Peru is a magical place that offers some of the world’s most stunning landscapes, from the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu to the vibrant city life of Lima.
However, with adventure comes risk, making travel insurance an essential part of your travel plans.
It provides the safety net you need to explore Peru with peace of mind, covering everything from medical emergencies to lost luggage.
Here, we’ll explore some of the best travel insurance options for your trip to Peru.
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1. World Nomads
World Nomads has long been a favorite among globe-trotters and for a good reason. They offer comprehensive coverage tailored for adventurous travelers.
Their plans cover a wide range of activities, including hiking up to 6000 meters, perfect for those planning to trek the Inca Trail.
Besides, World Nomads provides excellent coverage for emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation, and baggage protection.
Another perk is the flexibility of their policies – you can buy and renew your policy online, even if you’re already on the go.
Recommended Plans
Up to $2,000,000 of Overall Maximum Coverage, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Medical coverage for eligible expenses related to COVID-19, Trip Interruption & Travel Delay.
Coverage for in-patient and out-patient medical accidents up to $1 Million, Coverage of acute episodes of pre-existing conditions, Coverage from 5 days to 364 days (about 12 months).
Up to $8,000,000 limits, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Coinsurance for treatment received in the U.S. (100% within PPO Network), Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions covered.
2. IMG Travel Insurance
IMG’s travel insurance plans are versatile and robust, with packages designed for all sorts of travelers, including backpackers, families, and business travelers.
The “Patriot Travel Plan”, for instance, offers a maximum limit of $2,000,000 for medical expenses, with coverage for adventure sports and activities.
IMG also provides trip cancellation insurance through its “iTravelInsured” packages.
They offer different levels of coverage to suit various needs and budgets, and include benefits for trip interruption, travel delay, and lost baggage.
3. Allianz Global Assistance
Allianz Global Assistance provides several travel insurance plans suitable for trips to Peru.
Their OneTrip Prime Plan is a well-rounded package that offers substantial medical protection, trip cancellation, interruption benefits, and baggage loss or delay coverage.
Allianz’s multi-trip plan can be a good fit if you’re a frequent traveler, providing coverage for unlimited trips within a year for a single payment.
Plus, their 24/7 travel assistance service can be invaluable in case of emergency situations.
4. Travelex Insurance Services
Travelex is another reliable choice for travel insurance, offering two main packages – Travel Basic for budget-conscious travelers and Travel Select for a more comprehensive cover.
Both plans include trip cancellation, interruption, delay, and medical expense benefits.
Travelex’s Travel Select plan also provides optional upgrades, like the Adventure Sports Coverage, which would be beneficial if you’re planning to engage in high-risk activities like white water rafting or zip-lining in Peru.
5. AIG Travel Guard
AIG’s Travel Guard plans are also worth considering, especially their Preferred Plan. It offers a balance of value and coverage, including trip cancellation, interruption, travel delay, medical expenses, and baggage coverage.
They also provide a 24/7 emergency travel assistance service, helping you handle unexpected situations during your trip.
Why is travel insurance important for Peru?
Let’s explore some reasons why securing travel insurance is particularly important for a trip to Peru.
High-Altitude Activities
Peru is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including Huascarán, which stands at an astounding 22,205 feet.
With such elevation, it’s no surprise that many travelers flock to Peru for high-altitude treks, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities.
However, these adventures also come with risks. High-altitude sickness can affect even the most experienced climbers, and accidents can happen.
Comprehensive travel insurance ensures that you’re covered for medical emergencies, including evacuation and treatment for altitude sickness.
Unpredictable Weather
Peru’s diverse geography means it experiences a variety of weather conditions, ranging from hot desert climates to cold mountainous regions.
Such diversity can lead to unpredictable weather, causing disruptions to your travel plans.
Travel insurance that includes coverage for trip delays, interruptions, or cancellations can help protect your investment if severe weather affects your plans.
Health Risks
While Peru has made significant strides in healthcare, medical facilities outside of major cities can be limited.
In case of a medical emergency, having travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage can ensure you get the necessary treatment, even if it means being transported to a hospital in a larger city or back home.
Safety Concerns
While Peru is generally safe for tourists, like anywhere else, crime can be an issue, especially in larger cities. Instances of pickpocketing and theft are not uncommon.
Travel insurance policies that include coverage for stolen or lost belongings can provide compensation and help mitigate such losses.
Remote Locations
Many of Peru’s most spectacular sights, like Machu Picchu and the Amazon Rainforest, are in remote locations. Reaching a hospital or healthcare facility from these areas can be challenging and expensive.
A comprehensive travel insurance policy can cover the cost of an emergency evacuation to get you the medical attention you need promptly.
So, securing travel insurance for your trip to Peru is more than just a precautionary measure. It’s a safety net that protects you from unexpected costs and provides peace of mind, letting you fully enjoy the beauty and adventure that Peru offers.
Conclusion
While these are some of the best travel insurance options for your trip to Peru, it’s essential to read the policy details to understand the coverage limits, exclusions, and terms.
Consider your travel plans, health conditions, and the activities you’ll be undertaking, and choose a plan that best suits your needs.
Remember, while travel insurance adds to the trip cost, it can save you from substantial financial loss in case of unforeseen situations.
As you set out to explore the awe-inspiring beauty of Peru, let the peace of mind that travel insurance provides be your trusted travel companion.
Frequently Asked Questions about travel insurance for Peru
Q: Do I need travel insurance for Peru?
A: While travel insurance may not be mandatory for entry into Peru, it is highly recommended. Unpredictable situations like medical emergencies, travel disruptions, or theft can happen, and having insurance ensures that you’re covered for these unforeseen incidents.
Q: What should my travel insurance policy for Peru include?
A: A comprehensive travel insurance policy for Peru should ideally include medical coverage (including evacuation), trip cancellation/interruption, lost/stolen baggage coverage, and potentially high-altitude activity coverage if you plan to participate in mountainous treks.
Q: Does travel insurance cover high-altitude sickness?
A: Some travel insurance policies cover treatment for altitude sickness. However, this is not universal, and you should confirm with your provider, especially if you plan to hike in high-altitude areas like Machu Picchu.
Q: Will travel insurance cover trip cancellation due to bad weather?
A: Most travel insurance policies offer coverage for trip cancellations due to severe weather conditions. However, this can vary between providers, so it’s always best to read the fine print of your policy.
Q: What if I lose my belongings or they are stolen during my trip to Peru?
A: Most travel insurance policies offer coverage for lost or stolen belongings. However, there are usually limits on the payout, and high-value items may need additional coverage.
Q: Can I buy travel insurance after I’ve already started my trip?
A: Some travel insurance providers offer coverage even if you’ve already started your trip. However, the options may be more limited, and the coverage will only start after the policy has been purchased.
Remember, it’s always a good idea to thoroughly review your travel insurance policy and understand what’s covered before you begin your journey.
