Peru Travel Overview

Peru Travel Insights: Seasonal Weather Highlights

Embark on a journey through Peru and immerse yourself in a tapestry of climates that change with the seasons. In Cusco, situated at an elevation of 11,152 ft., each season unveils a distinctive weather experience:

Spring (September to November):

Daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 63°F to 69°F (17°C-20°C)

Nighttime lows typically hover around 44°F to 50°F (6°C-10°C)

Summer (December to February):

Enjoy mild daytime highs between 61°F and 66°F (16°C - 18°C)

Nights remain cool, with temperatures ranging from 41°F to 46°F (5°C - 8°C)

Autumn (March to May):

Experience daytime temperatures ranging from 58°F to 63°F (14°C - 17°C)

Nighttime lows rarely dip below 39°F (3°C)

Winter (June to August):

Daytime highs range from 57°F to 61°F (13°C - 16°C)

Crisp nights with temperatures dropping to around 37°F to 41°F (2°C-5°C)

Packing List

• Day clothes:
  • Waterproof windbreaker
  • Insulated jacket
  • Thermal layers
  • Warm beanie and a hat
  • Insulated gloves for cold nights
  • Warm socks
  • Hiking pants/shorts
• Comfortable hiking attire
• Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes.
• Day or Hiking Bag/Pack - If you want to carry your water bottle or a snack on your adventures.
• Personal toiletries
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Camera - You won’t want to forget all the incredible adventures we will share!
• Portable battery pack
• PASSPORT
• Currency - The Nuevo Sol is the official currency of Peru. There is no need to exchange currency before departure, a location for currency exchange will be provided upon arrival.

Costa Rica Travel Essentials: Language and Local Phrases

In Peru, Spanish is the primary language spoken, but a significant number of locals are fluent in English as a second language. Enhance your travel experience by familiarizing yourself with some essential phrases:

• Hello: ¡Hola! (O-la)
• Goodbye: ¡Adiós! (AH-dee-ohs)
• Thank you: Gracias (GRA-see-as)
• Do you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés? (Ab-la in-GLAYS)
• I (don’t) understand: Yo (no) entiendo (yo no en-tee-EN-doh)
• How are you?: ¿Cómo está? (KOH-moh eh-STAH)
• I’m fine, thank you: Bien, gracias (bee-EN, GRA-see-as)
• What’s your name?: ¿Cómo te llamas? (KOH-moh te ya-mas?)
• My name is…: Me llamo… (May ya-moh…)

For specific locations:

• Where is...:
• The bathroom: ¿Dónde está el baño? (DON-day es-tah el BAH-nyo)
• An ATM: ¿Dónde está un cajero? (DON-day es-tah un kah-HEH-roh)

Mastering these phrases will not only enrich your cultural experience but also make your interactions with locals more enjoyable. ¡Buen viaje! (Safe travels!)

Peru Travel Insights: Fascinating Discoveries

Embark on a journey to Peru, a land rich in wonders and cultural treasures:

Machu Picchu Magic: Peru is home to the iconic Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan citadel nestled high in the Andes Mountains. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the mystical history of the Inca civilization.

Diverse Ecosystems: Despite its varied landscapes, from the Amazon Rainforest to the Pacific coastline, Peru is a biodiversity hotspot. Encounter exotic wildlife, explore lush rainforests, and marvel at the stunning array of plant and animal species that call Peru home.

Culinary Delights: Peru is a gastronomic paradise, renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and quinoa-based delights. Explore local markets for a sensory journey through Peru's culinary offerings.

Inca Heritage: Immerse yourself in the rich Inca heritage that permeates Peru. Explore ancient ruins, such as Sacsayhuamán and Ollantaytambo, and discover the architectural marvels left behind by this remarkable civilization.

Vibrant Local Markets: Experience the lively atmosphere of local markets, where indigenous communities showcase their crafts, textiles, and traditional products. Engage with local artisans and take home unique, handcrafted souvenirs.

Discover the enchanting tapestry of Peru, where ancient history, natural wonders, and vibrant culture converge to create an unforgettable travel experience.

Tipping Etiquette in Peru: Show Your Appreciation

When it comes to tipping in Peru, expressing gratitude for exceptional service is a welcomed tradition. While not obligatory, tips are a meaningful way to acknowledge the dedication of guides, drivers, and restaurant staff. Here are suggested tipping amounts:

Guides: Consider offering USD $10-15 per person, per day, to your knowledgeable guides who enhance your exploration with their expertise.

Drivers: Show appreciation to your skilled drivers with a tip of USD $10-15 per person, per day, recognizing their contribution to a smooth and safe journey.

Restaurants (Full Service): For a delightful dining experience, consider leaving a tip equivalent to 10% of the total bill at full-service restaurants.

Your gestures of appreciation contribute to the well-deserved income of the local teams who enhance your travel experience.

FAQs for Your Peru Adventure

Connecting with Indigenous Communities in Peru

Respecting Embera Traditions

Embarking on a journey to an Embera tribe village in Peru offers a unique cultural encounter. To ensure a respectful and enriching experience, consider the following guidelines:

Seek Permission:

Always request permission before capturing images of Embera people, their village, or cultural practices. Be sensitive to privacy concerns, and obtain consent, acknowledging that not everyone may be comfortable with photography.

Follow Cultural Protocols:

Familiarize yourself with Embera customs, including greetings, dress codes, and rules about specific areas in the village. Adhering to these cultural protocols demonstrates your genuine appreciation for their heritage.

Engage Respectfully:

Approach interactions with Embera people respectfully and with a sincere interest in their culture. Be mindful of your behavior and language, avoiding actions or words that could be perceived as disrespectful. Engage in meaningful conversations to learn about their way of life.

Support Local Artisans:

The Embera community takes pride in their traditional arts and craftsmanship. If you plan to purchase souvenirs, consider buying directly from local artisans. This supports their livelihoods and contributes to the preservation of their cultural heritage.

Keep in mind that these guidelines provide a general overview and may not encompass all aspects of Embera culture. Approach your visit with an open mind, respect, and a genuine eagerness to learn from the Embera people themselves.

If you have any further questions or inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to Farwest Travels at travelers@farwesttravels.com. We are here to help in any way we can. We genuinely appreciate your decision to be a part of Brooke’s Lets Do Everything Peru. It's going to be a fantastic experience, and we can't wait to share it with you.