How Does Photography Rules Work in Peru?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Americas
1The Quick Answer
Photography is generally free but drones are banned at Machu Picchu, and you should always ask permission before photographing people in traditional dress.
2What You Need to Know
Most of Peru's landscapes, ruins, and public spaces are freely photographable. Machu Picchu has specific rules: drones are strictly prohibited (they will be confiscated), and you must stay on marked paths — do not climb on structures for a shot. In highland and Andean communities, photographing people — especially those wearing traditional clothing — without asking is considered disrespectful; many will agree to a photo and may politely ask for a small payment (1–2 PEN), which is fair. Some sacred ceremonies and Catholic church interiors prohibit photography; look for signs or ask.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Leave the drone at home or in your accommodation if visiting Machu Picchu — the prohibition is enforced and confiscation on the spot is common.
- 2Carry a handful of 1–2 PEN coins so you can graciously compensate locals in traditional dress who allow you to photograph them.
- 3The best photography light at Machu Picchu is at opening time (6 am) or late afternoon — book the first-entry time slot and arrive early.
Important Warning
Flying a drone at Machu Picchu or other protected archaeological sites can result in the drone being confiscated and a fine.
How does this compare?
Photography Rules rules in nearby and similar countries:
Photography is generally free in public spaces, but never photograph indigenous ceremonies, the Chamula church interior, or military checkpoints.
Photography is generally unrestricted in public spaces, but avoid photographing in favelas unless on an organized tour, and always ask permission before photographing indigenous peoples.
Photography is generally unrestricted in public spaces, but always ask permission at Indigenous sacred sites and avoid military installations.
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More About Peru
Tip around 10% at tourist restaurants and tip guides generously (50–100 PEN per day), but always check whether service is already included on your bill.
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Lima has the Metropolitano BRT and Uber/InDriver for safer city travel, while intercity travel relies on reputable bus companies and pre-booked trains to Machu Picchu.
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Lima has good private clinics, but outside the capital medical facilities are limited and altitude sickness is a serious risk at Cusco (3,400 m) and Lake Titicaca (3,800 m).
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Drug laws are extremely strict — cocaine possession carries severe penalties — and Machu Picchu has rigorous rules including no drones and mandatory time-slot entry.
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Call 105 for police, 117 for ambulance, 116 for fire, and the free iPeru tourist helpline on 0800-11-0000 for tourist-specific assistance.
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Dress modestly at churches, pack warm layers for the highlands where temperatures swing dramatically, and bring rain gear for jungle and wet-season travel.
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