- Travel Health Briefing · South America
Peru
From Machu Picchu and the Andes to the Amazon jungle, Peru rewards a little planning. Here is what to know before you travel, and the vaccinations worth booking ahead.
VACCINES
5 to consider
3 recommended · 2 situational
MALARIA RISK
Jungle lowlands
None at altitude
BOOK AHEAD
4–6 weeks
Before you travel
CONSULTATION
£25
Per appointment
- About the destination
High Peaks, Deep Jungle, Worth Preparing For
Peru is known for its extraordinary range, from the ruins of Machu Picchu and the heights of the Andes to the Amazon rainforest and the Pacific coast. It also carries some real health considerations, especially altitude, so a little planning before you go goes a long way.
South America
Coast, Andes & Amazon
Capital · Lima
Time · GMT -5
- PLAN AHEAD
Recommended Vaccinations
Book early, some courses need several weeks before you travel. Situational vaccines depend on your itinerary and activities.
Yellow Fever
Certificate
Recommended if you are visiting the Amazon jungle and lowland areas below about 2,300m. It is not needed for Lima, Cusco, or Machu Picchu. Proof may be needed for onward travel.
On consultation
1 dose · from 10 days before
Hepatitis A
Recommended
A viral liver infection spread through contaminated food and water, a common risk for travellers.
£75
1 dose · from 2 weeks before
Typhoid
Recommended
A bacterial infection contracted from contaminated food or water, especially outside major hotels.
£45
1 dose · from 2 weeks before
Tetanus, diphtheria & polio
Recommended
A routine booster worth checking before you travel, especially if it’s been more than ten years since your last dose.
On consultation
Single booster · if due
Rabies
Situational
Worth considering for the Amazon, remote areas, or animal contact, where bats and other animals can carry the virus.
£95
Per dose · 3 doses over ~3–4 weeks
Travel consultation £25 · vaccine prices shown per dose. Your pharmacist confirms exactly what you need and the right schedule at your appointment.
Malaria in Peru
Malaria risk in Peru is limited to the Amazon jungle lowlands, mainly in the Loreto region. There is no risk in Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, or the highlands. Antimalarial tablets may be recommended for jungle travel, and we will assess this and advise at your consultation. Bite-avoidance measures are recommended everywhere.
- STAY AWARE
Common Health Risks
Beyond vaccinations, a few conditions are worth knowing about so you can take simple precautions.
Dengue Fever
A mosquito-borne virus causing flu-like symptoms, can be serious in some cases. Use repellent and cover up at dawn and dusk.
Zika & Chikungunya
Mosquito-borne viruses found in Peru’s lowland and jungle areas. Zika is a particular concern in pregnancy, so seek advice before travelling if you are or may become pregnant.
Yellow fever
A serious mosquito-borne infection present in Peru’s Amazon and jungle regions. Vaccination is the best protection and may be needed for onward travel.
Travellers’ Diarrhoea
Common from contaminated food or water. Choose freshly cooked hot food, sealed drinks, and wash your hands often.
Sun & UV exposure
The sun is strong in Peru and especially intense at high altitude. Use high-factor sunscreen, cover up, and stay hydrated with safe water.
- BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
Get to Know Peru
A glimpse of where you’re headed, plus a few habits to help you stay well while you’re away.
How's the weather?
Peru has three zones: a dry coast, the high Andes, and the humid Amazon, so conditions vary hugely. Highland days are sunny but nights are cold, so pack layers as well as sunscreen.
Is the water safe?
Avoid tap water, choose sealed bottled water, and skip ice unless it’s made from purified water.
How to see a doctor?
Private hospitals and clinics in major cities often have English-speaking staff. Keep a trusted local contact for emergencies.
How to get medicines?
Pharmacies are common and well-signed, but bring your own regular medication as specific brands can vary.
- SIMPLE & QUICK
Booking Takes Three Steps
Small habits that make a big difference to staying well while you’re away.
1
Tell Us Your Trip
Answer a few quick questions about your destination, dates, and health.
2
Pharmacist Review
A prescriber checks exactly what you need and the right schedule for your travel.
3
Book & Visit
Choose a time, confirm online, and get vaccinated at our pharmacy.
Travelling to Peru?
Start your travel assessment and our pharmacists will tailor vaccine and malaria advice to your itinerary, dates, and activities. Consultations from £25.