Peru - Prepare

Bring warm layers for high altitude living, an open mind to enjoy Peru's cultural variety and small change for market handicrafts.

Cajamarca is the best place to enjoy the colourful Peruvian Carnival celebrations (Feb/Mar). In May, the Qoyllur Rit'i snow star festival sees thousands of pilgrims and dancers climb Mount Ausengate to search for the snow star and bring back ice. Cuzco's Inti Raymi festival on June's winter solstice sees Inca rituals re-enacted. Don't miss the huge, noisy Lord of Miracles procession in Lima in October and, if you're in Peru on New Year's Eve, head to Cuzco for celebrations that involve lots of candles, pisco and yellow underwear.

New Year's Day, Maundy Thursday (Mar/Apr), Good Friday (Mar/Apr), Labour Day (1 May), St Peter &St Paul (29 Jun), Independence Day (28-29 Jul), St Rosa of Lima Day (30 Aug), Battle of Angamos (8 Oct), All Saints' Day (1 Nov), Immaculate Conception (8 Dec), Christmas Day (25 Dec).

Around Lima and the coast, temperatures remain fairly steady throughout the year (19-25°C) and it very rarely rains, but summer (Dec-Feb) is the only time you can expect to see the sun breaking through the garua cloud. Up at altitude in the Andean region, daytime temperatures vary from 10-13°C. Heavy rains wash the paths in the summer; winter is much drier but temperatures drop sharply after sunset and you will need good quality gear if you plan to do the Inca trail.

220V AC, 60 Hz, twin flat or round plugs are standard.

+51 (national).

Nuevo soles (S) is the currency, often referred to simply as soles.

GMT – 5.

Commission for the Promotion of Peru website

In polite society, whenever you are introduced or encounter those you've met before, you'll be expected to kiss everyone on the cheek (once) when you greet them and again when you leave – even if you've hardly spoke to them in the meantime.