There are always cultural norms and customs that visitors of a country may be unaware of. Here are a few things you might not know about Peru before coming:
1. Don't be a typical tourist; instead, become an authentic one.
Peruvian Machu Picchu is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and rightfully so. But that's not all Peru has to offer. There's also Colca Canyon, home to the largest flock of Andean condors in Central America as well as various other unique birds, animals and plant species; or Lake Titicaca- where you can find indigenous people living on floating islands made entirely from reeds.
Although it's often easy to get caught up in the hype of mainstream tourist destinations, don't forget about the hidden gems most travelers overlook. The Secret Slave Tunnels in Chincha, Huacachina (the desert oasis home to South America's biggest sand dunes), and the Paracas National Reserve (where the desert meets with sea to create unbelievable scenery) are all essential places to see while in Peru. To make sure you hit all of these unique attractions, consider traveling with Peru Hop for an authentic experience.
2. Buses have many advantages over planes.
Although budget airlines are slowly appearing in South America, their continuous delays and cancellations often prove to be frustrating. For this reason, long-distance bus travel has become the preferred method of transportation for many travelers in Peru; not only do you get to enjoy beautiful scenery along the way, but it is also more affordable than taking a flight.
Long-distance bus rides are perfect for when you want to learn a new language, catch up on reading, or plan your next trip. Many buses even have luxury seats to make your ride as relaxing as possible. And when you travel with an experienced and reputable company like Peru Hop, you can be sure that all of your travel stresses will disappear.
3. Don't rush.
Peru is one of the world's greatest countries for tourists, with an infinite number of natural attractions, world-renowned cultural and historical wonders, and something for everyone. Because it provides so much to see, many visitors to Peru may find themselves overwhelmed by their options for things to do. It might be easy to persuade oneself that seeing everything must be a priority.
However, it is important to remember that you cannot see everything this country has to offer in one trip-you would need a lifetime. It is best to spend more time in each destination so that you can get to know the area before moving on.
4. Be Prepared.
For an amazing trip, be sure to bring the necessities like sunscreen, water, hand sanitizer, and most importantly: comfortable shoes! Since Peru is home to so many incredible sites, make sure you document it all with your camera. By following our advice, we guarantee that you'll have a stress-free journey.
5. Check the weather forecast.
Peru, being only around one-sixth the size of the continental United States, contains an immense variety of climates and landscapes. Within its borders exists a dry desert, sandy beaches along its coast, chilly highlands inland and tropical rainforests near the Amazon basin.
On a map, two locations may appear close together, but in fact have very different climates. As a result, it's critical that you keep an eye on the weather when traveling to various parts of Peru since unpredictable rainstorms, landslides, snow and other potential dangers can strike at any time.
6. Take a look at the following sample lunch menu.
A "menu" for lunch is ubiquitous in Peruvian eateries, large and small. These restaurants are often family-run, and they offer a set meal that usually includes a starter, drink, main course and dessert. In Peru, lunch is the primary meal of the day; consequently, menus play an integral role in Peruvian culture. Not to mention, it's an excellent opportunity to try home cooked food that adheres to traditional standards-and all at an affordable price!
7. Visit the local marketplaces.
This is a fantastic idea not only for saving money while traveling, but also for gaining an authentic feel for the culture and experiencing the pulse of the city or town you're in. You'll almost certainly discover some really unique items and artisanal goods in the markets of smaller towns. Take time to chat with market stall owners and learn a little about their lives. We assure you won't be sorry. This is by far the easiest method to get to know Peru intimately.
8. Get the most out of your travel experience by shopping around for different tour options.
There are many tourist agencies and transit companies in Peru that vary greatly in terms of price and quality. Some of the cheaper options may not be very safe or comfortable, while the more expensive options might offer five star service. It's important to do your research before you choose a tour provider in Peru.
9. Take advantage of the free city walking tours in each location.
If you're on a budget but still want to explore local areas, consider going on free walking tours in some of the bigger cities. You'll get an insider's view of the streets and might even make some new friends along the way. In Lima, we recommend heading down to the Tourist Information Center at Avenida Jose Larco 799, Miraflores) for their 10:15 am tour every day except Sunday.
10. Do research.
Make sure you don't miss anything you want to see! Peru is jam-packed with trekking routes, hikes, archaeological sites, indigenous communities, beaches, and cuisine. There's enough to do here for the rest of your life, so make the most of your stay in this beautiful nation by doing something off the beaten path or traveling on the rails.By being proactive and making the most out of your trip, you can explore all that Peru has to offer, from its world-renowned cuisine to its ancient civilizations. Get to know the friendly locals or admire the Amazon Rainforest's diverse wildlife-the choice is yours
