask beforehand.

Haggling is the norm when buying in artisan markets. When in doubt ask other locals (or me!) how much things should cost to ensure you are getting a fair price.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Perú is a stable, safe country that offers some of the world’s most impressive wonders. But just in case, here are a few pointers to make this trip a success:

For drinking water, use only bottled water.

Besides your wedding bands, please leave your expensive jewellery at home or in your hotel's safe.

When walking on busy streets keep your purse securely on your shoulder and, if possible, not showcased to oncoming traffic.

Inside of taxis keep your valuables out of reach from the window, ideally under your legs if its a bag.

Only take with you what you think you will need for the day. In terms of money we would recommend you carry at most S/300 ($90 or £70)

Try to keep your phone in your pocket or bag. If you want to check google maps do it quickly or go inside a store.

WIFI & ELECTRONICS

You can get a SIM card in local telecoms shops such as Claro, Entel or Movistar.

SIMs usually cost about S/5.00 -10.00 or $1.50-3.00 USD

Data packages cost about S/30.00 or $10.00 USD

You can go to any provider's shop or also find small stands in supermarkets

Make sure to ask for a "chip prepago" (pay-as-you-go SIM) and bring your passport with you

Electrical Voltage = 220 Volts

Plugs in Perú usually look like the ones in America: two flat parallel prongs. Sometimes you will find plugs similar to European two round prongs.