Climate The climate in Peru varies from region to region. January to March is the rainy season throughout most of the country. The coastal area is cooled by La Garuna, a fog that rolls in from the sea. The Andes are clear and warm for most of the year, but temperatures drop at higher altitudes. The Amazon Basin is hot and humid and has heavy rain from January to April.

What to expect After years of political instability, Peru's tourist industry is now booming. It is one of the most spectacular and popular destinations in South America. The remarkable scenery and natural environment, plus the history of past civilisations and a vibrant contemporary culture, combine to make the country a remarkable place to visit.

There are many aspects to travelling in Peru that you can enjoy, from adventure holidays into the jungle, white water rafting, trekking and mountaineering in the Andes, or maybe just relaxing on the beach. Many travellers enjoy spending time exploring the ancient relics and ruins of the Inca and pre-Inca civilisations.

Attractions

• The Amazon basin The source of the Amazon is in Peru. The Amazon basin is an area of thick tropical rainforest that, in the main, is inaccessible. However, there are organised trips into the forest so that travellers can enjoy the abundant flora and fauna.

• Cuzco This colourful city was once the centre of the Inca empire. Spanish invaders heavily damaged it, but Inca remains can still be seen. The city is an acclimatisation point on the Inca Trail.

• The Inca Trail and Machu Picchu A three- to five-day trek along the Andean pass, encompassing the ruins of the Incan empire, surrounded by ice-capped Andean mountains. The trail ends in the well-preserved sacred Inca city of Machu Picchu.

• The Nazca Lines One of the world's greatest mysteries. Located around 200 miles south of Lima, these gigantic figures of birds and animals were scored on to the surface of the desert thousands of years ago, although the reason why is not yet clear. The lines can only be seen from the air.

How to get there Many international airlines fly to Peru. There are no direct flights from London to Lima. Prices range from £400.00. Check with the airlines for availability and cost.

Tourism Go2Peru.com is Peru's official travel planning website. It has information on tours, flights, hotels and much else.

Visas and documentation UK travellers do not require visas for trips of less than 90 days. However, a return ticket from any part of South America must be shown on departure.

Embassy of the Republic of Peru
52 Sloane Street
London SW1X 9SP
Tel: 020 7235 1917
Fax: 020 7235 4463
E-mail: postmaster@peruembassy-uk.com
Website: www.peruembassy-uk.com

Health risks No vaccinations are required. However, the Peruvian Embassy recommends the following: typhoid, hepatitis and yellow fever, especially if travelling to the Amazon basin. Anti-malaria pills are highly recommended. Travellers should always ensure that they have comprehensive medical insurance for the duration of their trip.

Always check with your GP or local health centre for health advice before travelling.

Costs According to the Lonely Planet travel guide, budget travellers can get by in Peru on around $35 (£17.50) per day. For modest hotels and to eat out, living costs will be around $70 (£35.00) per day.

Internal travel Peru is such a large country that many travellers take internal flights rather than travelling overland by bus or train. A range of Peruvian airlines provide domestic flights.

If you do want to travel overland, the roads have been improved a great deal in recent years, making travel efficient and reasonably cheap. However, armed robberies have been known to happen, so avoid travelling at night and alone.

Coaches There are several companies for national and international coach travel. The Peruvian Embassy recommends:

Railways in Peru are renowned for their cheapness and efficiency. There are three main passenger train services: