Essential Information for Your Journey
Arrival and Departure Essentials
- Visa and Passport Requirements:
Typically, Peru welcomes travelers without the need for a visa. However, it’s advisable to check with your country’s Foreign Secretary for the latest entry requirements. A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond your planned departure date is essential. Additionally, you should be prepared to demonstrate proof of return or onward travel.
- Airport Arrival:
Upon your arrival at Iquitos airport, keep an eye out for our representative holding a sign bearing our logo. They will be stationed at our designated stand/post. Please use caution and do not accept transfers from anyone else. Our representative will assist you with your luggage and guide you to your transfer towards Nauta city and port. In the unlikely event you cannot locate them, please wait for their arrival.
- Departure Tax:
Most international and domestic flights within Peru now include airport taxes in the ticket price (including LATAM Airlines). However, we recommend verifying the policy with your international flight provider for confirmation.
- VIP Areas at Lima Jorge Chávez International Airport:
Business Class passengers can access a complimentary private area at Lima Jorge Chávez International Airport. Passengers not flying Business Class may access this area for a fee of $50.00 USD at Peru’s airports.
- Currency Exchange:
You can exchange American dollars and Euros for Peruvian soles at banks, authorized street changers recognizable by their aprons and ID, exchange houses, and major stores in larger cities. The exchange rate is approximately 3.30 – 3.50 soles per USD and around 3.60 – 3.80 soles per Euro. Please note that $100 USD bills are often challenging to exchange, and it’s advisable to bring bills in pristine condition. For your safety, we recommend using ATMs in airports or hotels rather than street ATMs.
- Money Exchange on Delfin Cruises:
During your cruise on board the Delfin, there won’t be an opportunity to exchange money. We suggest bringing Peruvian soles in the form of coins and small bills to support local communities by purchasing their handcrafted products made from wood, seeds, and palm fiber.
Luggage Health & Safety
- Luggage Recommendations:
We encourage the use of soft luggage throughout your trip for convenience.
- What to Pack:
Pack casual, comfortable, neutral-colored clothing in breathable fabrics such as synthetics or cotton. Comfortable walking shoes and sandals are recommended. Include a few long-sleeve shirts and pants, a swimsuit for water activities, and various layers for flexibility. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection and insect repellent with 100% DEET. For excursions, we provide rubber boots and rain ponchos. Laundry service is available aboard the Delfin II & Delfin III for an additional cost.
- Flight Baggage Allowance:
For domestic scheduled flights, baggage allowance typically restricts travelers to 2 pieces of luggage per person, with a maximum weight of 23 kilograms (50 lbs). Cabin baggage is limited to small carry-ons weighing up to 8 kilograms (17 pounds). At our exclusive embarkation port in Nauta, we provide left-luggage facilities, allowing you to leave items during your cruise and free up space in your suite.
- Left-Luggage Options:
Lima’s Airport: A left-luggage center is available with prices ranging from $5 USD per day per luggage, $3 USD per hour per luggage, and $7 USD per day per lockers (capacity for 1 large and 2 small luggages).
- Hotels: Most hotels offer left-luggage services for your convenience.
- Travel Insurance:
We strongly recommend obtaining travel insurance before your Amazon journey. Travel insurance can provide coverage for expenses resulting from flight cancellations, theft, lost luggage, trip cancellations due to illness or unforeseen circumstances, medical expenses, and evacuation during travel in case of illness or accidents.
- General Safety and Hygiene:
Avoid carrying valuable items, jewelry, or large amounts of cash.
Store passports, credit cards, traveler’s checks, and cash in the safe box in your hotel.
Exercise caution in crowded areas, especially markets, and during processions and festivals.
Be cautious with tap water and consider using bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth.
- Vaccinations and Medical Supplies:
Peru generally doesn’t require specific vaccinations for entry, including malaria and yellow fever. However, the USA Center for Disease Control recommends a current yellow fever vaccination for travel to rainforest regions. Malaria pills are recommended for tropical regions, but the areas we cruise are malaria-free. It’s advisable to bring personal medical supplies, including antidiarrheals, stomach pain relievers, antihistamines, analgesics, band-aids, blister plasters, and 100% DEET insect repellent. Personal medications are essential, as immediate access to medications during the cruise may not be available.
- Altitude Considerations:
The Peruvian Amazon is at sea level, and altitude sickness is not a concern.
Telecommunications
- Mobile Phones:
Foreign phones, including iPhones and Blackberries, work well in Peru. Excellent coverage is available in cities and some rural areas, including Machu Picchu. Claro and Movistar/Telefonica are the main providers. Please note that mobile phone coverage is not available on board, except in specific locations. Ask your guide or a crew member for details.
- Telephone and Internet:
International phone calls can be made using pre-paid phone cards available in Peru’s cities. On board, you can use your cell phone when there is coverage, or we provide a satellite phone for emergencies. Internet cafés are readily available in cities, and many hotels offer WiFi and public computers. However, there is no WiFi or internet service on board.
- Mail:
Postcards and stamps are typically available at airports, with stamps to the USA or Europe costing about 7 soles ($2.50 USD).
- Photography:
Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially in remote areas where it may be considered offensive.
- Time Zone:
Peru operates on UTC-05:00, which is the same as Eastern Standard Time in the United States. Daylight Saving Time is not observed.
- Voltage:
The voltage in Peru is 220V, with 110V available on board. Electric plugs are typically European-style (double/round). If you have 3-pronged or polarized plugs, adapters are necessary and can usually be purchased locally. European rounded 2-pin plugs and American plugs are common.
