Peru - Getting Started

Getting Started

Peru has it all. Spectacular archaeological sites, amazing Amazon rainforests, the world's highest tropical mountains and an endless desert coastline will keep you traveling for months. A diverse and welcoming population, an even more diverse wildlife, and some of the continent's best food await the adventurous visitor. Best of all, transportation is efficient and relatively inexpensive, and accommodations to suit every budget are available, from cheapo backpackers' hostels to beautifully converted colonial mansions.

DON'T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT...

• Yellow-fever, tetanus and typhoid vaccinations; make sure they are less than 10 years old before setting off.
• A copy of your travel insurance policy details.
• Earplugs - buses and many hotels insist on ear-splitting entertainment at all hours.
• A Swiss Army-style penknife - but remember to place it in your checked luggage when flying or it'll be confiscated.
• A hat - it'll keep you warm when it's cold, shade your eyes when it's sunny, and keep your head dry when it rains. A great deal!
• A roll of toilet-paper - essential as public toilets and most restaurants don't supply it. It works for your nose as well.
• Spare shoes if you have large feet; anything over size 43 (10 12 US; 9 12 UK) can't be found.