Update: There are no longer any vaccine requirements to enter or travel around Peru.
The quick answer to the question about traveling to Peru while unvaccinated is yes, you can. But you will encounter some issues and/or additional costs if you choose to travel to Peru while unvaccinated.
Entering Peru While Unvaccinated
In order to enter Peru as an unvaccinated traveler, you must present evidence of a negative PCR test, or if you have recently suffered from COVID you must present a letter from your doctor confirming your good health. You must also complete a sworn affidavit of good health before arriving in Peru, regardless of your vaccine status.
If you do begin to present symptoms upon arrival then you are obligated to self-isolate for the following 14 days, regardless of vaccination status.
Domestic Travel in Peru Without a Vaccination
For both interprovincial bus travel and air travel in Peru, unvaccinated travelers must present evidence of a negative PCR test, with the results received no more than 48 hours prior to boarding. The same applies to travelers who have not had a full vaccination (eg, just one dose) and those over the age of 40 who have not had a booster dose.
You can find places to get COVID tests done in Peru here. Please bear in mind that we cannot book these tests for you unless you are doing a tour with us.
Crossing the Border without a Vaccination
While the land borders between Bolivia and Ecuador are opened, it is only possible to pass through them with a vaccination card. So for now, unvaccinated travelers visiting multiple destinations on their trip will have to fly between countries. The land border with Chile remains closed.
Getting to Machu Picchu While Unvaccinated
There are many ways to get to Machu Picchu, and some do not discriminate against unvaccinated travelers. If you want to take a trek then you will not run into issues without the vaccine. Likewise, getting a bus or private car is a great option for you.
The train to Machu Picchu has slightly different requirements, unfortunately. As is the ongoing theme, unvaccinated travelers must present a negative PCR test with results received no less than 48 hours before boarding the train.
Entrance to the trains ticket office, waiting rooms, and indoor premises must have evidence of vaccination or if over the age of 50, evidence of a booster vaccination. Negative PCR results are not accepted in this case.
Visiting Restaurants, Malls, and Museums While Unvaccinated in Peru
Theoretically, you will not be able to do any of these things if you are unvaccinated in Peru. There are the occasional places that will let you pass without a vaccination certificate, but being unvaccinated in this case is a pretty severe downside for you.
It is the law for you to show the above your vaccination card before you enter so any outliers will let you in on the down-low and will be breaking the rules.
Staying in Hotels as an Unvaccinated Traveler
Unfortunately, many hotels do require guests to be vaccinated, although this is not a law and can vary depending on the hotel you are staying in. Be sure to contact your hotels in advance to check their vaccination policies.
You can find places to get COVID tests done in Peru here. Please bear in mind that we cannot book these tests for you unless you are doing a tour with us.
Going on Tours as an Unvaccinated Traveler
Usually, there is no problem for unvaccinated travelers going on tours, though it may depend on the travel agency that you are working with or the tours themselves. It’s a good idea to speak with an agency and have them book it for you if you are unsure.
Conclusion
Traveling to Peru while unvaccinated is not impossible, but you will certainly encounter more costs than a vaccinated traveler, and you will also be taking far more PCR tests than the vaccinated traveler.
You also open yourself up to more risks, as if you test positive for COVID on your way home you may not be able to leave the country without completing a mandatory quarantine depending on the rules of the country you are traveling to.
However, there is still plenty to enjoy and plenty of fun to be had regardless of vaccination status in Peru. The major sites are still open, and if you want to take the stress out of planning a vacation around vaccination status, get in contact with us today to discuss your options.
From private chefs to picnics, and all the incredible history, culture, and adventures that await you in Peru, we will tailor-make a trip for you that explores everything that you are searching for in a holiday.
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