Frequently Asked Questions
What language do the people of Peru speak?
The official language of Peru is Spanish, with over 85% of the country speaking it. There are multiple variants depending on where you travel, for example the coastal region speaks Peruvian Coastal Spanish, while locals in and around the Andes tend to speak Andean Spanish. As these dialects can vary greatly from standard Spanish, it’s advised you bring a phrasebook to assist your communications when visiting less tourist-orientated places.
What currency do I need in Peru?
Rather fittingly, the official currency of the Kingdom of the Sun is the sol, which translates to ‘sun’ in Spanish. Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are in abundance across larger towns and in city centres.
What’s the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
Undoubtedly, the first image that springs to mind when thinking about Peru is Machu Picchu – Peru is known the world over for its Incan descendants and the plethora of ruins they left behind. The best time to visit the iconic ruins is between April and October – while the warm season here tends to run from October through March, it’s worth remembering that this also corresponds with the rainy weather. This historic landmark is at its busiest from June to August, and there is a 500 person limit imposed daily.
World-renowned hikes to ancient Incan ruins, sweeping valleys, traditional rustic villages and delicious fusion cuisine – Peru is not to be missed.
Why you’ll love Peru…
• Following the historic Inca Trail to Sun Gate and the iconic Machu Picchu
• Riding a cable car to the 5th century Kuélap fortress
• Taking in jaw-dropping views of the volcanic Nevado Mismi mountain
• Posing for selfies with the local llamas
• Exploring the enormous Cañón Del Colca
• Observing the cliff-top scenery aboard the luxury Belmond Andean Explorer
• Snapping breath-taking photos at the tranquil Lake Titicaca
• Visiting the floating Uru Islands
• Wandering the traditional cobbled streets of Cuzco
• Strolling through the White City of Arequipa
• Seeing incredible vistas of the mysterious Nazca Lines
• Shopping in the scenic district of Mira Floras
Did you know?
• Peru’s love of Star Wars is so widespread that almost 1,500 children born here have been named after characters from the franchise.
• Peru is home to the world’s largest city that’s inaccessible by road. Iquitos is located in the Amazon rainforest and is only accessible by river and air.
• During the 1800s, Peru was a world leader in exporting bird droppings across the globe. Known as ‘guano’, it is still exported today for use as an organic fertiliser.
