Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Answering your questions clearly and promptly is a priority at Aura Andina Travel S.A.C. Therefore, we have gathered the most frequently asked questions here to help you plan your trip with confidence.

Visas and Passports

Peru is generally an open-access country. Most countries in the Americas and Western Europe do not require a tourist visa to enter Peru, and the maximum stay granted by authorities is 183 days (non-extendable). For longer stays or other purposes (business, study, or work), it is necessary to apply for the corresponding visa in advance at the respective Peruvian consulates.

A valid passport is a mandatory requirement to enter Peru. Citizens of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Ecuador, Colombia, Bolivia, Venezuela, and Chile may enter with their national identification document.

Health

Sanitary conditions in Peru are favorable, especially in cities. In recent years, healthcare services have been modernized and expanded; both hospitals and clinics provide adequate care, but it is always recommended to have travel health insurance for your trip.

There are no mandatory vaccinations for entering Peru. If you wish to visit the Amazon region, the Ministry of Health recommends the yellow fever vaccination.

The yellow fever vaccine must be administered at least ten days before travel to be effective.

Altitude Sickness

The city of Cusco is located at 3,400 meters above sea level (masl). It is possible to feel some discomfort and dizziness due to the altitude, known in Peru as "soroche." We recommend taking altitude sickness medication 30 minutes before arriving in the city.

The first thing you should do upon arriving in Cusco or Puno is to rest for at least a couple of hours to let your body acclimatize. You can start by visiting sites in the city center, avoiding strenuous physical activities. It is advisable to eat light meals during the first few days. Coca tea is undoubtedly a great ally at these times.

Puno is located at 3,827 masl, where similar symptoms may occur. We recommend resting during the first few days, avoiding physical exertion, drinking coca tea, and staying well-hydrated with bottled or treated water.

Weather

Weather in Cusco

June to October are the ideal months to visit Cusco, offering bright sunshine from early morning. The rainy season begins in November and lasts until March. During these months, we suggest always carrying a raincoat or umbrella. When traveling to Cusco (and Machu Picchu), we recommend protecting yourself against mosquito bites and strong sun rays: bring sunscreen, insect repellent, hats or caps, and sunglasses.

Weather in Puno

In Puno, the climate in most areas is cold and semi-dry, with rain in the summer and high atmospheric humidity. The city of Puno is cold and dry, but due to its location on the shores of Lake Titicaca, temperatures rarely drop below 0°C. In areas further from the lake and at higher altitudes, the cold can be very intense, especially at night.

Currency

The Sol (S/) is the official currency of Peru. Banknotes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 soles. Coins are available in 10, 20, and 50 cents, as well as 1, 2, and 5 soles.

The US Dollar is accepted in countless shops, restaurants, hotels, and gas stations. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and exchange houses ("casas de cambio"). Usual opening hours for exchange offices are Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturdays until noon.

ATMs are available in almost all cities across the country, and most are connected to Plus (Visa), Cirrus (Mastercard/Maestro), American Express, and other networks. You can withdraw cash in Soles or US Dollars, though the exchange rate may be higher.

Cusco Tourist Ticket

The Cusco Tourist Ticket is one of the most important initiatives for tourism development in the region. This ticket allows you to access almost all the city's attractions through different circuits with a single payment.