Peru as a nation greatly respects the contributions and wisdom of society's elders, but that consideration doesn't necessarily translate into automatic deferential treatment of senior tourists. Discounts for seniors are not automatic across Peru. Still, you should mention the fact that you're a senior when you first make your travel reservations; although almost all airlines have cancelled their senior discount and coupon book programs, many hotels still offer lower rates for seniors
Members of AARP (formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons), 601 E St. NW, Washington, DC 20049 (tel. 888/687-2277; www.aarp.org), get discounts on hotels, airfares, and car rentals. AARP offers members a wide range of benefits, including AARP: The Magazine and a monthly newsletter. Anyone over 50 can join.
Many reliable agencies and organizations target the 50-plus market. Elderhostel (tel. 877/426-8056; www.elderhostel.org) arranges study programs for people 55 and over (and a spouse or companion of any age) in more than 80 countries, including Peru. Most courses last 2 to 4 weeks, and many include airfare, accommodations in university dormitories or modest inns, meals, and tuition. ElderTreks (tel. 800/741-7956; www.eldertreks.com) offers small-group tours to off-the-beaten-path or adventure-travel locations, restricted to travelers 50 and older; it currently offers a 19-day trip to Peru and Bolivia.
Recommended publications offering travel resources and discounts for seniors include: the quarterly magazine Travel 50 & Beyond (www.travel50andbeyond.com); Travel Unlimited: Uncommon Adventures for the Mature Traveler (Avalon); and 101 Tips for Mature Travelers, available from Grand Circle Travel (tel. 800/221-2610 or 617/350-7500; www.gct.com).
