Peru’s name was pelu, meaning river, which probably mispronounced. If you’re a fan of old stuff, you will appreciate this country; Peru is home to the Inca Empire whose ancient cities are preserved. The largest city and capital is Lima.

For Philippine Passport Holders, Peru is the country where you can enter visa-free the longest, it’s 183 days. For other nationalities, read below if how many days you can visit this amazing country. This is a Visa Free Guide to Peru that will help you in your adventure!

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Visa Free Countries

Here are the nationals that can enter Peru based on this list:

183 days

90 days

60 days

Dominican Republic

Additional Note:

For Chinese and Indian Nationals, you can enter Peru for 180 days if you have a valid visa or residence permit for the US, Australia, Canada, UK, or a Schengen area.

Requirements for Entering Peru

Valid Passport - at least 6 months
Return or Onward Ticket

Overview of Peru

Capital: Lima

Language: Spanish

Currency: Nuevo Sol (1 USD = 3.30 PEN)

Peru is a South American country that is surrounded by Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, and the Pacific Ocean. It is famous as being a home of Norte Chico and Inca empires. It was colonized by Spain until it gained its own independence. It’s also another megadiverse country in South America as there are many species that are endemic in Peru.

Mestizos are dominant in Peru, however, there is also a large number of indigenous people like the Quechua. Catholics are also predominant in this country with towns or cities having churches and their own patron saints. This country should definitely be part of your South America trip.

Going to Peru

Should you want to go to Peru from Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, you can do so by bus. If you want to fly, you can get flights from Mexico, the US, Europe (Spain, France), and other South and Central American Countries. For those coming from the Philippines, I recommend backpacking in South America rather than flying to Peru as it is costly.

What to do in Peru

1. Walk the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and see the Sacred Valley

Machu Picchu is one of the must-go destinations in the world as well as a part of the New Seven Wonders of the World. A trip to this famous part of Peru would take 2 or 4 days in the Inca trail however there are also other ways. You can read an expert’s guide to know more!

2. Learn to Surf

As Peru is beside the Pacific Ocean, be prepared for countless beaches in the coastal area. Popular places are at Máncora, Cabo Blanco or Los Organos where many people not only enjoy the sea and sand but also the adventurous waves.

3. See the churches

As a Catholic country, there will be many Churches of different architecture in Peru. Cathedral of Lima is Gothic built in the 1500s, Basílica y Convento de San Francisco is Baroque-style and Cusco Cathedral is Gothic-Renaissance with Baroque features. They are truly fascinating!

4. Talk to Peruvian Shamans

Be a witness of their culture and see or talk to the Shamans of Peru. You can get healing; be it physical or spiritual from them. It is really an eye-opener on what they can do and how they help in their community.

5. Ride a hot air balloon over the Sechura Desert

Peru does not only have gorgeous beaches or amazing trails but unbelievably has deserted. You can go to the Sechura Desert that is just also near the beach. You can book a trip on a hot air balloon and see the vast Sechura Desert.

6. Tour around the ancient city of Caral-Supe

More than 5,000 years old, the Sacred City of Caral-Supe is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is where the earliest civilization was established. It is a great site to gain knowledge about our ancestors. It’s also an adventure to go here.

Frequently Asked Questions for your travel in Peru

1. Is Peru Visa-free?

For Philippine Passport Holders, it is visa-free and you are permitted to stay for 183 days. For other nationalities, see the list above!

2. Is it safe to travel to Peru?

Peru is a safe place for travel. However, there may be petty thefts in touristy areas. I always recommend buying travel insurance since we don’t know what will happen to us. Check out Safetywing, my insurance provider.

3. Is it expensive in Peru for tourists?

Peru is can be quite expensive especially on touristy destinations. However, you can also go on a budget and spend about USD 30 a day.

4. When is the best time to visit Peru?

November to March is the rainy season with January to February being the wettest. April to October is the dry season and the peak season. If you want to travel during the dry season, it is better to book hotels earlier.

5. Where should I stay in Peru?

If you want to be near Machu Picchu, then I suggest staying at Cusco. You could also stay at the capital, Lima. Here are the list of Luxury Hotels and Best Hostels in Peru.

Photo by McKayla Crump — Photo by **McKayla Crump**

Peru is a unique treasure of the world with a rich history and culture, the best cuisine and stunning landscapes that stretch from the coast to the Andes to the Amazon jungle. You could also stay here for 183 days! It’s truly a dream destination and a worth-it adventure.