Is travel insurance mandatory for Peru?

While not always legally mandatory, travel insurance is strongly recommended for Peru. Visa-free for most (183 days).

How much does travel insurance for Peru cost?

Basic coverage starts from $3-8/day, comprehensive plans $10-25/day for Peru.

Does travel insurance cover adventure activities in Peru?

Standard policies may exclude adventure sports. Check your policy or purchase an add-on.

🇵🇪 Travel Insurance for Peru

Quick Facts: Risk Level: Medium • Visa-free for most (183 days)

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Peru?

Visa-free for most (183 days) Check current entry requirements before departure.

Healthcare & Medical Costs in Peru

Altitude sickness coverage essential for Cusco/Machu Picchu. South American healthcare ranges from excellent (Argentina, Chile, Brazil's private hospitals) to very basic (Bolivia, rural areas). Altitude sickness is a major concern in Andean countries. Medical evacuation coverage is important for remote destinations like Patagonia, the Amazon, or highland areas.

Private hospital in Lima: $50–150. Hospital day: $200–600. Altitude sickness treatment in Cusco: $50–150. Evacuation from Machu Picchu to Cusco: $1,000–5,000. Inca Trail evacuation by helicopter: $5,000–10,000.

Key Risks & Safety Concerns

Altitude sickness — Cusco sits at 3,400m and many tourists feel symptoms. Lake Titicaca at 3,812m. Inca Trail trekking injuries and altitude on the Dead Woman's Pass (4,215m). Petty crime in Lima (Miraflores is safest). Gastrointestinal illness. Amazon jungle risks (malaria, wildlife).

Recommended Coverage for Peru

$100,000+ with evacuation from Inca Trail and Amazon. Altitude sickness coverage is essential — verify your policy covers altitude-related claims. Adventure sports for trekking, Amazon tours, and sandboarding in Huacachina.

Insider Tips for Peru

Many policies exclude altitude-related claims or have maximum elevation limits — check before buying. If trekking the Inca Trail, acclimatize in Cusco for 2–3 days first. Amazon jungle tours from Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos are extremely remote — ensure jungle evacuation coverage.

Emergency numbers: 105 (SAMU ambulance), 116 (tourist police)

Recommended Providers for Peru

Compensair

Claim up to €600 for delayed or cancelled flights. No win, no fee.

Check Compensair →

EKTA

European travel insurance with global coverage. Medical, trip cancellation, and more.

Check EKTA →

Klook

Book travel experiences with optional insurance coverage included.

Check Klook →

Frequently Asked Questions

While travel insurance may not be legally mandatory for all visitors to Peru, it is strongly recommended. Visa-free for most (183 days). Some visa categories may require proof of insurance coverage.