Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
HOT SHOWERS
Peru's budget accommodations don't always have hot water, and some only have it for certain hours of the day.
Early birds often use up all the hot water, so plan accordingly.
Electric showerheads require care. Switch them on for a hot shower and wait a few minutes. Water is hotter if
the pressure is low. Don't fiddle with the heating unit while the water is on or you may get a shock. Tall travelers:
keep your eyes peeled.
Customs Regulations
Peru allows duty-free importation of 3L of alcohol and 20 packs of cigarettes, 50 cigars or
250g of tobacco. You can import US$300 of gifts. Legally, you are allowed to bring in
such items as a laptop, camera, portable music player, kayak, climbing gear, mountain
bike or similar items for personal use.
It is illegal to take pre- Columbian or colonial artifacts out of Peru, and it is illegal to
bring them into most countries. If purchasing reproductions, buy only from a reputable
dealer and ask for a detailed receipt. Purchasing animal products made from endangered
species or even just transporting them around Peru is also illegal.
Coca leaves are legal in Peru, but not in most other countries, even in the form of tea
bags. People subject to random drug testing should be aware that coca, even in the form of
tea, may leave trace amounts in urine.
Check with your own home government about customs restrictions and duties on any
expensive or rare items you intend to bring back. Most countries allow their citizens to
import a limited number of items duty-free, though these regulations are subject to
change.
Discount Cards
An official International Student Identity Card (ISIC), with a photograph, can get you a
50% discount at some museums and attractions and for organized tours. Senior discount
cards are not recognized.
