Vibrant and flavourful, food in Peru is amazing. Peru is a country steeped in a fascinating history with lush scenery and colourful traditions. The Active Roots Zipper Scarf is your run-of-the-mill infinity scarf but with a hidden pocket that’s big and sturdy enough for a night’s cash, your phone, a passport and (hell with it) some snacks too! This means that, if the driver for whatever reason has bad intentions, will find it harder to grab you. Any local tours that i can contact for a solo traveler? This pretty historical city attracts travellers who not only come for the Inca ancient ruins but who want to take a step back in time. Someone in the group may have done the Salkantay Trail and can advise better. You might be in a crowded place and unable to watch your pockets as well as you’d wish, or someone might just lift something from your bag. The World Health Organisation has ranked Peru as having one of the most underfunded healthcare systems in the world. It’s really, really important. Read our full review of the GRAYL GEOPRESS! Discover more here, Weather in Peru – Below is an annual weather chart from January to December, Subscribe to Girl about the Globe for monthly solo travel inspiration. The best way to stay safe in Peru is to simply travel smart. You’ll be pleased to know that Peru is safe to travel alone and this way is actually quite popular. If you go to Peru alone then you’ll be the master of your own fate, drifting where you want without needing to debate each destination with your companion. I’ve changed the spelling. You’ll also find Peruvian guesthouses, jungle and eco lodges and the more luxurious hotels on. This is just a guide that is catering for everyone. Plenty of Peruvians do use Uber, but there is a whole army of taxis waiting for your business. Below is our Peru travel guide on how to travel solo in Peru including where to stay, recommended tours to Peru, where to go in Peru, and the best way to travel in Peru. In Peruvian culture, family, and especially children, is very important. Explore. If you are backpacking Peru and travelling Peru on a budget, you’ll find plenty of basic accommodation including hostels in Peru to meet like-minded others. Miraflores has a different feel to the rest of the capital with good restaurants and nightlife. Many of its high ranking politicians, including ex-presidents, are being accused of or jailed for corruption; scandal after scandal after scandal. We have used World Nomads for years now and I have personally made several claims. The Temple of the Sun is a highlight here. Sometimes going as part of an excursion package is easier than organising everything yourself. If you feel like someone’s following you. In the heart of Old Lima you can find the cathedral, museums and the Archbishop’s Palace. This means it’s been recently registered. Dining in Peru is an experience and if you’re lucky you’ll have live music whilst you're eating as locals play their latest tunes on traditional wooden instruments. Travel mishaps can and do happen and it is well worth thinking about insurance before you leave home. Gadventures Peru tours range from 5 days Trekking the Inca Trail, an 11 day Explore Machu Picchu Tours with G Adventures including the Amazon River, a G Adventures Classic Peru 12 day tour beginning in Lima and ending in Cusco, or, There are several Peru trips to choose from whether you are just planning on visiting Peru or travelling through more countries in South America. It might feel BAD to be so judgemental, but this might literally save you from a BAD situation. This is more expensive, but less hassle than hailing one yourself. While there’s the very real issue of chauvinism, which can be intimidating at times, all-in-all Peru is still safe for solo female travelers. Save $20 off your first stay with this Airbnb link. Peru is a growingly complex country so there will lots more besides these. At least one week for Lima, Cusco and the Sacred Valley. I inhabit the strange world of travel writing where for my job I go back and forth … Before moving to the country, you’ll want to do some hefty research, join some expat Facebook groups, ask questions, and book a trip to Peru if you haven’t actually been. Men wanting to marry ‘rich Westerners’ is a thing. I wanted to point out that cocoa tea/leaves is actually coca tea/leaves! Sign up for The Broke Backpacker newsletter to receive regular tips on how to travel for less plus a FREE copy of The Backpacker Bible! Someone in our Facebook community has asked a similar question. In conclusion, taxis in Peru are safe so long as you take the necessary precautions. Prices from £79 p/n. This should definitely be on your Peru itinerary. Seriously though, the food here is so good and it would be a shame to miss out. Why it's so dangerous: "Turkey has experienced a considerable amount of political instability … It’s all about being aware of your surroundings, we’d say. You have to pay to enter and also for the bus to take you there. Oh, and did we mention corrupt police stops? They also offer trips to Machu Picchu Peru. But that doesn’t mean you can’t be safe in Peru and protect yourself. Find out how to get from the airports and what to do in each place. And the best way to achieve that is simply to wear a money belt. We wouldn’t say that buses in Peru are safe, exactly, as some statistics may prove otherwise. Be prepared for what life throws at you on the road. Amazing Inca ruins, the Andes Mountains and fried guinea pigs. Petty theft is definitely an issue, the political landscape is almost reaching turmoil levels, and drugs (well, the gangs that traffic them and all the violence that comes with that) are a growing problem in Peru. Put your money in a special belt as well. You can travel onward to La Paz by boat then bus. While you’ll certainly be safer than just walking on the road, you still need to be wary. The budget of £30 is an average budget based on cheap accommodation, food and tours. on our own.Granted, we did not go off the beaten track too much, or stay out real late, or walk dark streets alone … Whilst COVD 19 has not gone away, the world is opening up again to travellers. Not chocolate! We like the Active Roots insulated bottle because it can take a beating and keep our water nice and cold. Your girlfriend should be absolutely fine especially if she is travelling with you. By booking through this page you are helping to improve the lives of vulnerable girls about the globe. You’re “. Also, I am a semipro photographer and I would love to take pictures there, do you think it would be safe to take big camera/lenses? It is a sacred plant and medicine to the Indigenous people. Peru and Machu Picchu are safe destinations for the solo traveler, Machu Picchu is a must see on any … Hi Tess, people travel on different budgets. Exercise increased caution in Peru due to crime and terrorism. Here are a few useful phrases in Spanish for your backpacking Peru adventure: Shit – Mierda! Airbnb connects you to staying with locals whether you choose to just book a room or a whole apartment. This would really be a luxury trip with the prices you’ve quoted. Always put them in the proper storage under the bus. Road conditions are often poor. Northern Peru does not have that many tourists and parts of the country are out of bounds so check Foreign Office advice or use a tour company if you are unsure of where to travel. This is where the locals used to bury the dead under the church and you can explore the underground caves and view the old skulls and bones. Whilst you CAN hire a car and use it in the main cities, the congestion can be pretty bad. Discovered in 1911 by an American historian, Hiram Baingham, the site which spans five square kilometers is now one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Known as ‘the City of Churches,’ the city boasts tradition and legend. Bus travel and being out after dark anywhere is safer in a group, but in general, solo travel in Peru is no more dangerous than traveling … Check what route the driver is taking. If you are travelling solo in Peru… The buses in Peru are amazing so I would say to take the buses instead of renting a 4×4. We did use guides for some day trips, but otherwise, just explored Olly, Cusco, etc. Shit eater – Come Mierda (for better effect! If you listened to us, then you will be able to dodge the shay taxi drivers, the thieves, the gang violence, the political unrest, all of it. Bus … Click here to discover all activities and things to do in Peru, Click here for the full itineraries, prices, and start dates, Check all Get Your Guide day tours and prices here, https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/. Traveling solo is one thing, but traveling solo as a FEMALE is a whole other ball game. We found an interesting article on Tripadvisor but maybe you can give us an idea too? The pharmacist can help you out, plus you can buy more medicines over the counter (i.e. Hi I am not a female but be traveling to Peru with my girlfriend for 10 days starting 10/21/16 to 10/31/16. As in any other city be careful with your belongings in Lima and don’t walk about at night (Cuzco is much safer). Really wanted to like this – but just because I’m traveling solo doesn’t mean I’ve got a money tree in my backyard! Uber in Peru is also very annoying. Have you joined our Facebook group? * Click here for the full itineraries, prices, and start dates, Intrepid Travel is similar to G Adventures with an average of 12 people on each tour. Hi, So do drug trafficking gangs – and political demonstrations that turn violent. They surprise you, grab your stuff and scarper. A lot of travel insurance companies will cover emergency evacuations and situations. We have some doubts as the altitude is pretty high and the hike takes a lot of time. In other words, don’t go there. It saves you time, energy and money. Turkey. Usual taxi shenanigans are par for the course in Peru. Many of these are worthy of your attention, but the Active Roots Security Belt is one we’d definitely recommend. I am a female in my 30s and last month I traveled to Peru solo and had a wonderful time. Generally, Peru is a safe place to visit—with a little guidance. Once they find one that’s open – bingo. Many tourists visit and have a trouble-free time! These include Cruz del Sur, Ormeno and Oltursa. Take advantage of a tourist ticket which gives entry into many of the things to do in Cusco including museums, churches and the Inca site: Puca Pucara (the red fortress). Buses from here to Machu Picchu (meaning ‘old mountain’) start from 5.30am in the morning when you can visit the lost city for sunrise. Don’t be afraid to go solo … Now, it’s all about reforms against corruption. Unfortunately, there’s always going to be more to consider when you’re traveling alone as a woman. The people of Peru are very embracing to foreigners. The scenery on these train trips is AMAZING. Even an ayahuasca ceremony can be lethal (more on that later). Lima is generally ok, but anywhere in the mountains or the Amazon Basin is going to suffer when heavy rain falls. It’s a busy town with a large market and is mystical at night with the mist from the mountains and the sounds of the Vilcanota River as it echoes through  the town. ... Road travel. Whatever you do, make sure you both agree. There are guest houses and home stays for those looking to stay with locals instead of fellow travellers. That said, in 2017 Peru had the fifth lowest murder rate in Latin America and the Caribbean, and it’s declining. Aguas Calientes is the little town close to Machu Picchu, the most famous Inca ruin of all. Do these and you should have a better idea on where/what you’ll want to do. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. It’s not always going to be easy, but as long as you travel smart you’ll surprise yourself at how INCREDIBLE a time you’ll have. I am a 25 year old new yorker and am planning on traveling to Peru alone. Peruvian society, in general, will be protective of females traveling by themselves. Peru is a fascinating country to explore. Driving in Peru is not safe. Thank you for sharing this information as I’ll visit Peru this May with my husband. You must not travel, including abroad, unless you have a legally permitted reason to do so. The city comes alive with monthly festivals but wrap up warm as it gets very cold at night. Solo travel is pretty common in Peru, and you’ll often find plenty of other solo backpackers to spend time with, so it’s unlikely you’ll be alone that much. connects you to staying with locals whether you choose to just book a room or a whole apartment. You should be aware that tourist hotspots and public transportation are places where most thefts and … Corn, chicken, potatoes, avocados, sugarcane and whole a whole lot of garlic and chili. Brand new sports jackets, expensive backpacks, having your phone out, looking puzzled at your surroundings… ‘fraid to say it, but you should travel with more caution in Peru. I was reading a lot about the Rainbow Mountain and maybe you have an idea of this place? Incredible guide guys! Prices from £38 p/n. If you need to save fuel while trekking in the wilderness, try investing in a Grayl Geopress – these little tools are very effective and are even used in hospitals. That being said, Lima is not more dangerous … Find out more…. Don’t even think of going to Peru without medical insurance! Also from your experience and knowledge what about backpacking? Lima, in particular, has become a lot safer in recent years – it used to see a higher proportion of the country’s overall crime rate. But it doesn’t just LOOK good, it TASTES good! And as always: DON’T let your children pet any street dogs, or go near them, for that matter. Nearby is the picturesque village of Ollantaytambo, a fortress that overlooks the beautiful Urubamba River Valley and one of Peru's main attractions. The main routes are Cusco to Machu Picchu, Cusco to Puno, and in the north, Lima to Huancayo. Find out more…, Solo Favourite – Hotel Hacienda Plaza de Armas, Puno, Not only is this 3 star hotel in a great location in the main square of Puno but it also looks out to the cathedral. From their national dish – ‘ceviche’ (raw fish marinated in lime juices and spices) – to Argentine steak and guinea pig, they cater for everyone’s tastes, no matter how adventurous. There are guest houses and home stays for those looking to stay with locals instead of fellow travellers. Crime happens, as it does everywhere, but in Peru, you’ll likely to be targeted BECAUSE you’re a tourist. I also recommend joining our Girls about the Globe group where others can give advice too https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/. What are your thoughts on this, how dangerous is it? Hi Emma, I haven’t done the 4/5 day trek in Peru but you could price everything up separately and compare the costs. At the end of the day, it’s safe to live in Peru but it won’t be easy. Home » South America » Peru » Travel Safety. Better choices would be alternative rideshares apps like Cabify. They happen, a lot. Try not to travel between November and April. By covering your own back and having the proper security nets in place, you will be able to enjoy backpacking in Peru even more enjoyable. Peru tourism now restricts the number of visitors to Machu Picchu to help preserve the environment so book ahead as places are limited. Think up ways to curb sexual advances. A colorful array of ingredients, especially in the markets, makes Peruvian food a wonder to behold. Feel free to join and I can add you to the conversation thread for tours and accommodation x https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/. Required fields are marked *. This can very expensive. If you are planning to solo travel in Peru, we've given it 3 out of 5 stars. It is built in the dip of a valley and is 3,400 metres above sea level. Cheers! However, Peru remains in a state of national emergency and international travel is not permitted. Puno’s main square is like a mini city and you can buy hats and jumpers for really cheap prices. A full-sized money belt that stays tucked under your clothes keeps your documents and cash organized during your travels and assures nothing critical gets left behind or stolen. If you injure yourself or get sick somewhere remote – and trust us, there are A LOT of remote places in this geographically diverse country – you’ll need emergency medical evacuation. I only link to stuff I’ve actually used and never endorse products or services that are not up to scratch. Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and tours in worldwide destinations including Peru. The following is one of them. There’s a great view of the lake from here. This is NOT safe! Enjoy your travels! If you like your trains, then you’re going to want to do these trips. If the driver looks sketchy, we’d recommend listening to your gut. If you need a little more room for your passport and other travel valuables, have a look at a full-size money belt that tucks under your clothes instead. The GRAYL GEOPRESS water bottle is the ONLY all-in-one filter water bottle setup you’ll need. Did you know? The frontier town nestled in the hills gets its name (‘hot water’ in Spanish) from the hot springs. Hi Karyn, I did my tour with Gadventures. Btw, I am an experienced traveler and travelled to over 25 countries but I am more concerned about my girlfriend. Safety is always a concern while travelling, and Peru -- Lima in particular -- has experienced a recent increase in crime as tourism has grown in the country. Subscribe to Girl about the Globe and receive 101 Solo Travel Tips for your next solo trip! We’re talking floods, power outages, landslides, and all are pretty unsafe if you ask us. What does a real taxi look like? what’s the cheapest option for hiking the Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu? First of all, it’s super easy to meet other backpackers, especially if you’re traveling along the well-trodden routes on the ol’ Gringo Trail. Not only is it exceptionally clean and chic but it is close to the fayre to pick up an artisan souvenir. Answer: they can’t! When it comes to your luggage, don’t use the overhead compartments. If a situation doesn’t feel right, then it probably is a bit weird. Making friends is always a plus too, and in general, we reckon you’re going to have an awesome time in Peru! Doctors usually require CASH upfront before they do any procedure on a foreign visitor even if they have insurance. Here is the link to join https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/. There’s a whole lot of ground to cover. Other things to do in Lima is to head to the main square to watch the changing of the guards that takes place daily at noon in front of the Presidential Palace. If you know basic Spanish, you really get much more out of your experience backpacking Peru. The highest city in Peru is Puno at 3830m above sea level. I’m not sure about safety with cameras as I only use a small digital one. Peru to Brazil – From Puerto Maldonado take a minibus to Inapari (4 hours), then cross by the bridge or ferry to Assis Brasil. A visit here is not complete without a boat trip to the Uros floating islands of the Uros People who isolated themselves centuries before. Crashes happen much less often where the bigger, more expensive companies are concerned. Politicians are corrupt. Just keep hydrated, don’t push yourself, meet good people, and have fun. In Lima, It’s fine to explore the capital during the day as policemen stand on the street corners but don’t venture out at night here. Your number, where you’re staying, where you’re going… No matter how friendly they might seem. *This is accurate at time of writing but we appreciate things can change. When are you traveling in Peru, buses and trains run from Peru major cities and towns but they are time consuming so if you are short on time, consider taking one of the domestic Peru flights for ease. This also applies to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Peru to Chile – From Tacna to Arica in Chile. N.b. Chances are you’ll want to visit this amazing place. A big Jewish community and synagogue can be found in the San Isidro area. specialise in sustainable and responsible travel. I would say as a general rule just be careful with any of your belongings and don’t have them out on display in poorer areas where you may attract attention. Not to be sexest, being a woman, be a little extra careful wherever … Volunteer placements are from 1 to 12 weeks and start from £373 / US $450. We’re all about travelling smart at The Broke Backpacker, so we want to help you out with some major pointers that’ll keep your trip trouble-free. In some cases, tour guides have been implicated. That doesn’t mean it’s not without its issues, though. Staying safe as a solo traveller in Peru Peru is a relatively safe place to visit and most single travellers feel safe throughout their stay. The leftist, drug trafficking group Shining Path is currently having a resurgence in the main coca growing regions. That Machu Picchu was the only Inca Ruin undiscovered by the Spanish during their rule. Right now Peru seems in the middle of a turning point in its political landscape. Not only is it exceptionally clean and chic but it is close to the fayre to pick up an artisan souvenir. Our insider guide has you covered. (function () { var _bsBrandLink = document.getElementById('bs-branding-url'); _bsBrandLink.href = _bsBrandLink.href + encodeURI(window.location.href); })(); Disclosure: *Girl about the Globe* is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program as well as other affiliate programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites at no extra cost to you. Yes, it’s safe to live in Peru, and indeed, loads of backpackers and budding professionals teach English in Peru. Haggling is ok, so if you feel like you can save money (or you’ve done research on what the price should be), go for it. So the political situation might not be great in Peru right now, and crime may still be a big problem, but that doesn’t mean you can’t visit Peru and stay safe. There are several Peru trips to choose from whether you are just planning on visiting Peru or travelling through more countries in South America. Knowing what to do in the event of a disaster. Most tours have an average of 10 people and there is no upper age limit. Ultimately, it’ll be safer and LESS stressful the older they are, maybe 7 years and upwards. Take the bus from Lima to arrive the next morning. Make sure to do your research on these – seriously – as accidents happen often. It’s the perfect place for exploring and Lake Titicaca is really close too. As long as you do your research, stay aware of your surroundings and take some precautions, everything will be fine. Hey thanks for the info! Allow two weeks to include visiting Machu Picchu (which is a must). That isn’t exactly safe, especially at night. Some want to stay in nice hotels and some want an organised tour. Visitors are often seen as wealthy. Don’t even think about driving at night. There are no set ‘rules’ on what to wear to not get attention, but generally the less revealing, the better. It’s easier, safer and they know the routes so you can just enjoy looking out of the window at the scenery instead. When moving from place to place, you shouldn’t store travel documents in a bag, even if it’s under your seat or overhead. My mother is scaring the **** out of me telling me i will be kidnapped. Don’t eat things that have been washed in water. You won't have to look far to find a member of the Peruvian police force. Lima is not so safe city since many criminals carry guns and do not fear to use them if feeling threatened. The nature is pretty scary too! Overall, Peru is somewhat safe to visit, though it has many dangers and is ridden with crime. Nope. To hire a car we recommend pre-booking your car rentals with Avis so you can collect your car when you arrive at the airport. Robberies, animals in the road, sheer drops – all reasons to never, ever drive after dark in Peru. Try Chica, a traditional drink made from corn and herbs or a Pisco Sour cocktail. The key is to avoid sketchy areas and listen to your gut. They offer a 7 day Inca Trail express from Cusco, a 15 day tour of Real Peru or an epic 32 day tour from Lima to Rio de Janeiro. Have fun in Peru, but take it from us, overseas medical care and canceled flights can be seriously expensive – insurance can, therefore, be a life-saver. I have personally used G Adventures and. That’s a lot of traveling, and if you’re alone, it … Being alone means you can travel at your own pace, see things differently, meet a whole load of interesting people, and challenge yourself all at the same time. Women’s safety. They have some good ideas for itineraries which you could use if you’re travelling independently. The rainy season in Peru can be devastating. Then there’s the rainforest. Knowing what to do in the event of a disaster is the best way to stay safe, as these things are unpredictable. Hi Shanna, thanks so much for letting me know. Aside from the politics of Peru, it’s pretty much as safe a time as any to visit. These follow high altitude tracks and are pretty cool. You can even camp if you are feeling adventurous. There’s also a locals weavers project en route for a glimpse into local life. Hiya, I think you’re already in Peru now with your dates. This means that if you book your accommodation, buy a book or sort your insurance, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. If you so visit, please let us know what it is like x. I am looking to go to Peru in September, planning to book flights first and then the 4/5day trek via Salkantay Trail- is it best to book a package (e.g. Can you give me a ride – Me puedes dar una vuelta? Of course, if you’ve got nothing on you in the first place, how can your pockets be picked? The safest bet is always to get bottled water. Generally, you’ll want to avoid looking like a tourist. The busiest time is July to August. There are also many, many long-distance buses and a huge selection of bus companies to choose from. Case closed. That’s A LOT! 11 Safety Tips for Solo Travel in Peru Learn to speak Spanish. If you have luggage grab a taxi, only £2 for the 10 minute journey. I felt very safe and it is easy to find safe transportation between cities. This means that when you visit Peru you most likely won’t be staying in one place—you’ll be traveling all around the country, from the northern beaches to Lima to Cusco, and Machu Picchu to the deserts in the south. FYI Peru can totally be traveled for much, much less. * Check all Get Your Guide day tours and prices here. Volunteer with Globalteer and work at projects like Picaflor House Community Project, helping underprivileged and disadvantaged children. It’s well known for the driver to go round the houses in order to hike the meter up. Yes, some places are dangerous and shouldn’t be frequented alone late at night, but just be careful and don’t take any unnecessary risks. The best thing about it is that it actually just looks like a normal belt, which we love.