Peruvian Andes

Peru

The Peruvian Andes around Huaraz offer some of South America's most spectacular mountain scenery. Home to the Cordillera Blanca (the world's highest tropical mountain range) and the stunning Cordillera Huayhuash circuit, this region features snow-capped peaks over 6,000m, brilliant turquoise glacial lakes, and world-class trekking. Huascarán National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with exceptional biodiversity and 660+ glaciers.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay10 days
Budget$40/day
Mid-range$80/day
Luxury$200/day

Known For

peruvian_andescordillera_blancacordillera_huayhuashhuascaran_national_parkhuarazlaguna_69santa_cruz_trekalpamayotrekkingmountaineeringhigh_altitudeglacial_lakessnow_peaksadventurehikingcampingperusouth_americaandes_mountainsturquoise_lakeschavinpastorurillanganucoclimbingacclimatizationmountain_sceneryremote_trekkingbackpacking

🇵🇪 Country Information: Peru

CapitalLima
CurrencyPeruvian sol (S/.)
LanguageSpanish , Quechua, Aymara
Phone Code+51
Electricity220V (Type A, B, C)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

  • Tipping is common but not mandatory
  • In restaurants, a 10% tip is standard
  • For tour guides and drivers, tipping is appreciated and depends on the service quality
  • For hotel staff, a small tip for porters or housekeepers is customary

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in cities
  • Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas and tourist establishments, but less so in rural areas
  • It's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors and rural areas
  • There is no official black market for cash, but some informal money changers might offer slightly better rates, which is not recommended

Cultural Norms

  • Punctuality is often flexible, especially in social settings
  • Dressing modestly is advisable when visiting religious sites or traditional communities
  • Bargaining is common in markets, but not in formal stores
  • It's considered rude to point with your finger; instead, use your whole hand

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. LGBTQ+ rights in Peru have been advancing, with anti-discrimination laws in place, but same-sex marriage is not yet recognized. Social acceptance varies, with urban areas generally more tolerant.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • The legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are strict, and possession of even small amounts can lead to severe penalties

Special Laws

  • Possessing or trafficking pre
  • Columbian artifacts is illegal
  • It is illegal to deface historical monuments or natural sites
  • Respect for local customs and traditions, particularly in indigenous communities, is important

Common Phrases

NoNo (NOH)
YesSí (SEE)
HelloHola (OH-lah)
PleasePor favor (por fah-VOR)
Excuse meCon permiso (kon per-MEE-so)
Thank youGracias (GRAH-see-ahs)

Climate

High-altitude climate with two distinct seasons. Dry season (May-September) has clear skies, cold nights (below freezing), and warm sunny days. Wet season (October-April) brings daily afternoon rain and cloud cover. Temperatures range from 35-68°F (2-20°C) depending on altitude. Sun is intense due to elevation (3,000-5,000m+).

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Pachamanca must_try

Traditional Andean feast cooked underground with hot stones. Meat, potatoes, corn, and herbs are layered and buried, creating incredibly tender, smoky

Trucha (Mountain Trout) must_try

Fresh rainbow trout from mountain lakes and rivers, typically fried whole or grilled, served with local potatoes. Clean, fresh flavors at altitude.

Cuy (Guinea Pig) local_favorite

Traditional Andean delicacy served roasted or fried whole. Crispy skin with tender meat, considered a celebratory dish. An authentic cultural experien

Papa a la Huancaína must_try

Sliced potatoes in creamy, spicy yellow cheese sauce made with ají amarillo peppers. Classic Peruvian appetizer that showcases the country's incredibl

Mate de Coca must_try

Coca leaf tea essential for altitude acclimatization. Mild, slightly bitter flavor that helps combat soroche (altitude sickness). Drink plenty upon ar

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Huayhuash Circuit tour_or_activity
Book 1-3 months in advance

Limited departures and guide availability. Complex logistics require advance planning.

Huascarán Climbing Expedition tour_or_activity
Book 2-6 months in advance

Technical climb requiring certified guides, permits, and equipment. Limited availability.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Santa Cruz Trek tour_or_activity
Book 1-4 weeks in advance

Popular trek with limited group sizes. Quality guides book up in peak season.

Quality Accommodation in Huaraz Accommodation
Book 1-4 weeks in advance for peak season

Popular hostels and hotels fill up in peak trekking season.

Fun Facts

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