They certainly aren’t glamorous to write about, but toilets are undoubtedly one of life’s essential locations. When you’re on the road, often with no place to call your own, answering a call of nature can pose a few problems -- especially in developing countries like Peru...

Public Toilets in Peru

Public toilets in Peru tend to range from bearable to hideously unclean. The latter is obviously best avoided, while finding the former can take some time.


If you do come across a public toilet, expect to pay a small fee for the privilege (about S/.0.50, which should include a toilet paper).

Toilets are normally signposted with the words "Baño Publico", "Servicios Higiénicos" (abbreviated to SS.HH.) or standard "men" (hombres or varones) and "women" (mujeres or damas) signs and/or symbols.

In Peru’s major cities, you might have some luck finding a public toilet near a main square or park. In Miraflores, Lima, for example, there’s a respectable toilet in Parque Kennedy. Most major supermarkets (like Wong or Metro) also have toilets, which are often free to use. Otherwise, try looking in nearby traditional markets, which often have small but unsavory facilities.

Restaurant Restrooms

The quality of toilets in restaurants and bars normally corresponds to the standard of the establishment itself (rundown restaurant... rancid toilet). Not all owners are happy to let the public use their facilities without making a purchase; you can certainly ask, but don’t expect a positive reply.

If you’re eating lunch in a family-run establishment, bear in mind that the toilet, if available, will likely be part of the family home (not necessarily a bad thing, but sometimes a little awkward).

Toilets on the Move

Toilet tactics really come into play when you’re using public transport in Peru, especially over long distances. Airport toilets are normally quite respectable, so not too many problems there.

Traveling in Peru by bus, however, can be a test of both stamina and toilet-oriented timing. Most long-distance buses have toilets onboard, but they can only be used for urinating. If you are in more dire need of a bathroom, you’ll have to wait for a terminal stop (or a meal stop at a predetermined restaurant). Make sure you have enough time before running to the toilet -- some bus companies have a habit of leaving stragglers behind. Bus terminal toilets are often unpleasant, but more than adequate in desperate situations. Expect to pay a small fee.

A Quick Note About Toilet Paper in Peru

There are two important points to remember about toilet paper in Peru. Firstly, you shouldn’t flush it -- you’ll always find a bin beside the toilet in which to deposit the paper. Secondly, toilet paper is often in short supply. It’s a good idea to keep a toilet roll in your backpack, or a decent supply folded up in your back pocket.