Peru Visa RequirementsFor Canada passport holders
Canadian passport holders can visit Peru visa-free for up to 183 days. Peru is one of South America's most visited destinations, offering Machu Picchu, the Amazon Basin, the Nazca Lines, and the vibrant culinary scene of Lima.
Great news! Canada passport holders can enter Peru without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 183 days.
No visa is required. Present your valid Canadian passport at Jorge Chavez International Airport (Lima) or any other port of entry. Immigration officers may ask for a return ticket and proof of accommodation. You will receive a stamp indicating the number of authorized days; typically 183 days, though the officer has discretion. Keep your immigration form (if issued) as it must be surrendered 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
Canada to Peru: What You Need to Know
Peru is a South American country with extraordinary geographical and cultural diversity, ranging from the Pacific coast to the Andes highlands to the Amazon rainforest. Canadian citizens enjoy a generous 183-day visa-free allowance. Lima is the capital and main international gateway, with a world-renowned restaurant scene. Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan citadel in the Cusco region, is the country's most iconic attraction and draws visitors from around the world. Peru's currency is the sol (PEN).
Practical Tips
Book Machu Picchu entry tickets and the Inca Trail months in advance; daily visitor numbers are strictly limited. Altitude sickness (soroche) is a real concern in Cusco (3,400m) and on the Inca Trail; allow at least two days to acclimatize before strenuous activity. The Peruvian sol (PEN) is the local currency; USD is widely accepted in tourist areas. Lima's Miraflores and Barranco districts are safe and walkable neighborhoods for tourists. Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Canadians need a visa to visit Peru?
No. Canadian citizens can visit Peru visa-free for up to 183 days. The generous allowance is one of the longest available to Canadians in South America, making Peru well-suited for extended trips.
How do I book Machu Picchu tickets?
Machu Picchu entry tickets must be booked in advance through the official Peruvian government portal (machupicchu.gob.pe). Daily visitor numbers are capped and tickets sell out weeks or months in advance during peak season (June to September). Choose your entry time slot carefully as the Inca Trail requires a separate permit also booked months ahead.
What should Canadians know about altitude sickness in Peru?
Cusco is at 3,400 meters above sea level and Machu Picchu at approximately 2,400 meters. Altitude sickness (soroche) is common; symptoms include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Allow at least 2 full days in Cusco to acclimatize before any strenuous activity. Coca tea is widely consumed locally and may help mild symptoms; consult a doctor about prescription medications like acetazolamide before travel.
Is Lima safe for Canadian tourists?
Lima's tourist districts of Miraflores and Barranco are generally considered safe and have a strong tourism infrastructure. Exercise caution in other neighborhoods and avoid displaying valuable items publicly. The Government of Canada advises exercising a high degree of caution in Peru due to crime and civil unrest; consult the latest travel advisory before departure.