canadian government travel advisories peru

Language selection

Canada and peru.

Services for Canadians if you're visiting, studying, working or doing business in Peru. Includes information about coming to Canada.

Travel advice and advisories - Peru

Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)

Travel advice, passport and entry requirements, health and safety information, and more.

Services and information

Coming to canada.

Apply to immigrate. Get a visa to study, work or visit Canada.

Travelling outside of Canada

Travel advice for how to stay safe and returning to Canada.

Living abroad

Everything you need to know to prepare to leave Canada to live in a foreign country.

Canada-Peru relations

Canada’s diplomatic, economic or cultural relationship with Peru.

Doing business in Peru

Business opportunities, market and sector advantages and other insights.

Most requested

• Authentication of documents
• Registration of Canadians Abroad

Find a Government of Canada embassy, high commission or consulate

• Canada and Peru news (Canada news)
• Canada and Peru news (Local statements)

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

• Embassy of Canada to Peru

Terms of service

X (Twitter)

• @CanadaPeru
• Embajada/ Emb/ Amb Canadá Perú

Social Sharing

Carolina Medina arrived in Peru on Dec. 3. But the Canadian tourist would soon be caught in the country's political crossfire, as just four days later, its president's removal from office ignited a wave of protests across the South American nation.

Medina, who is from Mississauga, Ont., told CBC News in a direct message that she and a group of other Canadians are currently stuck in the southwestern city of Arequipa.

• Are you a Canadian currently in Peru? We want to speak with you for an upcoming story. Email us at [email protected]

Some tourists have tried to cross borders into different cities — and even into neighbouring Bolivia — but road blockades by protesters have made it difficult to do so without the threat of violence or getting stuck, she said.

"Other tourists have also experienced getting robbed on the road, and there have been many looting [incidents] happening within the city near our hotel," she said.

"All of us just want to get home in time for Christmas with our families."

• Peru's president removed from office, arrested after failed 'coup' attempt
• Peru's new government imposes 30-day state of emergency as protests rage

Medina, who is among thousands of Canadians currently in Peru, has criticized Ottawa's response to what she says is an increasingly dangerous situation.

Some have tried to leave the country since the protests began, but violent confrontations have crippled travel routes and airports.

Ottawa 'actively engaged,' but tourist disagrees

There are just over 3,900 Canadians currently in Peru, but that number accounts only for those who are officially registered with the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) database, a voluntary service.

The Canadian government updated its  travel advisory this week urging Canadians to exercise a high degree of caution in travel to Peru.

Airports in such cities as Arequipa, Ayacucho and Juliaca are among those that have suspended travel until further notice.

Jason Kung, a spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada, told CBC News in an emailed statement that consular officials are "actively engaged with the situation in Peru and continue to monitor the situation closely." No further details were given.

Kung said the government is advising Canadians in Peru to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place, not cross road blockades, even if they're unattended, and follow the instructions of local authorities — including obeying the curfew that was implemented in 15 Peruvian provinces this week.

The government is also asking Canadians in Peru to contact  Canada's Emergency Watch and Response Centre and to register with ROCA . 

Protests in Peru over ouster of former president Pedro Castillo

But Medina said she thinks the Canadian government is failing citizens who have yet to be evacuated from violent circumstances.

She said that upon contacting the Canadian Embassy in Peru, she was told only to stay put. She had previously spoken with tourists from Germany and Britain who were evacuated from the country by their governments.

It echoes a similar grievance from March 2020, when Canadians encountered difficulties leaving Peru during its COVID-19 lockdown as they watched other citizens receive assistance.

• CBC Explains What's behind Peru's political crisis? Who are the players? And what might happen next?
• Analysis Canada takes sides as hemisphere splits over who rules Peru

"We received an email that they have four flights leaving from [Cusco], but they are prioritizing different groups of tourists, so no one really knows when we will be able to fly home," Medina said.

Jennifer Korver and Heather Vitkuske were among other Canadians stuck in Arequipa.

"We feel the safest when we're at the hotel and we don't go very far,"  Korver told CBC News in an interview earlier this week.

Vitkuske said the two miss their families. "It's hard coping with the uncertainty."

New leader pushes back on calls to resign

Castillo was ousted and arrested on Dec. 7 after he attempted to dissolve Peru's congress and announced that he would rule by decree. The left-wing political leader was impeached for "permanent moral incapacity" and arrested on charges of rebellion.

His successor, former vice-president Dina Boluarte, characterized Castillo's actions as a coup attempt, though some have rejected  that description.

At least 20 people have died during the protests in response to Castillo's removal from office, with 500 civilians and security forces among the injured. The protesters are calling for Boluarte's resignation and Castillo's freedom.

But Boluarte rejected calls to resign on Saturday. During a news conference, she criticized the country's congress for not voting for her proposal to move up Peru's scheduled general elections from 2026 to 2023.

Peru has a long history of presidential corruption, but the Andean country has especially been embattled in the last seven years, as various political crises and a high turnover rate between presidents have crippled congress.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jenna Benchetrit is a senior writer with the business content unit at CBC News. She has also covered entertainment and education stories. A Montrealer based in Toronto, Jenna holds a master's degree in journalism from Toronto Metropolitan University. You can reach her at [email protected].

With files from The Associated Press

Related Stories

• Your Profile
• Your Subscriptions
• Your Business
• Support Local News
• Payment History
• Sign up for Daily Headlines
• Sign up for Notifications

Travel warning: Canada warns of violent ‘state of emergency’ in Peru

• Share by Email
• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share via Text Message

The Canadian government warns travellers to avoid all non-essential travel to parts of Peru due to civil unrest during a "state of emergency."

While the current advisory urges tourists to exercise a high degree of caution in the country due to high levels of crime, an update issued Thursday (Dec.15) warns against non-essential travel to some areas. 

The Peruvian government has also issued a national state of emergency for the next 30 days.  

Canadians are warned against travelling to some areas due to violent "demonstrations related to the political situation," while other areas have seen instances of "domestic terrorism and criminal activity such as drug trafficking, robberies, kidnappings, extortion, and raids."

On the border of Colombia, there are occasional attacks by armed guerrilla forces due to drug trafficking. On the border of Ecuador, especially in the Cordillera del Cóndor region, travellers may encounter landmines. 

The political unrest has intensified in Peru since Dec. 7 and clashes between protesters and the security forces have resulted in casualties.

Due to the political situation, there are several roadblocks across the country, particularly along the Panamericana Highway. Some smaller airports have also suspended their operations. 

What to know about the Peru travel advisory during the state of emergency 

Police and military officers have additional power during Peru's state of emergency. 

If you are in the country during this time: 

• avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• don’t attempt to cross road blockades, even if they appear unattended
• allow extra time to reach your destination
• expect increased security forces
• monitor local media for information on the evolving situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If you are stranded in Peru due to the political situation, there is an online form you can complete  to get help from local authorities. 

Find out more about Canada's official travel advisory for Peru .

• Oldest Newest

This has been shared 0 times

Featured Flyer

• Tour Operators
• Destinations
• Hotels & Resorts
• Agent Feedback
• Deals & Incentives
• On Location
• Industry Experts
• Sphere – HomeBased
• Digital Editions
• Subscribe today!

• Hotels and Resorts
• Types of Travel
• Subscribe Now

Peru program updates from G Adventures, Intrepid Travel as Machu Picchu reopens

Post date: Feb 17 2023

Date: Feb 17 2023

By: Kathryn Folliott

TORONTO — This week’s reopening of Machu Picchu is a step in the right direction for anyone selling Peru, even as the Canadian government continues to warn against travel to the country.

The bucket list destination of Machu Picchu has long been a mainstay of tour operator programs to South America, and its closure due to civil unrest put a crimp in otherwise booming bookings post-pandemic.

As reported yesterday , Machu Picchu reopened this week following a nearly month-long closure due to ongoing political protests in some regions of the country. Authorities, social groups and the tourism industry agreed to keep the Inca-era stone citadel safe.

It’s good news, however the Canadian government continues to warn visitors to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Peru.

Canada has also issued a regional advisory for the country, recommending that Canadians avoid non-essential travel to Arequipa, Cuzco (including the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu), Ica and Puno.

Canada’s advisory for Peru travel can be found here.

Travelweek checked in with tour operators to find out how they’re handling Peru trips right now.

G ADVENTURES: DAILY ASSESSMENTS

When the unrest started, G Adventures cancelled all trips starting in Peru up to, and including, Feb. 28. Road blockages and closures made it impossible to run many trips as planned.

G Adventures’ VP of Operations, Ben Weiher, tells Travelweek that the company is checking the situation daily. Says Weiher: “Currently our trips in Peru are all cancelled through the end of February. We make daily assessments on the viability of running our trips in Peru, looking at our primary overland routes, airports, and the train to and from Machu Picchu, among other things, including the strikes and protests that are occurring or planned and assessing if they are violent or peaceful in nature.

He adds: “Our hearts go out to the people of Peru who have suffered due to the lack of tourism dollars these past few months. We are committed to our vision of spreading wealth through tourism in Peru, however our main objective needs to remain the health and safety of our travellers and staff during these uncertain times.”

Sacred Valley, Peru | Ccaccaccollo Women’s Weaving Co-op with G Adventures

INTREPID TRAVEL: PERU PROGRAM RESTARTS MARCH 1

Travelweek also got the latest from Intrepid Travel, another company that traditionally has a high volume of Peru bookings.

Starting in mid-December 2022 Intrepid’s Peru program was hit with trip interruptions and cancellations because of the country’s civil unrest. Late last month Intrepid announced it would cancel all trips in Peru from Feb. 6 – 28. In total Intrepid had to cancel 140 departures due to the civil unrest and protests.

In the wake of Machu Picchu’s reopening, Intrepid got some great news yesterday: the tour op will restart trips in Peru on March 1, 2023, with some 25 trips scheduled to depart through the month.

The March 1 restart coincides with the reopening of the Inca Trail, which closes for routine maintenance every February. Machu Picchu’s reopening includes limited train service until demand increases.

The significance of Machu Picchu’s reopening cannot be overstated, said Fernando Rodriguez, Intrepid’s GM Peru.  Intrepid Travel has offices in Lima and Cusco, with a team of 350+ people which includes office staff, leaders, and porters.

Rodriguez told Travelweek about the current situation in his country: “The impact on the tourism industry has been devastating, especially after the extremely difficult years endured during the pandemic. The tourism industry losses are expected to exceed US$400 million, according to the latest government data, with Lima, Cusco, Puno, and Arequipa among the most impacted regions.”

Tourism plays such a vital role for Peru’s economy and impacts so many people’s lives, he added. “The significance of this reopening cannot be overstated. We simply cannot wait to welcome the world with open arms.”

Rodriguez says Intrepid’s immersive travel style helps locals in untold number of ways, from Intrepid’s drivers and porters to leaders and hosts. “There are incredible communities all over the country whose livelihoods depend on tourism, and we will do everything we can to get international tourists back and experiencing the magic of Peru. Communities, porters and leaders are so excited – everyone was celebrating when the trains started running. We will do our best for travellers coming to Peru and they will be welcomed with open arms.”

The last remaining obstacle for Intrepid’s Peru itineraries is Puno (Lake Titicaca) as the airport is closed and roads remain blocked. However, Intrepid notes that the airport is due to reopen on Feb. 28 “and we are hopeful that roads will be open by then.”

Peru is a key destination for Intrepid, one of the company’s top sellers globally. In 2019 Intrepid brought more than 11,000 travellers to Peru.

Experiencing Peru with Intrepid (photo credit Christian Declercq)

GOVERNMENT TRAVEL ADVISORY

We asked Intrepid if its Peru tours will operate starting March 1 regardless of the Canadian government’s advisory against travel to Cusco.

Intrepid spokesperson Nicole Powell says Intrepid recommends that all travellers consult with their local governments and make the decision to travel based on their own comfort levels.

“Our tours will operate regardless from March 1 onwards, unless the situation changes,” Powell told Travelweek.

The current statement for Peru travel on Intrepid’s Travel Alerts page is: “After a period of civil unrest following the change of government in December 2022, which resulted in the suspension of our tours to Peru until 28 February 2023, the situation within Peru is now beginning to improve. The majority of road blocks have now been lifted, most domestic flights have resumed and key tourist sites such as Machu Picchu have reopened. Juliaca Airport near Puno is scheduled to reopen on 28 February.

“All Intrepid tours to Peru will resume from 1 March 2023. We are continuing to monitor the situation on the ground and are confident that we will be able to provide our travellers with a safe and enjoyable experience in Peru.”

Tags: Lead Story, Machu Picchu

Kathryn is Editor at Travelweek and has worked for the company since 1995. She has travelled to more than 50 countries and counts Hong Kong, Jerusalem, the Swiss Alps and the Galapagos Islands among her favourite destinations.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Canada Has Issued Travel Advisories For These 7 Holiday Hot Spots & It Could Affect Your Trip

P lanning some winter travel? Before you get going, you'll want to take note of recent travel advisories issued by the Government of Canada.

Canada has issued travel advisories for several popular holiday spots, with updates and warnings that could affect your trip.

The safety guidance warns travellers to exercise caution in certain countries due to risks like crime and the threat of terrorism, and even advises avoiding some regions altogether.

Here are seven Canada travel advisories for popular vacation spots you should know about before heading out.

Sorin Colac | Dreamstime

Machu Picchu, Peru.

Details: Travellers to Peru should exercise a high degree of caution in the country due to high levels of crime, as well as "social conflicts and strikes that may occur across the country."

The Canadian government has also issued regional advisories warning residents to avoid non-essential travel to several provinces in the country due to instances of domestic terrorism, drug trafficking, robberies, kidnappings and extortion, including in Huallaga and Tocache provinces in the department of San Martín, the Upper Huallaga and Ene river valleys in the departments of Huánuco and San Martín and the Padre Abad province in the department of Ucayali.

In addition to this, Canadians should also avoid non-essential travel to areas within 20 kilometres of the border with Colombia due to drug trafficking and occasional incursions by armed guerrilla forces from Colombia into Peru.

The Canadian government says that Peru periodically declares a state of emergency in certain areas to allow the military to assist police forces in responding to situations like natural disasters and security incidents.

In September, the Peruvian government declared a state of emergency in three districts of the capital due to a spike in crime to allow the military to help enforce security, Reuters reported .

When a state of emergency is in effect, security forces have increased rights to restrict freedom of movement, monitor correspondence, conduct search and seizures and detain persons of interest.

More at travel.gc.ca

D Bergallo | Dreamstime

The flag of Jamaica.

Details: Jamaica is a popular tourist holiday spot, especially in winter. If you're thinking of travelling to the country, the Government of Canada advises exercising a high degree of caution, particularly in some areas frequented by tourists.

"Violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, is a problem in large cities and tourist areas, including parts of Kingston and Montego Bay, despite the presence of police to counter criminal activity," says the government.

The government has listed several neighbourhoods in tourist cities that have "a significant gang population and high incidences of violent crime," including Jones Town, Tower Hill and West Kingston in the Greater Kingston Area, and Canterbury, Hart Street and St. Clavers Avenue in Montego Bay.

Those who decide to travel to these areas are advised to maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, avoid visiting or travelling at night, follow the advice of local authorities, avoid walking alone, and avoid visiting isolated areas.

The government also warns that Jamaican authorities periodically declare a state of emergency in various parishes to fight against gang-related crime. When this is in effect, security forces have increased rights to conduct searches, seizures, and detain persons of interest.

If you're travelling in an area where a state of emergency is in effect, you should be aware that you may be subject to searches by security forces, be prepared to cooperate with military and police officers, carry valid ID at all times and allow for extra time to reach your destination.

Jeremyreds | Dreamstime

Reykjavik, Iceland.

Details: While travellers to Iceland are advised to "take normal security precautions," the Government of Canada has updated its advisory for the Nordic country to include warnings of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

"Since late October 2023, the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland has experienced an increase in volcanic and seismic activity," says the government.

The notice says that the number and frequency of earthquakes in the region could be a sign of a potential volcanic eruption.

On November 10, 2023, the Almannavarnir, Iceland's civil defence unit, declared a state of emergency for the region, including the Blue Lagoon, and issued an evacuation order for the town of Grindavík.

According to the Almannavarnir , the probability of a sudden eruption within the town limits of Grindavík has been decreasing every day and is now considered "small," though it is still possible in the surrounding area.

"If an eruption occurs, it could create dangerous lava flows in the immediate area. Clouds of volcanic gas could move towards Reykjavik in the following days, which could bring potentially dangerous pollution levels," says the travel advice.

Those travelling to Iceland are advised to avoid areas close to mountains and steep slopes on the Reykjanes peninsula due to the danger of falling rocks and landslides, monitor local media for updates and follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders.

Frenta | Dreamstime

A beach in Mexico.

Details: The Government of Canada continues to advise travellers to Mexico to exercise a high degree of caution in the country due to "high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping."

However, a recent update now warns Canadians to avoid all travel to the Mexican state of Guerrero. According to the Government of Canada, the warning, which has the highest risk level of Canada's travel advisories, means that Canadians "should not travel to this country, territory or region."

"Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so," says the government .

The state is home to the Mexican city of Acapulco, a popular vacation spot.

Canada's advisory warns travellers to avoid all travel to Guerrero State "due to the precarious security situation" following the damage caused by Hurricane Otis in October, with the threat of "armed violence, banditry, and looting in cities and on roads."

Travellers who are in Guerrero are advised to avoid travelling alone or after dark, exercise extreme vigilance, monitor local media for updates and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Luciano Mortula | Dreamstime

Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain.

Details: Canadians are being warned that recent demonstrations in Spain have caused disruptions to services and transportation and have even led to violence.

"Since October 9, 2023, demonstrations in opposition to an amnesty agreement offered to leaders of the Catalonian independence movement have been taking place across the country, particularly in Madrid," says the Government of Canada.

The demonstrations have led to acts of vandalism, arson, and violent clashes between demonstrators and police, and in some instances, security forces have used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds.

Canadians travelling to Spain are being told to monitor local media for the most recent information, follow the instructions of local authorities, be prepared to modify travel plans in case of disturbances, and expect enhanced security measures and an increased police presence in the country.

The travel advisory also warns residents of common petty crime in Spain, with particular activity in Madrid and Barcelona, where there has been a significant increase in stolen passports during the last few years.

If you're heading to the country, keep your belongings safe by ensuring that your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times, carrying a photocopy or digital copy of your passport identification page, driver's licence, and travel papers, and not leaving luggage unattended at airport check-in or ticket counters.

Dominican Republic

Giuseppe Luciano Crimeni | Dreamstime

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Details: The Government of Canada warns travellers to "exercise a high degree of caution" when visiting the Dominican Republic.

The government's travel advisory was recently updated with information on the border closure with Haiti. As of October 30, the Government of the Dominican Republic has reopened its air border with Haiti.

However, land and sea borders with Haiti remain closed to travellers, affecting travel routes for Canadians.

"Canadian citizens arriving from Haiti will only be able to enter the Dominican Republic by air. The Embassy of Canada in Santo Domingo cannot help you enter the Dominican Republic from Haiti by land or sea," says the advisory.

Canadians are warned that the security environment is "highly unpredictable" in the border areas between Haiti and the Dominican Republic, with "regular disturbances and incidents which can lead to violence."

Those who choose to travel near the border should exercise caution at all times, avoid travelling at night, monitor local media for updates, and follow the instructions of local authorities and security forces.

Osama Elsayed | Unsplash

Pyramids in Egypt.

Details: Canadians planning trips to Egypt are advised to exercise a high degree of caution in the country and even avoid all travel to certain regions due to the "unpredictable security situation and the threat of terrorism."

The government is warning residents to avoid all travel to the Governate of North Sinai due to terrorist activity and ongoing military operations by the Egyptian Armed Forces, as well as to avoid all travel to the area within 50 kilometres of the border with Libya and the Western Desert, including the oasis of Dakhla, due to smuggling, terrorist activities, the presence of armed groups and ongoing military operations.

In addition to this, travellers should avoid non-essential travel to the northern part of the Governorate of South Sinai, north of St. Catherine - Nuweiba Road, due to the threat of terrorism, with some local exceptions.

"On October 27, 2023, projectiles fell on Taba and Nuweiba, Egypt. The incidents have caused injuries and Egyptian security forces are investigating," says the travel advisory.

Those in the South Sinai Governorate, along the Gulf of Aqaba coast, including near the border with Israel, are advised to exercise caution and follow the instructions of local authorities, including air-raid sirens and evacuation orders.

The government also warns that tensions could escalate with little notice in Egypt "due to recent events in Israel, West Bank and the Gaza Strip," and that the security situation could "deteriorate suddenly."

"Monitor developments, remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities," it says.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

• Tourist Visa
• Student Visa
• Volunteer Visa
• Business Visa
• Family Visa
• Retirement Visa
• Religious Visa
• Digital Nomad Visa
• Public Holidays & Festivals
• Politics of Peru

Peruvian Economy

• Weather & Climate in Peru
• Important Facts & Figures - Peru
• Cultural Centers
• International Parishes & Churches
• Casinos & Gambling
• Customs Regulations & Info
• How many days did I get?
• Tourist Visa extension in Peru
• Peruvian Overstay Fine
• International Document for Antecedentes Peru
• Paying Administration Charges
• Permit to Sign Contracts
• Interpol - Ficha de Canje
• Travel Permit

Subsanacion - Submitting documents

• Extending a Migraciones deadline
• Residence visa extension
• Renewal Carné de Extranjería
• Update Migraciones information
• Carné replacement
• Marrying in Peru
• Driver's License in Peru
• Police Clearance Certificate Peru
• Travel Authorization for Minors
• Finding a Job in Peru
• Domestic Workers in Peru
• Labor Regulations Peru
• Air Passenger Rights
• How Dangerous is Peru?
• Appearance & Behavior
• Money & Credit Cards
• Tips for your Journey
• Taking a Taxi
• Health & Medical Care
• Earthquakes in Peru
• Drugs & Illegal Substances
• Meeting the Opposite Sex
• Woman Traveling Alone
• Cybersecurity Basics
• Crime & Safety Report
• Arts, Crafts & Souvenirs
• Malls & Commercial Centers
• Supermarkets
• Markets - Mercados
• Department Stores
• Shopping Peruvian Way
• Post, Cellphones, Wifi, Internet...
• Courier & Mail Services
• Radio Stations
• Television Stations
• Business Information
• Chambers of Commerce
• Peruvian Ministries
• Institutions & Associations
• Earthquakes
• Emergency Numbers
• Ambulances & Services
• Pharmacies & Medicine
• Homeopathic & Alternative Medicine
• International Hospitals
• Supporting Institutions
• National Symbols of Peru
• Political History of Peru
• Peruvian Legends, Myths & Tales
• Gods, Spirits, Deities & Worshipping
• Personalities & Founders
• Peruvian Archaeology
• International Schools
• Top Universities
• Glossary of Terms
• Lima International Airport
• Important Facts & Figures - Lima
• Population Development in Lima
• Weather & Climate in Lima
• Begging & Beggars in Lima
• Lima History
• Huacas (Adobe Pyramids)
• Historical Buildings
• Plazas (City Squares)
• Historical Churches & Convents
• Citytours & Sightseeing
• Cinemas & Cineclubs
• Parks & Gardens
• Lima for Kids
• Districts of Lima
• Embassies & Consulates
• Tourist Attractions & Sights
• Travel Information
• Long Distances Buses
• National Peruvian Airlines
• Starter & Appetizer
• Main Courses
• Salsas, Sauces & Dips
• Drinks & Beverages
• Peruvian Cheese
• Aji - Chili Peppers
• Grains, Coffee, Beans & Nuts
• Common Herbs
• Other Ingredients
• Distinguish Real & Fake Money
• Monetary Systems of Peru
• Handling Money in Peru
• ATMs, Credit Cards & Travelers Cheques
• Changing Money in Peru
• Tipping in Peru
• Money Transfers - Peru
• Current Peruvian Banknotes
• Current Peruvian Coins
• Wealth and Pride Coin Series
• Natural Resources Coin Series
• Threatened Wildlife Coin Series
• Builders of the Republic Coin Series
• Woman in Process of Independence Coins
• Banks & Banking
• Old Banknotes
• Books & Documents
• Videos, Clips & Documentaries
• Laws, Norms, Legal Codes & Decrees

• Legal Stuff
• What you can & can’t bring into Peru

When travelling to a foreign country it’s always a good idea to know which items you can bring with no problems, and which ones you better leave at home because restrictions or bans apply in the country of your destination.

For Peru find a quite detailed list of items that you can bring without difficulties or with some restrictions and those that you can’t bring into the country at all below.

Content overview

• Personal items that can be brought into Peru
• Medication, supplements, and medical devices that can be brought into Peru
• Electric and electronic devices incl. accessories that can be brought into Peru
• Other items that can be brought into Peru

Food that can be brought into Peru

• Cigarettes and alcohol that can be brought into Peru

Bringing Money into Peru

• Bringing Pets into Peru

Restricted and prohibited items when entering Peru

Peruvian customs declaration form / bienvenido al perú customs app.

Please note that below regulations only apply when the items enter the country as accompanied luggage with a traveler (foreigner (tourist), foreign resident or Peruvian) - when shipping items into Peru other regulations are in place, which are shortly described at the end of this list.

Be aware as well that all items you bring into the country tax- and duty-free have to be for personal use or consumption and shouldn’t exceed normal household quantities!

Personal items that can be brought into Peru tax- and duty-free

• Clothes for personal use
• Suitcases, bags and backpacks containing personal belongings
• Toiletry for personal use
• Other personal items and jewelry for personal use
• Books, magazines, newspapers and documents for personal use

Medication, supplements and medical devices that can be brought into Peru tax- and duty-free

• Medication for personal use only (except medication containing narcotics, which may be restricted or prohibited in Peru)
• Vitamins and dietary supplements for personal use only
• Aids and appliances for personal mobilization and medical control (wheelchair, walkers, crutches, blood pressure / glucose meter, nebulizers, thermometer, etc.)
• Even though medical marijuana was legalized in Peru in 2017, your medical marijuana prescription from another country won’t be accepted in Peru. So, a big no to bringing cannabis leaves, stems and flowers into Peru. A grey area is still cannabis derivatives such as CDB Oil or even Hemp powder, even though both are readily available in Peru and most probably no-one will care when entering the country with small amounts for personal use.

Electric and electronic devices incl. accessories that can be brought into Peru tax- and duty-free

• 2 cellphones (1 cellphone for minors age 7 to 18)
• 1 tablet or 1 digital organizer
• 2 conventional or digital cameras
• 1 video camera or camcorder (portable and not for professional use)
• 1 radio or audio player/recorder (portable and not for professional use)
• 1 CD / DVD player (portable)
• 1 video game device (portable) incl. 10 games
• 2 external hard disc drives and 4 USB sticks
• 4 memory cards for the digital camera, video camera / camcorder or video game device brought into the country at the same time
• 4 USB sticks
• 10 rolls of film for the camera and 10 cassettes for the video camera / camcorder brought into the country at the same time
• 20 CDs or DVDs
• 1 portable calculator
• 2 electric hair dryers or hair straighteners
• 1 electric shaver
• Drones ( have to be declared ; please read below under " Restricted items ")

Other items that can be brought into Peru tax- and duty-free

• 1 (set of) sporting equipment for personal use
• 1 musical instrument (portable)
• If the value of these items exceeds US$500 or exceed above mentioned allowed quantities, they should be declared. So, the custom declaration form should be filled in and be presented at “aduanas” (customs).
• If the value is between US$500 and US$ 1,000, a duty of 12% is required to be paid; if the value is above US$ 1,000, the normal import duty for each article applies (foreign residents and Peruvians should know the maximum value of declared items per year is US$3000). As Peruvian customs officers seem to be quite creative when determining the value of an item, best bring receipts with you, which can be presented in case appraised value is in the clouds.
• If you don’t declare what has to be declared and are caught, be prepared to pay next to the usual duty additionally a fine of 50% of the customs value of the item.

The following food items can be brought into Peru without an import permit from Senasa, the Peruvian National Agrarian Health Service, as long as they are in normal household quantities, correctly labeled, unopened and commercially packed or hermetically sealed and aren’t brought from countries with sanitary restrictions.

• Cooked sausages and other cooked meat products
• Cooked or cured ham
• Matured and processed cheese
• Canned food
• Pasteurized milk products
• Processed honey
• Fresh animal products such as raw meat or fresh cheese as well as most fresh vegetables and fruits are restricted items which must fulfill certain requirements; an export sanitary certificate from the country of origin and a special import permit from Senasa is needed to bring them into the country.

Cigarettes and alcohol that can be brought into Peru tax- and duty-free

• 20 packs of cigarettes (max. 400 cigarettes) or 50 cigars or 250 grams tobacco (for travelers older than 18 years)
• For shisha (sheesa) tabacco the normal tabacco regulations apply as long as the tabacco doesn’t contain cannabis or opium
• E-cigarettes and e-liquids aren’t considered in the Peruvian legislation, but bringing one or two mods and a bit of liquid (both can be bought in Peru) isn’t a problem
• 3l of liquor (for travelers older than 18 years) - except any beverage named “Pisco” not produced in Peru, which is prohibited
• Amounts of more than US$ 10,000 or the equivalent in any other currency have to be declared when entering or leaving Peru.
• Entering or leaving the country with amounts over US$ 30,000 or the equivalent in any other currency is prohibited.
• So, if you carry more than US$ 10,000, download the app "Bienvenido al Perú" available on Android and iOS and follow the instructions. Best have some proof of the origin of the money.
• If you opt to not declare amounts over US$ 10,000 and are caught, expect to pay a 30% fine on the amount you carry with you, If you are caught with amounts over US$ 30,000 expect that amounts over the US$ 30,000 are confiscated and you are fined 30% on the rest.

Bringing Pets into Peru, including requirements

Senasa, the Peruvian National Agrarian Health Service, considers only dogs and cats as pets. Per person, only one pet can be brought into Peru as accompanied luggage (in cabin or as checked baggage), as air cargo or on land.

Peru doesn’t quarantine dogs and cats that meet the following requirements:

• Certificate of Good Health issued by an official veterinarian in the home country within 14 days before entering Peru
• Rabies for both dogs and cats - vaccinated between 21 days and 12 months prior to entering the country. Peru does not recognize 2- or 3-year rabies vaccines.
• Additionally, for dogs: vaccination against Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis, and Leptospirosis
• Additionally, for cats: vaccination against Panleukopenia (FVRCP), Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis and Calicivirus
• Recent proof of veterinary treatment against internal and external parasites

Above requirements also apply to emotional support and service dogs and cats.

Peru doesn’t require a special import permit for dogs and cats (exception: puppies and kittens less than 12 weeks of age and unvaccinated) nor a pet microchip or rabies titer test to enter the country and doesn’t have a banned breeds list.

Upon arrival at the airport or Peruvian border, pet owners have to proceed with their pet to the Senasa office. Here the pet owner first has to pay two different fees: an examination fee equivalent to 1.973% of 1 UIT = S/ 101.61 (2024) and a fee for issuing the pet’s permit to enter the country equivalent to 0.729% of 1 UIT = S/ 37.54 (2024). So something around S/ 140.

Then the health certificate, vaccination certificates and parasite treatment certificate are checked and the dog or cat quickly looked over. If the documents and the pet’s health are to the satisfaction of the Senasa inspector, the pet can enter. If the documents aren’t in order or the pet doesn’t seem to be in good health, further examination by a licensed Peruvian veterinarian can be requested at the dog owners’ expense. In the end, the Senasa inspector decides if the animal can enter or needs, for example, a parasite treatment or a vaccination or is quarantined before being allowed to enter or has to be returned to the country of origin.

Other animals that might be considered pets in other countries such as birds, rodents and rabbits, fish, reptiles, etc. need an export sanitary certificate from the country of origin and a special import permit from Senasa. Additional permits are required to bring animals that are under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) into Peru.

Above mentioned recommendations are given to our best knowledge reflecting the current Peruvian regulations. As these sometimes change quickly and without prior notice, we highly recommend checking the veterinary regulations shortly before your travel with the nearest Peruvian consulate and / or Senasa.

The official list of restricted and prohibited items is long, but most items on it are surely nothing a normal traveler would carry around. So here just a few items that you might consider bringing into the country that are on the list.

Restricted Items

Restricted items need permission to be brought into the country. Depending on the item, it just has to be declared (and paid duty on it) or special requirements have to be fulfilled and a special permit has to be issued.

Restricted items include, but aren’t limited to:

• Everything exceeding the amount or value of above items - declare upon arrival and pay duty
• Everything not intended for personal use - declare upon arrival and pay duty
• Pets except for 1 dog or 1 cat (see above under Pets), other animals and animals that are under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) - get in contact with the nearest Peruvian consulate and / or Senasa
• Veterinary products and pet food / animal feed - get in contact with the nearest Peruvian consulate and / or Senasa
• Plants and plant products - get in contact with the nearest Peruvian consulate and / or Senasa
• Cultural items such as art objects and archaeological artefacts - get in contact with the nearest Peruvian consulate and / or the Ministry of Culture
• Weapons and ammunition - get in contact with the nearest Peruvian consulate and / or Sucamec / Discamec
• Over the past years, regulations to bring drones into Peru were eased. So today drones under 2 kg of weight for personal recreation and air sports don’t need a special license from MTC, the Ministry of Transport and Communication, anymore.
• Drones have to be declared upon entry (download the App "Bienvenido al Perú" which is available on iOS and Android, follow the instructions and fill in required fields; once arriving in Peru proceed to customs at your point of entry; see below under " Peruvian Customs Declaration Form / Bienvenido al Perú Customs App ") and 18% of the value must be deposited, which is refunded when leaving Peru.
• Failing to declare your drone might cause a hefty fine when caught.
• With this payment, travelers get a temporary operations license and can use the drone during their stay in the country.
• If the drone is commercially used, a special permit issued by MTC’s Directorate for Civil Aviation (DGCA) is needed.
• Be aware that flying drones over or near archaeological sites (except you apply for another special permit at the Ministry of Culture or on site), military bases and airports (maintain at least 4 km distance) is prohibited.
• Without yet another special permit, the drone is prohibited from throwing or dropping any objects.
• Keep your distance as well from roads, train tracks, persons and buildings.

Prohibited Items

Then there are items you just aren’t allowed to bring into the country. If you are caught with them, they will be seized and you may be fined or worse.

These include, but aren't limited to:

• Drugs, narcotics and medication containing narcotics
• Used clothes and shoes due to amount and value not considered for personal use
• Any beverage named “Pisco” not produced in Peru
• Any weapon or ammunition
• Used car spare parts
• Some pesticides and other chemicals

Since June 2022, the good old customs declaration form has served its time and was replaced by the App "Bienvenido al Perú" which is available on iOS and Android. It details in short the most important regulations in English and Spanish and gives you the option to declare items or money.

While below you still find the old custom declaration form and currency declaration form in the attachments, as they show in short quite clearly which items have or haven’t to be declared, helpful as well the Bienvenido al Peru website with excellent, detailed information in Spanish and English. Be aware that it's up to you to inform yourself and then do the right thing:

• If you have nothing to declare , you don’t have to do anything. Clear immigrations, if you arrive at the airport, get your luggage and then just proceed to the exit.
• If you have something to declare , download the App "Bienvenido al Perú", follow the instructions and fill in the form within 48h prior to your arrival in Peru. Once you arrive in Peru, proceed to the customs counters at the point of entry.
• If you carry more than US$ 10,000 , download the App "Bienvenido al Perú", follow the instructions and fill in the form within 48h prior to your arrival in Peru. Once you arrive in Peru, proceed to the customs counters at the point of entry.

Please be aware that failing to declare taxable or dutiable items results in fines of 50% of the customs value of the items if caught; failing to declare currency over US$ 10,000 results in a 30% fine on the amount you carry with you.

Note:  Above regulations only apply for items brought into the country as accompanied luggage. For items send to Peru via the normal postal service (Serpost) or a courier service, other regulations apply. These prohibit, for example, importing new and used clothes and shoes as well as medication and vitamins. On electric and electronic devices and many other items exceeding the duty-free US$100 that anyone can receive, hefty duties have to be paid.

Attachments

• File Description File Size File Type Downloads

• 80 Comments
• Subscribe Unsubscribe
• Collapse All Expand All

or post as a guest

Peru Newsflash

New lizard species discovered in Peru

Peru has the second-worst drivers in the world

Machu Picchu reopens for the first time after the social outbreak

Peru extends the state of emergency in 44 districts

Peru event calendar, upcoming events in peru.

More in the  Peru Event & Entertainment Calendar

Latest Content...

International Christian School of Lima - ICS Lima

Peruvian Digital Nomad Visa

Legislative Decree No. 1582 (Modification of the Peruvian Foreigner Law, Nov 2023)

Queso Rojo de Lluta

Peruvian Queso Andino

Peruvian Quesillo

Peruvian Queso Mantecoso

Peruvian Queso Paria

Peruvian Queso Fresco

Extension of a Migraciones deadline

Amnesty for Migraciones fines

Update your information in the Migraciones database

Replacement for a lost, stolen or damaged carné

Renewal of the Carné de Extranjería

Latest video.

Maria Reiche - Memories

Long reads....

The Mystery of the Nazca Lines in Peru

Francisco Pizarro González (1474-1541)

The colorful Fabrics and Textiles of Peru

The Jeweled Frog and the Condor

lima·easy - /ˈli mə/ - /ˈi zi/

In loving memory of "Jack" & "Lola"

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Learn about your destination

Take 90 seconds for safer travel.

Travel Advisory Levels

Enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

• Business Today
• India Today
• India Today Gaming
• Cosmopolitan
• Harper's Bazaar
• Brides Today
• Aajtak Campus

• Magazine Cover Story Editor's Note Deep Dive Interview The Buzz
• BT TV Market Today Easynomics Drive Today BT Explainer
• Market Today Trending Stocks Indices Stocks List Stocks News Share Market News IPO Corner
• Tech Today Unbox Today Authen Tech Tech Deck Tech Shorts
• Money Today Tax Investment Insurance Tools & Calculator
• Mutual Funds
• Industry Banking IT Auto Energy Commodities Pharma Real Estate Telecom
• Visual Stories

INDICES ANALYSIS

Mutual funds.

• Cover Story
• Editor's Note
• Market Today
• Drive Today
• BT Explainer
• Trending Stocks
• Stocks List
• Stocks News
• Share Market News
• Unbox Today
• Authen Tech
• Tech Shorts
• Tools & Calculator
• Commodities
• Real Estate
• Economic Indicators
• BT-TR GCC Listing

Canada advises citizens not to travel to India during Lok Sabha elections

According to the advisory issued by the canadian government, citizens have been asked to "exercise a high degree of caution in india".

• Updated Apr 18, 2024, 2:34 PM IST

Canada has advised its citizens against travelling to India between May and June 2024 during the Lok Sabha elections 2024 due to the threat of terrorist attacks throughout the country. According to the advisory issued by the Canadian government, citizens have been asked to "exercise a high degree of caution in India".

"In the context of recent developments in Canada and in India, there are calls for protests and some negative sentiment towards Canada in traditional media and on social media. Demonstrations, including anti-Canada protests, could occur and Canadians may be subjected to intimidation or harassment. In Delhi and the National Capital Region, you should keep a low profile with strangers, and not share your personal information with them. Avoid crowded areas, including public transportation. You should always travel with someone and inform a friend or a family member of your travel plans," the advisory added.

The advisory mentioned cities like Bengaluru, Chandigarh and Mumbai should be avoided for non-essential travel. "Consular services in-person are temporarily unavailable in those cities or surrounding areas. If you need consular services, contact the High Commission of Canada in India, located in New Delhi. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa,” the advisory read.

It also advised citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Assam, Manipur due to the risk of terrorism and insurgency, and asked its citizens to avoid the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir due to the unpredictable security situation due to threat of terrorism, militancy, civil unrest and kidnapping. This advisory excludes travelling to or within the Union Territory of Ladakh.

The guidelines also asked Canadians to remain alert about demonstrations that could take place around the general elections, which are scheduled to take place between April 19 and June 1.

It asked citizens avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, follow instructions of local authorities, monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations and mass gatherings.

Recently, Canada trimmed the number of diplomatic personnel deployed in New Delhi and other parts of the country due to a fallout over allegations of India's involvement in the killing of a Sikh separatist Nijjar. The Justin Trudeau-led government had said that staff had been reduced to "effectively manage in-country operations."

In September 2023, India had temporarily suspended visa services to Canadian citizens amid a diplomatic standoff. There were speculations at the time about Canada retaliating with a similar visa suspension.

TOP STORIES

• Advertise with us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Press Releases

Copyright©2024 Living Media India Limited. For reprint rights: Syndications Today

Add Business Today to Home Screen

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

Travel advice and advisories by destination

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

The Government of Canada’s official source of travel information and advice, the Travel Advice and Advisories help you to make informed decisions and travel safely while you are outside Canada. Check the page for your destination often, because safety and security conditions may change. See Travel Advice and Advisories – FAQ for more information.

Where are you going?

Take normal security precautions

Exercise a high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Travel advice from other countries

Travel advice is also provided by the governments of Australia , New Zealand , the United Kingdom and the United States .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.