Peru Visa RequirementsFor Australia passport holders
Australian passport holders can visit Peru visa-free for up to 183 days. Peru is one of South America's most iconic destinations, home to Machu Picchu, the Amazon rainforest, and a world-famous culinary scene.
Great news! Australia passport holders can enter Peru without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 183 days.
No visa application is required for Australian citizens. On arrival at Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima or other entry points, present your valid Australian passport and a return or onward ticket. Immigration officers will note your permitted length of stay on your entry stamp. Keep this entry card safe as you will need to present it on departure.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Australia to Peru: What You Need to Know
Peru is a popular destination for Australian travellers, and most visits are trouble-free. However, petty crime, bag snatching, and scams targeting tourists occur in Lima (particularly Miraflores and Barranco), Cusco, and Machu Picchu. Altitude sickness is a genuine concern in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, which sit above 3,400 metres. Political protests and road blockages can occasionally disrupt travel, particularly on routes to Machu Picchu.
Practical Tips
Allow two to three days in Cusco before ascending to higher-altitude sites like Machu Picchu to acclimatise and reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Book Machu Picchu entrance tickets and the Inca Trail well in advance (months ahead), as daily visitor numbers are strictly limited. Use registered taxis or ride-share apps in Lima rather than flagging down street taxis. Carry a photocopy of your passport when exploring; leaving the original in a hotel safe is advisable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Australians need a visa for Peru?
No. Australian passport holders can enter Peru without a visa for up to 183 days. Simply present your valid passport and a return or onward travel ticket upon arrival.
Do I need to book Machu Picchu tickets in advance?
Yes. Machu Picchu has strict daily visitor limits and tickets frequently sell out months in advance, especially during the dry season (May to October). Book through the official government portal at machupicchu.gob.pe as early as possible.
How should Australians handle altitude sickness in Cusco and Peru?
Cusco sits at around 3,400 metres above sea level, which can cause altitude sickness (soroche). Spend at least two to three days in Cusco before visiting higher-altitude sites. Drink coca tea, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol initially, and consult a doctor about altitude sickness medication such as acetazolamide before your trip.
Is Lima safe for Australian tourists?
Lima's tourist districts of Miraflores and Barranco are generally safe during the day, but petty theft and bag snatching occur. Avoid the historic centre and bus terminal areas at night. Use app-based ride services (Uber, InDriver) rather than street taxis for added safety.
Do Australians need a visa for Peru?
No. Australian passport holders can enter Peru without a visa for up to 183 days. Simply present your valid passport and a return or onward travel ticket upon arrival.
Do I need to book Machu Picchu tickets in advance?
Yes. Machu Picchu has strict daily visitor limits and tickets frequently sell out months in advance, especially during the dry season (May to October). Book through the official government portal at machupicchu.gob.pe as early as possible.
How should Australians handle altitude sickness in Cusco and Peru?
Cusco sits at around 3,400 metres above sea level, which can cause altitude sickness (soroche). Spend at least two to three days in Cusco before visiting higher-altitude sites. Drink coca tea, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol initially, and consult a doctor about altitude sickness medication such as acetazolamide before your trip.
Is Lima safe for Australian tourists?
Lima's tourist districts of Miraflores and Barranco are generally safe during the day, but petty theft and bag snatching occur. Avoid the historic centre and bus terminal areas at night. Use app-based ride services (Uber, InDriver) rather than street taxis for added safety.