What Americans should know before traveling to Peru
For Americans, Peru is an incredibly welcoming destination, but there are some specific logistical and cultural nuances that can catch U.S. travelers off guard. From the "hidden" rules of your passport to why you shouldn't plug your hair dryer directly into the wall, here is what you need to know for 2026. 1. The "Six-Month" Passport Rule This is the #1 reason Americans are denied boarding for Peru. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry. Even if you have three months left and only plan to stay for a week, the airline will likely not let you on the plane. Visa: U.S. citizens do not need a pre-departure visa for stays under 90 days. Proof of Exit: Immigration officers may occasionally ask to see your return flight confirmation. Have a digital copy ready. 2. Don’t Fry Your Electronics While many Peruvian outlets are "universal" (accepting both the flat U.S. prongs and round European prongs), the voltage is different. U.S. Voltage: 110V Peru Voltage: 220V The Rule: Check your device’s power brick. If it says Input: 100-240V, you only need a cheap plug adapter. If it only says 110V (common for hair dryers and older straighteners), do not plug it in—it will literally smoke and break. 3. Altitude is a Medical Reality Cusco is at 11,152 feet—higher than almost any city in the lower 48 states. The American Mistake: Flying from sea-level Lima to Cusco and immediately going out for a steak dinner and cocktails. The Fix: Drink Mate de Coca (coca leaf tea), stay hydrated, and eat light. If you can, spend your first two nights in the Sacred Valley (lower elevation) before staying in Cusco. Prescriptions: Ask your doctor about Acetazolamide (Diamox) before you leave the States. 4. Money: Cash is King (and it must be "Perfect") While credit cards are widely accepted in Lima and Cusco's upscale shops, you will need cash (Soles) for everything else. The "Crisp Bill" Rule: If you bring U.S. dollars to exchange, they must be pristine. Most Peruvian banks and exchange houses will reject a $20 bill if it has even a tiny tear or significant marking. ATMs: Use ATMs located inside banks during daylight hours for safety. 5. Safety & Tipping Tipping: Unlike the 20% standard in the U.S., a 10% tip is the norm in Peruvian restaurants. Tipping taxi drivers is not expected unless they help with heavy luggage. Ubers over Taxis: In Lima, do not hail taxis on the street. Use Uber or Cabify. It’s safer, the price is fixed, and it avoids the language barrier of haggling. The "Street Phone" Rule: Avoid walking with your phone out in busy city centers. Snatch-and-grabs by motorbikes are the most common crime involving tourists.
