Peru-Travel Warnings

Holidays and Days off

When traveling to Peru there are a few dates one might keep in mind. If your study abroad or volunteering program happens to be during some of the holidays you will have a great chance to learn even more about Peru’s culture and traditions. Some of the celebrations happen on January, 1st (New Year), on April, 12th (Pure Thursday), on April, 13th (Passionate Friday), on May, 1st (Labor Day), on June, 29th (Day of Sacred Peter and Paul), on July, 28-29th (Independence Day), on November, 1st (Day of all sacred), on December, 8th (Immaculate Conception), on December, 25th (Christmas). Large population of the country is Catholic; as a result this is reflected in most of the national holidays.

Customs Rules

When entering Peru while on your study abroad program there are few tips on how to make the customs control process less stressful. Drugs, fire-arms, ammunition, medicines, and radioactive materials would be considered as banned items of import/export. Import of a foreign currency is not limited. Import of 2 liters of alcohol and 400 cigarettes is allowed.

Tipping

When doing a study abroad program in Peru, it is almost certain that you will visit some of the local restaurants to taste the local cuisine. A helpful nuance to remember is that in bars, restaurants, and hotels tips of approximately 10% of the total bill are already included in the total.

Safety

Peru is one of the safest countries for tourists in all of South America. Nevertheless it is necessary to be cautious when visiting populous places such as city markets, train stations and other public places. It is advisable to keep valuable things like a camera, a handbag close to you at all times. It is not recommended to carry with you expensive jewelry, large sums of money and other valuables.

Emergency Phones

When traveling in Peru, keep the emergency phones near you. If it is necessary to notify proper authorities of a certain incident these are some of the numbers one might use:

Fire protection - 116
Police - 105
First aid - 117