Travel Tribe Peru – What to Expect
The Women’s Travel Tribe
Peru
August 13th – 23rd, 2025
What to Expect
It’s Time to Get Excited!
Your exciting journey to Peru is on the horizon, and it’s sure to be a trip to remember. Please read the following document carefully as it contains important information to help you prepare for the adventure ahead. If you have any questions at all, simply let us know!
The Destination
What to Expect of the Tour
Get ready for an exciting 11-day journey through Peru, a country shaped by ancient civilizations and layered with traditions that still thrive in the beautiful Andes. From the old streets of Cusco to the green terraces of the Sacred Valley, we’ll uncover more of Peru’s story each day. We’ll walk through colorful markets filled with laughter and handmade crafts, visit famous Inca sites like Machu Picchu and Ollantaytambo, and learn weaving techniques passed down through countless generations.
What makes this trip truly special is the real connection we’ll form with the people and places we encounter. We’ll share a home-cooked meal in a family kitchen, spend time with artisans at their looms, and discover the stories behind each textile and basket of produce. Instead of just looking around, we’ll get involved in the everyday moments that give this place its meaning, from chatting with farmers in remote villages to making your own piece of traditional art. Every step of the way, you won’t feel like an outsider, but a welcome guest sharing in Peru’s living traditions.
Facts About Perú
- Population: 34.35 million people
- Religion: The predominant religion is Roman Catholicism, with around 80% of the population identifying as Catholic. There are also smaller communities of Evangelical Christians, as well as practitioners of indigenous beliefs.
- Languages: Spanish is the official language of Peru, widely spoken across the country. Additionally, indigenous languages such as Quechua and Aymara hold official status in regions where they are prevalent, and English is spoken to some degree in tourist areas.
- History: Peru’s history is rooted in the achievements of the Inca Empire, followed by Spanish colonization starting in the 16th century. The country gained independence in 1821 and has since evolved into a nation where indigenous traditions, colonial influences, and modern developments all contribute to its vibrant cultural identity.
- Politics: Peru is a democratic republic with a President serving as both head of state and head of government. Currently President Dina Boluarte leads the executive branch, supported by a Prime Minister and cabinet. The nation’s governance structure encourages a balance of power among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
Travel / Entry
Entry Requirements
You will need a passport to travel to Peru. Your passport should be valid until at least February 2026 and it should have 2 full empty pages.
Citizens of the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most European countries are allowed to enter Peru without a visa for stays of less than 90 days. As a result, no preparations are needed and you do not need to obtain a tourist visa for this trip. Upon arrival in the country, the immigration officer will simply stamp your passport and you’ll be allowed to enter.
Arrival and Departure Information
Please note that the arrival and departure airport for this tour is the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco and your flight to/from Peru should be for this airport only.
You will soon receive a travel arrangements form asking for your arrival details so that we can arrange your airport transfer and any extra accommodations you may need.
Preparation
Accommodation and Transportation
For this tour we’ll stay in 3.5* and 4* hotels. All rooms have a private bathroom.
Throughout the journey, we’ll travel mostly by private van. We’ll also take a train from Yucay to Machu Picchu and back, and use a shared bus to reach the ruins.
Immunization
Currently Peru doesn’t require any specific immunizations to enter the country. However, it is always worthwhile to consult with a healthcare professional about any optional vaccinations that might be beneficial for you during the tour. These may include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Tetanus, Typhoid, Cholera, Yellow Fever, Malaria and Meningitis.
Money
The local currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). The current exchange rate is $1 USD = 3.70 PEN.
In terms of spending money, you should estimate an average of $25 – $30 USD per person per day for all of your needs. This would be for meals that are not included in the tour, basic purchases (laundry service, snacks, etc) as well as any activities you choose to do on your own.
While credit cards are widely accepted in Cusco, as well as in Peru’s main tourist areas, hotels, and larger restaurants and shops, cash is typically the primary method of payment in the countryside.
The best way to get local currency is through an ATM. Although ATMs are available in most places we’ll visit, it’s best to withdraw money during our first days in Cusco, since ATMs in rural areas can be less reliable. If ATM use isn’t feasible or fees are high, you can bring USD to exchange at money exchange offices located in all major cities.
*While US dollars may be accepted in some tourist areas, we recommend using the local currency to avoid unfavorable conversion rates and potential issues with change.
As for tipping, it is not as common as in other western countries, but in some cases it is expected. Here’s a general guideline:
- Restaurants – 10% – 15% if a service charge is not already added to the bill
- Hotel staff – $1 – $2 USD if someone helps you with luggage or anything else
- Our drivers – Your tour leader will collect tips for our drivers during the tour. This will be approximately $50 USD per person in total.
- Tour leader – If you wish to tip your tour leader, they will always be greatly appreciative.
*Tips for waitstaff at included meals are already included.
Food / Water
Tap water in Peru is not ideal for drinking and you should always drink bottled water. Brushing your teeth with tap water is okay but many travelers choose to brush with bottle water instead.
Meals during our tour will be a delightful mix of ordering from menus at local restaurants and enjoying family-style sharing of traditional dishes. We are able to accommodate all dietary requirements to ensure everyone can fully enjoy the culinary experiences. Prior to the trip, we will send out a form to collect your dietary preferences and requirements so that everything will be in order.
Staying Connected
Peru has generally strong internet connection all of our accommodations will have WiFi. However, you can expect weaker connections in rural areas, with occasional poor connectivity. In general, the internet access will work and you’ll be able to do whatever you need to do online, but it might take longer than normal with the potentially spotty connection.
The easiest way to stay connected during the tour will be to purchase an E–SIM before the trip, as this will allow you to stay connected from the moment you land at the airport. We can also set up local SIM cards upon arrival for those who wish.
Another option is to activate your home network’s ‘international plan’ which will allow you to continue using your phone as you would at home, with access to a data connection, for a fee that usually ranges from $5 – $10 per day.
Drones / Cameras
You may bring your camera bodies and lenses into Peru as a tourist.
Although regulated, you may bring your drone into Peru. However, it must be declared on your customs form upon arrival. You will need to pay a VAT of about 18% based on its value, and you’ll receive a receipt for a refund when you leave the country. If you fail to declare your drone, you could face a $250 USD fine. Please remember to follow local regulations at all times, and note that flying drones over historical sites is not allowed. If you have any questions or need clarification, you can contact the DGAC at atencionalciudadano@mtc.gob.pe.
Outlet Adapters
Electrical sockets in Peru work with type A and B plugs (commonly used in the United States), as well as type C, (commonly used in Europe). Therefore, if your devices have plugs from the US or Europe, you won’t need to purchase a separate adapter.
As for electricity, check your chargers to see if they say 110 – 230 V. If they do, you will not have any problems charging your device while on the tour.
Safety
Safety Tips
Peru is a very welcoming country, and while it’s generally very safe for travelers, it’s important to remain mindful of your surroundings and exercise common sense during your visit. Always keep an eye on your belongings: avoid placing wallets or phones in your back pockets, carry purses or shoulder bags securely in front of you, and ensure backpacks are zipped up. Rest assured, our accommodations are reliable and secure, so you can confidently leave your belongings in your room while you’re out exploring.
Scams
While scams are uncommon, it’s good to stay alert. Street taxis may overcharge or take longer routes, so it’s best to stick to authorized taxis or the Uber app. Be careful when exchanging money on the street, as some vendors might hand you counterfeit bills. Always stick to reputable exchange offices or ATMs, and our tour leader can always take you to a reliable one. In touristy areas, people might offer “special deals” on tickets or souvenirs at prices that seem too good to be true, often resulting in hidden costs or even fake tickets. If you’re unsure about pricing, just ask your tour leader. In the end, trust your instincts, and if something feels off, it’s best to decline and move on.
Weather / Packing
Weather
During this trip we can expect cool but nice weather. August is an ideal time to visit Peru, as it falls in the middle of the dry season, offering ideal weather for sightseeing and exploring the country’s mountainous regions, with clear skies and minimal rain. Here are the average temperatures of each destination we will visit:
- Cusco: 68F/20C high – 36F/2C low
- Ollantaytambo: 55F/13C high – 36F/2C low
- Yucay: 75F/24C high – 41F/5C low
- Machu Picchu: 77F/25 high – 59F/15 low
Clothing Requirements
For the most part, taking comfortable clothing is important. It’s also a good idea to prepare for all kinds of conditions as Perús weather can be unpredictable at times. As a result, taking clothes that you can use as layers is definitely worth doing!
Packing
We recommend packing the following items:
- Pants (3-4 pairs – comfortable, lightweight)
- Shirts (3-4 short-sleeve shirts, 4-5 long-sleeve shirts)
- Shorts (2 pairs to use in warmer places)
- Swimsuit
- Underwear and socks
- Pair of sturdy walking shoes
- Pair of hiking boots
- Warm clothing (3 sweaters and 1 warm jacket for cooler nights)
- Winter hat and gloves
- Toiletries
- Medications (bring enough of any prescription medicines you take)
- Small daypack (for daily excursions)
- Gadgets and chargers
- Earplugs (helpful if you’re a light sleeper, especially during camping)
- Sunglasses
- Hat
If you have any questions about other items you were thinking about bringing or not bringing, just send us an email and we’ll be happy to let you know if such an item is necessary for this trip.
WhatsApp Group
We will set up a WhatsApp chat 2 weeks prior to the start of the tour that will include all of the participants as well as your tour leader. This will allow everyone to get to know each other in advance, ask questions and communicate with your tour leader both before and during the tour. It will be very useful for you to have WhatsApp available to you during the tour as this will be the main method of communication.
Additional Details
Tour Leader
Your tour leader for this trip will be Liz Aceves. With a passion for travel that ignited at a young age, she brings a wealth of diverse experiences, ensuring you’re in capable hands. From answering your questions to offering assistance whenever needed, Liz is committed to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable adventure for everyone.
She will introduce herself and share more details when we create the group WhatsApp chat.
Is There Any Free Time?
Yes! Some days will include time together as well as free time for you to enjoy a destination at your own pace. With that said, your tour leader will always be available to offer personal recommendations and suggestions as to things you might want to do or see, places to photograph and other interesting activities that you might want to check out when there is free time.
That’s it for now and we hope you are continuing to get more and more excited about this incredible adventure, just as we are!
If you have any questions about anything, please reach out to team@wanderingearl.com
