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  • Safety, Security & Travel Advice Series Peru
  • Peru Crime & Safety Report

Peru Crime & Safety Report 2021

The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses Peru at Level 2, showing travelers should exercise increased caution. Do not travel to the Colombian border area in the Loreto Region because of crime, or the area in central Peru known as the Valley of the Rivers Apurimac, Ene, and Mantaro (VRAEM) because of crime and terrorism.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation 

Crime threats.

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Lima as being a CRITICAL-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. According to the Peruvian National Police ( PNP ), crime increased 15% in 2021. Foreign residents and visitors may be more vulnerable to crime, as criminals perceive them to be wealthier and more likely to carry large amounts of cash and other valuables on their person. However, this uptick in crime has affected Peruvians and foreigners alike. The most common types of crime in Lima and many parts of the country include armed robbery, assault, burglary, and petty theft. Crimes can turn violent quickly and often escalate when a victim attempts to resist.

In Lima, there is a continuing trend of armed assailants robbing individuals between the airport and their hotel, often following the individual directly from the airport. This type of crime usually happens late at night or early morning and occurs en route to or upon arrival at the hotel, or while in the lobby checking into the hotel.

Another trend in Lima, according to police and local media reports, involves armed assailants riding on motorcycles in pairs targeting individuals that display valuables. Most times, these criminals look for vehicles stopped in traffic with visible handbags or electronics such as cell phones. The assailants snatch items through open windows, or smash windows and grab the valuables, then quickly flee on the motorcycle.

Vehicular vandalism and theft occur throughout Peru. Criminals steal spare parts and sell them on the black market. Park vehicles in well-lighted areas, preferably in a paid parking lot.

Counterfeit currency is a concern. Peru has more circulating counterfeit U.S. currency than any other country in the world. Criminals also target individuals that withdraw money from ATMs; many banks offer withdrawal insurance. Criminals have inserted skim readers on ATMs to get bank / credit card information, allowing them to clone cards and make unauthorized withdrawals. Credit cards are in wide use in Lima, with official identification usually required for any transaction. In restaurants, it is common for the server to bring a remote scanner to the table to pay the bill.

There have been some instances of drugging in bars and clubs for the purpose of robbery. Pay careful attention to drinks being poured and do not leave a drink unattended.

While U.S. Embassy personnel and foreign residents normally live in affluent areas with significant private security and local police presence, they are not immune. Crime targeting these areas has risen over the past year. Residential burglaries are most common when houses are vacant, but thieves will also attempt to enter occupied residences via unsecured doors and windows, tricking domestic employees, or forcing access through residential perimeters.

Many areas of Peru are very remote. Medical help or search and rescue services are often unavailable. Weather, especially in mountainous areas, can change quickly. Fully prepare for low temperatures and wet weather before venturing into the wilderness. Jungle travel can be extremely hazardous without an experienced guide.

The Embassy maintains two restricted travel zones within Peru because of terrorist and/or significant criminal activity. These are the Valley of the Apurimac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM); and an area 20 km south of the Colombian border, except for travel on the Amazon River itself. The VRAEM comprises emergency zones as declared by the Government of Peru. There are virtually no facilities or tourist sites in these areas:

Restricted   Most districts in the provinces of La Mar and Huanta.

Restricted   Several districts in the province of La Convención, especially those areas next to the Apurimac River.

Huancavelica:

Restricted   Many districts within the provinces of Churcampa and Tayacaja.

Restricted   Districts within the provinces of Satipo, Concepción, and Huancayo.

Peruvian law requires all persons to carry one form of valid photo identification. Avoid carrying original passports; lock them in a hotel safe or another secure location and carry a photocopy of the data/biographic page, the page containing the visa, and a copy of the Peruvian immigration form received at the port of entry.

Several competent private security businesses operate in Peru, many of which offer a wide variety of services such as executive protection, private investigations, guard services for large events, armored car services, and physical security for work and residential locations.

Transportation-Safety Situation 

Road safety and road conditions.

Drivers often ignore traffic laws and authorities rarely enforce them, creating dangerous conditions for drivers and pedestrians. Seat belts are mandatory for driver and front-seat passengers in a private vehicle. It is against the law to talk on a cellular phone while driving, and violators may receive fines. When driving in urban areas, taxis and buses often block lanes impeding traffic. Drivers rarely use turn signals. Vehicles frequently turn from the middle through traffic lanes. While driving outside major cities and on the Pan-American Highway, you must have your headlights on.

Roads often lack proper maintenance and may lack crash barriers, guardrails, signs, and streetlights. Fog is common on coastal and mountain highways, making conditions more treacherous. Slow-moving buses and trucks frequently stop in the middle of the road unexpectedly. Traveling in a group is preferable to solo travel. Have extra spare tires, parts, and fuel when traveling in remote areas, where distances between service areas are long.

Because of poor infrastructure and some criminal activity, travel by road at night is especially hazardous. The U.S. Embassy travel policy prohibits nighttime road travel outside of cities, except on the Pan-American Highway north to Huacho and south to Paracas. The Embassy allows personnel to take night buses along the entire Pan-American Highway, to Huaraz, on the route to Arequipa, and from Arequipa to Cusco. Private bus companies charge higher prices but are safer.

If a traffic officer signals you to stop, you must stop. Traffic officers must wear uniforms and identification cards that include their last name on their chest. Traffic officers may not keep your personal identification or vehicle documents. Under no circumstances, should you offer or agree to pay money to traffic officers.

If you are involved in an accident, you must contact local police and remain at the scene without moving your vehicle until authorities arrive. Authorities strictly enforce this rule; moving a vehicle or leaving the scene of an accident may constitute an admission of guilt under Peruvian law.

Many roads, especially in the mountains, are unpaved and narrow with sudden drop-offs. Landslides occur frequently during the rainy season; occasional landslides have also affected urban areas such as the Costa Verde in Lima.

Public Transportation Conditions

Many buses are overcrowded, poorly maintained, and lack safety features such as seat belts. Bus accidents resulting in multiple deaths and injuries are common because of routes along narrow, winding roads without a shoulder and steep drop-offs. Accidents are common because of excessive speed, poor bus maintenance, poor road conditions, and driver fatigue.

The Embassy recommends using a trusted driver or taxi services that have stands in the airport. Before paying for a service, ask if the car has lamina, a security film that prevents windows from shattering if struck. For taking taxis around Lima, the Embassy recommends using app-based taxi services. Arranging a taxi service known to or contracted by hotels is another good option.

Terrorism Threat 

Local, regional, and international terrorism threats/concerns.

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Lima as being a MEDIUM-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. Terrorism in Peru is now uncommon; however, remnants of the Sendero Luminoso (Shining Path) terrorist group are active in the VRAEM, a remote region that is a known safe haven for narco-traffickers. In 2019, Sendero Luminoso successfully targeted Peruvian security forces in this area. International terrorism is always a concern, but there is little evidence of continued significant activity by known international terrorist groups.

Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence

Civil unrest.

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Lima as being a MEDIUM-threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. Protests are common throughout Peru but are usually peaceful. Protesters may block roads and sometimes burn tires, throw rocks, and damage property. Police occasionally use tear gas to maintain public order if protests get out of control, but they usually use restraint. Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.

Anti-U.S. Sentiment

There is little anti-U.S. sentiment in Peru; however, certain sectors of Peruvian society, including illegal coca growers, resent U.S. counter-narcotic policies.

Environmental Hazards

Earthquakes are commonplace. Several devastating earthquakes have occurred throughout Peru’s history. Strong recent earthquakes have caused casualties and infrastructure damage. In May 2019, an 8.0-magnitude earthquake struck the Loreto region, causing one fatality in the Cajamarca region and 11 injuries, as well as isolated power outages and some infrastructure damage.

Floods and landslides occur frequently during the rainy season and may cause extended road closures. In 2017, heavy rains near the coast resulted in 62 deaths and 12,000 destroyed homes.

Personal Identity Concerns

A 2017 presidential decree prohibits all forms of discrimination and hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity. There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Peru.

Peru suffers high rates of gender-based violence. Half of Peruvian women between the ages of 15-49 have faced some sort of violence. Enforcement remains weak, partially because of a deep-rooted patriarchal culture. In 2021, authorities reported 147 femicide cases - a slight reduction in comparison to previous years. Senior Peruvian government officials view this issue as a priority and are a taking stronger position to protect vulnerable populations.

Peruvian law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical and mental disabilities, and mandates that public spaces be free of barriers and accessible to persons with disabilities. However, the government of Peru has devoted limited resources to enforcement and training and has made little effort to ensure access to public buildings and areas. Sidewalks (if they exist) are uneven and rarely have ramps at intersections. Pedestrian crossings are infrequent, and motorists almost never give pedestrians the right of way. Buses and taxis do not have special accommodations for disabled persons. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for travelers with disabilities.

Drug-related Crimes

Narcotics production and trafficking continues to be a problem; Peru is one of the world’s top two producers of cocaine. Peru exports the vast majority of the refined product, but the widespread production of cocaine in the VRAEM has contributed to a growing illegal drug presence in Peruvian cities.

Ayahuasca retreats, in which tourists use a traditional hallucinogen made from the Ayahuasca vine, are popular. Tourists have suffered severe medical problems, including brain damage, from Ayahuasca use. Unscrupulous purveyors of Ayahuasca may not be qualified in traditional preparation techniques. Tourists have reported sexual abuse while under the influence.

Police Response

The Peruvian National Police (PNP) has nationwide jurisdiction. The force is modernizing, but officers often lack the training and resources for full effectiveness. Police may be slow to respond and do not conduct effective investigations, although filing a police report after a theft may be useful for the insurance. Motorists report some police ask for bribes during traffic stops.

In Lima and other towns, many municipalities supplement PNP presence through an unarmed security force known as Serenazgo; however, there are conflicting reports regarding their effectiveness.

There is little government presence in many remote areas of the Andes and Amazon basin. Illicit activities, such as illegal mining and logging, and coca production, are common. Drug trafficking and other criminal activity, combined with poor infrastructure, limit the capability and effectiveness of Peruvian law enforcement in this area. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens along the Colombian border and in the VRAEM, as U.S. government personnel are restricted from traveling in these regions.

Medical Emergencies

Emergency medical service is reliable in Peru. The U.S. Embassy health unit recommends using private ambulance services. The quality of medical facilities varies from location to location. Providers almost never accept U.S. health insurance; for this reason, patients must provide cash or credit card to receive treatment.

Many popular tourist destinations, such as Cusco/Machu Picchu, Arequipa/Colca Canyon, Kuelap/Chachapoyas, Puno/Lake Titicaca, are at high altitudes. Altitude illness affects many people who are in otherwise good health, sometimes severely. Do not underestimate its potential effects. Its onset can be rapid, and may be life-threatening if untreated. Learn about it before you go, and ask your doctor whether high altitude may adversely affect any pre-existing condition. Physical training or fitness has no impact on altitude sickness susceptibility.

Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy/Consulate website. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally.

Police Emergency Numbers

Central: 105 Office: 332-3222 Lima Tourism Police Command Post: 460-1060 Tourism: 423-3500 (North Downtown Police)

Police Stations in Lima

San Isidro: 441-0222 Orrantia: 264-1932 Miraflores: 445-7943 Monterrico: 435-0688 La Molina: 368-1871, 368-1789 Santa Felicia: 348-7213, 349-2370 Chacarilla: 372-6614, 372-6596 San Borja: 225-5188, 225-5181, 225-5184 Barranco: 247-1383, 247-1160

Región: (044) 222-034 Patrol Division: 221-908 Police Department: 044-232-811 Criminal Division: 044-231708

Región: (065) 232-509 Police Department: 065-231-852

Región: (084) 242-611 Comisaria de Cusco: (084) 249-654 Turismo: (084) 235-123 Police Department: 084231788

Región: (074) 235-740 Central: 074-35-534 Turismo: 074-206-366 Police Department: 074-235-740

Subregión:(076) 340-584

Región: (043) 421-592, 427-814 Police Department: 043-427-814, 422-920

Región: (043) 321-651

Región: (064) 200-091

Región: (056) 218-456

Provincial: (053) 481-331

Provincial: (062) 513-262, 513-480

Región: (730) 305-455, 326-071 Police Department: (073)326-071

Police Department: 072-523-515, 523-888

Command Post: 054-252-688, Regional Director: (054) 251-277

Police Department: 066-312-055, 311-907

Police Department: 051-353-988 Police/Security Agencies

There are several competent private security businesses operating in Peru, many of which offer a wide variety of services such as executive protection, private investigations, guard services for large events, armored car services, and physical security for both work and residential locations

Embassy Guidance for U.S. citizens: Travelers should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) prior to arriving in Peru. Members of STEP receive the latest safety and security information, as well information in the event of a natural disaster.

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Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Peru: Updates & Travel Info

Woman cleans a Delta Airlines plane before the next flight to minimize the spread of Coronavirus.

At Peru for Less, the health and safety of our travelers is our top priority. We understand that there is concern surrounding the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), and we are doing all we can to assist our travelers during this time. We continue to closely monitor the situation as Peru gradually opens its touristic services. please don’t hesitate to contact our travel advisors for more information.

Restrictions also often change on a day-to-day basis. Please refer to your country of origin’s Embassy in order to view the latest updates regarding new regulations. United States citizens can check the U.S. Embassy in Peru for the latest information.

If you have any questions whatsoever, we will help bring you peace of mind. Contact us here . 

*This article was last updated on January 26, 2022.

COVID-19 FAQs

  • Is tourism open in Peru?
  • Is it still safe to travel to Peru?
  • Is Machu Picchu open? 

Is the Inca Trail open?

  • Tourist sites and establishments open status 
  • Pandemic travel prep 
  • How to reduce your risk for coronavirus?
  • What to do if you think you might have contracted coronavirus?
  • Peru local resources 
  • How to insure your trip in case of coronavirus?

Your Peru for Less trip

Peru for less updated postponement policy, the latest, at a glance (updated january 26, 2022).

  • Foreign tourists over 40 years old will no longer be asked for a booster shot. For example, in the case of foreign tourists over the age of 40, they can enter and leave the country, as well as travel nationally on flights and interproviscial land transport, only by presenting two doses of vaccination. In addition, foreign tourists can access restaurants, cinemas, supermarkets, churches, casinos, art galliers, gyms, among others, without a booster.
  • Starting January 23rd, Peruvians, residents and non-residents (tourists) older than 12 years old, must present a negative COVID test result 48 hours before boarding, or proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 in order to enter Peru.
  • Beginning December 15th, Peru is requiring that everyone over the age of 18 present an original physical vaccination card if they wish to enter closed spaces. A closed space includes restaurants, museums, supermarkets, cathedrals (such as the Cusco Cathedral), hotels, and more.
  • Beginning January 17th, Peru is requiring that all passengers over the age of 12 boarding a domestic flight either provide proof of a COVID-19 vaccination via an original physical vaccination card, OR a negative PCR-test with a result date of no more than 48 hours before boarding.
  • Beginning December 15th, Peru is requiring that all passengers over the age of 18 boarding domestic ground transport to either provide proof of a COVID-19 vaccination via an original physical vaccination card, OR a negative PCR-test with a result date of no more than 48 hours before boarding. Travelers 40-years-old or older are additionally required to present proof of a booster against COVID . In the case that your vaccine series was only recently completed, proof of a booster is not required.
  • As of October 15th, 2021, all unvaccinated travelers must present a negative PCR test issued within 48 hours of boarding the flight in order to enter the country.
  • As of September 6th, 2021, travelers who have been vaccinated for Covid-19 no longer need to present a negative test in order to enter the country. Unvaccinated travelers must present a negative PCR test issued within 48 hours of boarding the flight (antigen tests are no longer accepted).
  • Any establishment may require the use of two (2) face masks for entry. It is recommended to always have multiple masks and a face shield on your person while in public spaces.
  • Machu Picchu and the two-day Inca Trail opened on November 1st.

More in-depth information below.

Is Tourism Open in Peru?

Yes, tourism is open in Peru — with restrictions. A negative PCR test (issued no more than 48 hours before boarding), or proof of vaccination is required to enter the country. Flights to Peru from the U.S. have resumed in select cities ( see list here ). At this time, many hotels and restaurants are open, but like anywhere else, they are operating at a limited capacity to ensure the safety of their guests. There are also many famous sites open to visitors, like Machu Picchu , the 2-Day Inca Trail , Colca Canyon and several others. Increased cleaning and safety protocols are in place nationwide to protect travelers and residents alike. For more in-depth information about specific sites, destinations and hotels, contact our experienced travel advisors who can organize a safe and exciting trip.

Is it Still Safe to Travel to Peru?

Yes, with exercised caution. Though, keep in mind that travel may only commence with proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test issued no more than 48 hours before your flight .

On Tuesday, October 13, 2020, Peru and Cusco have received the World Health Organization’s Safe Travels Stamp by the World Travel & Tourism Council. Of course, health measures and protocols must be adhered to by all residents and visitors. Read the CDC’s recommendations for fully vaccinated travelers, note that you do need to present a negative PCR test result upon arrival to Peru. 

For all the latest, visit the U.S. Embassy in Peru website.

International Entry Requirements

All passengers arriving to Peru must present proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test issued within 48 hours of their departure time. An Affidavit of Health and Geolocation Authorization must be filled out before departure. Health screening procedures are in place at the airport as well. Read more about Lima Airport COVID-19 policies here .  

Is Machu Picchu open?

Yes, Machu Picchu is open again as of November 1, 2020. All visitors and staff must follow these guidelines: 

  • Visitors, guides and employees must maintain 6 foot distance at all times. 
  • Tour groups must maintain 65 feet of distance at all times
  • Tour groups are limited to 8 people including the guide.
  • Temperatures will be checked before entry. Anyone with a temperature above 100 can not enter. 
  • 675 visitors will be admitted per day, 75 per hour.
  • There will be four one-way circuits and a stop-go system so groups don’t mix. 
  • No food allowed.
  • Huayna Picchu , Machu Picchu Mountain , Inca Bridge and Sun Gate are close until further notice.
  • All visitors must show an affidavit indicating that they are free of covid-19 symptoms.

Machu Picchu Tours:

Overlooking the Incan citadel Machu Picchu surrounded by mountains with clouds in the sky

Official opening of the two-day Inca Trail to the public was November 15. There is no word yet as to when the classic four-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will recommence. The following protocols are in place for the two-day Inca Trail:

  • Temperature check required. Anyone with a temperature of 100 or above can not enter the Inca Trail . 
  • Groups will enter with 5 minutes of difference. 
  • Trekkers must maintain 13 foot distance between each other while hiking 
  • Trekkers must maintain 6 foot distance in eating and other rest areas. 
  • There must be a 65 foot distance between groups

Pandemic travel prep

In the case of traveling during a pandemic, these are some key points to keep in mind:

  • Check updates and analysis from reputed institutions including the CDC – Information for Travel , WHO – COVID-19 Updates , and official government pages ( Ministry of Health in Peru , US Department of State – Travel , and more.)
  • Pack hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes to use on the airplane and throughout your trip.
  • If possible, avoid eating during a short plane ride. The act of eating, especially snacks, often means consuming food you touched or that was exposed to the air.
  • You may also want to talk with your doctor at home about your health concerns and COVID-19 risk.

If you contract COVID in Peru, here are steps to follow:

  • Follow the advice of local authorities.
  • Call your travel health insurance provider to find a doctor near you.
  • Make a doctor’s appointment and follow the doctor’s advice.
  • Call your travel agent to make appropriate arrangements/postponements of your current bookings.
  • Practice home isolation. Stay indoors, away from other people, and out of public spaces.
  • Discontinue the upcoming legs of your journey until you are better.
  • U.S. citizens looking for repatriation flights should email [email protected] for information.

Peru’s Ministry of Health (MINSA) lists these local resources:

  • Report suspected cases directly to government authorities with the emergency 113 phone number.
  • If you have symptoms, dial the toll-free number 113, send a WhatsApp message to (+51) 952-842-623, or email [email protected]. Responses may be in Spanish only.

How to insure your trip in case of COVID-19?

We asked three of our senior travel advisors about travel insurance during the COVID-19 outbreak, and this was their advice: 

Travelers should purchase an insurance policy that includes “Cancel For Any Reason” or CFAR. The majority of policies that include the “Cancel For Any Reason” must be purchased within 14 to 21 days of the first payment toward a trip. These policies cost about 40 percent more than typical cancellation policies, and reimburse up to 75 percent of the trip’s cost. 

With our research in recent days, Squaremouth seems to have the most reasonable policies in relation to the coronavirus but would, of course, require “Cancel For Any Reason” policies and would need to be purchased very quickly after making your trip deposit. The company can certainly change this moving forward at any time, so do contact them directly at your earliest availability. Timing is very important with this type of coverage.

If you have any questions about a trip booked with Peru for Less , feel free to check-in with your Travel Advisor for specific information regarding your reservations. If you have questions regarding a self-booked flight, please contact your airline directly.

We know that right now is an uncertain time for traveling and for planning trips in general. That’s why we have carefully negotiated with our partners and local providers to offer the most flexible postponement terms in the market. Up to 10 days before your trip, you can postpone your trip with us with zero fees . This allows you to plan your dream trip to Peru without worrying about losing out if the unexpected happens. Learn more about our postponement policy here .

Please know that we are working around the clock to monitor the situation and assist our travelers. See the FAQs below for more in-depth information about border closures, transport, accommodations, local resources, and more.

Peru for Less does not specialize in healthcare advice. The answers we’ve compiled for the Coronavirus FAQs are based on guidelines and details from reputed institutes cited throughout this article. Some information may not be up-to-date despite our greatest efforts.

Some information may not be up-to-date despite our greatest effort to update as news becomes available.

department of state travel to peru

Manuel was born in Iowa, raised in California and now lives in Lima, Peru. His Peruvian parents always kept him close to his roots with dozens of family vacations to see his grandparents in Lima. After graduating from University of California Santa Barbara, Manuel decided to move to Lima to be closer to the family, food and culture he loves.

Tags: coronavirus , COVID-19

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Peru Changes Its Mind Over Tit-For-Tat Visa Requirement for Mexico Visitors

LIMA (Reuters) - Peru will not require Mexican visitors to secure a visa to visit the South American nation, officials said on Wednesday, in a reversal after insisting last week it would match Mexico's newly-approved visa requirement for Peruvian visitors.

In a statement, Peru's foreign ministry pointed to pressure from the country's key hospitality sector for the government's about face. Local tourist trade group Apotur has estimated that a visa requirement for Mexican visitors could trigger some $250 million in losses.

The visa rule for Mexican nationals had been set to take effect on April 22.

Late last week, Mexico's government announced it will require a visa application for Peruvian nationals seeking to enter Mexican territory, amid a recent surge of largely U.S.-bound migrants from the South American country.

The Mexican measure is set to take effect at the end of next week, according to the announcement in the government's official gazette.

(Reporting by Marco Aquino; Editing by Marguerita Choy)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Mexico to require visas for Peru nationals after migration spike

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IMAGES

  1. Getting to Peru

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  2. Cities In Peru Map

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  3. The 13 most incredible places to visit in Peru

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  4. The 13 most incredible places to visit in Peru

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  5. Peru Travel Facts: Everything You Need to Know Before Going

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  6. Best Time to Visit Peru

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COMMENTS

  1. Peru International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  2. Peru Travel Advisory

    Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to: The Colombian-Peruvian border area in the Loreto Region due to crime. The Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM), including areas within the Departments of Ayacucho, Cusco, Huancavelica, and Junin, due to crime and terrorism. Country Summary : Crime, including petty theft ...

  3. Security Alert: Travel Advisory

    Please be advised that the Department of State has changed the Travel Advisory level for Peru from "Level 3, Reconsider Travel," to "Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution" due to crime and civil unrest. Please note that while most of Peru is at Level 2, there are areas in Peru that are currently designated "Level 4: Do Not Travel."

  4. Travel Alert: Peru Travel Advisory Level Raised to Level 3: Reconsider

    On June 29, the Department of State raised the travel advisory level for Peru from Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution to Level 3: Reconsider Travel. Those considering travel to Peru are advised to reconsider travel due to crime. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to:

  5. Travel Information

    If you are a U.S. Citizen in Peru with an emergency, you can call our hotline at [011] (51-1) 618-2000. If you would like to contact the Cusco Consular Agency, you can call [011] (51-84) 231-474 or send an email to [email protected]. For complete contact information and hours, please click here.

  6. 'Reconsider Travel' To Peru Due To Civil Unrest, Says State Department

    AFP via Getty Images. F ollowing last week's arrest of Peruvian President Pedro Castillo, the U.S. State Department has reissued a Level 3 "Reconsider Travel" advisory for the South American ...

  7. Travel to Uruguay and Peru, November 7-11, 2021

    Summary In Montevideo from November 7-9, Deputy Secretary Sherman met with senior government officials to discuss continued efforts to advance democratic governance and human rights in the region; reinforce U.S.-Uruguay economic, security, and counternarcotics cooperation; discuss climate and environmental protection issues; and engage on other matters reflecting the important U.S.-Uruguay ...

  8. Peru Crime & Safety Report

    The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report's publication assesses Peru at Level 2, showing travelers should exercise increased caution. Do not travel to the Colombian border area in the Loreto Region because of crime, or the area in central Peru known as the Valley of the Rivers Apurimac, Ene, and Mantaro (VRAEM) because of crime and terrorism.

  9. Is It Safe to Travel to Peru After the September 2023 State of

    The government of Peru has declared a state of emergency in parts of Peru, including much of the capital city, Lima. The U.K. Foreign Office has issued updated guidance for travel to Peru amid ...

  10. Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Peru: Updates & Travel Info

    Check updates and analysis from reputed institutions including the CDC - Information for Travel, WHO - COVID-19 Updates, and official government pages (Ministry of Health in Peru, US Department of State - Travel, and more.) Pack hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes to use on the airplane and throughout your trip.

  11. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

    Signing up for STEP helps the U.S. embassy get in touch with you if there's an emergency. And, if your family or friends in the U.S. can't reach you with urgent news while you're traveling, we can use the information in STEP to try and contact you. Become a Smart Traveler Now! STEP is an easy first step to being a smart traveler.

  12. Frequently Asked Questions

    On May 31, 2019, the Department of State updated its immigrant and nonimmigrant visa application forms to request additional information, including social media identifiers, from most U.S. visa applicants worldwide. For more information, please see the Department of State's responses to Frequently Asked Questions.

  13. Health Alert: Peru

    Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Lima, Peru Location: Peru (countrywide) Event: Travel Advisory for Peru Increased from Level 3 "Reconsider Travel" to Level 4 "Do Not Travel" (January 25, 2022) . On January 24, the Department of State announced that the Travel Advisory for Peru has increased from Level 3 "Reconsider Travel" to Level 4 "Do Not Travel" due to the ongoing situation ...

  14. Peru Changes Its Mind Over Tit-For-Tat Visa Requirement for Mexico Visitors

    In a statement, Peru's foreign ministry pointed to pressure from the country's key hospitality sector for the government's about face. Local tourist trade group Apotur has estimated that a visa ...

  15. Mexico to Require Visas for Peruvians in Migration Crackdown

    Mexico will require Peruvians obtain a visa to enter the country in an effort to stem a "substantial increase" in the flow of migrants from the South American country.. The temporary action ...

  16. Travel Advisory: Peru

    Road travel from La Merced city to the Satipo provincial boundary. Last Update: Reissued with updates to COVID-19 information. For Assistance: U.S. Embassy Lima, Peru Avenida La Encalada 1615 Santiago de Surco 15023, Lima +51-1-618-2000 [email protected] https://pe.usembassy.gov; State Department - Consular Affairs +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202 ...

  17. Mexico to require visas for Peru nationals after migration spike

    In 2012, Mexico eliminated an earlier visa requirement for Peruvians who visit the country for up to 180 days. The measure led to Peruvians securing a place among the top 10 nationalities visiting ...

  18. Briefing on Secretary Blinken's Upcoming Travel to Colombia, Chile, and

    MR TEK: Thank you and good afternoon, everybody. Happy Friday. Welcome to today's call to preview Secretary Blinken's upcoming travel to Colombia, Chile, and Peru from October 3rd to 7th. Our speakers today are Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Brian Nichols and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Population, Refugees, and […]

  19. Mexico announces new visa requirement for nationals of Peru

    Effective 20 April 2024, nationals of Peru must obtain a visa prior to entering Mexico for business, tourism or to transit through the country. Starting on this date, Peruvian nationals will be required to have a visitor visa prior to travel, a passport that is valid for at least 180 days and other supporting documents (e.g., invitation letter ...

  20. U.S. Senior Official for APEC Ambassador Murray Travels to Peru

    To promote dialogue and strengthen the groundwork for Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)'s policy discussions and deliverables, U.S. Senior Official for APEC Ambassador Matt Murray will participate in a capacity-building session facilitated by the United States-Support for Economic Growth in Asia (US-SEGA) program in Lima, Peru, from September 14-15, 2023. This session will provide ...

  21. Travel Alert: Peru

    Read the entire Travel Advisory. Read the Department of State's COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Peru due to COVID-19, indicating a high level of COVID-19 in the country.