A trip to Peru with a hike up the Inca Trail is one of the top trips in the world. But, Peru is more than just ruins and trails. The jungles of eastern Peru are some of the most amazing in all the Amazon, and Lake Titicaca is a must visit.
Peruvian travel also poses certain health risks. Food- and mosquito-borne illness are common as well as travelers diarrhea, just to name a few. Be sure to take proper precautions before venturing to The Land of the Incas.
Which Vaccines Do I Need for Peru?
If you’re headed to Peru, you need to make sure that you take steps to safeguard your health. The CDC and WHO recommend visiting a travel health clinic at least four weeks before you leave.
Vaccines for Peru vary based on your specific itinerary. A Passport Health travel specialist will help you decide which vaccines are best for you. The CDC and WHO have recommended that travelers receive the following vaccines:
- Yellow Fever (this vaccine may be required based on your travel itinerary)
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Rabies
- Routine Vaccines
Is Malaria in Peru?
Malaria is a common mosquito-borne disease especially in South and Central America. Peru is no exception with an estimated 64,000 malaria cases each year. The Loretto region, a popular tourist destination, accounts for a high percentage of the Amazon’s malaria cases.
If you are planning to travel to the jungles of Peru, take some type of antimalarial medication with you. This is especially important during the summers.
What Other Health Concerns Should I Be Aware Of?
Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs
Insect-borne disease are a
threat throughout the world.
Keep the bugs away with
Passport Health’s repellent options!
Peru is a generally safe place to travel. Follow the same rules you would in any developing country when it comes to food or other activities:
- Street Food– While often incredible, street food can pose a serious risk to your health. The CDC recommends avoiding it at all times.
- Water Sources– Peru does not have water sources as pure as those in North America. While in-country, avoid tap water and ice. Consider purchasing bottled water or other drinks in the area or bringing a water filter.
- Dengue Fever– Peru has reported a large number of denuge cases at various times. As a mosquito-borne disease, repellents are the best way to protect yourself.
- Zika Virus– While not yet prevalent in Peru, Zika virus has been documented there. Take extra precautions to avoid mosquitoes. This is especially true if you are pregnant or may become pregnant.
- Chikungunya– There is currently a Level 1 health alert in place for chikungunya in Peru. The CDC recommends taking precautions for against mosquitoes to protect yourself from the disease.
Handy Tips for Enjoying the Peruvian Andes
First, bring sunscreen. Even if it is cloudy outside, you can still get a sunburn while exploring Machu Picchu or the Inca Trail. Select a good sunscreen that is SPF 50 or higher, and apply it several times throughout the day.
When you arrive in Peru, you will receive an Andean migration card instead of a visitor’s visa. You cannot lose this piece of paper as you will need it to stay in hotels and even leave the country. We recommend keeping it clipped to the front page of your passport.
When you go to Machu Picchu, you may need to bring your passport. This may vary based on your specific itinerary. But, consider doing so anyway as you can get a novelty passport stamp there.
Don’t be afraid to ask your hotel to help set up a trip for you. Many locations work with local guides and will be able to help you find a guide. They can arrange transportation for you as well. But, most locations are within a short distance of each other within cities.
If you plan on traveling long distance, such as Cusco to Puno, buses are the way to go. They are usually inexpensive, only about 40 soles, but can be time consuming. Consider traveling at night to maximize your free time.
Going to Peru? Make an Appointment with a Travel Health Specialist Today!
By scheduling a consultation with a travel health specialist, you can help ensure spend every minute of your trip enjoying Peru. Vaccinations can mean the difference between a great time and a serious illness. It makes sense to take care of your health before you go.
We Want To Hear From You!
Have you been to Peru? Share your favorite tips with us in our comments section below. Or reach out to us on Facebook or Twitter with your thoughts.
Thank you so much for posting about the types of vaccinations one should get when they travel to Peru. I am going to that country next month and have been wondering what type of shots I should get. I have already had my Hepatitis B shot, but I have yet to get a Yellow Fever vaccine and so I think that I will see if I can get that one from my local urgent care.
My son is leaving for Peru this week, please let me know how you enjoyed it.
We will be travelling to the Peruvian Amazon in September. As we will be 61 and 63, we are wondering about the Yellow Fever vaccination as it is not recommended for people aged 60+, especially if you have not previously received a YF jab. Any thoughts from experienced travellers of a similar age would be appreciated.
I”m told by my doctor that if any symtoms are noticed there is a pill taken immediately, so if you notice symptoms seek medical attention right away,
also consider a medical perscription for deet.
I know this is an old post, but still helpful. It’s really a cool and helpful piece of information.
Thanks. Very useful and informative post
At the center of your essence you have all the answers; you know your divinity and you understand what you must do.
Never knew this, regards for letting me know.