Unless a hotel has a sign by the tap saying that the hotel filters all water, do not drink tap water. Peruvians boil or filter all water before drinking it.

If you are planning to go on a trek, check that the trekking agency provides boiled water at meal times to refill your water bottles. If you plan to trek without an agency, to places like Choquequirao, take your own filter.

Chicha morada

Most Peruvian drinks are boiled, even ones that are served cold, like chicha morada. Chicha morada (above) is made from boiled purple corn and flavored with cinnamon, cloves, pineapple and lime.

Hot drinks

Hot drinks are a speciality in Cusco, from maca and quinoa for breakfast to api in the afternoon and té piteado at night. If you order a set lunch menu at a restaurant or market, you’ll be served a “refresco” which is usually a cooled tea made from herbs or even fruit.