UK passport holders do not need a visa to visit Peru as a tourist.

All visitors need to have a passport with at least 6 months validity. If arriving by air, do ensure you receive an entry stamp when you enter the country.

Please note that if you enter Peru overland from Ecuador or Bolivia you must ensure your passport is stamped with the relevant exit visa and also stamped with a Peruvian entry stamp. 

When to Travel

Peru has complicated physical characteristics of high mountains, desert and rainforest which give rise to a wide range of temperatures and weather patterns.

Machu Picchu can be visited year-round, though the best time is from May to October, when you can typically expect clear conditions. November to March is the rainy season. During the peak rains in February, the main Inca trail to Machu Picchu closes for maintenance (the site itself is still accessible). Note that July-August are peak travel season and Inca Trail permits are limited.

Nov-Mar are not suitable for climbing in the high Andes due to the heavy rainfall. Jun-Sep is the preferred climbing season.

The Amazon Rainforest is generally best visited during the low-water season (Jun-Oct), when rainfall is lower, and conditions more favourable for jungle hiking and photography. There are advantages to travelling during the high-water season (Nov-May), however, as the rainforest is lusher and the temperatures cooler. Heavy rainfall should be expected even during July and August.

Peru's arid Pacific Coast and Nazca Desert regions can be visited year-round. Dec-Apr is ideal, with typically clear skies and a warm climate. The winter months of Jun-Oct see chilly coastal temperatures and often cloudy days. Peru’s coastal cities, including Lima, experience comparatively little rainfall.

Health & Immunisation

Contact your local travel clinic in good time before travelling for the latest guidance on recommended vaccinations. Guidance is also available from the NHS FitForTravel website.

Always carry good insect repellent such as DEET (Autan, Jungle Formula or Pure DEET). There is a risk of Zika virus and Dengue Fever from day-biting mosquitos in Peru so good insect repellent is prudent.

If travelling to the Amazon, you should take precautions against malaria. Please consult your doctor for the latest guidelines. Areas of high altitude (above 2,000 metres) are not considered a risk of malaria.

Always ensure you have adequate health insurance when travelling abroad. 

Currency

The US dollar is widely accepted in hotels and restaurants. Try and obtain some small denomination dollar bills before you travel. However, for small purchases in local shops you will find it easier to pay with Peruvian Sol. There are ATM machines in Lima Airport and most towns and cities where you can withdraw local currency. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted cards.

Tipping

Tipping is expected in restaurants in Peru. Around 10% is usual but do check if a service charge has been added. Taxi drivers are not usually tipped. On group guided tours, a tip of around US$5 per person per day is recommended for your lead guide. A private guide would expect a tip of between US$10-$20.