Known for having some of the strictest COVID rules in the world, travel to Peru has returned to normal as of 1 November 2022.
In place since March 2020, Peru’s state of emergency is now over, and all travel restrictions and occupancy limits have been lifted.
So, what does this mean for travellers and businesses in the country, and when is the best time to visit?
What Does This Mean for Travellers?
The country’s air borders reopened in October 2020, and its land borders reopened in February 2022. However, the end of the state of emergency means that travellers from around the world no longer need to complete the immigration and health declaration to board flights and show proof of vaccination or certification of a negative COVID test to enter the country.
Previously, proof of vaccination (including boosters) was needed to enter many indoor spaces, as were KN95-type respirators or double masks. While masks are no longer required, they’re still recommended.
Other South American Countries Reopening
As of 1 November, Peru is the latest nation on the continent to lift all travel restrictions and entry requirements.
As a whole, compared to Europe, South America has been very slow to reopen. However, Peru now joins several other South American countries in removing restrictions and allowing tourism to resume once again without limitations.
In October, both Ecuador and Paraguay reopened.
However, many popular destinations, such as Brazil, Colombia and Chile, still have testing and vaccination requirements in place for entry. They also have internal restrictions.
The following countries in South America have dropped all travel restrictions
- Argentina
- Ecuador
- French Guiana (territory)
- Guyana
- Paraguay
- Peru
Hopefully, the trend of South American countries dropping travel restrictions and reopening will continue as the continent enters the summer season.
Now is The Time to Visit
The Christmas period (and July and August) is Peru’s high season. The beginning of November marks the start of the southern hemisphere’s summer, so the lifting of restrictions couldn’t have come at a better time.
Known for its diverse and breathtaking landscapes, culture, food and cities, Peru is a country that has to be on everyone’s bucket list.
One of the most popular places to visit in Peru is Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan city high in the Andes Mountains.
Many other places worth visiting on a trip to Peru include Rainbow Mountain, Colca Canyon and the cultural capital of Cusco.
Although these famous landmarks in Peru were closed off to the world for nearly three years, causing intense economic damage for local business owners, the removal of travel restrictions encourages tourists to explore the beautiful country of Peru once again.