Mijn Bestemming Peru

Information of Peru

History

Pre-Inca
The first inhabitants of Peru were hunters and gatherers. The first villages were built around 5000 BC. These grew into cities. The oldest known city is Caral (3200 BC). The first culture with a big impact was the Chavin culture (1800 BC-300 BC).. They developed the trade, various crops, textiles, stone and metal processing. The Chavin culture lost its power and the subsequent 500 years there were no cultures of great influence or special achievements. From the years 100 to 700 there were the Moche and Nazca cultures. Both are known for their exceptional pottery. The Moche left a number of pyramids and Nazca the gigantic drawings in the desert.

Climate and when to go

Weather

Peru has three main climatic zones: the tropical Amazon jungle to the east; the arid coastal desert to the west; and the Andean mountains and highlands in the middle of the country. In the Andes, which have altitudes over 3500m, average daily temperatures fall below 10°C (50°F) and overnight temperatures can dip well below freezing. Travelers flying straight into Cusco (3326m) should allow time to acclimatize.

From June to August is the dry season in the mountains and highlands and the wettest months are from December to March. In the hot and humid rainforest it rains all the time, but the driest months there are from June to September. However, even during the rain season from December to May, it rarely rains for more than a few hours at a time. Along the Peruvian coast, the hot months are from December through March. In some parts of the coastal strip it rains rarely, if at all. From April to November, Lima and other areas by the Pacific Ocean are enclosed in garúa (coastal fog, mist or drizzle) because warmer air masses off the desert drift over the cold water streams ub the ocean.

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Money and costs

Costs

Backpackers who don't want to spend a lot of money can easily get by on US$20 to US$25 a day by sleeping in dormitory rooms, traveling on economy buses and eating set menus. Visitors who prefer private hot showers, à la carte meals in moderately priced restaurants, comfortable buses and occasional flights will spend US$35 to US$75 a day.

Health

Before you go

Since most vaccines can’t provide immunity until at least two weeks after they’re given, you should visit a doctor four to eight weeks before departure. Don’t forget to take your vaccination certificate with you (the yellow booklet); it’s mandatory for countries that require proof of yellow-fever vaccination on entry.

Bring your medications in their original, clearly labeled containers. A signed and dated letter from your physician describing your medical conditions and medications, including generic names, is also a good idea. If carrying syringes or needles, be sure to have a physician’s letter documenting their medical necessity.

Check if your health insurance covers you for medical expenses abroad, otherwise make sure you get extra travel insurance. Find out in advance if your travel insurance will make payments directly to providers or pay you later for overseas health expenditures (many doctors in Peru, though, expect payment in cash).

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