About Perú 2005

With approximately 25 million inhabitants and an area of 1,285,216 square kilometers, Peru contains some of the most varied geography in South America, consisting of three distinct regions: the dry coastal desert, the Andean highlands and the Amazon Basin . The capital city is Lima , located 12° south of the equator On the Pacific coast.The time zone in the whole country coincides with Eastern Standard time in the U.S. and is five hours behind GMT. Peru has two official languages: Spanish and Quechua; the language of the Inca Empire. English is spoken by some people, mostly in the major tourist areas. For the last 23 years, the government has been a republican democracy. Currently, the president is Dr. Alejandro Toledo Manrique.

Weather

The Coast:
From December to April temperatures reach 27°C; from May to November, temperatures may fall to a mild 12°C,with high humidity.

The Highlands :
From May to November, days are sunny, nights cold and rain scarce, creating the perfect weather for a visit. Rainfall is abundant from December to April. In a single day, temperatures may fluctuate from 20°C to 5°C.

The Amazon Forest:
From May to October is the dry season with sunny days that heat up to 30°C. During the rainy season, rivers swell.

Currency and money exchange

The Peruvian currency is the Nuevo Sol (S/.). It circulates in coins of 10, 20 and 50 centavos and 1,2 and 5 Nuevos Soles, and in bills of 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 Nuevos Soles. Generally, the banks and currency exchange office; will change most foreign currency. The most common credit cards are: Diners Club, Visa, Master Card, American Express. Travelers checks in American dollars are not aIways accepted at hotels, businesses and restaurants (specially in areas far from big cities), so it is always good to carry another form of paymen. It is better to have bills in good condition, since torn ones may not be accepted.

Independence day (28th of July)

If you plan to visit Peru at the end of July, during the national holiday, be sure to arrange transport and lodging in advance because of the high demand.

Religion

Catholicism reigns, but other religious denominations and cults are accepted.

Documents

Valid passport required. No visa is necessary for U.S. tourists holding a valid passport, but a formal extension is required if the visit exceeds 90 days. If you lose your passport, obtain a temporary replacement from your embassy in Lima .

Prohibitions

Photographing airports, military bases and police stations is forbidden. In some churches and museums, it is also forbidden to take photographs or make video recordings.

Drugs

It is strictly forbidden to transport iIIegal drugs. Offenders will be arrested and jailed. Under no circumstance should you accept to carry in your luggage packages belonging to strangers.

Vaccinations

If you wish to visit the jungle, you should get an immunization for yellow fever.

Personal Safety

As in any big city, tourists in Lima may be the target of robberies and other unpleasant situations.

We recommend that you take certain precautions wherever you travel:

•  Use a money belt and carry only the amount of money you plan to spend on a given day.

•  Leave your airline tickets, money and other valuables in your hotel.

•  Don't walk on dark, deserted streets at night.

•  Avoid areas with crowds and many street vendors.

•  Keep close track of bags, cameras and other valuables.

•  Avoid talking with people who approach you to offer services in bus terminals or isoloted areas.

•  In case of robbery, report the incident at the nearest police station and for emergencies call 105.

Electric Current

220V. Appliances using 110V will require a transformer.

Health

Drink only sealed, bottled water of a known brand. When hiking in the mountains, boil or purify the water. Be careful to wash raw vegetables and fruits thoroughly. Avoid eating food from street vendors. The change of food can cause diarrhea. Ask in a pharmacy for local anti-diarrheal medication.

Acclimatization

Because of the altitude, travelers with heart problems or high blood pressure should check with a doctor in advance or if any problem arises. If you plan to visit the highlands, take it easy for the first 2 or 3 days and drink a lot of water to avoid mountain sickness (soroche). If you get a headache, drink coca tea (mate de coca) for some relief. Always carry sunscreen, glasses and a cap for UV protection.

Cultural heritage and protected species

Peruvian law prohibits and prosecutes the sale and export of all types of wild plants and animals and original objects of national cultural heritage, without special permissions from INRENA or the National lnstitute of Culture. Avoid buying such materials.

Lodging

There are hotels and lodgings of all categories and costs. It is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance of the peak tourist sea son (May September). Other possibilities are family-run bed and breakfast lodgings. Ask about check-out times at hotels to avoid additional charges.

Travel Agencies

You can make your Peruvian trip easier by booking with a travel agency. There are various packages and prices. Avoid contracting services from people who circulate around the airports and bus stations.

Transportation

By Air

From Lima you can find flights to the principal cities in the country, with the exception of Huaraz, Huancayo and lca. Make your reservations in advance.

By Land

Traveling by land is very popular in Peru, so many routes and types of bus service are available. Ask about the conveniences included in each fare class before purchasing your ticket. Ask if it is direct service or with various stops along the way.

By Rail

There are three tourist routes:

l. Arequipa - Juliaca - Puno

2. Puno - Cusco

3. Cusco - Machu Picchu Reservations at:
E-mail: reservas@perurail.com
www.perurail.com