Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
All important documents (passport, credit cards, travel insurance policy, driver's license etc) should be photo-
copied before you leave home. Leave one copy at home and keep another with you, separate from the originals.
Internet Access
Most regions have excellent internet connections and reasonable prices; it is typical for
hotels and hostels to have wi-fi or computer terminals. Family guesthouses, particularly
outside urban areas, lag behind in this area. Internet cafes can be found pretty well every-
where, even in villages where they provide the only Friday-night entertainment for youth.
Rates start at S1 per hour, with very high rates only in remote areas.
In this topic, indicates computer terminals and indicates wi-fi access.
Language Courses
Peru has schools in Lima, Cuzco, Arequipa, Huaraz, Puerto Maldonado and Huancayo.
You can also study Quechua with private teachers or at one of the various language insti-
tutes in Lima, Cuzco and Huancayo.
Legal Matters
Your own embassy is of limited help if you get into trouble with the law in Peru, where
you are presumed guilty until proven innocent. If you are the victim, the
policía de tur-
ismo
(tourist police; Poltur) can help, with limited English. Poltur stations are found in
major cities.
Be aware that some police officers (even tourist police) have a reputation for corrup-
tion, but that bribery is illegal. Since most travelers won't have to deal with traffic police,
the most likely place you'll be expected to pay officials a little extra is (sometimes) at land
borders. This too is illegal, and if you have the time and fortitude to stick to your guns,
you'll eventually be allowed in without paying a fee.
Avoid having any conversation with someone who offers you drugs. In fact, talking to
any stranger on the street can hold risks. There have been reports of travelers being
