We recommend while you are walking on the streets to leave your personal documents, credit cards etc. in the security box in your accommodation, just make sure that you have enough cash with you for your daily expenses. Some tourists have problems with pick pockets, but this is mainly while visiting locals markets and walking through crowded places.
There are always police around in the city centre and in the larger cities they have “Tourist Police” who can help you if you have problems. If you want to get off the beaten path in the cities, we suggest you talk to someone first and find out which areas are safe for tourists to go. As in all cities, walking alone at night is not recommended.
With regards to cars, you need to be defensive when crossing the roads, even if you are on a pedestrian crossing it does not guarantee you will be given way to!
When considering taking Taxis it is best to get your hotel to order these for you, taking taxis on the street is not safe and should be avoided. Always make sure when you get in that the price is agreed on before the journey starts.
Food and Water:
One of the most common problems people have when traveling to countries such as Peru is travelers’ bug or travelers’ stomach. Some of this comes down to the strength of the individuals’ stomach to process the change but many cases can be avoided by taking care with your choices.
Water from the tap is not drinkable in any area of Peru and those new to the country need to drink only bottled water with no evidence of tampering around the seal. This is for drinking but also for brushing teeth etc.
Restaurants need to be chosen carefully, look for cleanliness and also well patronized establishments, these are always good signs! Avoid salads and uncooked fruit and vegetables in your first weeks as the water they are washed in may not be suitable. Also take care with dressings and sauces on tables, as these are watered down in some places. Eating from street vendors and local restaurants is not advised when you first arrive.
Good hygiene also helps to avoid bugs, carrying hand wipes or cleaner with you and washing up before meals in essential.
Vaccines:
There are certain vaccines that are required to come to Peru, such as yellow fever and some that are optional. We suggest that you discuss with your doctor the pros and cons of these optional vaccines to see if they are right for you. Tablets may also be taken to protect against malaria. Again discuss these options with your doctor. We highly recommend you get the rabies vaccines before you go, because of the number of remote areas in Peru that are some distance from medical care.
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