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Resources & References

Resources & References

North Coast, Peru

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

  • Google Maps

    Download offline maps for Peru before your trip for navigation without internet.

  • Google Translate

    Download the Spanish language pack for offline use; this app bridges language barriers.

  • Uber/Cabify

    Download these apps if you plan to use ride-sharing services; check local availability.

  • Booking.com/Expedia/Airbnb

    Use these platforms for finding, comparing, and managing accommodation reservations.

  • HappyCow

    If you have specific dietary needs, this app pinpoints restaurants with suitable options.

Useful Websites for Additional Planning

  • Official Peruvian Tourism Websites

    PromPeru provides general information about travel in Peru.

  • UNESCO World Heritage Centre

    Find detailed information about Chan Chan on their website.

  • Museum Websites

    Look for official websites of Museo Huacas de Moche and Museo Cao.

  • Reputable Travel Blogs and Forums

    Search for blogs on Peru's North Coast or Trujillo for recent traveler experiences.

  • Social Media Accounts

    Local tourism boards or popular hotels in Trujillo sometimes have active social media.

Print Resources

Guidebooks and Maps

Purchase a comprehensive guidebook for Peru that includes a detailed section on Trujillo and the North Coast. Pick up a city map locally.

Books About the Destination

Explore "The Incas and their Ancestors: The Archaeology of Peru" by Michael Moseley for ancient history. Historical accounts or local fiction.

Local Publications

Local newspapers or free tourist magazines (if available) can inform you about current events and restaurant recommendations.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers and Contacts

  • General Emergency (Police): 105
  • Fire Department (Bomberos): 116
  • Ambulance (SAMU): 106

Hospital and Clinic Locations

  • Clínica Peruana Americana (Private)
  • Clínica San Pablo (Private)
  • Hospital Regional Docente de Trujillo (Public)

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries and Films

  • Look for documentaries on pre-Columbian civilizations of Peru, especially the Moche and Chimú.

Music and Art

  • Listen to traditional Peruvian folk music, specifically Marinera tunes.
  • Research Peruvian colonial art or pre-Columbian art styles.

Online Communities

  • Engage with online communities like TripAdvisor forums or Reddit's r/peru.
  • Use Babbel for basic Spanish phrases.

Important Safety Note

Tap Water Warning

Drinking Water

  • Tap water in Trujillo is not safe for drinking.
  • Stick to bottled or purified water for all consumption.
  • Use bottled water even for brushing teeth.

Lost Document Procedures

  • Immediately report lost passports or IDs to local police for a police report.
  • Contact your embassy or consulate in Lima as soon as possible.
  • They will guide you through obtaining an emergency travel document.

Natural Disaster Protocols

  • Peru is seismically active. In case of an earthquake, "Drop, Cover, Hold On."
  • Seek shelter under sturdy furniture or against an interior wall if indoors.
  • If outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings and power lines.
  • Near the coast, if you feel a strong earthquake, move to higher ground.

Pre-Booking Essentials

Accommodation Confirmation

  • Reconfirm all flight, hotel, and tour reservations.
  • Check for any last-minute schedule changes.

Document Organization

  • Organize both physical and digital copies of all essential documents.
  • Store digital copies on your phone and in cloud storage.

Travel Essentials

Packing and Apps

  • Pack climate-appropriate clothing and all essential gear, including a first aid kit. Consider Eagle Creek for travel organization products.
  • Download offline maps for Trujillo and the Spanish language pack on Google Translate.

Currency Preparation

  • Exchange a small amount of Peruvian Sol or plan to withdraw cash from an ATM upon arrival.
  • Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to Peru.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Before You Leave

  1. Arrange for mail to be held or collected.
  2. Ensure pet care is covered.
  3. Pay any upcoming bills in advance.
  4. Secure your home.
  5. Inform a trusted neighbor or friend of your absence.

Medical Readiness

  1. Arrange for any prescription medications needed for the duration of your trip.
  2. Carry medications in original containers with clear labels.
  3. Obtain a doctor's note for controlled substances.
  4. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. World Nomads provides options.

Arrival Checklist

First Steps

Clear immigration and customs. Purchase a local SIM card if not already done. Obtain local currency.

Orientation

Ask hotel staff for local tips and directions. Familiarize yourself with a map of Trujillo's city center.

Transport from Entry Point

From Trujillo Airport (TRU), use authorized airport taxis or a pre-booked ride-sharing service. From the bus terminal, take a taxi, confirming the fare beforehand.

Important Note on Valuables

Always keep important documents and valuables secure. Consider using hotel safes.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs and Logistics

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase in Advance

    Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid a last-minute rush.

  • Shipping Options

    For larger items, inquire with specialty shops about international shipping options. Understand the costs and procedures.

  • VAT Refund Procedures

    Peru does not generally offer Value Added Tax (IGV) refunds for tourists on goods purchased.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

  • Airport (TRU)

    Arrive at Trujillo Airport (TRU) at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your domestic flight's scheduled departure.

  • Bus Terminal

    Arrive at the bus terminal at least 30-45 minutes before your bus's scheduled departure.

  • Return Trip Preparation

    Reconfirm your return flights (international and domestic). Ensure your passport and travel documents are accessible for check-in.

Departure Checklist

Tickets & Boarding Passes

Have all flight and bus tickets, along with boarding passes, ready for check-in and security.

Luggage Check

Repack your luggage, making sure any purchased items comply with airline baggage restrictions.

Currency Exchange

Exchange any remaining Peruvian Sol back to your home currency or spend it before departing.

Medical and Financial Readiness

Prescription Medications

  • Arrange for any prescription medications you will need.
  • Carry them in original containers with clear labels.
  • Obtain a doctor's note for controlled substances.

Bank and Credit Card Notifications

  • Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.
  • This prevents your cards from being flagged for suspicious activity.
  • Keep emergency contact numbers for your bank and card providers accessible.

Initial Travel Preparations

Passport and Visa Validity

  • Verify your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your departure.
  • Research visa requirements for your nationality.
  • If a visa is applicable, begin the application process well in advance.

Travel Health Consultation

  • Consult a travel doctor or health clinic.
  • Discuss recommended vaccinations for Peru (e.g., Hepatitis A, Typhoid).
  • Receive any necessary vaccinations well in advance of your trip.

Final Preparations

Reconfirm all flight, hotel, and tour reservations. Check for any last-minute schedule changes.