Common Questions

Q: What documents do I need to enter the country?
A: A valid passport with the expiration date at least six months from the end date of travel. No visa is required of US citizens or citizens of Western European countries. Always call and double check on entry requirements as they sometimes change.

The Peruvian Consulate in the USA, Tel: 202-462-1084. The Embassy, Tel: 202-833-9860. Canada: 613-238-1777 UK: 020-7838-9223, or log onto:

Embassy World

Q: Is Peru safe?
A: The terrorist activity of the 'shining path' that Peru was infamous for in the 1980's and early 1990's has largely subsided.

For more information you can call the US State Department's Travel Advisory hot-line at: (202-647-5225), or call the US Embassy in Lima (51-64-338000) or US Consulate (51-64- 443621/443921).

US State Department's Travel Advisory Web site

Take the same precautions you would in large, unfamiliar cities in the US. Women should not walk alone after dark, don't wear expensive jewelry, take care with handbags, etc. Make sure your luggage is locked when traveling by bus or airplane. Don't leave unlocked valuables in your hotel room. Beware of pickpockets in Cusco! (this is due to the large number of travelers)

Q: Do I need inoculations before going to Peru?
A: Typhoid, Yellow Fever and Hepatitis A are present - ask your doctor about appropriate shots and check the CDC (Center for Disease Control) hotline at 404-332-4559 for recorded messages about disease prevention when traveling. Or see the CDC web site at:

Center for Disease Control

Q: What is altitude sickness and how do I avoid it?
A: At high altitudes, people can experience headaches and shortness of breath, especially in the first few days. Bring aspirin or Ibuprofen for relief. Avoid physical exertion the first day or two at altitude, avoid alcohol, drink plenty of water and get plenty of rest.

Immediate relief of altitude sickness is often provided by drinking a glass of coca leaf tea. Effective and tasty!

Q: How do you choose the host families in Peru?
A: CULTURE XPLORERS has a great relationship with a private language school in Cusco. Diego, the owner/director, has been working for years with host families offering lodging to his language students. With his help, we select those families within the network (where at least one member speaks English) most interested in international exchange. These families are middle to upper middle class for their country, but homes will be simpler than what we are used to in the US.

Q: Will I be met at the airport upon arrival.
A: Yes, and dropped off at the airport for departure as well.

Q: What is the time difference between my city and Peru?
A: Peru is the same as Eastern Standard Time (from January to April, 1 hour behind EST. Exact dates vary every year.)

Q: I don't speak Spanish. Will I have trouble communicating with people?
A: Learning even simple words and phrases shows a great respect for the culture and is appreciated by the locals. However, our bilingual trip leader will be with you most of the time to assist (and even encourage) communication. Within the host family (for those that choose this option) there is at least one member who speaks some English.

Q: Is there tipping? How much?
A: Restaurants - service is included in the bill, but if somebody is going out of his or her way for you, then feel free to tip extra (5 or 10%), it will be appreciated! Taxi drivers - usually no tips. Trip leaders - there is no obligation to tip. This is at the discretion of the group at the end of the trip. Hotels - The trip leader will tip the hotel's housekeeping staff.

Q: What about money for things not included in the trip costs?
A: We have estimated the costs of certain items that you should budget for which are not included in the trip price, such as international
airfares, airport departure taxes, some meals, etc.

Costs and Details

Q: Should I bring travelers checks, credit cards orUS dollars?
A: ATM's that accept Cirrus or Plus system bank cards from US banks are common throughout the country. This is generally the most convenient way to take out money in local currency (the Peruvian Sol). However, check with you individual bank to assure that your ATM card will work in machines in Peru. And ask about any fees your bank may apply.

ATMs through MasterCard/Cirrus
ATMs through Visa/Plus

Q: What is the local currency in Peru and its exchange rate with the US dollar?
A: The money used in Peru is called the 'nuevo sol' or 'sol' for short (plural is 'soles').. As of early 2003, the exchange rate was roughly 3.5 soles per 1 US dollar. To get the most current US dollar/Peruvian sol exchange rates, use the link below.

Current Exchange Rates