Peru Travel Requirements & Vaccinations
Peru is a country on the northwest coast of South America, officially known as the Republic of Peru. Spanish is the primary language and is spoken by more than 80 percent of the population. In some popular tourist destinations, English is also widely spoken.
The terrain of Peru is widely varied and ranges from hot, dry plains in the Pacific coastal region to tropical rainforests and jungles that extend to the east and occupy almost 60 percent of the country’s land mass. True to its name, the rainforest and jungle regions are characterized by frequent, heavy rainfall and hot temperatures. Portions of the country farther to the south have cooler winters and more seasonal rainfall.
Because of its varied geography and climate, Peru is home to over 1,800 species of birds, over 300 species of reptiles and 500 species of mammals, including the puma, jaguar and spectacled bear.
Some of the many tourist attractions and activities offered in Peru include:
- Ancient ruins, including the 15th century Inca citadel, Machu Picchu
- Hiking, climbing and mountain biking through picturesque mountainous regions
- Manu National Park with its stunning variety of wildlife
- Town markets offering locally made handicrafts
- Sandy coastlines and beaches
- Wide variety of cultural events featuring local art, cuisine and music
Recommended Vaccinations for Peru Travel
*Rabies vaccination is typically only recommended for very high risk travelers given that it is completely preventable if medical attention is received within 7 – 10 days of an animal bite.Travelers may also be advised to ensure they have received the routine vaccinations listed below. Some adults may need to receive a booster for some of these diseases:
- Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)
- Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis)
- Chickenpox
- Polio
- Influenza
Older adults or those with certain medical conditions may also want to ask about being vaccinated for shingles and/or pneumonia.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a travel medicine professional. Not all of the vaccines listed here will be necessary for every individual.
Talk to the experts at UH Roe Green Center for Travel Medicine & Global Health to determine how each member of your family can obtain maximum protection against illness, disease and injury while traveling, based on age, health, medical history and travel itinerary.