Water in Peru: Stories, Risks, and the Art of Staying Healthy

Ultima actualización en 28 April, 2025 por Waman Adventures

Last Updated on 28 April, 2025 by Waman Adventures

Did you know that a simple mistake with water can completely ruin your trip? Although many urban areas have treated water, the age of pipes and infrastructure can affect its quality. In rural areas, the situation is even more delicate, as the lack of adequate treatment systems increases health risks for travelers.

That’s why being informed about safe water consumption options in Peru is not just a recommendation, but an essential measure to enjoy your experience without setbacks. Below, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to stay hydrated and healthy while discovering Peru’s charms.

Can you drink tap water in Peru?

Be cautious, as drinking directly from the tap is not completely safe.

Water quality in Peru

Water in Peru that comes from the tap is not considered completely safe to drink or consume, even in some large cities. Although water in Peru is usually treated at specialized plants, the problem lies in the age and condition of distribution networks, which can contaminate water with bacteria, sediments, or heavy metals.

In rural areas, the situation may be even more critical due to the lack of adequate systems. However, the government has implemented various practices to address this issue, and populated centers today are more aware of the importance of water quality in Peru.

Why locals don’t drink tap water

Currently, it’s common to avoid consuming tap water due to the risk of contracting stomach infections or other diseases caused by parasites present in the water. For this reason, many people choose to boil water for several minutes or buy bottled water.

Expert tip:

It’s important to carefully check the containers where you store or boil water, as you must be attentive to the safety of water circulating through the public network.

Safe water options for tourists

Bottled water

Getting bottled water is easy, as it’s found in supermarkets, convenience stores, pharmacies, gas stations, and mini-markets in almost all cities and towns. Prices vary by brand, with an average cost of 1.5 to 2 soles or more. Additionally, there are various presentations, from 500 ml bottles to 20-liter containers. To avoid contamination risks, it’s recommended to buy water from formal establishments and avoid products of dubious origin, such as those offered by some street vendors.

Prefer bottled or treated water to stay healthy while traveling.

Boiling water

If you don’t have access to bottled water, boiling water is an effective way to make it safe for consumption. It’s recommended to keep it boiling for 5 to 10 minutes to eliminate most bacteria, viruses, and parasites present.

If you’re in areas far from urban centers, during excursions or camping without access to drinking water, this technique is ideal. Also, make sure to clean the container where you’ll store the boiled water well and let it cool before drinking.

Purification methods

There are various portable options for purifying water, especially useful on long hikes, camps, or rural areas without access to treated water. Devices like LifeStraw (personal filter) and SteriPen (which uses ultraviolet light) allow you to eliminate viruses, bacteria, and protozoa from water.

Purifying tablets based on iodine and chlorine can also be used, which disinfect water in a few minutes. These methods are ideal for travelers in remote areas or those looking to reduce plastic bottle use, being more environmentally friendly.

Water in hotels and restaurants

Enjoy peace of mind with accessible potable water during your stay.

In hotels and restaurants oriented toward tourism, it’s common for water used for cooking or serving to have been previously boiled or filtered. However, this is not always guaranteed, so it’s advisable to confirm with staff if the water is safe, especially when consuming juices, ice, or salads washed with local water.

Remember that:

In lower-category accommodations or rural areas, you should be even more cautious. Therefore, it’s essential to ask before consuming water or food that may have been in contact with tap water.

Risks of drinking untreated water in Peru

Common diseases

Consuming untreated water in Peru can expose travelers to various microorganisms, such as parasites like Giardia lamblia, which causes cholera, or bacteria that cause dysentery.

Although these cases are not common, tourists have a higher risk because their digestive systems are not accustomed to the pathogens present in the region.

Protect your health by avoiding untreated tap water during your trip.

Symptoms and what to do if you get sick

The most common effects of ingesting contaminated water include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and dehydration. If you experience the first symptoms, the ideal is to go to a local pharmacy, where they generally offer effective medications without a prescription.

If symptoms worsen or persist for more than two days, it’s advisable to go to a health center to receive adequate treatment. Having travel medical insurance can be crucial for receiving care without complications.

Drinking water in Cusco: what you should know

Is tap water safe in Cusco?

Tap water in Cusco is not safe to drink directly, even being a very touristy city. Although it’s treated, the conditions of the pipes and the risk of contamination make additional treatment necessary for consumption.

Since Cusco is located at an altitude of 3,400 meters above sea level (11,155 feet), it’s crucial to stay well-hydrated to prevent altitude sickness. It’s recommended to consume purified, bottled, or previously boiled water.

Where to buy water in Cusco?

Find convenient spots to stay refreshed along your travel route.

In Cusco, you can find drinking water in numerous establishments such as supermarkets, convenience stores, mini-markets, and local markets. There are various water brands in different presentations.

Additionally, it’s common to find large containers ranging from 7 to 20 liters, an economical and more sustainable option for those looking to reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles. Many stores also offer refill services or returnable bottles, which is ideal for long stays or group trips.

Water safety on the way to Machu Picchu

During the journey to Machu Picchu, both on trains and in some accommodations in Aguas Calientes, bottled water is generally offered, especially if traveling with tour operators.

However, it’s advisable to bring your own water supply, as the humid climate and physical activity increase the need for hydration. If you want to reduce plastic use, an excellent option is to bring a reusable bottle with a filter or with purified water from Cusco.

Keep your body hydrated to fully enjoy the exploration of the Inca citadel.

To avoid setbacks during your stay, it’s fundamental to be cautious with water consumption in Peru. Whether opting for bottled, purified, or boiled water, ensuring water safety is key to enjoying your experience without inconveniences. It’s time to embark on an adventure in Cusco, exploring the Inca legacy with the help of Waman Adventures, who will accompany you from the beginning to the end of your journey!

Frequently asked questions: practical advice for tourists