Need‑to‑Know Laws for Travelers in Peru (2025 Guide)

1) Entry, Visas & Overstays

Peru welcomes many nationalities visa‑free for tourism, typically for up to 90 days per entry, with an overall limit that usually does not exceed 183 days in any 365‑day period. Your exact permitted stay is determined by the border officer and noted in Peru’s digital entry system.

• Passport validity: Airlines and immigration generally expect at least 6 months of validity beyond your arrival date. Some travelers have been admitted with shorter validity, but 6 months is the safest standard.
• Proof of onward travel & funds: You may be asked to show a return/ onward ticket and sufficient funds or accommodation bookings.
• No work on a tourist status: Paid work (including remote work for Peruvian entities), internships and volunteering usually require appropriate authorization. Do not work or volunteer on a tourist entry.
• Overstays: If you stay beyond your authorized period, expect a per‑day fine assessed on exit and possible delays or future entry complications. Pay fines at official counters only; keep receipts.
• Entry records: Peru uses a digital entry/exit record (no paper TAM). Ensure your passport is properly scanned on entry and exit; hotels often request your entry details for tax purposes.

2) Identification, Police Checks & Tourist Police

You are required to carry identification in Peru. In practice, most travelers carry a passport copy (bio page and entry stamp/record) and keep the original passport secure unless a service explicitly requires it (e.g., hotels, bank procedures).

• Police stops: Officers may request ID. Remain polite, ask for the officer’s ID number (placa) if needed, and avoid paying fines in cash on the street. Request a written citation or accompany the officer to a station if a fine is alleged.
• Tourist Police: Available in major destinations for assistance with incidents involving visitors. In an emergency, dial 911.

3) Customs, Currency & What You Can Bring or Take

• Cash declaration: You must declare cash or negotiable instruments above commonly used thresholds (often around USD 10,000 total per person). Large sums may be restricted or confiscated if undeclared. When in doubt, declare.
• Duty‑free allowances: Personal items and reasonable quantities of gifts are typically allowed; limits apply to alcohol and tobacco. Keep receipts for high‑value items.
• Food, plants & animal products: Agricultural and biosafety rules are strict. Fresh produce, seeds and animal products may be restricted or require permits.
• Archaeological & cultural items: Exporting pre‑Columbian artifacts, fossils or colonial antiques without authorization is a serious crime. Buy only modern, clearly documented handicrafts.
• Wildlife & protected species: Do not buy products from endangered species (e.g., tortoise shells, certain feathers). Vicuña fiber requires official tags; suspicious goods can be seized.
• Coca leaves & coca tea: Legal to buy and consume in Peru; do not take coca leaves/tea through international borders—many countries treat them as controlled substances.

4) Drugs, Alcohol & Smoking/Vaping

• Narcotics: Drug laws are strict and penalties severe. Even small quantities can lead to arrest and prosecution, particularly if police suspect intent to distribute. Do not carry, buy or use illegal drugs.
• Alcohol: Legal purchase age is 18. Municipalities commonly restrict public drinking (no open container)—follow local signage or ask your accommodation.
• Drink‑driving: Peru enforces low blood‑alcohol limits for drivers, with zero‑tolerance for professional drivers. Expect license suspension, heavy fines and potential jail for violations.
• Smoking & vaping: Smoking is banned in enclosed public spaces, many workplaces and public transport. E‑cigarettes are often treated similarly—assume the same restrictions unless signage states otherwise.

5) Driving Laws & Road Rules

• License requirements: Visitors can typically drive with a valid foreign driver’s license for a limited time after entry; an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended alongside your home license.
• Documents in the car: Carry passport (or copy), entry record, license/IDP, rental contract and insurance. Seat belts are mandatory; child restraint rules apply.
• Traffic enforcement: Speed limits are enforced, sometimes with cameras. Fines should be paid via official channels, not in cash to an officer.
• Accidents: Do not move vehicles in serious accidents until police arrive unless safety requires it. Call 911 and your rental company’s emergency number.
• Motorbikes & scooters: Helmets are required. Some municipalities restrict motorcycle passengers for security reasons—check local rules.

6) Drones, Photography & Filming

• Drones (RPA/UAS): Recreational and commercial use is regulated by Peru’s DGAC. Registration, operator certification and flight permits may be required depending on weight and purpose. Prohibited areas include airports, military installations and many archaeological sites.
• Archaeological & sacred sites: Drones are typically banned at Machu Picchu, Nazca Lines, many huacas and within national reserves without explicit authorization.
• Street photography: Photography in public is generally permitted, but avoid photographing police, military, government buildings, security checkpoints and bank interiors.
• Commercial shoots: Professional filming often requires permits from local municipalities, the Culture Ministry or protected‑area authorities.

7) Protected Areas, Environment & Cultural Heritage

• National parks & reserves: Stay on marked trails; camping and fires are restricted to designated areas. Single‑use plastics are restricted or banned in many protected and heritage sites.
• Archaeological sites: Do not touch or climb on structures unless permitted. Removing stones, pottery shards or any cultural material is illegal.
• Wildlife: Do not feed animals or purchase wildlife souvenirs (feathers, skins). Drone and loudspeaker bans protect fauna.
• Local bylaws: Municipalities may issue special event or beach rules (e.g., glass bans, vehicle restrictions). Observe posted notices.

8) Commerce, Payments & Consumer Basics

• Pricing: Posted prices are typically expected to include tax. Restaurants commonly add a 10% service line—this is not a government tax; an extra tip is optional.
• Receipts: Request receipts (boleta or factura). Keep hotel invoices that reflect your tourist status for any tax exemption.
• Exchange & ATMs: Use banks or reputable exchange houses. Avoid street changers. Inspect ATMs for skimmers.
• Scams & contracts: Read tour contracts carefully. Reconfirm inclusions, cancellation terms and pickup details in writing.

9) Work, Volunteering & Study

• No employment on tourist status: Paid or unpaid work for Peruvian organizations generally requires the appropriate visa/permit.
• Volunteering: Many programs require specific authorization. Do not assume volunteering is permitted on a tourist entry.
• Study programs: Short courses or Spanish schools are common; longer study may require a student authorization—check with Migraciones.

10) Health Rules, Medicines & Insurance

• Vaccines & entry: Health requirements can change (e.g., yellow fever recommendations for Amazon regions). Carry proof if advised by a clinic.
• Prescription meds: Keep medicines in original packaging with your prescription. Some controlled medicines are restricted; carry a doctor’s letter.
• Travel insurance: Strongly recommended. Ensure your policy covers high altitude trekking, adventure sports and medical evacuation if you plan such activities.

11) LGBTQ+ & Personal Conduct

• Legal status: Same‑sex relations are legal. Anti‑discrimination protections exist in some spheres, but same‑sex marriage is not recognized.
• Public conduct: Public displays of affection are generally legal; social attitudes vary by region. Choose accommodation that openly welcomes LGBTQ+ travelers.

12) Phones, SIMs & Connectivity

• SIM registration: Buying a local SIM usually requires a passport and registration with the carrier per anti‑fraud rules. eSIMs are increasingly available.
• Devices: Unblocked (unlocked) phones are required for local SIMs. Keep your IMEI handy; authorities can request it for theft reports.

13) Regional & Site‑Specific Rules

Key attractions enforce their own rules that go beyond national law (timed entries, guide requirements, prohibited items, drone bans). Always review the latest site regulations before visiting.

• Machu Picchu: Entry on dated/time‑slot tickets; large backpacks, tripods, single‑use plastics and drones are prohibited. Follow marked circuits.
• Nazca Lines: Overflights operate under strict aviation rules; drones are generally banned in the zone.
• Amazon reserves & national parks: Permits may be required; follow ranger instructions for wildlife protection and waste policies.

Key Contacts & References

• Emergency: Dial 911 (national). Tourist Police operate in major cities.
• Immigration (Migraciones): Entry/exit records, extensions and status changes.
• SUNAT (Customs): Declarations and allowances at borders/airports.
• DGAC (Civil Aviation): Drone permits and aviation rules.
• Ministry of Culture & SERNANP: Permits and rules for archaeological sites and protected areas.

By understanding and respecting Peru’s laws, you help protect its heritage, support local communities and keep your own journey stress‑free. When in doubt, ask your hotel, tour operator or the relevant authority for the latest rules—then enjoy Peru with confidence.