Peru is one of South America’s most iconic travel destinations and it’s easy to see why. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant culture of Lima and the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes and Amazon, it offers a mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty.

Whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail, exploring local markets, or heading into the rainforest, Peru is a destination that involves a variety of environments and with that comes a few important travel health considerations.

The good news? Most trips to Peru are safe and enjoyable, and with a bit of preparation before you go, you can help ensure your experience is smooth and stress-free.

Here’s what Canadian travellers should know.

Do You Need Vaccines to Enter Peru?

Peru does not require routine travel vaccines for entry for most travellers arriving from Canada.

However, certain vaccines (including Yellow Fever) may be required if you are travelling from or through specific countries where the disease is present.

Even when vaccines are not required for entry, reviewing your travel health before your trip is still recommended, especially if you plan to explore rural areas, high-altitude regions, or the Amazon.

Routine Vaccines to Check Before Travel

Before travelling to Peru, it’s important to make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date.

These commonly include:

Tetanus
Diphtheria
Pertussis (whooping cough)
Measles, mumps, and rubella
Polio
Influenza

Travelling often involves flights, airports, and busy tourist areas where illnesses can spread more easily, so staying current on routine vaccines is always a good first step.

Travel Vaccines Commonly Recommended for Peru

Depending on your itinerary, certain vaccines may be recommended to help protect you while travelling in Peru.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is one of the most commonly recommended travel vaccines worldwide.

It spreads through contaminated food or water, meaning travellers can be exposed through:

Food preparation
Contaminated water or ice
Eating in local restaurants or street food settings

Vaccination helps protect against this risk and is often discussed for Peru travel.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B spreads through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.

Vaccination may be recommended depending on:

Length of stay
Type of travel
Potential medical care abroad

Many Canadians may already be vaccinated, but it’s helpful to confirm before travelling.

Typhoid

Typhoid is a bacterial infection that spreads through contaminated food or water.

Vaccination may be recommended for travellers who:

Plan to eat outside major tourist areas
Visit rural regions
Travel for extended periods

Because Peru offers many opportunities to explore local cuisine and smaller communities, this vaccine is often discussed.

Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever is an important consideration for travel to certain regions of Peru.

It is spread through mosquito bites and is present in parts of the Amazon basin.

Vaccination may be recommended for travellers who:

Plan to visit jungle or rainforest areas
Travel outside major cities
Have extended stays in higher-risk regions

In some cases, proof of vaccination may be required depending on your travel route.

Rabies

Rabies is spread through bites or scratches from infected animals.

In Peru, travellers may encounter animals in both rural and urban settings.

Vaccination may be considered for travellers who:

Plan extended stays
Spend significant time outdoors
Participate in activities like hiking or wildlife exploration

Regardless of vaccination, avoiding contact with animals is always recommended.

Altitude and Environmental Considerations

Peru includes several high-altitude destinations, including Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Travellers may experience altitude-related symptoms, especially when arriving quickly from lower elevations.

Helpful tips include:

• Allowing time to acclimatize
• Staying well hydrated
• Taking it easy during the first few days

Mosquito and Outdoor Protection

In certain regions of Peru, particularly jungle areas, mosquitoes are present.

While risk levels vary by location, taking precautions is still an important part of travel preparation.

Helpful tips include:

Using insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin
Wearing lightweight long sleeves and pants when possible
Staying in accommodations with screens or air conditioning

These simple steps can help reduce mosquito exposure while travelling.

Food and Water Safety Tips

Food is a big part of the travel experience in Peru, from street food to local markets and restaurants.

To help reduce the risk of illness:

• Choose busy restaurants with good reviews
• Avoid undercooked foods
• Drink bottled or treated water when recommended
• Wash or sanitize hands before eating

Taking a few simple precautions can help keep your trip enjoyable.

Travel Prepared and Enjoy Peru

Peru offers a wide range of unforgettable experiences, from exploring ancient ruins to discovering diverse landscapes and culture.

With a bit of preparation before your trip, you can explore confidently and focus on enjoying everything the country has to offer.

Reviewing your vaccines and understanding simple travel health precautions can help make your trip safe, smooth, and stress-free.

Getting Ready for Your Trip

Virtual Travel Clinic allows travellers to connect with a travel health professional online before travelling.

During a consultation, your destination, itinerary, and vaccination history are reviewed so personalized recommendations can be provided.

If vaccines or medications are recommended, prescriptions can be arranged so they can be picked up at your local pharmacy before departure.

Travel consultations are ideally booked 2 – 4 weeks before travel, though appointments are also available for last-minute trips.

FAQ’s