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Digital Nomads in Peru: A Complete Living & Working Guide
Detailed guide on how to become a digital nomad in Peru: visas, ideal destinations, living costs and useful tips.
Peru has become a popular choice for professionals seeking to combine work and adventure. With its affordable cost of living and rich cultural heritage, it’s an appealing destination. Cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa are especially attractive to digital nomads, offering a unique balance of modernity and tradition.
If you’re planning to travel to Peru and work from the coast, highlands, or jungle, this article has you covered. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know as a digital nomad in Peru, including visa options, accommodations, taxes, and health insurance.
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Why do digital nomads choose Peru as a place to live?
Peru offers many advantages for digital nomads. A key benefit is the presence of active nomad communities, which make networking and sharing experiences much easier. The country also provides a high quality of life at a much lower cost than other South American countries. According to Statista, as of 2024, you can cover basic living expenses in Peru for under $500 a month.
Safety is a key advantage, especially in cities like Lima and Cusco. Additionally, Peru’s strong regional connections make it easy to travel to nearby countries. Its rich cultural diversity, world-renowned cuisine, and the warmth of its people create a welcoming environment for digital nomads.
Visas that allow a digital nomad to legally live in Peru
Peru approved a digital nomad visa in 2023, though it hasn’t been implemented yet. Once active, it will allow remote workers to stay in the country for up to 365 days. Staying updated on this new regulation is essential for digital nomads planning to work from Peru.
As a digital nomad in Peru, there are other options available for staying in the country long-term:
- Tourist visa: Allows stays of up to 183 days. Although it is not a work visa, many digital nomads use this option while exploring the country.
- Temporary work visa: This visa is most suitable if you plan to carry out specific jobs for local companies.
Visa renewals are possible, and you can apply for extensions before your current visa expires. Additionally, there are options to switch to a different type of visa if you choose to settle long-term.
Places to live and work as a digital nomad in Peru
Peru offers a diverse range of options for digital nomads. Lima is vibrant, with a thriving coworking scene and a world-renowned food culture. Cusco, on the other hand, blends history with adventure, while Arequipa provides a calm, welcoming environment for those looking for a peaceful atmosphere.
Lima
The capital is a lively city, offering plenty of coworking spaces, ranging from cozy cafes to modern coworking centers. With its rich gastronomic offer and cosmopolitan vibe, Lima is the perfect place to blend work and personal enjoyment.
Cusco
Cusco is ideal for those looking to balance work and adventure. As the gateway to Machu Picchu, it also offers many outdoor activities. With its blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, Cusco is a go-to destination for digital nomads.
Arequipa
Known as the “White City” for its stunning sillar architecture, Arequipa stands out for its beauty and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great choice for digital nomads who prefer a slower pace of life. With its charming workspaces and vibrant local culture, the city is an inspiring place to stay productive and tap into creativity.
Accommodation options for digital nomads in Peru
- Colivings: Selina in Lima and Arequipa provide a unique blend of accommodation and workspaces tailored for digital nomads.
- Hotels and hostels: There is a wide variety of options with competitive rates and suitable amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
- Home exchange: HomeExchange is a platform that allows you to find affordable housing opportunities by exchanging homes.
Coworking spaces for digital nomads in Peru
Coworking spaces are essential for digital nomads, and Lima has a wide range of great spots where you can work and connect with fellow nomads.
- WeWork: With several locations across Lima, it provides a professional environment and a range of amenities. Prices typically range from $200 to $400 per month, depending on the location and services.
- Regus: This place offers coworking spaces that allow you to work alongside like-minded professionals. It includes rest areas and networking events to promote teamwork. You can choose from several options like a dedicated desk with 24/7 access, a regular coworking membership, or a day pass. Prices start at $45, depending on what suits you best.
- Social Coworking & Café: This café in Lima, located in the district of Jesús María, combines a good coffee with a space to work.
Public spaces with good internet connection
As a digital nomad in Peru, you will find several places with a pleasant environment to work in and that offer good connectivity.
- Parks: Many places offer reliable internet and quiet areas to work. In Lima, you can find free Wi-Fi at most parks, shopping malls, and beaches. Notable spots include the beaches of Costa Verde, Parque Kennedy, Larcomar, Estadio Nacional, Parque de Barranco, Parque Cáceres, and Parque San José in Jesús María, as well as Campo de Marte. By using the Google Maps app on your phone, you can easily find the nearest location with free internet access.
- Coffee shops: Chains such as Starbucks and independent coffee shops offer free wifi and a comfortable environment to work in.
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Do digital nomads pay taxes in Peru?
Taxation in Peru is influenced by several factors, such as your nationality and how long you stay in the country. If you stay for more than 183 days, you may be liable for local taxes. It’s important to look into Peru’s double taxation agreements with various countries, including:
- Chile
- Canada
- United Mexican States
- Republic of Korea
- Swiss Confederation
- Republic of Portugal
Such treaties may offer significant tax advantages. Find out about digital nomad taxes in Peru from official sources.
Health insurance and quality of healthcare in Peru
Access to the healthcare system
Digital nomads in Peru can access both public and private healthcare systems. The private system typically offers faster and higher-quality care. It’s advisable to have health insurance that covers you internationally.
Popular health insurance options for digital nomads include World Nomads and SafetyWing. These plans are designed for travelers and offer emergency coverage. Make sure the international insurance you select includes coverage in Peru.
Healthcare in Peru varies, but overall, clinics and hospitals in major cities are well-equipped. Most doctors speak English, making it easier for tourists to communicate.
Guide to supermarkets, banks and public transportation for digital nomads in Peru
Transportation and mobility
In Peru, transportation options are diverse and can also be enjoyed by digital nomads:
- Public transport: Lima offers an efficient bus and metro system that makes traveling around the city simple and affordable. For less than a dollar per ride, the metro connects 26 stations spanning 11 districts of the capital.
- Cabs and transport services: Apps such as Uber, Cabify DiDi and InDrive are popular and reliable in Peru.
- Driver’s licenses: You can use your foreign driver’s license for up to 90 days in Peru. After that, you can exchange it for a Peruvian license, as long as you meet the requirements set by the Driver’s License Issuance Center in downtown Lima. In other regions, these procedures are handled by the Regional Transport Offices.
Which bank is best for digital nomads in Peru?
BBVA and Scotiabank are two of the most popular banks for digital nomads in Peru. If you prefer digital banking, you can also use services like Revolut or N26. While ATMs are accessible, keep in mind that international transaction fees may apply. For fee-free withdrawals with Revolut, Banco de la Nación ATMs are your best option.
Where to buy food in Peru?
Peru offers a wide variety of affordable food options. Supermarkets like Metro and Wong carry a broad selection of products. Dining out at a local restaurant typically costs between $5 and $15, but you can enjoy a complete meal, including a starter and a drink, at local markets for as little as $3.
Peru: an endless entertainment destination for digital nomads
Peru has a wide range of activities that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking for cultural or nature experiences.
Sports
From surfing on the coast to hiking in the Andes, Peru is a paradise for sports enthusiasts.
- Surf: The beaches of Máncora and Punta Hermosa are known for their great waves, drawing surfers from around the globe. Máncora, in particular, is famous for its lively atmosphere and surf schools.
- Hiking: The Peruvian Andes offer stunning trekking routes, with the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu being one of the most famous. Other routes, like the Salkantay Trek and Inca Jungle Trek, take 4 to 5 days and lead you to this world wonder, offering breathtaking views of jungles or snow-capped peaks along the way.
Culture
Peru is home to a vibrant cultural scene, celebrated through various festivals year-round. A special event is the Inti Raymi, celebrated every June 24th in Cusco. Known as the Festival of the Sun, it honors Inti, the sun god of the ancient Inca civilization.
During Inti Raymi, thousands of people dress in traditional attire and take part in a vibrant ceremony featuring music, dance, and offerings. This re-creation of ancient sun worship highlights the cultural richness of the region.
Nature
Exploring the Amazon’s biodiversity is an experience you cannot miss. Peru has several Amazonian regions such as:
- Madre de Dios: Home to the Manu National Park, this area is renowned for its rich wildlife and diverse plant life. The park is a popular destination for ecotourism and birdwatching enthusiasts.
- Loreto: The vast Peruvian Amazon region offers access to the Amazon River and its tributaries, along with natural reserves where you can fully immerse yourself in the incredible beauty of the rainforest.
- San Martín: Known for its mountain landscapes and rich biodiversity, this region also boasts attractions such as Laguna Azul and the Tingo María National Reserve.
Best times of the year in Peru for digital nomads
To make the most of your time as a digital nomad in Peru, it’s important to know that the country’s climate is highly diverse, with significant variations from one region to another.
Coast
The ideal time to explore the Peruvian coast, such as Lima and Máncora, is from December to March. This period offers warm temperatures perfect for beach activities. Make sure to pack light clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen due to the high UV levels during summer. You might also want to bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Highlands
In the Andean highlands, including iconic destinations like Cusco and Arequipa, the dry season runs from May to October. This is the best time for hiking and exploring the Andean culture, as the weather is drier with clear skies. While the days are warm, nights can get quite chilly, so be sure to pack warm clothing, layers, a good pair of trekking boots, and accessories like hats and gloves.
Jungle
If you’re planning to explore the Amazon, the best time to visit is from June to October, when rainfall is lower. However, the rainforest is hot and humid year-round, so pack light, breathable clothing, insect repellent, and waterproof boots. It’s also a good idea to bring a water backpack and snacks, as some areas can be quite difficult to access.
Cost of living of a digital nomad in Peru
Peru offers a very affordable cost of living, which is a big advantage for digital nomads. Below, we’ve broken down the average expenses you can expect while living here, including accommodation, food, transport, entertainment, and coworking space rental.
| Accommodation | Coworking | Food | Transportation | Entertainment |
| In Lima, colivings such as Selina offer shared rooms from $200 and private rooms from $400. | In Lima, WeWork has rates ranging from $200 to $400 per month, depending on the services included. | Eating in restaurants can cost between $5 and $15 per meal, and in local markets, for less than $3. | In Lima, you can use the public transportation system, including metro and buses, with rates ranging from $0.50 to $1. | Entrance fees to museums and archaeological sites, such as Machu Picchu, can vary from $10 to $50, depending on the location. |
| In Cusco and Arequipa, prices are lower, with coliving options available from $150. | Other cities, such as Cusco, offer more affordable options, starting at $150. | If you prefer to cook, supermarkets such as Metro and Wong offer fresh produce at low prices. | For those who prefer convenience, apps such as Uber, DiDi and Cabify offer affordable rates. | Activities such as full days and cultural tours are also affordable with many competitive rates for less than $50. |
| Recommendation: Book in advance, especially during high season, to ensure the best rates. | Some locations also offer day passes, which can be useful if you plan to work in different cities. | Recommendation: A budget of $200 to $400 per month is reasonable. If you are looking to save, consider cooking at home and eating at local markets, where the food is delicious and affordable. | A budget of $30 to $60 per month is enough for daily commuting. | Budgeting between $100 and $200 allows you to enjoy the rich culture and nature of the country. |
Frequently asked questions: being a digital nomad in Peru
Yes, cities like Lima and Cusco have active digital nomad communities and are considered safe. However, it’s always a good idea to take the usual precautions and be aware of areas that may not be as safe.
Yes, having medical insurance that covers care abroad is highly recommended. Clinics and hospitals in Peru are of good quality, but it is advisable to be prepared for any situation.
While the digital nomad visa is not yet active, you can apply for a tourist visa, which allows stays of up to 183 days. Make sure to stay updated on the progress of the new visa.
A digital nomad typically spends around $800 to $1,200 a month. This varies based on factors like lifestyle choices, accommodation, food, and recreational activities.
Yes, especially in cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, you’ll find reliable internet connectivity in coworking spaces, cafes, and public spaces.
Peru offers a wide range of festivals, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. From the vibrant Inti Raymi festival in Cusco to exploring its rich culinary scene and local history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, you can use your foreign driver’s license for up to 90 days. After that, you’ll need to exchange it for a Peruvian license by meeting certain requirements.
