TRAVEL TO PERU - USEFUL INFORMATION

VISAS

No visa is required in most countries (check with the Embassy of Peru in your country) The tourist visa allows you 90 days in Peru, you can make 30-day extensions for up to 3 times, up 180 days (six months) in Peru. Each visa extension will cost about $ 25.00 or so.

WHAT TO BRING

Dictionary, Spanish grammar book in your language, email addresses, book guides, novels, a shelter for the cold, a raincoat, walking shoes, sleeping bag, yet the latter is also possible to rent it in Peru; tablets purify water (can be bought in pharmacies), razor, flashlight.

JETLAG

Jetlag is caused by disruption of your "body clock" a small group of cells that controls the timing of biological functions (circadian rhythms), including when you eat and sleep. The body clock is designed for a regular rhythm of daylight and darkness, to "sync" when it experiences daylight and darkness in "wrong" times the usual in a new time zone. The symptoms of jetlag often persist for days while the internal body clock slowly adjusts to a new time zone.

A good remedy, physical and mental, is refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages while "synchronizes your internal clock (and drinking lots of water will help prevent dehydration and keep your alertness). There is no quick fix to relieve symptoms of jetlag, so there is no medicine that can relieve it. Can be overcome with a little awareness of the existence of this phenomenon. As a first step, a stay outside during the day or stay in a room with windows can help reset body clocks. It is also important to adjust your bedtime to the new timetable as soon as possible. When your sleeping hours are adjusted to the new schedule, try to observe and experience the local customs: meal times, meal preferences, recreational activities, and even the way they dress.

WEATHER

The rainy season begins in Cusco in November through March. If students want to do the Inca Trail this season the weather is not an impediment. During the dry season from April to October, the weather is generally sunny. The temperature is cold at night and hot during the day. It is recommended that students bring rainwear and likewise proper clothing for cold temperatures at night, even inside the houses as they do not have heating.

MONETARY SYSTEM IN PERU

The currency of Peru is the Nuevo Sol At the time of writing USD $ 1.00 equals S/.3, 20. There are some ATMs that accept credit cards and many exchange houses where you can change travelers checks. There are ATM machines at the Bank Interbank. It is best to arrive with American dollars.

The following list gives some indication on what you plan to stay in Cusco. Taxis $ 0.75, local transportation $ 0.20, a menu in a restaurant $ 2.50; a beer at a nightclub $ 1.75, a cappuccino at a coffee bar $ 0.75, international phone call $ 3.00 per minute, laundry service $ 1.00 per kilo, use of internet $ 0.50 / hour.

In general, you have no trouble communicating with your country, including by phone, mail, fax or Internet. Long distance calls cost about $ 3.00 a minute. There are lots of internet in Cusco, the price is $ 0.50.

HEALTH CARE

It is recommended that before his trip, pass a medical exam and purchase travel insurance.

Some people experience some discomfort at the height. It is recommended to rest at least two hours before start some activity. The symptoms of altitude sickness or mountain sickness include headache, dizziness, stomach upset and tiredness. Such symptoms may be reversed by reducing the consumption of alcohol but we recommend increased consumption of fluids, including coca tea and snacks and plenty of rest.

Beware of sunburn at high altitude. Ultraviolet rays are extremely strong. The air is also excessively dry on high and know that if you have dry skin use a moisturizer and Vaseline.

TRANSPORTATION FROM LIMA AND CUSCO

The fastest and easiest way to travel from Lima to Cusco or vice versa is undoubtedly by plane. The flights are between $ 90.00 and $ 125.00 per ticket and run from 6:00 am and 2:00 p.m. Most travelers travel to Lima or Cusco by plane.

If you want to go overland from Lima to Cusco, there are two options. The first route is by Abancay, this route is really beautiful. However, the majority of roads are unpaved and this is a bit strong for those who just arrived to Peru. All this will take you about 20 hours to get to Cuzco. There are many bus companies throughout the year that offer this service, however, the route is dangerous especially considering the rainy season.

The second option is to go first to Arequipa, and then to Cusco. The route from Lima to Arequipa is fast, most of the trip is via the Pan American Highway along the coast. The buses are fine and depart about every half hour from Lima. Arequipa is a beautiful colonial city, where travelers can consider staying a day before continuing the journey. But if you prefer, there is a direct connection to Cusco leaving between 4:00 and 8:00 pm Now you will start the Andes and arrive in Cusco in the morning between 4:00 and 8:00.