Health & safety: Peru
Tap water
Not safe
Food safety
Caution
Can you drink the tap water in Peru?
Tap water NOT safe. Bottled water everywhere.
Food safety in Peru
Ceviche capital but pick reputable restaurants (raw fish). Pisco safe. Stick to busy places.
Vaccinations
Required for entry
- Yellow Fever if visiting jungle
Recommended by CDC/WHO
- Hepatitis A + B
- Typhoid
- Yellow Fever if Amazon
Always check the CDC traveler's health page 4-6 weeks before departure for current recommendations.
Altitude warnings
Cusco (3,400m), Lake Titicaca (3,800m), Arequipa (2,335m). Coca tea standard. Diamox if going to Cusco direct.
Mosquito-borne diseases
Dengue + Yellow Fever in jungle. Malaria in Amazon. Low risk Lima/Cusco.
Heat risk
Coast mild year-round. Jungle hot + humid.
Emergency medical infrastructure
Lima hospitals reasonable. Cusco limited — altitude clinic available.