CUSCO Archaeological capital of America

Shopping : Cusco has a great variety of articles of silver, alpaca wool and pima cotton. Our handicrafts are highly valued worldwide. In our local handicrafts market it is possible barging with the venders. A 15% of discount is usually what you get.

Electricity : In all Peru and in Cusco the current is 220 volts AC. In most places all the plugs are ambivalent, circles ( as in Spain ) or planes (as in America).

Tipping : A 10% service charge is included in all restaurants prices. It is customary  to leave an additional 10% for the waiter and a voluntary tip for tourist guides and drives , but no for taxi drives. 

Internet And  Telephone : In Cusco there are public facilities for worldwide internet access at affordable rates . Telefonica del Peru y AT & T sell pre paid calling cards of different denominations available  at book stores, markets and newspaper stands.

Currency : Peru�s unit of currency is the Sol ( s/ ). Most hotels, hostels, restaurants and shops accept U.S dollars, but if you want to change your dollars into local currency, we recommend that you do it at the money change houses or at  a bank.

Mail : A letter or postcard takes one week in arriving to its destination. Mail boxes and stamps are available in most of the book stores, hotels and in the central post office.

Time : The time in Peru is �5 GMT. Also remember that we are near the tropic and that people therefore have a more relaxed sense of time. Of course we do avoid any type of delay.

Public Transportation : There are not taximeters in Peru, so for that before getting into a taxi, you must clearly establish the rate with your driver. Remember to take low denomination coins with you to pay this service.

Security Measures : We recommend carry money or credit cards in money belts and don�t  carry a purse unless it is absolutely essential. Handbags and photograph and video cameras can be carried if you act prudently, taking care in places with large crows, such as markets, train stations and public plazas.

Health  Precautions : Don�t forget to take precautions to avoid altitude sickness ( Cusco 11.200 ft), and be sure to try a hot tea or infusion of coca leaves on the arrival in the altitude, rest some few hours and eat lightly. Travelers with heart conditions or high blood pressure should check with their doctor before traveling to Cusco.

If you are going to visit areas of the jungle, do not forget that a yellow fever immunization is a prerequisite and must be receive at least 10 days before beginning your trip to this area.

Tours and packages in Cusco Peru visit www.cuscoplanet.com