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Peru Travel Advisory

Travel advisory november 15, 2023, peru - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to crime information.

Exercise increased caution due to  crime, civil unrest, and the possibility of kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. 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, carjackings, muggings, assaults, and other violent crime, is common in Peru and can occur during daylight hours despite the presence of many witnesses. Kidnapping is rare, but does occur. The risk of crime increases at night. Organized criminal groups have been known to use roadblocks to rob victims in areas outside of the capital city of Lima.

Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country. Public demonstrations can take place for a variety of political and economic issues. Demonstrations can cause the shutdown of local roads, trains, and major highways, often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines. Road closures may significantly reduce access to public transportation and airports and may disrupt travel both within and between cities.

U.S. travelers participating in Ayahuasca and Kambo ceremonies should be aware that numerous persons, including U.S. citizens, have reported that while under the influence of these substances, they have witnessed or been victims of sexual assault, rape, theft, serious health problems and injuries, and even death.

Currently, U.S. government personnel cannot travel freely throughout Peru for security reasons . Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Peru.

If you decide to travel to Peru:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans as needed.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the U.S. Embassy  webpage .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Peru.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Colombian-Peruvian border area in the Loreto Region – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Drug trafficking and other criminal activity, combined with poor infrastructure, limits 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 as U.S. government personnel are restricted from traveling within 20 kilometers of the border with Colombia in the Loreto region, except on the Amazon River itself, without permission. This includes travel on the Putumayo River, which forms most of the Peru-Colombia border.

U.S. government personnel must receive advance permission for any travel to the Peruvian-Colombian border.

Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM) includes areas within the Departments of Ayacucho, Cusco, Huancavelica, and Junin – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Remnants of the Shining Path terrorist group are active in the VRAEM. The group may attack with little or no warning, targeting Peruvian government installations and personnel.

Drug trafficking and other criminal activity, combined with poor infrastructure, limit the capability and effectiveness of Peruvian law enforcement in this area.

U.S. government personnel are restricted from traveling in the VRAEM except for certain areas during daylight hours. U.S. government personnel must receive advance permission for any travel to the VRAEM. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens due to these travel restrictions.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

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Peru Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Peru

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Peru entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Peru from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Peru.

Can I travel to Peru if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Peru without restrictions.

Can I travel to Peru without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Peru without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Peru?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Peru.

Can I travel to Peru without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Peru?

Mask usage in Peru is not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Peru?

Restaurants in Peru are open. Bars in Peru are .

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Peru travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: April 8, 2024 10:39 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, peru - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Peru due to high levels of crime, as well as social conflicts and strikes that may occur across the country.

Regional advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

• 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
• Padre Abad province in the department of Ucayali
• Huacaybamba, Humalíes, Leoncio Prado and Marañón provinces in the department of Huánuco
• Concepción and Satipo provinces in the department of Junín
• Tayacaja province in the department of Huancavelica
• the districts of Abancay, Andahuaylas and Chincheros in the department of Apurímac
• Huanta and La Mar provinces, in the department of Ayacucho
• Valley of Apurimac, Ene and Mantaro rivers (VRAEM)

Border area with Colombia - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to areas within 20 km of the border with Colombia due to drug trafficking and occasional incursions by armed guerrilla forces from Colombia into Peru.

Border area with Ecuador - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to areas within 20 km of the border with Ecuador, especially in the Cordillera del Cóndor region, due to the safety threat posed by landmines.

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State of emergency in regions bordering Ecuador

On January 10, 2024, the Peruvian government declared a state of emergency in the northern regions bordering Ecuador following the Government of Ecuador’s declaration of a nationwide state of “internal armed conflict” on January 9, 2024. The state of emergency is in effect in the following regions:

If you are in these regions, you should carry identification with you at all times.

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations and strikes take place regularly throughout the country. Strikes can complicate travel and disrupt public transport and services, including your ability to travel to or leave isolated tourist destinations such as Machu Picchu. They could also lead to border closures with Bolivia. Protestors may also block rivers essential for transportation in some remote regions, including the Manu region of Madre de Dios and Iquitos region. This may result in the temporary detainment of tourists.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Police have used tear gas and other methods to disperse crowds in the past. Authorities often declare a state of emergency in response to demonstrations. 

Peruvian law prohibits political activities by foreigners. You may face detention or deportation if you take part in a demonstration.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Consult local media to be aware of strikes and demonstrations that may affect your stay or travel plans

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

State of Emergency 

The Peruvian government periodically declares a state of emergency in certain areas to allow the military to assist police forces to respond to security incidents and natural disasters. When a state of emergency is in effect, security forces have increased rights to:

• restrict freedom of movement
• monitor correspondence
• conduct search and seizures
• detain persons of interest

Border area with Colombia

Criminal activity related to narcotics trafficking and occasional incursions by armed guerrilla forces from Colombia at Cordillera del Cóndor, Peru, pose a threat to personal security.

Border area with Ecuador

Cross the Peru–Ecuador border at official crossing points only due to the presence of landmines along the border.

Basic services in the Tumbes district have become increasingly difficult to access due to an increased number of migrants entering Peru from the North land border with Ecuador. The increased population has limited the provision of these services.

Valle de los Ríos Apurímac, Ene y Mantaro (VRAEM)

Drug trafficking.

Cocaine production and trafficking occurs inVRAEM. Travel is particularly dangerous in areas where there is coca cultivation and processing.

Domestic terrorism

Incidents of domestic terrorism have occurred in VRAEM, particularly the region where the Apurímac, Ayacucho, Cuzco and Junín departments meet.

Crime rates are high throughout the country.

• Maintain a high level of vigilance and personal security awareness, especially at night
• Avoid walking in deserted or under-populated areas
• Travel in groups whenever possible

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, particularly in Lima, in other cities and even in crowded, public areas. Theft occurs frequently in hotels, restaurants, bus stations and airports, on intercity buses and microbuses and while hailing taxis.

• Avoid wearing expensive watches and jewellery, or showing signs of affluence
• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Never leave bags unattended

Pickpockets and bag snatchers may work in pairs or groups and employ a variety of ruses to divert their victim’s attention. A common scam involves spraying a substance on victims and then robbing them while pretending to help clean the stain, or distracting the victim by asking questions while another person perpetrates the theft. In some cases, thieves on motorcycles will snatch purses, backpacks or cellular phones. 

Violent crime

Violent crime occurs. Incidents have included:

• kidnappings

Armed robbery

Armed robberies are on the rise. While most victims are not physically injured, criminals will not hesitate to use force when opposed.

• If you are robbed, hand over your cash, electronic devices and valuables without resistance
• Be particularly vigilant after visiting a bank, an ATM or a change bureau, as thieves may follow and rob victims.
• Use ATMs inside banks and during regular hours of service, when guards are on duty

Assaults have occurred along the Inca Trail and in the Huaraz region of the Cordillera Blanca mountains. Hiking in these regions should be done in groups.

Express kidnappings involving tourists have occurred. Victims are usually abducted for a few hours and forced to withdraw money from ATMs for their release. Most express kidnappings take place at night, but incidents also occur during daylight hours. Incidents often involve criminals posing as taxi drivers, or taxi drivers working for organized gangs. Virtual kidnappings occur throughout the country. Criminals use stolen cellphones to contact family members claiming to have kidnapped the owner of the phone and then ask for ransom money.

• Be suspicious of strangers approaching you on the street
• Never leave your cellphone unattended
• Be cautious when using cellphones and smart devices in public as they are often targeted by thieves, especially while people are using them
• Ensure your phone is password protected

Organized crime

Organized crime is reportedly increasing in parts of Lima Province and in some districts of the Department of Piura. In some parts of the country, military and security forces have been deployed to assist police in combatting organized crime.

Incidents of domestic terrorism occur, particularly in remote jungle areas such as:

• parts of the Huancavelica and Ucayali departments
•  the Upper Huallaga river valley in the Huánuco and San Martín departments.

Incidents have included:

• temporary ambushes of small villages
• bombings or threats of violence against local security forces or community figures

Overland travel in these regions is unsafe.

Counterfeit currency

Counterfeit currency in both sol and U.S. dollars is a growing and serious problem. Counterfeit bills are widely distributed, including by banks, casinos and local stores.

Avoid moneychangers on the street, as they may carry counterfeit currency or work with pickpockets.

Credit card fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Criminals posing as taxi drivers often rob tourists along the route to and from Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport.

• Use a secure taxi service when arriving at and leaving the airport
• Exercise caution en route to and from your hotel

Thieves also pose as police officers to gain the confidence and cooperation of their potential victims.

• If you are stopped by local authorities, ask to see official identification and record the officer’s name, badge number and district.
• For traffic violations, request that the officer issue you a fine in writing, which is payable at a later date.
• You should also note the location of the arrest.

Legitimate police officers have also extorted money in exchange for dismissing minor offences or traffic violations. They have also stolen money and valuables during searches.

• If you are searched, even at the airport, ensure you have all your belongings before leaving
• If you are planning to participate in volunteer activities in Peru, ensure that the company organizing your trip is legitimate
• Make sure your accommodations and return arrangements are secure before travelling

Useful links

• Lima Airport Partners
• Overseas fraud
• Volunteering abroad

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Incidents of sexual assault, including rape, occur throughout the country, particularly in tourist destinations. In some cases, tour guides have been implicated.

• Do not travel alone, especially after dark.
• Remain particularly vigilant at bus terminals and in taxis.
• Be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, especially regarding the acceptance of rides or other invitations.

Women reporting sexual assault should contact police immediately. Medical examinations at identified clinics are part of the investigation process. Women who have delayed reporting may experience more scrutiny by local authorities.

Advice for women travellers

Adventure tourism

Each year, several hikers and climbers are victims of serious, sometimes fatal, accidents in the Andes, including at the Huayna Picchu peak near Machu Picchu and the Cordillera Blanca region in Huaraz, where Peru’s highest peaks are located.

The Inca Trail is usually closed each year in February for maintenance. Other trails, such as those found in Ollantaytambo, may be poorly marked. Hikers have become lost. Be aware that steep or slippery areas are neither fenced nor marked.

In November 2023, the Cusipata District in Quispicanchi Province closed two access routes to Vinicunca, the “Rainbow Mountain.” The closure follows violent disputes between the municipalities surrounding the access routes. Access to Vinicunca from Quispicanchi Province will be closed indefinitely, but access remains open via the Pitumarca District in Canchis Province.

Remote areas of Peru, where popular jungle excursions operate, may not have cellphone coverage or internet access.

If you intend to hike, trek or climb:

• never do so alone, and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• only use licensed companies recommended by the Ministry of Tourism for adventure tours and sports
• exercise extreme caution while climbing, as local authorities have limited rescue capabilities
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• make sure that you’re properly equipped and well-informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails or slopes
• always leave the contact information of the tour operator with your family and friends
• always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company if you travel in remote areas
• iPerú ‎ - Peruvian government’s Tourist Information and Assistance‎
• APOTUR  - The Peruvian Association of Incoming and Domestic Tour Operators (in Spanish)
• APAVIT   - Peruvian Association of Travel and Tourist Agencies (in Spanish)
• APTAE - Peruvian association of adventure, eco, and specialized tourism (in Spanish)
• Qualified Tourism Service Companies  - Ministry of foreign trade and tourism (in Spanish)

Water activities

There have been several recent white-water rafting accidents and drownings involving tourists, particularly on the Urubamba River near Cuzco. Companies offering white-water rafting, their guides and their equipment may not be held to the same standards as similar companies in Canada. Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Strong currents exist in the Pacific Ocean and in rivers. Life guards are not always present or properly trained at beaches.

Swimming in jungle lakes and rivers can be dangerous due to the presence of parasites and wildlife.

Seek advice and consult residents and local authorities about conditions before swimming, surfing or participating in other aquatic activities.

Water safety abroad

Ayahuasca ceremonies

Spiritual cleansing and ayahuasca ceremonies, offered by shamans and other individuals, involve consuming substances that can cause medical complications and severely impair cognitive and physical abilities. Exposure to these substances has led to serious illness, injury, assault and even the death of several tourists.

Ceremonies often take place in remote areas with no access to medical or mental health facilities or resources and limited communication with local authorities. Most of the time, the facilities lack basic first aid or emergency plans for those suffering from physical or psychological illness from these ceremonies. Ayahuasca ceremonies are not regulated and there is no way to assess the safety of any of the services, the operators or the shamans.

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Drivers are extremely aggressive, and they do not respect traffic laws. Mountainous roads can be particularly dangerous, especially at night. Poor signage also poses a hazard. Accidents causing fatalities are common.

Regular police spot checks can cause traffic delays.

When renting a vehicle, always purchase insurance. Most drivers in Peru have only the minimum required car insurance, which may not adequately cover accidents.

Vehicles are a target for robbery. Criminals have thrown objects in front of oncoming traffic in the hope that cars will stop. If this occurs and you need to stop, do so only in a safe location, such as a gas station.

• While travelling by car, keep your doors locked and windows shut at all times
• Keep your personal belongings in the trunk of the vehicle, as criminals have been known to shatter windows to “smash and grab” and to attempt entry when they see travel bags or merchandise
• Avoid travelling by road outside of major cities after dark, when there is a higher risk of robbery

State of the roads in Peru in real time  – Government of Peru (in Spanish)

Thefts on boats by river pirates occur along rivers in the Amazon jungle.

Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

Public transportation

Buses and minibuses operate between most major cities. Demonstrations and strikes can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Many of the buses and combis in Lima are old, poorly maintained and overcrowded. Drivers of these vehicles tend to dominate the roads and disregard other drivers or pedestrians.

Intercity bus travel can be dangerous due to the risk of bus accidents, which are usually caused by excessive speed, poor vehicle maintenance and driver fatigue. Armed gangs have been known to stop buses to rob travellers, especially at night. Incidents of assaults on buses have also been reported.

The Government of Peru publishes a list of the bus companies with the highest rates of involvement in fatal or serious injury traffic accidents.

• Only use reputable transportation companies
• Contact your travel agency for a list of recommended intercity bus companies

Ministry of Transportation  - Government of Peru (in Spanish)

Trains operate between Arequipa-Cusco-Puno and between Cusco-Ollantaytambo-Machu Picchu . Demonstrations, strikes and derailments can disrupt travel by train, including trains to or from Machu Picchu.

• Train services – Peru rail
• Train to Machu Picchu - Inca rail

Licensed taxis are not metered. Taxi drivers sometimes do not provide change or will continue to drive until they can obtain change.

• Do not hail taxis on the street
• Reserve a taxi by calling a reputable taxi company or use taxi services associated with major hotels
• Agree to a fare prior to departure and do not pay until you have reached your destination
• Try to carry the exact fare

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

entry_restrictions_at_land_and_river_borders_with_ecuador

Entry restrictions at land and river borders with Ecuador

On January 11, 2024, the Government of Ecuador announced new entry restrictions in response to the ongoing state of internal armed conflict.

All foreigners entering Ecuador at crossing points with the land or river borders will need to present a criminal records check from their country of origin or residence. Both the original criminal record check and the Spanish translation must be apostilled, and cover the past five years. Minors travelling with their family members will generally be exempt.

The Apostille Convention took effect in Canada on January 11, 2024. An apostille is a standard certificate allowing documents to be accepted in all countries where the convention is in effect.

• Migration information – Ecuador Immigration Agency (in Spanish)
• Changes to authentication services in Canada
• Apostilles for documents

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Peruvian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Peru.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for a stay of less than 90 days per 365 day period Business visa: required  Student visa: required

If you entered Peru with a business visa, you must obtain a certificate from the Peruvian Ministry of the Economy to prove that all Peruvian taxes on income earned during the trip have been paid prior to leaving the country. The certification is required even if no money was paid or earned and must be presented to the central Peruvian immigration office in Lima before departure.

Entering the country

You must register your entry into Peru at the port of entry or checkpoint.

• Only cross the border at official checkpoints
• Ensure the immigration office at your port of entry is open at the time you intend to cross the border

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them:

• a return or onward ticket
• proof that you have a place to stay
• proof that you have sufficient funds for the duration of your stay

Length of stay

As a Canadian tourist, you may stay in Peru for up to 90 days in a 365-day period.

Overstaying is a criminal offence. There is a fine for each day of overstay. This fee must be paid upon exiting the country.

Dual citizenship

Peruvian–Canadians entering Peru using their Canadian passport are subject to visit restrictions, including length of stay and associated fines. Dual nationals must use the same nationality to enter and exit the country.

Children and travel

Travellers under 18 exiting Peru after a stay of 183 days are automatically protected by Peru’s law on minors and will require the authorization of both parents/guardians to exit the country.

Children who have resident status in Peru must have written permission from the non-accompanying parents to leave the country.

Children born of Canadian parents in Peru require a Peruvian passport to leave the country for the first time. Contact Peruvian immigration officials for more information.

• Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 8 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

About Yellow Fever Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that   country entry requirements   may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest   diplomatic or consular office   of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Cutaneous and mucosal   leishmaniasis   causes skin sores and ulcers. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

There is a risk of   plague   in this country. Plague is a bacterial disease that can cause serious illness, and if left untreated, death.

The occurrence of cases in areas where the plague bacteria are known to circulate can be influenced by weather and environmental conditions. In some countries, this results in seasonal outbreaks. Travellers to areas where plague routinely occurs may be at risk if they are camping, hunting, or in contact with rodents.

Plague is spread by:

• bites from fleas infected with the plague
• direct contact with body fluids or tissues from an animal or person who is sick with or has died from plague

Overall risk to travellers is low.   Protect yourself   by   reducing contact with fleas  and potentially infected rodents and other wildlife.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Quality of care varies throughout the country.

Private hospitals and clinics in urban centres are well-staffed and -equipped to handle any emergency or medical issue. Public hospitals and rural facilities, even in some tourist destinations and major cities, may not meet Canadian standards or may be inadequate to treat serious conditions.

Cases of serious injury or illness in remote areas may require evacuation to the nearest adequate medical facility in the country. Clinic, hospital and evacuation expenses can be costly and the service provider often expects immediate cash payment or confirmation of payment from an insurance company.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences, regardless of the amount of narcotics seized at arrest.

If you are arrested in Peru, you should expect lengthy delays to resolve your case, pre-trial detention in harsh conditions and significant related expenses.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

You must carry photo identification at all times. Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it's lost or confiscated. Failure to show identification could result in detention.

Peruvian authorities may impose fines and other penalties for any action considered to be disrespectful at historical and archaeological sites such as Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo and Saqsayhuaman. Visitors to Machu Picchu must adhere to strict regulations regarding entry restrictions and behaviour within the site. Check with your travel guide or agent for the latest information.

Peruvian law strictly prohibits the export of antiques and artefacts (huacos) from pre-colonial civilizations. Purchase reproductions of colonial or pre-colonial art from reputable dealers only and insist on obtaining documentation from Peru's National Institute of Culture to prove that the object is a reproduction and may be exported.

The export of coca tea bags and products is prohibited.

It is illegal to remove certain fauna and flora items from Peru. Items made from or displaying animals, insects or plants may be seized. If you are convicted of possession of such items, you could face heavy fines or jail sentences.

National Forest and Wildlife Service (SERFOR) - Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation of Peru (in Spanish)

Photography

It is forbidden to photograph military installations.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Peruvian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Peruvian society.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Peru.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Peru, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Peru.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Peru, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Peruvian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Peru to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You must carry an international driving permit. A foreign driver's licence can be used only in Lima and only for 30 days after arrival.

Carry identification and vehicle registration at all times.

International Driving Permit

The currency is the Peruvian sol (PEN). The U.S. dollar is widely accepted.

Credit cards are not commonly accepted outside major cities. Many establishments will request to see a passport to confirm the identity of the person using the credit card. 

ATMs are not easily accessible in small towns. They often have limits to the amount and number of daily withdrawals.

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains have caused severe flooding and landslides throughout Peru, resulting in evacuations. The floods have caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. The Peruvian government has declared a state of emergency in 100 districts across 17 regions.

The following essential services could be disrupted:

• transportation
• power distribution
• fuel supply
• water and food supply
• telecommunications networks
• emergency services
• medical care

If you're in Peru:

• stay away from the affected areas
• exercise caution
• monitor local news and weather reports
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Emergency monitoring – National Institute of Civil Defence (in Spanish)
• Nationwide weather warnings – National Meteorology and Hydrology Service of Peru (in Spanish)

El Niño

The effects of “Coastal El Niño” are expected to begin in November 2023 and continue until April 2024.

Severe weather could occur, such as:

• excessive rains
• severe droughts

The complex weather phenomenon called El Niño happens at irregular intervals of 2 to 7 years. El Niño generally generates heavy rainfalls, occurring at the same time as the rainy season, from November to May.

• Keep informed of regional weather forecasts before and during your travels, and plan accordingly.
• Ensure you have adequate insurance to cover the consequences of such events, including the disruption of travel plans. 

Seismic activity

Earthquakes.

Peru is in an active seismic zone and is prone to earthquakes.

Dangerous landslides can also occur, even after minor earthquakes.

Latest earthquakes  - Government of Peru (in Spanish)

Tsunamis can occur following seismic activity. Tsunami evacuation routes are posted along the Costa Verde in Lima and several locations on the coast.

Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation  (in Spanish)

There are active and potentially active volcanoes in southern Peru. Debris from erupting volcanoes may clog rivers and cause them to overflow, resulting in potential flash floods and mudslides. Transportation and services may be affected. Ash clouds may cause disruptions to domestic and international flights. If you live or are travelling near active volcanoes:

• monitor levels of volcanic activity through the local media
• pay careful attention to all warnings issued and follow the advice of local authorities
• Be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice

Geophysical Institute of Peru  (in Spanish)

Higher tides are experienced several times throughout the year and may cause flooding and damage along the coast.

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from November to May in the Peruvian Andes.

Seasonal flooding, mudslides and landslides can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services such as utilities, emergency and medical care, food, fuel and water supplies. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons

Local services

• Police: 105
• Tourist police: +51 980 122 335 (Whatsapp number)
• Medical assistance: 116
• Firefighters: 116

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the embassy of Canada to Peru, in Lima, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

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.

Accessibility Links

Is it safe to travel to Peru right now?

The latest travel advice as peru announces a new state of emergency.

P arts of Peru are currently in a state of emergency due to the ongoing political protests in the country. The demonstrations, which started at the end of 2022, have in the past affected public transport and caused the closure of Machu Picchu. Travellers should expect the presence of military personnel in the regions with a state of emergency in place, and journey times may be longer than planned. If you have an upcoming trip or plan to book a holiday to Peru in the near future, here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: Machu Picchu (Alamy)

What’s happening in Peru?

Peru has been affected by widespread protests since December 2022 when then president Pedro Castillo was ousted. They have sprung up without warning, and have turned violent as protesters clash with the police.

Most of the protests have died down but they are still taking place in some parts of the country. As a result, the government has introduced a state of emergency in several regions. The current mandates in place are:

• Puno: 60 days from April 7 (until June 6) • La Libertad: 30 days from April 19 (until May 19) • Southern Apurimac-Cusco-Arequipa road corridor and in the Southern Interoceanica road corridor: 60 days from May 15 (until July 14)

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What is the impact on tourists.

The state of emergency means the presence of military personnel but also the suspension of certain constitutional rights, such as freedom of movement.

If you’re currently travelling in the affected regions, you should follow local advice.

The UK Foreign Office has advised that you should avoid any protests or government buildings where protests are likely to take place.

Road closures, further rail suspensions and closure of airports can happen any time due to the protests. Travellers are therefore advised to monitor local social media and adhere to government advice. They should also travel with a sufficient supply of food, water and medication, as well as local currency in cash.

Visitors in the country who need assistance have been advised to register their details online with the Peruvian tourist authority, which is helping those on the ground to leave affected areas. You should also contact your airline, hotel and/or tour operator to double-check that your reservation is still confirmed before you travel.

What should I do if I have a planned trip to Peru soon?

Speak to your tour operator or travel provider first.

The UK Foreign Office hasn’t issued any travel warnings for Peru, which means you’d still be expected to travel. If you’re not keen to travel now, your travel company may let you request a postponement, especially if you’ve booked a package holiday. If you’ve booked elements of your trip separately, you will need to check the terms and conditions of your booking for the cancellation policy.

You may be able to claim back any out-of-pocket expenses through your travel insurance if you took out a policy with the relevant cancellation cover — but only do this after you’ve contacted your travel provider.

Should I be worried about booking a trip in the near future?

It depends on when you plan to travel, how flexible you are and how you feel about risk — but it’s certainly worth booking with a reputable operator with good local knowledge if you decide to travel.

The protests in Peru are still ongoing but many operators, such as Intrepid, have resumed their trips.

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

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COVID-19 Pandemic Travel Restrictions to Peru

Updated 29 June, 2022

This is our interpretation of the travel restrictions to Peru as of the above date. Please note that things can change at any moment. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always check the official announcements issued by the Peruvian government, or check your government or your embassy’s official recommendations about travel to Peru.

Latest Updates on COVID-19 Travel Restrictions to Peru

Is it safe to travel to Peru right now? Peru was granted status as a “safe destination” by the World Travel & Tourism Council in late 2020. Peru received the virtual seal of Safe Travels, indicating that it fulfills the international hygiene and biosecurity standards to deal with COVID-19.

Peru Flight Restrictions

• Peruvians and foreign residents arriving from South Africa, or who have transited these countries, must show proof of vaccination AND provide a negative molecular test with the results provided no more than 48h  prior to departure.
• The National Health Authority may perform PCR tests on passengers arriving from countries where there is community transmission of variants of concern. They may further implement other sanitary measures in the case of positive results.
• No other restrictions on inbound international flights.
• It is required to wear two masks on every flight (into and within the country) and in the airport. Face shields are no longer required.
• It is also required to maintain a minimum distance of 1m inside the airport.
• Note that land borders are still closed. Peruvians and foreign residents are allowed to enter Peru by land-based points of entry.

Entry Requirements for Peru

(in force until as of 1 April, 2022)

All Travellers

• A completed declaration of health (filled in online), available at the link.
• There is also now an optional Immigration App which you can download to speed up the entry process into Peru

Vaccinated Travellers

• All incoming passengers 18 years or older must show valid proof of vaccination (3 doses).
• Youth 12-17 years or older must show valid proof of having received 2 doses of vaccine.

Unvaccinated Travellers

• The official test results must be stamped with the date and time.
• Results must be received no more than 48h prior to the departure of your flight to Peru.
• The official Peruvian decree states that it is the time of the results that matter (which can take 24-48h to receive upon taking the test). However, some airlines have been interpreting the rules differently. It is advised that you consult your airline in advance about the timing of the PCR test.
• For Peru, the test results must be 48h prior to your departure from your country of origin. They will check the time at Immigration.
• For your return travel, check the requirements of your home country. For some, the test may need to be taken within 24-72h of your arrival to your home country.

Special Cases

• Children under 12 must be only be asymptomatic in order to enter Peru. They do not need to show proof of vaccination nor a negative PCR test.
• If you have already had and recovered from COVID-19 , you need to present a letter from your physician indicating that you have recovered from an infection within the last 3 months, have been released from self-isolation and cleared for travel.
• If your flight is delayed , meaning that your COVID-19 test has officially “expired,” you will still be allowed to enter the country, provided that the delay is not more than 24h. They will compare your original boarding passes with the actual flight times at Immigration.

Quarantine Regulations

There are currently no quarantine requirements for incoming travellers.

On entering Peru, health authorities at Customs & Immigration will take your temperature. If you show any symptoms, you will be further evaluated by a health professional. If deemed necessary, you may be transferred to a health facility for treatment or to a location to complete a period of isolation.

Health & Safety Restrictions Throughout Peru

Country-Wide Restrictions

• Social distancing (1.5m), masks, regular hand-washing and use of hand sanitizer are MANDATORY everywhere throughout the country, including outside, except in a couple of districts.
• The use of double masks (surgical mask with a cloth mask overtop) OR a single KN95 mask is required to circulate on public roads and in enclosed spaces. This includes malls, grocery stores, banks, etc. The use of double masks and a face shield is recommended.
• It is MANDATORY for anyone resident in Peru over the age of 18 to show proof of vaccination to enter into any enclosed public space. Details below about what is meant by “proof of vaccination”.

Domestic Travel

New restrictions have been announced for people travelling domestically, either on interprovincial public transit (trains, buses) or domestic flights.

• All passengers 12 and over travelling domestically must present EITHER proof of vaccination (2 doses) OR a negative molecular test (such as PCR), with a result date no more than 48h prior to the time of departure.
• Peruvian resident passengers 18 and over (who are able to receive the vaccine) must have had 3 doses of vaccine to be considered “fully vaccinated”.
• Masks are required during the course of travel.

Vaccinations

• More than 88% of Peru’s population have received at least one dose of vaccine to-date, of which nearly 83% has received the complete vaccine protocol (two or three doses), according to the latest data released on June 25th. (See Our World in Data for up-to-date vaccination stats).
• People of all age groups are now eligible to receive vaccines, and to receive their booster shot if their second dose was received at least 5 months ago. Soon, a 4th dose will be made available for everyone 40 and over.
• Vaccines being administered include Pfizer, AstraZeneca and Sinopharm.
• Everyone over the age of 18 who is resident in Peru must show proof of vaccination in order to enter most public enclosed spaces, including banks, malls and grocery stores. For the full list of spaces where proof of vaccination is required to enter, see this great summary in English of the new rules (scroll about half way down for the list).
• A person is considered “fully vaccinated” if they have two doses of vaccine  EXCEPT  for Peruvians and Peruvian residents. Every eligible Peruvian resident who is 18 years of age or over must have proof of  three doses of vaccine in order to enter any public, enclosed space.
• Negative tests or proof of recovery from COVID-19 are  NOT being accepted as a substitute for vaccination for entry into public, enclosed spaces.

Tourist Attractions: What’s Open and What’s Not

Peru opened up many tourist attractions, including most archaeological sites and Machu Picchu, in November 2020. Capacity limits are still in place in most places but they regularly increase these limits.

• Permits for the 4-day Inca Trail in 2022 opened for sale on  October 11 th  and permits for most Machu Picchu circuits have been open since late 2020.
• Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are both currently being sold at full capacity but the Ministry of Culture may choose to limit capacity at any time.
• Inca Trail permits that include entry to Machu Picchu are currently being made to follow Circuit 3 inside the Inca Citadel, rather than the more complete Circuit 2. In order to tour the complete site along Circuit 2, Inca Trail hikers are being made to purchase an additional Machu Picchu entry.
• The Circuit 3 + Machu Picchu Mountain ticket has recently been reopened.
• The Inka Bridge, Inti Punku and the Templo de la Luna at Machu Picchu remain closed.
• Some access points to Rainbow Mountain are currently closed due to a community dispute. Alternative access points may be accessible but not guaranteed. Alternative attractions like Palccoyo are currently accessible.
• The Huanipaca detour from the Choquequirao ruins is currently  closed due to rockslides following the 2022 rainy season which have rendered the trail impassable. The standard 4-day Choquequirao circuit is still open.

We can’t guarantee that every site or touristic activity will be open when you wish to visit, or that the experience will be the same as pre-pandemic travel.

Strikes & Unrest

• In early January, 2021, some local people were protesting the cost of Peru Rail to travel to Machupicchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes), which temporarily blocked train service to Machu Picchu. That situation was resolved, though the dispute about train prices for locals continues and there may continue to be occasional service disruptions.
• There are ongoing agrarian disputes in some regions of Peru, causing short-term disruptions to ground transportation between provinces.
• Similarly, there have been disputes with mining companies in certain areas causing short-term disruptions to ground transportation and road blockages between some parts of Cusco and Puerto Maldonado.
• Peru held a presidential election in June, 2021, the results of which were hotly contested, it being nearly a 50/50 tie between both candidates. There has been no major unrest since then but there have been occasional protests against the government, especially due to rising prices.
• Starting in April 2022, there have been strong protests, mostly in Lima, against rising prices and general displeasure with the government.
• There have also been occasional, scheduled, short-lived transportation strikes. Efforts have been made by local governments to make sure that these strikes do not affect tourist routes.

Things to Keep in Mind When Planning Future Travel

• Anything could change at any time. If 2020 taught us anything, it’s that the pandemic is unpredictable and the situation can change from one day to the next.
• As an example, Arequipa was placed on a 15-day lockdown on June 24 th , 2021 due to the detection of the Delta variant there. All ground and air travel to/from the area was suspended during this period.
• We don’t know what any country will decide to do as the pandemic evolves, but we suspect that travel will be more complicated and more limited for some time. This might include needing to obtain another negative PCR test and/or quarantine for a period of time when you return home.
• We have no indication of what the Peruvian government would do if/when there is a new surge of infections in the country, or in other countries. Last time, the government took swift action and locked down the country with very little notice. There is a risk that they might do that again, if they feel it is necessary.
• Although vaccinations are underway throughout the world, it could take until as late as 2024 to distribute the vaccine to everyone on the planet.
• Apus Peru has implemented a number of safety protocols for travel during the pandemic. See our page on travel confidence for more details.

What We Recommend Before You Book Any Travel

1. check all relevant change & cancellation policies.

Apus Peru has implemented flexible booking & cancellation policies, for your peace of mind:

• Apus Peru is offering free date changes through 2022, meaning that you can reschedule your booked travel for any other date in 2021 or 2022 up to three times, free of charge.
• You also don’t have to pick your final travel date until as late as 30 days prior to that departure, giving you the flexibility to monitor the situation and see what will be best for you. (This does not include Inca Trail treks which are subject to permit availability.)
• If you need to cancel and don’t want to rebook, we will refund 50% of your deposit.
• For more details, see our Booking Conditions page.

We are not responsible for the change and cancellation policies of OTHER agents , such as airlines, hotels, etc. Make sure you check these thoroughly before committing to any travel dates.

2. Get travel insurance

Look for the most comprehensive policy you can that will cover you in the event of last-minute changes or cancellation, medical emergencies or evacuation. We provide all the details you need to know about purchasing travel insurance for your trip to Peru .

3. The later you plan your travel the less likely it is to get cancelled

Our policies are designed to let you make changes with ease and reduce travel-related stress, but if you need more certainty to feel comfortable or are not able to easily change your plans once they are set, then we recommend waiting until later in the year.

Stay Up to Date on the Latest Travel Restrictions to Peru

We will keep our clients up to date on all pandemic-related travel restrictions to Peru and other relevant news as it affects their travel.

If you haven’t already done so, we recommend you sign up to our mailing list to make sure you always receive the latest information. You can also contact us any time at [email protected] .

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Home » South America » Travel Safety

Is Peru Safe for Travel? (2024• Insider Tips)

With landscapes ranging from towering mountains all the way to dense rainforest, Peru is definitely an  amazing place to visit.  Couple it with colonial heritage as well as the Inca ruins of  Machu Picchu  and you have yourself one hell of a destination.

But the country is not devoid of perils. Corrupt politicians, severe weather, dangerous animals, sketchy mountain roads, insurgent groups and drug traffickers are rife; all of this may rightly have you wondering, “Is Peru safe?”

Your concern is totally understandable. To help you ease your worries, I have created this epic insider’s guide. It’s complete with the top tips of  how to stay safe in Peru.  We’re all about travelling smart at The Broke Backpacker, so I want to help you out with some major pointers that’ll keep your trip trouble-free.

There’s a whole lot of ground to cover. This includes whether or not it’s safe to travel to Peru right now (there are some political issues currently underway), whether it’s safe for a family trip, and even if it’s safe to drive. Peru is a growingly complex country so there will lots more besides these.

You may be a first-time solo traveller worried about a solo trip to Peru. Maybe you’ve heard how amazing the cuisine is and you’re wondering if the food in Peru is safe. You may just be anxious about Peru in general.

Don’t worry. This insider guide has you covered; vamos.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Peru Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Peru.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated December 2023

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Is Peru Safe to Visit Right Now?

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5,275,000 international visitors were welcomed in Peru last 2019, according to the data gathered from the World Bank. Tourists had a generally positive stay.

Peru is definitely a popular stomping ground on the South American backpacking trail. Who doesn’t want to see  Machu Picchu,  right?

Because of all the totally cool things you can see, do and visit here,  tourism is big news.  Adventure tourism, beaches, history and a big helping of  eco-tourism  make it a perfect destination for everybody.

That doesn’t mean it’s not without its issues, though.  Crime happens, as it does everywhere, but in Peru, you’ll likely be targeted BECAUSE you’re a tourist. Visitors are often seen as wealthy.

Theft, mugging, pickpocketing in crowded places, as well as corruption (from the police to even tour agents), make it a potentially scary place to visit. So do drug trafficking gangs –  and political demonstrations that turn violent.

Travelling smart is going to increase your chances of staying safe. Not looking like a complete tourist will help you NOT be a target of street crime. Being careful of your surroundings is also going to pay off too – literally.

But you still might want to pick when you travel wisely. The rainy season in Peru can be devastating.  We’re talking floods, power outages and landslides. All are pretty unsafe if you ask me. Try not to travel between November and April.

Aside from the politics of Peru, it’s pretty much as safe a time as any to visit.  Visiting Lima , in particular, has become a lot safer in recent years – it used to see a higher proportion of the country’s overall crime rate.

Check out our detailed  where to stay guide for Peru  so you can start your trip right!

When choosing where to stay in Peru, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, I’ve listed the safest areas to visit in Peru below.

Arequipa is one of the safest places in Peru. It offers a laid-back alternative to Lima and Cusco, making it a great spot for families. Whilst caution should be taken everywhere in Peru, Arequipa has a safer atmosphere, letting you relax a little bit more.

Often considered a smaller Lima, Chiclayo benefits from the great nightlife and culinary scene associated with Peru’s metropolitan areas without the stifling crowds. This easily makes it one of the coolest AND safest places to stay in the country!

Peru really is just one big adventure destination – but I love Huancayo for the off-the-beaten-path feel! As a relatively unknown destination, Huancayo is also inexpensive and safe – making it a great option for adventurous budget travellers backpacking through Peru.

Places to Avoid in Peru

Unfortunately, not all places in Peru are safe . You need to be careful and aware of your surroundings pretty much anywhere you go in the world, and the same goes for visiting Peru. To help you out, I’ve listed a couple of no-go or caution areas below: 

• Sacsayhuaman ruins – this area is known for muggings after dark. Avoid walking outside at night! 
• Huallaga Valley – Cocaine is still being produced here… a real no-brainer to stay away from.
• Lima (at least certain parts) – while I personally don’t think that Lima’s safety is as much of a big deal as everyone seems to claim, it does pay off to be more careful when visiting the city.

Keeping Your Money Safe in Peru

One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.

The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Many tourists visit Peru and have a trouble-free time! It’s all about being aware of your surroundings, we’d say. But to get into more detail here’s a round-up of the best travel tips for staying safe in Peru.

• Don’t wear flashy clothes, accessories or jewellery  – looking rich is going to make you a target.
• Try not to look lost  – even if you are! Looking like a tourist is also going to make you a target…
• Wandering around at night is a no-no  – ESPECIALLY by yourself, ESPECIALLY in a major cities.
• Be aware of techniques used by thieves .
• Stick to well-trodden routes if you’re near the Ecuadorian border  – because of landmines.
• Learn some local lingo  – that’s Spanish, of course.
• Use ATMs during the day… preferably INSIDE a bank  – these are hotspots for muggings.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Only drink what you buy and watch it when you’re out  – drink spiking happens.
• Be careful with  ayahuasca  ceremonies   – proceed with caution.
• Stay away from protests and demonstrations  – these can get ugly.
• If someone wants your money, give it to them  – in the event of a mugging, just hand it over.
• Be vigilant in the main coca growing regions  – steer well clear.
• Don’t trek by yourself  – having a buddy is 10x better.
• Pick a good, well-reviewed tour agent  -it’s not worth saving money on bad, unsafe trips.
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Watch the news  – politics can change, a natural disaster may happen; it’s best to know!

All it takes to be secure is a little bit of good judgment, some research, some caution and general attention paid to what’s going on around you. Case closed.

You’ll be pleased to know that Peru is safe to travel alone . It’s actually quite popular.

Don’t worry, as long as you travel smart you’re going to love solo travelling here! Here are my top tips for solo travellers in Peru…

• Make friends ! Lima, Pisco, Arequipa, Cusco   – you’ll find ample opportunities at these places in the local hostels and meet some awesome people to travel with. Safety in numbers, folks.
• Plan, plan, plan , and plan some more. If you’re worried about traveling by yourself, or the safety of anywhere you’re going, the best way to stay safe is to PLAN.
• Being open-minded is a good way to travel solo, albeit with an air of caution, of course. But being closed up and keeping yourself to yourself isn’t what solo travel is about.
• Learning   some Spanish  will open up the country to you. Not only is learning a new language fun, but it goes down well with the locals too.
• It’s important also to just be alert to what’s going on around you. Like, someone could suddenly fall over in front of you, or drop something, or try to give you something – chances are these sorts of things will involve a  scam. 
• Pay attention to   government warnings . Check weather and heightened crime warnings in the area.
• Don’t walk around at night . This is never a good idea!
• Never leave food or drink unattended. NO ONE is safe from spiking. Yes boys, even you.
• Check out reviews for hostels . The  best hostels in Peru aren’t always the cheapest option.

Being open to meeting new people but listening to your gut is probably going to make your trip not only safe but also one you’ll likely never forget!

Travelling solo is one thing, but travelling solo as a FEMALE is a whole other ball game. Unfortunately, there’s always going to be more to consider when you’re travelling alone as a woman.

However, Peru is pretty much safe for solo female travellers , as long as you keep these safety tips in mind.

• Don’t walk around by yourself at night , especially in Lima.  Around the world, women by themselves are targets –  particularly at night . Just don’t do it.
• Get yourself a local or travel sim card .  This is ALWAYS a good idea. Let people know things!
• Stay at well-reviewed hostels in Peru . Make sure reviews mention it’s good for solo travellers  and check to see if they have female-only dorms at that rate. Remember that a hostel is basically just a genuinely great place to meet new people.
• Machismo is part of Peruvian culture.  Street harassment in Peru does happen. Usually in the form of catcalling. Also, women in Peru don’t usually go out to bars, so just bear in mind that because you’re breaking the norms of Peruvian society you’ll get some attention from locals.
• When catcalling does happen,  ignore it. 
• There are no set ‘rules’ on what to wear to not get attention, but the less revealing, the better.
• Think up ways to curb sexual advances. You’re “ married, ” for example.
• Be careful about giving out your information. No matter how friendly they may seem, the risk is real.
• Stock up on sanitary products.  Guess what? You won’t be able to find those out in the sticks.

While there’s the very real issue of chauvinism, which can be intimidating at times, all-in-all Peru is still safe for solo female travellers. Peruvian society, in general, will be protective of females travelling by themselves. Plenty of women backpack through Peru without issue.

Arequipa is a safe, affordable and laid back place in Peru that fits every traveller’s need. Attractions and adventures can be found inside and outside of the White City.

Peru is an  amazing place to travel with children.  That doesn’t mean it’s always going to be safe, but plenty of families DO make the trip to this fascinating country and love it.

That said, it’s probably a better place to visit with older children who can appreciate the historical sights. Trekking around in the mountains is going to be HARD on little legs, and even harder on you if you plan on carrying them. Take the Machu Picchu hike for example – it’s definitely worth the visit, however, it’ll require quite a bit of fitness.

To help limit stress and keep the whole family happy, consider the following tips, which are catered specifically for managing children.

• Peru can get hot!  Exposure to the heat is going to be something you’ll have to consider.
• Altitude sickness  can be a mortal problem and it’s really NOT recommended to take  children under 3 years of age  to higher elevations. You need to treat altitude sickness seriously.
• In the Peruvian jungle,  yellow fever  is a risk. Really small children, we’re talking under 9 months, shouldn’t travel here at all (since the yellow fever vaccine isn’t given until children are over this age).
• Malaria  is also a danger, but you can take precautions against this.
• DON’T let your children pet any street dogs, or go near them, for that matter. This is NOT safe!
• Staying at an upmarket resort is usually safer and helps to limit a lot of the aforementioned problems.

If you’re here for adventure and you want your children to share it, then I’d say Peru is safe to travel for families. Ultimately, it’ll be safer and LESS stressful the older they are, maybe 7 years and upwards.

In Peruvian culture, family, and especially children, is very important. Needless to say, this is going to help you get to know locals all that much easier and make your time even more enjoyable in Peru.

There are many ways of travelling around Peru, but some are safer/easier than others.

Is Driving in Peru Safe?

Whilst you CAN hire a car and use it in the main cities, I wouldn’t.

The rainy season can cause landslides and flooding making roads completely inaccessible. Oh, and did I mention corrupt police stops? They happen, a lot.

The short answer is:  no.  Driving in Peru is not safe.

Are Taxis/Uber in Peru Safe?

All real taxis in Peru have a taxi sign on top of the car. Look at the license plate too .  It should be all white with a yellow bar on the top.

Before you even get in the taxi, agree on a price .  Haggling is okay, so go for it. In conclusion, taxis in Peru are safe so long as you take the necessary precautions.

Uber’s available in Lima .  That’s it. Is uber safe in Peru? Yeah, but not great.

They’re often more expensive than taxis and the cars they use are pretty shabby too. Better choices would be alternative rideshare apps like  Cabify .

Public Transportation in Peru

I wouldn’t say that buses in Peru are safe. Sometimes, however, bus travel is unavoidable if you want to get where you’re going.

City buses are the  main mode of public transport  for most urban locals. There are also many  long-distance buses . Make sure to do your research on these – seriously – as  accidents happen often. 

There are also trains in Peru. These follow high-altitude tracks and are  pretty cool and fairly safe. The main routes are  Cusco to Machu Picchu, Cusco to Puno,  and in the north,  Lima to Huancayo. 

Cycling in Peru

Cycling and bikepacking in Peru is actually quite safe – and popular too! Bike lanes ( ciclovias ) exist in some popular tourist areas in Lima.

So there you have it. Taxis aren’t the safest, but the best option in my opinion. Beats walking, I guess.

The US Travel Advisory for Peru suggests exercising increased caution when visiting Peru (Level 2). It says on the site that crime in Peru, petty crime and theft, carjackings and some violent crimes such as assault are common in Peru.

Whilst this is true, it’s important to remember that tourists are seldom a target of violent crime. Petty theft and scams in Peru are what you should be watching out for.

Of course, it goes without saying that crime in Peru increases at night time. So if you’re worried, don’t go wandering after nightfall, ESPECIALLY if you’re under the influence.

I am personally from the UK, so I like to use the UK GOV site to check safety measures when travelling. No matter where you are from, I would recommend using many different country’s sites to get a good idea of what you can expect.

The UK GOV site for Peru suggests that following laws in Peru is extremely important. Especially regarding drug laws! Another top tip is to always carry an ID with you .

It’s important to do your own research before visiting Peru AND to keep up to date with the current situation whilst in Peru. Check with the Peruvian government and local authorities on crime statistics, monitor local media, and seek local advice. If you are exposed to crime in Peru, contact local police.

If you’re planning on heading to Peru for an ayahuasca trip, be very f*kin careful.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Peru without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Before you set off, get some good travel insurance . It’s pretty much a no-brainer in the modern day.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

So, how dangerous is Peru? Well, here are some quick answers to common questions about certain aspects of safety in Peru.

What is the most dangerous city in Peru?

Statistically, Lima is the most dangerous city in Peru. The crime rate is relatively high, however, most crimes only target locals. The safest cities in Peru are Lima and Cusco. Obviously, that sounds odd as the safest and most dangerous city is Lima, but it depends on where in the city you are.

Is it safe to go to Machu Picchu?

Apart from the heat and high altitude, visiting the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu is pretty safe. It’s best to find a reliable guide if you’re planning on hitting the hiking trail. Take loads of water and snacks with you to stay energized.

Can you drink the water in Peru?

Nope. Don’t drink it. No ice cubes, no nothing .  The safest bet is always to get bottled water.  However, you can boil water to purify it – a couple of minutes will suffice. Take note that, due to atmospheric pressure, water takes longer to boil at higher altitudes. DRINK INCA KOLA INSTEAD 😉

Is Peru safe for American tourists?

Yes, of course. SO many American tourists visit Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail every year. I also get the question “Is Peru safe for tourists?” Peru is safe for the majority of tourists to visit. Make sure to check your country’s travel advice, so for US Nationals, check the up-to-date info on the US Travel Advisory site for travel safety information.

Is Peru safe to live in?

Yes, it’s safe to live in Peru, and indeed, loads of backpackers and budding professionals do so. If you love the landscapes, the food and the people, then it’s probably going to be a dreamy destination  for you. You’ll often be seen as a  gringo, that is,  rich.  Being targeted for scams is common.

Yes, I’d say Peru can be very safe – IF you’ve done your research and keep our travel safety tips in mind. If you go out looking for trouble in Peru, you’ll definitely find it. However, it can also be avoided very easily.

The best way to stay safe in Peru is to simply travel smartly. If you listened to me, then you will be able to dodge the shay taxi drivers, the thieves, the gang violence, the political unrest, all of it.

By covering your own back and having the proper security nets in place, you will be able to enjoy backpacking in Peru even more enjoyable. Just keep hydrated, don’t push yourself, meet good people, and have fun.

Looking for more info on traveling to Peru?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in Peru
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Peru travel guide!
• Get inspired by these EPIC bucket list adventures !
• See exactly how to travel the world for a year , even if you’re broke
• Take a look at my expert travel safety tips learned from 15+ years on the road

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ankita Kumar

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Corrupt politicians, severe weather, dangerous animals, sketchy mountain roads, insurgent groups, drug traffickers; all of this may rightly have you wondering, “is Peru safe?” Sounds like USA to me! I feel safer here than most US cities. Just don’t look or act like a tourist. Don’t carry anything in your back pockets. Snatching cellphones from your hand is a sport here so if you must use one be careful.

Congrats on your topic above! I ‘m traveling to Peru alone on the 15th of August and I have to say that I got more information that I needed from your text than anything else I have searched throughout the internet! Thanks and keep up the good work!

Amazing Feeback, very helpfull!

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Home » Current Situation in Peru: Is it safe to visit?

Current Situation in Peru: Is it safe to visit?

• 8 March, 2023
• by Konsti Sobon

10 Comments

• Reading time: 3 minutes

Last update: 17.02.2024

With the recent political unrest, many travelers have contacted us being worried about the safety in Peru and which sites can be visited.

In this blog article, we’ll give you a brief overview of the current situation in Peru, covering safety concerns, travel limitations and the tours that we operate (updated weekly).

Latest News

Lately, the international press has been reporting about the Guillain Barré syndrome in Peru. The nervous disease, that is not contagious, appears every year, mainly in disadvantaged regions of the country.

Peru has declared a national health emergency for 90 days which allows them to purchase immunoglobulin for the next 2 years to treat the patients. However, you do not need to be worried about this.

You can travel safely throughout the entire country.

A Quick Overview of Peru’s Must-Visit Sites

The ancient capital of Peru is nestled high in the Andes at 3400 m (11,150 ft). It’s the destination where most of your adventures will take place.

Traveling to Cusco is safe.

With that said, we currently operate the following tours in and around Cusco:

• Vinicunca & Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain

All of these tours are part of our bestseller tour, Best of Cusco in 4 Days .

The Peruvian Amazon jungle is a vast and biodiverse region of the Amazon rainforest, covering over 60% of Peru’s territory and is home to many different species of Flora and Fauna.

Both of the two hotspots we visit are safe:

• Puerto Maldonado

During these tours, you’ll enjoy beautiful boat tours on the Amazon river, learn more about the indigenous communities and absorb the unique atmosphere of the jungle.

Peru’s capital is well known for its rich history, architecture, delicious cuisine and vibrant cultural scene.

The current situation allows you to travel in and out of Lima without facing any dangers.

While in Lima, be sure to:

• Enjoy the fantastic view of the coast in Miraflores and visit some of the delicious cafés.
• Stroll through the artists’ district of Barranco and try ceviche.
• Visit the center of Lima where you can see many colonial buildings, museums, churches and traditional Peruvian markets .

Check out our extensive blog article about the 10 top-rated things to do in Lima to learn more about the things that you can do in Peru’s capital.

This desert city is located in the southern coast of Peru and is very well known for its wineries, pisco distilleries, and the Huacachina oasis, one of the most beautiful sites in Peru.

Visiting Paracas National Reserve and Huacachina is absolutely safe and you can enjoy the following activities during your visit:

• Visit South America’s oldest and still operating distillery.
• Fall in love with the natural oasis during our Huacachina tour .
• Get ready for the unforgettable sandboarding & -buggy adventure through the dunes.
• Enjoy the sunset with your travel partner.

These are only some of the highlights that you can expect. For more inspiration we definitely recommend you to have a look at the 10 awesome things you can do in Huacachina .

Arequipa is very well known for its beautiful colonial architecture, such as the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery and it’s also the gateway to one of the deepest canyons in the world.

Right now the situation has calmed down and you can book your trip to this wonderful city and enjoy the unique scenery.

The following things are waiting for you:

• The Santa Catalina Monastery and the different colorful buildings and courtyards that date back to the 16th century.
• Discover the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world and try to spot the Andean condors.
• Embrace the local cuisine and make sure to try rocoto relleno, alpaca meat dishes and visit the different picanterias (lunch tables)

If you travel to Peru and plan on visiting Arequipa and the sites mentioned before, we recommend our 16-day Peru tour .

Lake Titicaca, is the highest navigable lake in the world and will enchant you with beautiful landscapes.

Recently, the situation has been improving and there aren’t any roadblocks anymore. It’s possible to visit Lake Titicaca again and to cross the border from Peru to Bolivia and vice versa.

Stay Updated and Enjoy Your Peru Trip

As you can see: Peru is safe and a trip to Peru is possible and, above all, safe.

You can discover Cusco, Lima, Ica, Arequipa, the jungle and Lake Titicaca in our Peru tours and immerse yourself in the interesting history, get in touch with the locals, the different Peruvian cultures and enjoy the incredible views and delicious cuisine.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to email us at [email protected] .

Related Tour

6-day best of peru.

Our bestseller Peru express tour!

• Ancient ruins, stunning Andean landscapes and Inca history that will make you speechless
• Machu Picchu, Cusco, Huacachina & more

“We really recommend Exploor since they took us to the sights early in the morning so we could enjoy without crowds, they all are very punctual. The guides were incredible, very prepared and friendly, they know all the spots to take the best photos.”

Peru Tours.

James Hudson 31 July, 2023 at 9:44 am

Thank you for this valuable update! This is great news coming from a travel agency in Peru, the reporting of the media here in the US sometimes does not reflect that at all, what a pity. Looking forward to visiting your country soon, cheers

Oliver from Exploor 1 August, 2023 at 11:52 am

Thank you for your great feedback, James. We really appreciate it!

Eva Morales 3 May, 2023 at 9:57 am

Hola! Estamos pensando viajar a Perú en julio- agosto, es posible? Como está la situación? Nos pueden informar el precio del Camino Inca a Machu Pichu? Muchas gracias!

Oliver from Exploor 3 May, 2023 at 10:24 am

Hola Eva! La situación está bastante buena, se puede viajar tranquilo por todo el país. No hay huelgas o bloqueos de las calles, todo está libre. Te vamos a contactar por correo con más información sobre lo solicitado.

Saludos y que tengas un buen día! 🙂

Joe Michals 27 March, 2023 at 7:12 pm

Big thanks for the updates team exploor. We were a bit scared of coming to Peru but after following your blog in the past 3 – 5 weeks we finally took the step and booked our trip for this August! Best, Joe

Oliver from Exploor 29 March, 2023 at 10:41 am

Hey Joe! We’re so happy to hear that and we can’t wait to show you around soon. I’m sure you’ll have a great time exploring Peru with us.

See you soon and until then take care, Oliver

Jole 14 March, 2023 at 1:42 pm

This is just what I need! I was looking for more information about the current status in Peru and that is perfect. Directly to the point and now I am relieved that I can start my trip. Thanks

Konsti from Exploor Peru 15 March, 2023 at 9:30 am

Hi Jole, thanks a lot for your positive feedback. Exactly, the information is up to date and as soon as we get news for other sites we will change it accordingly so that everyone is well informed. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us.

Best, Konsti

Julie Brown 9 March, 2023 at 9:24 am

Thank you for this useful information, glad to hear Machu Picchu is open again!!! Could you please send me a quote for 2 people for an 8-day tour including Lima & Cusco with 4* hotels to my email indicated above? Thanks!

Oliver from Exploor 9 March, 2023 at 12:17 pm

Hey Julie, thank you for your comment! Please check your inbox, we’ve just sent you a mail with an exemplary itinerary. 🙂

Saludos, Oliver

Leave a comment

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Is it “safe” to travel to Peru right now?

Here are a few things to consider before you plan your trip..

• Peru is still seeing new cases of COVID-19 daily , but most of the cases are found in the hot spots of Lima and other coastal towns.  The Peruvian government has taken steps to limit exposure in these areas by requiring both masks and face shields in all public places.  Cities in the Andes, like Cusco and Puno, still have a mask requirement and curfew, but they are seeing significantly less cases per day in those cities.

• The 14-day quarantine requirement has been lifted.  The Peruvian government is updating COVID-19 travel requirements every 14 days, but for right now you can travel to Peru with documentation showing a PCR test with a negative result received within 72 hours of your departing flight.  The negative PCR test is still required whether you’ve received a vaccination in your home country or not.  The PCR test or an antigen test performed in Peru (at your own expense) will be the only accepted documents to allow you to freely roam around Peru.  When you travel from city to city, you will be required to sign a sworn affidavit that you don’t have any symptoms and you must follow the guidelines specific to that area, which will likely include wearing a mask, following a curfew, and practicing social distancing. 
• The majority of Peru’s tourist attractions are outside so it’s much easier to safely social distance.  Some indoor attractions are open to a limited capacity too, so you should be able to visit all the places you would like to see as long as you’re following the government guidelines.

BOTTOM LINE: It is as safe to travel to Peru now as it is to travel to most other countries as long as you’re willing to follow the government’s rules.  Tourists are starting to come back, restaurants and hotels are following a strict protocol to clean between guests/patrons, and the locals are doing everything they can to help keep the communities safe and healthy for everyone. 

If you have any specific questions or are thinking about scheduling your trip, please contact us and we can help plan and navigate the requirements. 

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Peru overall due to the threat of violent crime.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Peru (PDF 834.87 KB)

Americas (PDF 3.25 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 117 or go direct to the hospital.

Call 0800 22221 for police who speak English.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Peru overall.

Reconsider your need to travel within 20km of the border with Colombia, areas bordering Ecuador in the regions of Loreto, Amazonas and Cajamarca.

Reconsider your need to travel :

• within 20km of the border with Colombia due to the high risk of violent crime;
• areas bordering Ecuador in the regions of Loreto, Amazonas and Cajamarca due to the risk of landmines.
• Political protests, demonstrations and strikes are common in Peru, particularly in the historic centre of Lima. Past demonstrations have turned violent and disrupted public transport services, including trains to and from Machu Picchu. Avoid protests, monitor local media for updates and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Violent crime is common, particularly in Lima, Cusco and Arequipa. Avoid going out alone, especially at night. Petty crime is common in public areas, hotels and restaurants. Thieves are often well-dressed. Keep your belongings close and valuables out of sight. Street theft of mobile phones has increased. Avoid using your phone at the curbside, as motorbike riders may snatch it.
• Travellers using unlicensed taxis have been victims of robbery, assault and rape. Don't hail taxis from the street. Use a phone dispatch service or taxi service app to book a licensed taxi. Criminals target cars stopped at traffic lights. Keep your doors and windows locked, even when moving. Robberies and assaults occur on intercity buses. Avoid placing personal belongings on overhead racks or under your seats. Use only reputable bus companies.
• Ayahuasca tourism is a growing industry. Serious assaults and robberies occur. Thoroughly research Ayahuasca tour operators before you book.
• Members of a local terrorist group may still be active in remote areas, particularly the Southern Highlands. Take care when travelling outside of populated regions.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Many parts of Peru are at high altitudes. You can develop altitude sickness above 2500m. If you plan to travel to these areas, consult your doctor before leaving. Ensure your travel insurance covers emergency evacuation from altitude and related medical costs.
• Peru is currently experiencing a major dengue outbreak. To protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases, make sure your accommodation is insect-proof, use insect repellent and wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing. Consult your doctor before travel for advice on prevention and get advice if you become ill.
• Yellow fever is a risk in Peru. Get vaccinated before you travel. Zika virus is common in jungle regions. If you're pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor before you leave.
• Malaria is also a risk in Peru. Consult your doctor about how to prevent malaria.
• Other infectious diseases include cholera, hepatitis, tuberculosis, typhoid and rabies. Drink boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food. If an animal bites or scratches you, get immediate medical help.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe and include lengthy prison sentences. Officials use up-to-date technology to detect drugs. 
• You must carry photo identification. Contact the  Australian Embassy in Lima  to get certified copies of your passport photo and visa pages.
• Be careful when taking photos. It's illegal to photograph infrastructure and military or police sites and personnel. If you're unsure, and local authorities are present, ask them before taking a photograph.
• Always behave respectfully. Indecent behaviour, including not showing respect at cultural, historical or sacred sites, is against the law. Authorities have detained Australians for this.
• It's illegal to export antiques and artefacts from pre-colonial Peru. If you want to buy and export a reproduction, use a reputable dealer who can provide the right documents.
• Dual nationals aged under 18 must travel with both of their passports. Children travelling with only one parent must carry permission from the non-travelling parent to be able to depart Peru. 

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Tourists don't need a visa. You can get a permit to stay for up to 3 months when you arrive. If you overstay your permit, you'll have to pay a fine before leaving the country. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Peru for the latest details.
• Follow the advice of local authorities, as restrictions may change at short notice.
• Emergency passports can be used to enter, transit or depart Peru, as long as it has at least 6 months validity.
• If you're entering Ecuador via the land border with Peru, you must present an apostilled police check covering the previous 5 years. Ensure you meet all current entry requirements. 

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Contact the  Australian Embassy in Lima  for consular assistance.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Violent crime.

Violent crime is common in Peru, particularly in the cities of:

Violent crimes include:

• sexual assault
• armed robbery and muggings
• carjackings

You could encounter: 

• armed robbery and  assault  on Amazon River boats
• theft as you sleep on intercity bus routes between Lima, Ica, Nazca and Cusco
• assault and robbery at gunpoint on intercity buses
• bogus roadblocks or checkpoints on roads outside major cities after dark

If you're sexually assaulted, report it to the police immediately. You can expect to be examined at a clinic as part of the investigation.  If you delay reporting, you may experience more scrutiny by local authorities.

Road-based crime

Travellers using unlicensed taxis have been victims of robbery, assault and rape.

Use a phone dispatch service or taxi service app to book a licensed taxi. Ask for help from staff at hotels, hostels, restaurants or entertainment venues. Be careful and pay attention to suspicious behaviour, even when taking transport booked via apps. If possible, avoid taking taxis or ride-shares by yourself. 

To protect yourself from road-based crime:

• keep vehicle doors locked and windows up, even when moving
• avoid going out alone, especially at night
• don't place belongings on overhead racks or under bus seats
• monitor the local media for potential hotspots
• don't leave your luggage unattended

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common. Thieves are often well dressed.

Criminals target people walking alone after dark, especially leaving bars or nightclubs.

Thieves frequently target mobile phones. Be aware of your surroundings before using your mobile phone in public spaces and be discreet while using it. Avoid using your phone curb-side on the street, as you may be targeted by snatch-and-grab thieves on motorcycles.

Hotspots for thieves include:

• public areas
• conference centres
• restaurants

Smash-and-grab attacks are common in various locations around Lima and other cities. Thieves snatch items from cars stopped at traffic lights. 

If you plan to go on a cruise, check the company has adequate security before booking.

Personal security

Travellers in Peru can be victims of:

• food or drink spiking, followed by robbery or assault
• ' express kidnappings ', where kidnappers force victims to withdraw money from ATMs before releasing them

To protect yourself from crime:

• don't accept drinks, food, gum or cigarettes from strangers or people you have just met
• don't leave food or drink unattended
• exchange money in banks, exchange bureaus or in your hotel
• use ATMs in banks, shopping centres or hotels where possible

Border areas

Travel to the region within 20km of the border with Colombia is dangerous.

Armed guerrilla forces from Colombia sometimes enter Peru's remote areas.

Drug traffickers operate in:

• the border area between Peru and Colombia
• the valley of the Apurímac, Ene and Mantaro rivers (VRAEM region)

Take additional precautions in these areas. 

Ayahuasca tourism

Ayahuasca tourism is a growing industry in the jungle regions of Ecuador and Peru. Shamans perform psychedelic rituals of spiritual cleansing.

Ayahuasca is not illegal, but some participants have been assaulted and robbed.

Ceremonies often take place in remote areas with no access to medical or mental health resources and limited communication with local authorities.

Most facilities lack basic first aid or emergency plans for people who suffer physical or mental effects after ceremonies. Participants report symptoms from being more alert but out of control through to amnesia.

If you decide to take part in ayahuasca tourism:

• research potential ayahuasca tour operators before signing up
• avoid participating in ayahuasca rituals without a trusted friend present

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests .

Demonstrations and protests occur frequently in Peru. These can cause some disruption to travel services throughout the country and sometimes turn violent. The historic centre of Lima is often the site of demonstrations. 

States of emergency may be implemented in response to civil unrest, giving the armed forces responsibility for law and order. Some civil rights could be suspended. 

If you plan to travel by road, research your planned route carefully, including regularly checking the  official list of road closures  (in Spanish), and take precautions to ensure your safety. 

National or regional strikes can be called at short notice, further disrupting domestic air travel, public transport and road networks.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• monitor the media for updates
• avoid areas affected by demonstrations and protests
• follow the advice of local authorities
• contact your airline or tour operator to confirm arrangements before you travel

If you're near a demonstration, leave if it's safe to do so.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Members of a local terrorist group may still be in isolated areas throughout Peru, especially in the Central and Southern Highlands.

Take care if you travel to:

• Huancavelica

These places may harbour members of the Shining Path terrorist movement.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in the Southern Highlands
• take official warnings seriously
• report any suspicious activity or items to the police

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid areas affected in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Tours and adventure activities

Australians have died from injuries sustained in  adventure travel  accidents in Peru.

Rafting, diving and sand-dune buggy-riding operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards.

The Inca Trail closes in February each year for maintenance. Some companies will still operate.

Heavy rainfall can make parts of the trail impassable and dangerous.

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

To reduce your risks:

• seek advice from local authorities
• adjust your plans if the weather makes conditions unsafe
• monitor weather conditions
• use an experienced guide on the Inca Trail or other treks

Tourism assistance or complaints

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

Phone iPeru: (+51 1) 574-8000 (tourist assistance service with English-speaking personnel)

Climate and natural disasters

Due to the weather conditions, a State of Emergency has been imposed in the northern coastal and some central parts of Peru. This may cause some travel services to be disrupted and inter-provincial road travel to be restricted. Some tourist attractions may be temporarily closed.

Peru can experience  natural disasters  and  severe weather , such as:

• earthquakes
• volcanic eruptions

To protect yourself if a natural disaster is approaching:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources
• keep in contact with friends and family
• contact your tour operator or airline
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Severe weather

Peru has a variety of climates. The rainy season is from November to May.

Flooding and landslides are common in the Andes during this period.

Rail and air services may be disrupted.

Heavy rain can cause flooding and landslides in the Andes mountain range, affecting:

• Machu Picchu
• the Inca Trail
• Aguas Calientes

This can result in travel delays.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Peru is in an active earthquake zone.  Earthquakes  and tsunamis can occur.

A tsunami can arrive very soon after a nearby tremor or earthquake.

Be alert to warnings. 

If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings, such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

• U.S Tsunami Warning Centers  (United States government)

Several volcanoes in southern Peru are active. Ubinas and Sabancaya volcanoes have erupted multiple times.

Eruptions can occur at any time and without warning.

Exposure to volcanic ash, dust and toxic fumes can harm your health, especially if you have existing respiratory problems.

To protect yourself if there's an eruption:

• stay inside with windows and doors shut
• put damp towels at door thresholds and other draft sources if ash is falling
• monitor local media for advice on possible risks

If you need to go outside, avoid contact with ash. Wear a disposable face mask and change it frequently. Wear long clothing and goggles.

Seek local advice on recent volcanic activity before hiking or trekking near active volcanoes.

• Geophysical Institute of Peru Instituto Geofisico del Peru (IGP) (Spanish) 
• Geology, Mineralogy and Metallurgy Institute Instituto Geologico Minero y Metalurigico (INGEMMET) (Spanish)

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Peru. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use only
• Medic ation

Health risks

Altitude sickness.

You're at risk of  altitude sickness  if you travel above 2500m. The risk is greater if your ascent is rapid.

Altitude sickness can be life-threatening and can affect anyone, even if you're healthy.

You're more at risk of altitude sickness if you:

• have had altitude sickness before
• exercise or drink alcohol before you get used to the altitude
• have health problems that affect breathing

Many areas of Peru are above 2500m, including:

• Cuzco and Machu Picchu
• Puno and the Colca Canyon
• Lake Titicaca

See your doctor for specific advice.

Check if your insurance covers emergency evacuation from altitude and related medical costs.

Insect-borne diseases

Peru is currently experiencing a major  dengue  outbreak. Monitor local media for up-to-date advice on risk levels in particular areas.

Yellow fever  is widespread in Peru. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Zika virus  is also widespread across Peru. If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends that you:

• discuss any travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

Malaria  is also a risk in Peru.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Consult your doctor about how to prevent malaria.

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic, and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• tuberculosis

Severe outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities are adequate in major cities but limited elsewhere.

Doctors and hospitals often require payment before they will treat you, including for emergency care.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with suitable facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Travelling with children

Children under 18 years old travelling on an Australian passport must obtain written permission (Autorización de Viaje Notarial) from the non-travelling parent(s) to leave the country. For more information, please see the Peruvian government's  website . 

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include lengthy prison sentences.  Don't carry or use illegal drugs .

Trained staff use technology to detect illegal drugs at Lima's International Airport and throughout Peru.

Australians have been jailed for long periods for drug offences.

States of emergency

Local authorities sometimes invoke a state of emergency. It gives the government special legal powers in response to civil unrest, crime, health concerns or natural disasters. Peru's armed forces take control of law and order alongside the police. Some civil rights may be suspended and curfews imposed.

If a state of emergency happens in an area you're visiting:

Proof of identity

You must carry photo ID in Peru. 

A certified copy  of the photo and visa pages is acceptable if you don't want to carry your passport. Get certified copies from the  Australian Embassy in Lima .

It's illegal to photograph:

• military or police sites and personnel
• water and electricity plants

Indecent behaviour, such as not showing respect at cultural, historical or sacred sites, is against the law. Australians have been detained for this.

It's illegal to export handicrafts or goods of cultural or historical significance. If you want to buy or export copies of these, you'll need permission from Peru's National Institute for Culture. Call (+51 1) 226 4162.

It's also illegal to export antiques and artefacts from pre-colonial Peru. If you want to buy and export a reproduction, use a reputable dealer with the right documents.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Dual nationals aged under 18 years must travel with both passports.

A child travelling alone or with one parent may need certain  documents .

• Dual nationals
• Advice for people travelling with children

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Australian tourists don't need a visa. You can get a permit to stay for up to 3 months when you arrive. If you overstay your permit, you'll have to pay a fine before leaving the country.

In other situations, you'll need to apply for a visa through an  embassy or consulate of Peru .

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You can contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Peru for the latest details. They'll tell you about visas, currency, customs and other travel requirements.

Border measures

Airports in Peru will not issue immigration entry or departure stamps. Only digital records will be kept of entry and exit from the country by air.

If you enter Peru from Bolivia either by walking or by bus or taxi, you must make sure your passport is stamped with a Peruvian entry stamp at the immigration office in Desaguadero or Copacabana (Puno region). You'll need to go to the immigration checkpoint, as they won't seek you out.

If you enter Peru overland from Ecuador, you must make sure your passport is stamped with a Peruvian entry stamp at the local immigration office. You may need to ask for directions to the immigration office. Most people crossing the border with Ecuador enter Peru through Aguas Verdes (Tumbes region). If your passport is not stamped at the border with Ecuador, you can have it stamped at the Immigration Office in the city of Tumbes.

If you haven't arranged an entry stamp to evidence your entry at land borders or sea ports, you'll need to apply for an exit or expulsion order at the Immigration Office in Lima. You won't be allowed to leave Peru by air without this, and these orders may prevent you from re-entering Peru for up to 10 years.

Only cross the border at official checkpoints.

Ensure you also get an exit stamp from the country you're departing.

Travel via the United States

If you're travelling through the US, you must meet US entry and transit requirements.

Check your visa requirements with a  US embassy or consulate  well in advance of your travel.

• Travel advice for the US

Travel via Chile

If you’re travelling via Chile, ensure you meet all current entry or transit requirements.

• Travel advice for Chile

Travel to Ecuador

If you're entering Ecuador via the land border with Peru, you must present an apostilled police check covering the previous 5 years. Ensure you meet all current entry requirements.

• Travel advice for Ecuador

Yellow fever vaccination

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Peru. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

If you've visited Peru in the previous 6 days, you'll need a valid certificate to enter Australia.

Find out about returning to Australia  after exposure to yellow fever .

Emergency travel documents can be used to enter, transit or depart Peru, as long as they have at least 6 months validity.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .
• After contacting the Australian Embassy in Lima, visit a Peruvian Immigration Office to get an entry stamp in your new passport. Check  Superintendencia Nacional de Migraciones (Spanish)  to find the nearest office.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier  

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTI travellers

The local currency is the Peruvian Nuevo Sol (PEN).

Declare all amounts more than of $US10,000 in any currency on arrival. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash. The maximum amount permitted is $US 30,000 or equivalent.

ATM facilities are widely available.

Credit cards are usually accepted.

Beware of counterfeit currency  scams  from unofficial money changers.

Local travel

Landmines are being removed but remain a threat in some regions, including:

• Amazonas (Cordillera del Condor)

Cross the Peru-Ecuador border at official checkpoints.

Driving permit

You can use your Australian driver's license to drive in Peru for the duration of a tourist visa (maximum 183 days). If you're staying in Peru longer, you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP). 

Road travel

You're more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in Peru than in Australia.

Driving hazards include:

• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• aggressive local driving practices
• poor road lighting

Fatal traffic accidents are common and often involve intercity buses.

Travelling by road outside major cities after dark is dangerous due to the risk of criminal activity. This includes bogus roadblocks or checkpoints.

If you plan to drive:

• check you have adequate insurance cover
• learn local traffic laws and practices
• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Your travel insurance policy may not cover you when riding a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Travellers using unlicensed taxis have been victims of  robbery , assault and rape.

To stay safe when you arrive in Peru, either:

• arrange a taxi at the counter in Lima's international airport
• use your hotel transfer service
• book a reputable transfer service

To protect yourself if you're travelling by taxi:

• don't hail taxis from the street
• book through an app-based service
• ask the staff at hotels, hostels, restaurants or places of entertainment to book a licensed taxi
• Lima Airport Partner website

Public transport

Intercity buses are often involved in road accidents. They're also targeted by criminals.

Use a reputable transport or bus company to reduce risks.

Check the safest intercity bus companies with the  Peruvian Ministry of Transportation (Spanish) .

• Transport and getting around safely  

Demonstrations, strikes and derailments can disrupt train travel, including those operating between Arequipa-Cusco-Puno and Cusco-Ollantaytambo-Machu Picchu.

Sea and boat travel

Armed criminals target riverboats in the Amazon region.

Foreigners, including Australians, are assaulted and robbed every year on boats.

Check your cruise company has adequate security arrangements before booking.

A number of international cruise liners visit Peru.

• Going on a cruise
• Travelling by boats

Light aircraft and helicopter flights may be hazardous due to a variety of conditions. These include changeable weather and harsh geography.

Before you book a scenic flight over the Nazca Lines, check the airline company:

• is licensed
• has a good safety record

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Peru's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

The Peruvian government has 24-hour i-Peru offices in major airports and cities. Call (+51 1) 574 8000.

Ambulance services in Lima

(+51 1) 225 4040 (Alerta Medica); (+51 1) 467 4861 (Clave 5) and (+51 1) 241 1911 (Plan Vital).

Local police: 105 (National Police)

Visit the nearest police station or tourist police office. There are tourist police at the International Airport and popular tourist spots.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Lima

Avenida La Paz 1049, 10th Floor

Miraflores, Lima, 18, Peru

Phone: (+51 1) 630 0500

Fax: (+51 1) 630 0520

Email:  [email protected]

Website:  peru.embassy.gov.au/lima

Facebook:  Australia en Perú y Bolivia 

Instagram: @embauslima

X:  @embauslima

Australia has a Consulate headed by an Honorary Consul in Cusco. The Consulate provides limited consular assistance. It does not provide visa and immigration services, notarial services or issue passports. For full consular services, contact the Australian Embassy in Lima.

Australian Consulate, Cusco

Ms Tammy Gordon Calle Ruinas 477,  Cusco,  Peru Phone: (+51 0) 84 259230 Email:  [email protected]

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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10 things to know before traveling to Peru

Nov 26, 2023 • 6 min read

Aim to visit Cuzco during the shoulder months, just before or at the tail end of the rainy season © andresr / Getty Images

Peru is a megadiverse country, offering countless adventures and cultural experiences for the intrepid – as well as potentially endless head-scratching and headache-inducing occurrences for the uninformed traveler. 

Whether you plan to stay put in the capital or venture on a circuit through each geographical region , it’s always advantageous to have local insight. Here are some of the top things to know before traveling to Peru . 

1. Peru’s only international airport is in Lima

Until the Chinchero Airport (a 45-minute drive from Cuzco ) is finished, all international air passengers to Peru will first touch land in the metropolitan area of Lima , via the Jorge Chávez International Airport. 

From the airport to San Isidro, Miraflores or Barranco – neighboring districts of Lima that make up the capital’s tourist-friendly trifecta – it's usually a 40-minute taxi ride outside of rush hour. 

Don’t try to pick up a taxi outside of arrivals nor from the chaotic street just beyond the airport limit; instead, choose from any of the authorized companies represented just after customs. For travelers on a budget , the safest option is the Airport Express Lima bus (with transfers to and from Miraflores only). 

2. The shoulder months are the best time to visit Cuzco 

The Cuzco region has two marked seasons: the rainy season (November to April) and the dry (May to October). When the rain is in full effect, areas like the idyllic Sacred Valley turn lush with native crops and tourism is comparatively low.

That said, the wet climate makes the period between January and March especially difficult (and even dangerous, in some cases) for epic hikes. 

The dry months are ideal for trekking and most adventure sports – though as a direct correlation, tourism is at its highest then. The best time to visit Cuzco? Aim for the shoulder months , just before the rain (October) or at its tail end (May).  

3. Book well in advance for Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu and the Inca Trail

Is it possible to snag last-minute entry tickets to Machu Picchu ? Sure, it can happen – but as Peru’s most popular tourist attraction, it doesn't make sense to risk it.

Purchase your entry ticket at least one month in advance, especially if planning to visit the Unesco World Heritage Site between June and August (the busiest months for international visitors). 

While you're at it, consider adding on the entry to Huayna Picchu, the tall peak that appears behind the citadel in classic Machu Picchu photos. Only 200 visitors a day are able to make the steep, hour-long ascent that leads to a privileged bird’s eye view of the archaeological site.

Cuzco's dry months are also the high season for one of Peru’s most epic hikes , the Inca Trail. This trek requires a permit that can only be purchased through an organized tour. Keep in mind the trail closes every February for maintenance. 

4. In Peru, just one cheek kiss will do to say hello or goodbye

For some travelers, Peru’s salutation may seem too close for comfort, while others – we're looking at you, Italians – will see it as half-finished. 

When meeting or greeting someone of the opposite sex or in the case of two women, Peruvians will offer an air kiss on one side of the face. Call it a lingering effect of machismo culture, but men typically greet each other with a simple handshake and hug. 

Don't try to enter or leave a party without greeting everyone, be it with a hug or air kiss, as that will appear disrespectful.

5. Keep soles and centimos on hand, especially outside of major tourist zones 

Credit card acceptance and even payment applications are commonplace in bustling cities, like Lima and Cuzco, though you will want to keep local currency (sol) on hand at all times. 

You can’t miss a visit to open-air markets, such as those in Lima's Surquillo neighborhood  and the San Pedro market in Cuzco, where vendors prefer cash. While at the market, pick up a small coin purse as public transportation and restrooms run on pocket change. 

And for towns outside of the typical tourist circuit – think Tumbes in the north or Ayacucho in south-central Peru –  cash on hand is a must. 

6. Tipping may not be a local custom, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t

When it comes to dining out in Peru, there is no standard for tipping. That said, Peru’s tipping culture (or lack thereof) should be an exception to the rule of “do as the locals do.” As a visitor, go ahead and leave your waiter, barista or hostess a tip that seems appropriate to you.  

7. No, your watch doesn’t need to be reset, it’s just the "hora Peruana"

La hora Peruana (Peruvian time) refers to the stereotype of Peruvians showing up late – not just 15 minutes late but upwards of an hour late.

The phrase is tossed around amongst Peruvians and expats alike, as we’ve all struggled with that landlord, friend or coworker who says they’ll be there in the morning and are a no-show until after lunch. 

Of course, la hora Peruana is a generalization, but it’s best to be mentally prepared in case someone you made plans with doesn’t show up on the dot...or anywhere close to it. 

8. Keep spare toilet paper in your pocket –  but never flush it!

Public restrooms in Peru are infamous with international travelers. From seatless toilets to humble holes in the ground, we’ve seen it all, but those squeamish moments are nothing you can’t survive. 

Follow bathroom etiquette and toss toilet paper in the wastebasket rather than flush it. Public restrooms usually aren’t stocked with toilet paper, so keep a travel-size roll in your day bag, or be prepared to pay 50 cents for a few squares upon entry.

9. Eat and drink with your gut health in mind

Let’s be honest, Peru likely became your destination of choice partly because of the reputation and recognition of its gastronomic scene . 

Your senses will be tantalized by the unique kick of ají pepper in a ceviche, the sounds of sizzling suri  (palm-weevil larvae) or the pink froth topping a glass of frutillada  (traditional chicha , or fermented corn beer, blended with strawberries)  –  classic street-food items, depending on which region of Peru you’re visiting. 

When it comes to street food – and especially drinks, as Peru does not have clean tap water – there’s always a risk for “travelers’ stomach.” If you have any doubt, play it safe and wait until you get to a recommended restaurant to try that dish you’ve been eyeing.

10. Take a full day (if not two) to acclimate before any high-altitude activity

No matter how much physical training you've accomplished at sea level prior to your trip, arriving at high-altitude destinations like Cuzco – 3399m (11,152ft) above sea level – can be brutal. 

And what could be worse than dizziness, nausea and other symptoms of soroche (altitude sickness) keeping you from bucket-list hikes, such as Vinicunca, better known as Rainbow Mountain, 5200m (17,060ft) above sea level? 

When planning your trip, include a day or two to acclimate before starting any physically demanding activity. Stay hydrated and avoid heavy food and alcohol. And whether or not you decide to take altitude pills, consider local remedies, such as muña tea and coca leaves.

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Is Peru safe?

Welcome to our Peru safety guide.

This iconic nation is full of incredible destinations and things to do, and in our experience is one of the most varied nations you can visit in Latin America.

From hiking dizzying Andean peaks and trekking through the rainforest to exploring ancient ruins and eating some pretty bizarre foods , Peru is a very memorable country to travel through.

Peru Quick Summary:

• 📍 Where is it: South America
• 🗺 Difficulty Getting There: Very Easy
• ⏱ Time needed: 2 Weeks (Minimum)
• ☀️ Best Time to Visit: September/October

What's in this guide?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you’ll need to know about Safety in Peru as a backpacker or traveler .

We’ll look at all the different factors, our top safety tips, other useful information as well as an FAQ section where we answer your key questions.

Is Peru Safe Right Now?

Quick Answer: Although political instability seems to be an annual event here, Peru is still a pretty safe country to travel around. This is especially the case in popular destinations such as Arequipa, Cusco , Huaraz and Máncora.

Of course it depends on where you’ll be staying and what you are doing, but in general it’s quite an easy country to travel around safely. Of course Lima (and other cities) have many bad areas, however later we’ll look at the safest areas to stay in as well as some safety tips later in this guide.

Peru Travel Warnings

The main government warnings are for areas along the Peruvian-Colombian border (in the Amazon jungle) as well as in the VRAEM territory which are dangerous mostly due to drug trafficking. However these are far from the tourist paths, and there’s little reason to head to these areas anyway.

When traveling through Peru, the biggest issue will be pickpocketing which is usually targeted towards tourists. This is why it’s important to keep valuables locked back in your apartment, as well as using a Money Belt when traveling between areas.

Assault and other violent crimes can also occur, however they’re rare and would happen far from the historic centres (Plaza de Armas). It’s still wise to prepare as best as you can before heading here, so be sure to read our top safety tips later in this article.

Where to Stay in Peru

Lima – Miraflores is by far the best area, which is more safe and touristy than the historic centre. The Selina Miraflores in our experience is the best hostel you can stay at when in the capital, with both decent dorms and private rooms. There’s also an on-site bar as well as daily organised activities such as surfing and salsa lessons to get involved with.

Cusco – The Plaza de Armas is the best place to be in Cusco. Those looking to keep things cheap will love Kokopelli Hostel , which has a variety of room options, an awesome (included) breakfast as well as a very social and fun atmosphere. If you want a more luxurious experience then we recommend staying at the Hotel San Pedro Plaza , which is right on the Plaza de Armas.

Iquitos – This city can be quite an assault on the senses for first-timers, and in a good way too. The Plaza de Armas is also a nice area to base yourself in before heading out into the jungle. We recommend staying at Camu Camu , which is in a decent area and has wifi (as well as air conditioning in all rooms).

Things to do in Peru

There are literally countless incredible things to do here. There’s a reason George spent most of his time here and now lives in Peru!

The Andes is a breathtaking region to visit, where you can hike some awesome mountains and see some stunning ancient ruins . The best are in Cusco and Huaraz, and in the former you can head on the legendary Inca Trail Trek . You’ll also find many great ancient sites here such as Machu Picchu, Moray Ruins as well as the site of Chavín de Huántar.

If you’re after a scenic yet different kind of landscape, then we’ve also got you covered. Huacachina is a great stop near Lima, which is home to massive dunes that surround this oasis town . You can join this Sandboarding Tour through the desert whilst here. The same goes with the Colca Canyon near Arequipa, which is the second deepest on earth.

Then we have the Amazon Jungle. Covering over a third of the country, it’s home to many incredible species such as Pink River Dolphins, Jaguars, Capybara and Piranhas .

It’s worth heading on this multi-day tour from Iquitos , where you’ll get to see many of these rare animals and have the trip of your life. Other good jumping-off points into the Peruvian Jungle are from Tarapoto and Puerto Maldonado.

Is Lima Safe to visit?

Below we’ll take a look at the current safety situation in Lima.

Crime in Lima

From personal experience, Lima definitely feels safer in its touristy areas when compared with other South American capitals (such as Quito and Bogotá). However crime still occurs daily, especially in areas in the centre and the north of the city (like Callao and the Historic Centre).

This is usually theft or sometimes assault, and is mostly between locals although there have been incidents involving tourists. This is why it’s always important to research where you’re going before, and make any necessary precautions too.

In areas like Miraflores crime is much lower, although pickpocketing can still be an issue along the less touristy streets . If heading to the beach or out at night, it’s wise to leave valuables locked away safe in your apartment.

According to data collected by Numbeo, Lima scored 70.70 on the crime index (0 being the safest whilst 100 the most dangerous). For reference, Quito scored 61.98 whilst Mexico City scored 67.95.

We suggest learning some Spanish before arriving here so you can get inside safety tips from the locals while here. See this handy Spanish phrase book to assist you along the way.

What parts of Lima are safe?

The safest areas for tourists to head to in Lima are Miraflores, San Isidro and Barranco .

Not only are they the most built-up and are used to accommodating tourists (lots of nice hotels, restaurants and other amenities here), however they also have a more secure feel too.

Even walking around in the streets you’ll feel it’s different here, especially once you start making day trips to the historic centre or other areas.

Lima Safety at Night

Again, areas like Miraflores and Barranco feel very safe at night, and it’s fine to walk alone (just try to avoid looking lost as we always say).

You’ll want to use increased caution if heading outside of these areas, and avoid entirely going to places like Callao which are pretty dangerous .

When heading out to bars or nightclubs, just be careful in the historic centre given pickpocketing can occur (it’s especially infamous in La Casona).

Be sure to read our Lima Safety Guide for more tips on how to travel around the Peruvian capital safely.

7 Safety Tips for Peru

Below we will list 7 of our top safety tips for when heading to Peru.

1. Stay near the Plaza de Armas

Something that we echoed in this traveling Peru post, the Plaza de Armas are almost always the best areas for a stay in Peruvian cities and towns. Given there’s lots of tourist destinations and amenities like hotels and restaurants, there’s added safety presence which makes it a lot safer. The only exception is Lima, where you’re best in either Miraflores or Barranco .

2. Check Tour Reviews before Committing

In 90%+ of instances this won’t be an issue, especially when heading to Machu Picchu or any other popular region. However in other circumstances (such as hiking tours) you’ll want to check their reputation as well as attitude towards following safety protocols. Those looking to hike Colca Canyon will be in good hands with this multi-day tour .

3. Use Uber and InDriver

Of course not all taxis that are hailed from the streets are going to rob you, however this is more of a risk in Peru (especially if arriving late at night or to an unfamiliar part of the city). We highly recommend using both Uber and InDriver, which are safer and also have less chance of you being ripped off .

4. Padlock your Bags when Traveling on Buses

Call us paranoid, however we’ve had very little issues when it comes to having been robbed. This is mostly from proactive safety habits, and this one is very useful for travel in Peru. Given many buses will be long and often overnight , it’s wise to lock up bags whilst you get some much needed rest. If you will sleep, then try to put a limb through a strap so the whole thing isn’t stolen either! We recommend using this secure Padlock .

5. Do not Drink Tap Water

Similarly to other countries such as Mexico, drinking the local water is an absolute no-no. Unless you’re in a five-star hotel, it’s most likely not treated and could have parasites or other nasties lurking around. Much better to buy big, sealed bottles of water and refill from there. If heading on a longer jungle or mountain hike, you can also carry a filtered water bottle like this one and drink from pretty much any source.

6. Take out a Solid Travel Insurance Policy

Travel insurance is important, especially before heading to Peru, given you’ll want to be covered the day you arrive. Whilst most travel in Latin America is pretty adventurous, Peru is known for its incredible range of experiences. This is why it’s vitally important to take out a solid travel insurance policy to cover you in event of any mishaps. This also includes coverage if your phone or other personal items get damaged or stolen.

7. Prepare Well for Each Destination

Peru is a really varied region, and it’s important to prepare accordingly to where you’re going. Heading to a high-altitude area like Cusco or Puno? Buy Coca Leaves and take it easy the first 48 hours . How about the Amazon Jungle? Then you’ll need lots of mosquito repellent and a good quality poncho . Even little things like these can make your overall experience much more enjoyable and smooth.

Peru Safety FAQ Guide:

Here we’ll take a look at the most frequent questions we get asked by our readers about safety in Peru.

Is Peru safe for American tourists?

Absolutely, as long as you prepare properly and get to know the best destinations to travel to. Most cities have safe areas to base yourself in, and then it’s just a case of following our safety tips above and you’ll have a both safe and fun time here.

Is Peru safe to travel alone?

George can speak from solid experience here, and feels it’s one of the best countries for solo travelers. Aside from having a really social scene (especially in the south of the country), it’s also quite safe to travel alone. As long as you keep your guard raised when in a new place (especially in the bus terminals) then you’ll highly unlikely have any issues here.

Is Cusco safe?

The historic centre of Cusco is one of the safest of its kinds here in Peru. Aside from numerous street vendors consistently haggling, the culture and feel here is much safer compared with that of say Lima. See our guide on travel safety in Cusco and just be careful when crossing the roads here (check three times), since driving in Peru is pretty wild to say the least!

Best time to visit Peru?

Got travel insurance for peru.

Is Peru safe? Final Words

And that’s all for our guide on how to stay safe in Peru. This incredible nation is full of unforgettable experiences. From exploring the Amazon Jungle to standing above the clouds in the Andes , there’s plenty of bucket list things to see and do here.

Peru is also a relatively safe country to visit. Whilst first-timers will need to get accustomed (follow our safety tips in this article), those with more experience can arrive and hit the ground running here. It’s still important to keep your guard raised when somewhere new, and to look out for any local advisories for where you’re heading.

In this guide, we’ve explored the current safety situation in Peru , which includes the areas to avoid, as well as any current travel advisories. As well as looking at the best things to do in Peru, we’ve also included our FAQ which answers your most burning questions.

While you’re still here, be sure to read our Peru Itinerary for more tips and travel inspiration.

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our best content.

“ Dear traveler! Some links in this post contain affiliate links. Meaning, if you click through and make a purchase, book a hostel or sign up for a tour, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to carry on traveling and maintaining the quality of this site for you.”

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Safety and security

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Peru .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.   

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Peru

Terrorist attacks in Peru cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Political situation

Political protests in Peru are unpredictable and can escalate quickly. Demonstrations can become violent and lead to roadblocks, travel disruption, including trains, and suspension of immigration services at land borders. This is often without notice or notification of estimated re-opening timelines.

Local groups can announce strike action, with little or no notice, particularly in areas connected to mining. These may quickly spill over from one region to another. 

It’s illegal for foreigners in Peru to participate in political activities, including demonstrations against the government. You may face detention or deportation if you take part in a demonstration. To reduce any risk:

• avoid large gatherings and protests
• stay in a safe place
• follow the instructions of army or police officers
• take the advice of local authorities or tour operators
• monitor local media, including social media channels
• be wary of unverified, unofficial information
• make sure you travel with enough food, water, local currency and personal medication
• allow extra time to reach your destination

Protests in Lima often happen in the historic centre, where access can be restricted, but they can also spread to other areas. Other regions that have seen recent protests include Arequipa, Ayacucho, Cusco, La Libertad, Madre de Dios and Puno.

Some train services in the south, including those to and from Machu Picchu, are occasionally suspended or disrupted because of protests. Contact your travel provider for further advice on disruptions, and check if changes need to be made to your journey.

Contact an iPeru office or iPeru online for help with issues travelling to different regions of Peru.

The British Embassy’s ability to provide help will be very limited where protests or criminal activity results in travel disruption or damage to the infrastructure.

Help from local authorities, including police and emergency services, will also be very limited, especially if airports, roads and railroads are affected.

Organised crime

There is a higher risk to your safety in areas where there is organised crime and terrorism linked to drug production. This includes the border areas with Ecuador, Colombia and Brazil and the Valley of Apurímac, Ene and Mantaro rivers ( VRAEM ). Remnants of the Shining Path terrorist movement are still active in some of the main coca growing areas in central Peru (Alto Huallaga, Aguaytia and VRAEM river basins).

Street crime

Street crime, including muggings and thefts, is a significant problem in Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and other major cities. Be alert in public places and when withdrawing cash from ATMs.

It is safer to use ATMs inside banks, supermarkets or large commercial buildings during business hours. Do not walk on your own in quiet areas or at night.

There have been a number of robberies at gunpoint of British tourists and residents. Attacks can take place in tourist areas of Lima such as Miraflores and Barranco. To reduce your personal risk:

• avoid wearing or displaying expensive items
• avoid using your phone at the roadside, as motorbike riders may snatch it
• report crimes to local police as soon as possible
• ask lodge or hotel staff for help if an incident happens on site

Criminals target cars stopped at traffic lights. Keep your doors locked and windows shut while driving.

Protecting your belongings

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, is common, so:

• keep your belongings secure
• do not leave bags unattended
• on bus journeys, keep your passport with you

Bogus taxi drivers

There is a risk of robbery by bogus taxi drivers, especially at Jorge Chavez International Airport and bus terminals. Bogus taxi drivers and thieves pretending to be tour operators sometimes approach arriving passengers. To reduce the risk:

• use licensed telephone or app-based taxi services and do not hail taxis on the street
• ask your hotel to book taxis for you
• use one of the official taxi companies at the airport , located at desks directly outside the baggage hall
• use one of the taxis registered at bus terminals

Kidnappings and hold-ups

Tourists, especially those travelling alone, are at risk of ‘express kidnapping’. Victims are taken hostage and forced to withdraw money from ATMs for their release, usually at night. Incidents often involve armed criminals posing as taxi drivers, or taxi drivers working for organised gangs. Provincial and inter-city buses are sometimes held up by armed robbers.

If a kidnapping or hold-up happens to you:

• do not attempt to resist attackers
• agree to any demands for cash or goods
• report the incident to the police as soon as possible

Criminals can also fake kidnappings by contacting the numbers from a stolen mobile phone and claiming to have kidnapped the owner. They then demand a ransom. Report it to the police if you suspect this has taken place.

Sexual assault

There have been some cases of rape or sexual assault of tourists, mostly in the Cusco and Arequipa areas. Unscrupulous tour agents have targeted young females, travelling alone in the Cusco area. You should:

• buy your own drinks and keep sight of them at all times
• try to seek help from people you know
• report incidents to the police as soon as possible

For information on reputable tourist services around Peru, contact iPeru .

Money scams

Counterfeit US and Peruvian banknotes are in circulation. There have been reports of intis (former Peruvian currency now out of circulation) being used fraudulently by street money changers in Cusco tourist areas.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

Carry an identification document with you at all times as the Peruvian police may ask to see it.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Illegal drug use and drug trafficking in Peru carry lengthy jail sentences. Prison conditions in Peru are extremely poor and the British Embassy cannot intervene in police or judicial matters, or secure more favourable conditions.

You should:

• pack your luggage yourself and keep it with you at all times
• not carry anything through customs for anyone
• not take coca leaves or coca tea out of the country – it is illegal to import these items into the UK

Some British nationals have been targeted by drug couriers through email scams. The fraudsters ask you to travel to Peru where you’ll be given some items to take. These items contain drugs. You’ll face detention for drug trafficking if convicted.

Military photography

Do not take photographs of anything of a military nature.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Peru, but social attitudes are generally conservative. Crimes against the LGBT+ community are not included in hate crime legislation and same-sex partnerships are not formally recognised.

Same-sex couples showing affection in public may receive unwanted and negative attention.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Make sure your insurance covers you for all planned activities.

Unregulated tour services

Make sure that agencies providing adventure activities like zipline, canopy tours, bungee jumping, paragliding, kayaking, rock climbing, sand buggies and surfing have a licence. You should also check their health and safety precautions. For updated information on tour and sport services, contact iPeru .

Hiking and mountaineering

Peru’s highest peaks are in the Cordillera Blanca Mountains. Several hikers have died and others had to be rescued after serious accidents. Much of the region is inaccessible by helicopter so rescues are usually carried out on foot. Contact the iPeru tourist office in Huaraz – phone: 0051 (43) 428 812 – before you set off.

Sand buggies  

There have been deaths and accidents involving recreational sand buggies, particularly in the sand dunes around Ica and Lake Huacachina. These buggies are unregulated and the drivers and agencies take no responsibility for the welfare of passengers.

There are unauthorised surfboard rentals at the beaches of Miraflores. There may not be lifeguards on beaches.

Amazon region

Criminal activity has been reported along the Amazon River, near the tri-border area with Brazil and Colombia. Thieves, known locally as ‘river pirates’, can be armed. Solo travellers and foreign nationals have been targeted. Be especially alert to the local security situation in these areas.

River rafting and Amazon riverboat cruises  

For more information or to check the credentials of rafting and cruise operators, contact iPeru .

Spiritual cleansing

Shamans and other individuals offer ‘spiritual cleansing’ (Ayahuasca or San Pedro) to tourists in the Amazon area, northern Peru and Cusco. This service typically involves drinking a brew containing dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a hallucinogenic drug that is a Class A substance in the UK. This brew is not regulated and its interaction with existing medical conditions is not well understood. People have suffered serious illnesses and in some cases death after taking part in these ceremonies. Spiritual cleansing retreats are usually some distance from populated areas making it difficult to access medical attention for those who need it.

There have also been reports of sexual assault during these ceremonies. There is guidance to support you if you have been sexually assaulted or raped in Peru .

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Peru, see information on driving abroad .

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Peru (if your immigration stay permit is valid) for up to 6 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) as well.

Carry your passport or a valid ID (‘carne de extranjería’ if you are a resident) with you at all times when driving.

Take particular care if you are driving close to places where protests are taking place. Do not attempt to pass blockades.

Driving standards in Peru are poor. Drivers often ignore stop signs and traffic lights, and fatal crashes are frequent.

Drivers do not always show concern for pedestrians. You should be extra cautious when walking alongside traffic.

Bus crashes are common, especially at night. Only use reputable transport companies, and where possible, avoid overnight travel, especially in mountainous and remote regions.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Rainy season.

The rainy season in Peru runs from November to May bringing heavy rain and snow in northern Peru, the Andes, including Cusco, and other parts of the country.

It can lead to the disruption of some travel services, the restriction of some inter-provincial travel by road, flight delays and the temporary closure of some tourist sites.

Rockslides, mudslides and snow can cause disruption to walking routes, road and rail travel in mountain and jungle areas:

• across the Cusco Region
• routes to Machu Picchu (including the alternative Santa Maria-Santa Teresa-hydroelectric plant route, and the Salkantay route)
• the route to Manu (in Cusco and Madre de Dios)
• across northern regions of Peru
• check the latest conditions with your tour operator
• travel with enough food, water, cash in local currency, medication and warm clothes
• monitor local media for updates on travel information before starting your journey
• contact iPeru before you set off

Earthquakes

Peru is in an active earthquake zone and there are frequent tremors.   

Follow any advice given by the local authorities. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake . 

Volcanic eruptions

If you are planning to visit areas of known volcanic activity, listen to all warnings and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Peru’s most active volcano, Ubinas, has been emitting gas and ash recently, leading to some local villages being evacuated, affecting 30,000 people.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after a volcanic eruption .

Tsunamis and high tides

Although tsunamis are rare in Peru, higher tides often happen either after an earthquake or for other reasons throughout the year. See the Peruvian Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation for information.

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Is Peru Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Peru : Safety by City

Peru is a country in South America, located on the western side of that continent, encompassing a part of the Andes mountain belt that runs the length of South America, and facing the South Pacific Ocean.

Peru shares its borders with Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil, and Bolivia to the east and Chile to the south.

What makes this country stand out among all the other countries in the world are its unsurpassed cultural diversity and history.

The archaeological heritage of pre-Columbian cultures and the nexus of the ancient Inca’s empire attract the true adventure lovers to this country.

Peru’s history will leave you in awe as will its colonial architecture and the gorgeous landscapes that vary from region to region.

Peru is also brimming with wildlife and what kind of wildlife it is! It has 84 of the earth’s 104 known life zones, which makes this country home to such rare creatures as pink dolphins, primates, jaguars, giant river otters and as many as 4,000 types of butterflies.

• Warnings & Dangers in Peru

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Overall, Peru is somewhat safe to visit, though it has many dangers and is ridden with crime. You should be aware that tourist hotspots and public transportation are places where most thefts and pickpocketing occur, and that violent crime exists on the streets, too.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Transportation mostly safe and reliable but you should be very careful about public transport and buses as you might end up being robbed. Always call a reliable taxi instead of hailing one on the streets.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpockets are a serious concern in Peru, as is the violent crime and you should exercise caution and keep your money and your valuables elsewhere, like in hidden pockets of your clothes and never ever keep all of your money in the same place.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

When it comes to natural disasters, there is a risk of landslides and flooding. This usually happens during heavy rains and often causes public transportation to suddenly stop. Peru also has some volcanic activities, and the volcanoes Ubinas and Sabancaya have been known to erupt: recently, it has happened in 2016.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

There is also the issue of violent crime, muggings, "express kidnappings" where people are taken and driven from one ATM to another until they withdraw all their money from their account. Then there are "struggle muggings" in Cusco, Arequipa, and Lima during which tourists are put in a chokehold from behind and stolen from while unconscious. Be very, very careful when in Peru, avoid poorly lit and deserted areas and remain vigilant everywhere else.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

The risks of terrorist attacks in Peru are low, but since there's a chance that areas in the Southern Highlands such as San Martin, Huanuco, Pasco, Junin, Ucayali, Huancavelica, Ayacucho and Apurimac might shelter members of the Shining Path terrorist group, attacks shouldn't be ruled out. It is important that you remain vigilant at all times.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

There is a high risk of getting scammed in Peru. Be wary of people lurking around ATMs or anyone trying to distract you. Taxi drivers might try to trick you into paying more, giving you wrongful information about the price of the ride.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Many women have traveled to Peru alone and had nothing but a great time. However, this country isn't the safest in terms of females traveling solo since there have been reports of women being attacked or shamed, so be careful, especially at night and apply precaution measures at all times and avoid dark and empty streets and locations.

• So... How Safe Is Peru Really?

Even though it has largely improved, crime in Peru is a serious issue which makes Peru relatively unsafe.

The greatest problem in this country is poverty, and where there’s poverty, there’s also petty theft.

The main tactic of pickpockets is making up various ways to distract tourists, like an old woman spilling something on you, falling in front of you, or dropping something in front of your feet.

Then someone else cuts your bag open with a razor, or simply swoop and grab your entire bag and you’re left penniless.

Then there’s the issue of “express kidnappings” during which tourists are held hostage and driven around the city from one ATM to another until they withdraw all their money.

Sometimes they are released quickly and sometimes they’re held captive until the account is positively emptied.

But petty crime is not the only thing to fear in Peru.

The Sacsayhuaman ruins overlooking Cusco are notorious for muggings.

If you plan on visiting them during sunset or sunrise because of the gorgeous view they offer, keep in mind that this is when the local banditos operate here.

Always make sure you’re in a group when visiting these ruins.

• How Does Peru Compare?
• Useful Information

Most countries do not need a visa in order to enter Peru. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months past your date of departure from Peru. Keep in mind that your stamp is valid for 30 days, though the real limit is for 180. In this case, just explain to the immigration officials that you need more than 30 days and show them your return ticket. You may even get a so-called Tarjeta Andina de Migración, which you will have to return upon your exit from Peru. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Sol is the official currency in Peru, but many places accept US dollars. ATMs are available in nearly every city and town in Peru, as well as major establishments. You are advised to exchange money in exchange offices as they often give a slightly better rate than banks.

Due to Peru's diverse geography, the weather varies from region to region. When it's warm on the coast, it can be extremely cold in the mountains while the weather can be completely different in the jungle areas. In return, winter lasts from June to September on the coastal regions, during which time the mountainous areas are sunny and warm, though still cold at night. This is, for the most part, the best time to visit most regions.

Jorge Chávez International Airport is Peru's main international and domestic airport. It is located in Callao, 11 km from Lima, Peru's capital.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we advise getting travel insurance when traveling to Peru, because it would cover not only medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Peru Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Peru - Safety by City

Explore peru.

• 11 Best Beaches In Peru
• Where to Next?

52 Reviews on Peru

MIRAFLORES,LIMA -PERU., IS THE MOST SAFE PLACE ALSO BY NIGHT., MORE SAFE THAN EUROPE AT NIGHT….IN ALL THE DISTRICT ARE 24 HOURS POLICE AND PRIVATE POLICE…SHOPS, CASINOS,RESTAURANTS, DISCO ,ETC.. 24 HOURS!..I M FROM ITALY.

Article showing crime is on high rate.. You are saying safest place

PERU WAS WONDERFUL, PEOPLE VERY POLITE AND HELPFUL. I WAS THERE THREE TIMES AND WE ARE PLANNING TO VISIT MACHU PICHU NEXT YEAR. THE FOOD IS DELICIOUSLY AND HAVE MANY POLICE EVERY WHERE.

Peru is safe

I have been to Peru and I have to say this article is bull. It says Peru is not safe but when I went there the locals were such nice people and greeted me warmly. The only thing I will say is true is pickpockets, you need to look out for those. I highly recommend going to Peru as it is beautiful

naw, maybe it’s bc u don’t visit peru too often, as someone who has lived there for most of my life i’d say this article is a little too soft lmao

no place is safe honey <3 maybe if you like…went to the most common places Peruvian people visited you'd know

I moved to Peru and lived here for 3 years in 2007 to 2010 and returned to live in Peru in 2018 and am here still in June 2021 with no intention to leave. Peru is safe but the one point I is the use of taxis in Lima. I was robbed at gun point by the driver and 2 assistants he had hidden in the trunk. I was clobbered with the gun,,,they took my wallet my money my glasses my watch stuck hands where hands should not go in case i was hiding anything and there me out on a high way miles from home. I had used street taxis always there are many of them …but I learned when they quote a deal of a price for the prospective ride “get ready to be robbed”

Sounds pretty safe…lol

The concept of safety from this article is from 20 years ago, nowdays Peru has improved tremendously public security, there are surveillance cameras everywhere and tourism feels safer when walking streets, overall Peru is a great destination to visit.

Crime exist everywhere including the so called developed countries. There is no paradise on earth.A great number of people have bias and make parrots comments.One professor of mine said “IGNORANCE IS VERY DARING”,what a wonderful dictum.

“There is no paradise on earth.”

He said nothing like this. He said that crime levels had improved and it was a great place to visit.

Come to certain countries in Europe and you would see what a really nice and peaceful country looks like. Peru is probably great compared to the Congo and South Sudan, but that’s hardly an accomplishment.

@evilwhiteman

Get off your high and mighty horse there. Have you ever even been to Peru? Also, if you don’t like it so much, why are you reading and commenting on this article? I’ve been to many countries in Europe (Germany, Switzerland, Greece, Montenegro, Italy, and Spain), but Peru feels more personal and like a home to me.

Same Peru is where my family is from it’s my culture and it hurts when people judge it without ever going to Peru!!!!

I lived in Peru for 20 years and while living there was attacked and almost killed by Tupac Amarus. It was an attack on our mining community in 1971, and those Maoist terrorists took hostages. When you’re 11 years old and having to fight with a sawed off shotgun it makes you wonder! I’d go back and live in Peru in a heartbeat. Love the people, the food, the pachamancas, the culture, but most of all, the high Andes where I lived. Insurrection and violence are the spice of life! My brothers were born there, all of my childhood memories are of Peru!

I live in Europe and it is boring, Peru has great culture and a wonder of the world, Machuu Pichuu so shuush

LOL This man lives in fantasy land, crime is common in any big city. Peru is a lovely and tranquil place. Whoever wrote about terrorism being a risk must have no idea about Peru. First, the country is huge and terrorism was eradicated in the late 90s. I am looking at tours to go visit again friends. Culturally, Police in the streets is for people’s peace of mind not a sign of terror.

Beautiful country

This article is pretty biased. American friends were atonished to find so much security , policemen everywhere. We have nothing like that in the UK! The country relies on tourism and they are well aware of this, so you do feel safe. I am British and felt pretty safe but I am also street savvy and like I would do in any big city , did not wear or carry anything that would provoke people to mug me. That was it ! We had a wonderful time. Enjoy Peru!

Horrid experience

A couple friends went there in August this year, they took a taxi from airport to hotel. Two thugs jumped into the taxi demanded the driver took them to remote area where they were mugged. 5 hours driven around from ATM to ATM afterward, the thugs let them go but without physical serious punched and slapped. The couple was dropped off in remote area at night, in the dark. They later went to police station, nothing the police could do to help.

That wasn’t really your experience though, was it.

what difference does it make. this is the second poster saying such a thing. being kidnapped for hours in UK or US is unheard of. if you stay out of the bad neighborhoods there is no problem. and stay out our schools too… you might get shot up there.

Unheard in the US? You may have never come to the US. You cannot buy a guy in Peru. Unless is a toy one.

That could easily happen anywhere, not just Peru and Peru is much better than visiting England

IT’S THE SAME WITH TAXES IN THE USA .. BUT WITHOUT THE SLAPPING AND PUNCHING…

Great information, very helpful!

It’s a wonderful and safe place to visit in a group.

Lima is a wonderful city to visit. Miraflores is very safe to stay and walk around. Other places are safer to go accompanied and not be out alone at night. Pick pocketing is present, so be aware. The food is delicious. People in general are friendly. Only take a taxi that is recommended by your hotel concierge. Do not take a random taxi, especially at night from the airport to your hotel. It’s safest to travel in a group or reliable tour guide.

I am from Peru. I left 21 yrs ago, I thank God everyday for that. For locals, its a daily nightmare. I went back. But at this point you can offer me a million dollars, I will never go back. Yes, they try to protect tourists. And still is even more dangerous dirty smelly and high in crime and scam than ever. Is a very expensive place, no reason for that…because most people are very poor there. Just ask about the presidents of the last 30 yrs… who were them, where they are and what they did… start there… One more corrupt and criminal than the other. Some in jail, runaways, searched by interpol, and goes on and on and on… As a Peruvian, I would recomend, go to The Netherlands, go to Israel, go to Switzerland. So many places where you dont have to walk in fear every step

Ur ignorant to think of peru like that peru is a beplace to visit u just have to go to the right places we are happy we dont have people like you any more

But you didn’t experience what she did, did you….

I think you are not Peruvian, I have lived there and it is VERY cheap and I think you are also stupid as Israel is a very dangerous place and Peru is a great place, Israel is basically a war zone

Lol You are right. “She” isn’t Peruvian. She just said she is so It looks worse for Peru.

okay bestie, then go to peru and live in a common area where common peruvian people live in <3 i want you to tell me the same thing once something bad happens to you 🙂

yall can't say nothing if u haven't at least spend 4+ years there

why r yall getting mad lmfao, different people have different experiences + with all that’s going on now? i’d say she is right, peru is not safe and even tho i can’t agree that the other places she said are safe *because i wasn’t born there nor visited* i can for sure say that peru is not as “safe”. We’re talking about ALL of Peru, not some rich places foreigners go to when they occasionally visit, maybe if u had to spend all ur childhood being warned of rapists and robbers u would AT LEAST try to understand her.

Peru is still a beautiful place to visit.

I am Peruvian, have lived in so many places in the world. 4 years ago, after 16 years, my husband and I went to Peru. My husband had never been in Peru. Yes I can not deny that there has been lots of changes, a bit surprised with the traffic, drivers do not respect the driving regulations. We arrived to Lima, I had family waiting for us, so it was safe to take a taxi with them. We decided to visit Cuzco, we invited a cousin to come along with us. Cuzco was beautiful, wonderful weather, great food, good hotels, until we got to Aguas Calientes , our hotel was cheap, not so clean place, we tried to get a better hotel, but they were all full, so we stayed one night in the hotel. We visited Machu Pichu, it was the greatest adventure to all of us, we came back down to Aguas Calients and took the train back to Ollantaytambo, we stayed in a bed and breakfast “La Casa de La Chola”, we had first class meals and bed to rest, it was beautiful, great service. From there we took a taxi for $30US dollars back to Cuzco, the taxi driver was very good and knowledgeable that he took us to lovely places to enjoy, We arrived at 12:30 direct to the airport, back to Lima, as we waited for our flight for almost two hours, the flight was canceled, no one had information for us, people got upset, did not make sense, at the end we realize the plane to Lima was waiting for more passengers to fill their plane, but did not communicate, we arrived Lima at 8:30 PM, the following day we were going to the central part of Peru for 5 days to visit with family. One thing I can say is that when you go to Peru, do not take anything expensive, always have change, always go in group or with someone, do not adventure alone. I was glad I had family and friends in Lima. Many talks about Miraflores, if you have enough money, it is the best place to stay, otherwise you can stay in central Lima, or other places for cheaper, just use common sense, and you can still have great places to visit and foods to eat, and have fun, besides there are other beautiful places to visit in the North, south, or Central Peru, you will find that people welcomes tourists with gladness, also as tourists lets be kind, give a good tip, talk with them, learn few Quechua, or Spanish words, and you will see how people responds to you.

thanks for the help! me and my 20 year old kids are planning on going next month

CUZCO, LIMA AND MACHU PICHU

HAD A GREAT TIME VISITING LIMA, CUZCO AND MACHU PICHO ENJOING THE TOUR WITH GREAT LEISURE. NO PROBLEMS WITH OUR GUIDE WHO KNEW EVERYTHING WE NEEDED TO SEE. PEOPLE WERE GREAT, PRICES REASONABLE AND CHEAP, GOOD, ART. HAD A GREL

Could you recommend your guide? If so contact information please. Want to go but would rather have someone that is local and can do translation. Just want to do the ancient archeological sites.

Peru is always a good time!

As a Spaniard, I was very surprised with Peru’s measures to ensure safety to both tourists and locals! But even overall being a much, much safer county than many others in Latin America, there are some places where you don’t want to be! Lima and Callao: thankfully the most beautiful and historic places are highly safe to visit; however, some slums surrounding Lima and in downtown Callao are as dangerous as Detroit or Chicago. Also, while being in Lima Metro area, you might consider not to put your windows down while in the taxi. Pickpocketing might occur when your window’s down. And if you’re a female solo traveler, please don’t go alone in the middle of the night and always call a reliable taxi company (Satelital and Taxi Verde are the best!), for obvious reasons. The North (Chiclayo, Trujillo, Piura, Máncora): This is my fav region in Peru so far, you really must give it a try! The best food in whole Peru, amazing beaches, warm weather, friendly people, incredibly archeological sites, eco-friendly tourism. And it’s pretty safe too! For what I’ve learned from female solo travelers there, it is the safest region in Peru for being female (take all the precautions, but you can feel way less paranoic). Beware of the scams in Máncora concerning crossing the border to Ecuador; if you wanna go up north, always buy directly from the bus company (CIFA), not “agencies”. The Andean South (Cuzco, Puno, Arequipa): The most touristy region of Peru. It’s also the safest (ladies, beware of your cocktails while dancing in a disco down there, for obvious reasons!) because of all the police in the area. Pickpocketing in Cuzco is a thing, so be careful of your belongings. There’s a city nearby Puno called Juliaca very famous for its high crime rates, so avoid it. Apply common sense, and you are ready to go! The Jungle/Eastern Peru (Tarapoto, Iquitos, Pucallpa): if you love nature and partying, this is your place! Imagine if they put the American South and Thailand in a blender: that’s the Peruvian jungle. Hot, humid, breath-taking landscape, the cheapest place to drink a cold beer and enjoy those little things in life, and lots of party! But you wanna take your precautions. Pickpocketing is common, also major crimes like kidnapping may occur if you expose yourself too much (these cities are not the right place to be drunk by yourself at 4 AM). In Iquitos and Tarapoto a lot of drugs are commercialized in the clubs, please avoid interacting with those people. Finally, be careful when riding mototaxis: if the unit is too old you might be involved in a traffic accident. Bonus: the Peruvian Jungle, unlike the American South or Thailand, is very LGBTQ+ friendly. If you belong to that community, you can feel at home, as locals are very open-minded and lots of LGBTQ+ discos and bars exist in the area. In both Tarapoto and Iquitos I saw same-sex couples holding hands and nobody seemed to care; that’s not common in Latin America, and I’m sure a lot of travelers may appreciate this.

Amazing time!

I’m from Africa,but are love Peru so much and also the football team.I hope to vist Peru in the future.

Homicide rate in Peru is about 7-8/100000, compare to Europe about 1/100000 or USA 5/100000. Of course, few travelers are targeted.

Noise level – I’m from Finland originally and now living in Peru. I find the noise in Peru at times unbearable. High volume music played everywhere, traffic, cars honking their horns, car alarms going off all over the place through the night. Houses are built for the tropics so no isolation because of the climate, often no window panes, so no sound proofing either. Pray to god you aren’t staying near a church (non-catholic) because their services can be extremely noisy.

No heating and no warm water. Low quality building standards – I could always flush the toilet at home with confidence, in Peru when nature calls i have to bring a stick to make sure everything is sufficiently smashed up before flushing to not clog the toilet. Patience with the electric wall sockets – you have to adjust the plugs to find the spot where they connect, you don’t just plug them in, and them tread carefully not to dislodge them.

Food – in theory very varied, but in practice the typical peruvian food is chicken, rice and potatoes. Few vegetables, it’s a carnivorous country. A lot of salt, a lot of sugar. As a traveller with funds you can of course go after the variety that most peruvians can’t.

Towns are ugly outside the colonial center. The shabby look is partly a result of people not finishing their houses. They want a 2-storey house but really have funds for 1 only, so they build the first floor and hope to complete the house sometime later…Rich people live behind walls and electric fences – unimaginable in Northern Europe.

Peru is a lot nicer to visit than to actually live in. Some commenters say “use common sense”. Common sense may look very different for one who comes from a country where the police don’t carry firearms to one who comes from a place where they carry assault rifles.

You are right on PTS. And with the country being locked down for 7 months thing are not very pretty. My wife is peruviana and she fears going out even in daytime. Decent housing is the same as you would pay in the States. Produce is less but most meats are more costly. I don’t go out very often so it doesn’t matter but I’m still not allowed on the street because of my age. I fear things will be very dangerous if the country doesn’t open soon.

Bruh Peru is safe but avoid the dangerous areas.

Being aware in Lima

People who believe everything is safe probably are only visiting Miraflores, San Borja, La Punta, Surco in Lima. I had the opportunity to live three months in San Juan Lurigancho in 2019. I observed pick pocketing, a car chase down a person running and kidnap an individual, fights between others. I had someone try and take my wallet on the train. I know another Peruvian/American couple that was completely robbed from their taxi and all their luggage and money taken after leaving the airport in Callao and stopped inside the tunnel. My wife tells me Peru hasn’t been this bad but now you have all the Venezuelans moving into the country and that is changing everything. You really have to be aware of your surroundings people.

Peru is NOT a safe country. They are reckless drivers, accidents abound – you cannot be transported stress-free anywhere. The police is corrupt. Sanitation is terrible – you cant drink tap water, its common to find large mounds of rubbish in the streets, cholera is common and you cant throw toilet paper into the toilet. Slums are everywhere. If you go to tourist locations you should be OK, and people are very nice. But dont stray from the beaten path or take a cab or you are liable to get robbed or kidnapped.

A long way from the UK?

Ive been drinking tap water for months and never had issues. Not throwing paper in the toilet is normal anywhere in Latin America. Theres mounds of trash in every city unless you’re in Europe. Don’t pull out your phone or dress expensively and you’ll be fine even in poor areas

A down to earth view

Been here for months. Touristy areas like Miraflores and San isidro in Lima are safe as kittens. Areas like Chorillos, San juan de Miraflores, SJ de lurigancho aren’t safe. Use common sense and you’ll most likely be fine in both. Been living with a Peruvian family so I’ve been everywhere in the city. If you can’t speak spainish you should probably stick to more touristy areas

The Streets

As My Wife and I prepare to go to Peru soon. We will be diligent and STREET SMART. It’s rough there like other countries but you CAN NOT LET YOUR GUARD DOWN. We walk the streets at night. Criminals sense your Fear. Be Strong and Sure

Peru is worth it!

Peru is relatively safe,

I am from northern Europe and ofc northern Europe is safer.

Peru reminds me a lot of the US in terms of safety, large pockets are completely safe at all hours of the day, but if you venture into the wrong district of Lima you will quickly realize it’s time to turn back.

I have spent approximately 2 months in Peru and travelled around and i have not experienced any crime towards me, so you can safely go to Peru on vacation. I have gone to small towns around Peru, and to the worst neighborhoods of Lima, still i have not been targeted.

Dress modestly (dont show off you brand new Rolex), be relaxed and dont worry.

Favorite Vacation

Just returned from Peru and Ecuador. Vacationed for three weeks. Lima, Cusco and Machu Picchu , Quito and Galápagos Islands. Both Countries are very safe. We never felt uneasy. The people are very friendly. We travel Internationally often. I would highly recommend traveling to Peru or Ecuador. Both are beautiful countries. Great food and amazing history and beauty.

I took my daughters 16 &18 for a month trip on the Amazon. Arrived three days early and stayed at the Marriott in Lima. We had a blast walking around the public everyday. Still don’t think we saw everything. Also saw a large ancient excavation near the downtown area, sure it’s finished by now. Never had or saw a problem except around the presidential palace. First time I ever saw tanks on a civilian road. It was a great visit. And the casino in the hotel lobby was a special treat, as was the local purchased Cuban cigars.

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• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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• Peru Travel Tips: 28 Things to Know When Traveling to Peru

Disclosure : Intrepid Travel hosted me their Inca Trail Express trip but all opinions are my own. This post also contains affiliate links.

Planning your first trip to Peru? You’ve come to the right place! Before heading to the land of the Incas, there are a few things you’ll need to know when traveling to Peru in order to stay healthy, save money and have an enjoyable trip.

Despite researching Peru travel tips before I left on my own 3-week journey, there were still things I wish I’d known before traveling to Peru. Things like: what exactly to pack and what to leave at home (especially for my multi-day Inca Trail hike), how to stay healthy (I failed miserably), and how to keep my valuables safe (RIP smartwatch).

So whether you’re leaving in a week or in a month, here’s everything you need to know before traveling to Peru!

Table of Contents

Essential Items to Pack for Peru

Peru was definitely one of the more challenging places to pack for due to the incredibly diverse landscape and weather (it didn’t help that I was also hiking/camping on top of it). I plan on writing an ultimate packing list soon, but in the meantime, these are the essential tips you need to know for packing for Peru.

Bring layers

Here’s the thing: Peru doesn’t look that large on a map, but it’s surprisingly big – with an incredibly diverse landscape and weather to match. I’m talking 80 degrees (Fahrenheit) and warm in Lima and 55 and rainy in Cusco. It doesn’t exactly make packing a breeze but my biggest recommendation is to pack good quality layers . I’m talking temperature-regulating t-shirts , long-sleeved tops , a packable down jacket , and a rain jacket . Also, quick-dry, moisture wicking pants are a must, even if you aren’t doing the Inca Trail hike. It was much easier for me to manage my wardrobe and the frequent weather fluctuations when I had layers on.

Earplugs are a must

One thing I really regret NOT bringing on this trip was a pair of earplugs. If you’re doing the Inca Trail (or any kind of overnight hike), you’ll be sleeping in a tent – and you can definitely hear your neighbors. Even if you aren’t planning on sleeping outside, some cities are just plain noisy and the walls are pretty thin. Huacachina comes to mind – it’s a notorious party town so even if you want to see the oasis and and retire back to your room, you’ll have a really hard time avoiding the noise since almost all of the hotels have bars on-site. Lima was also particularly noisy, but I think that’s just the product of being in a big city. Either way, do yourself a favor and pack a few of these .

Pack in lockable bags

Chances are, if you’re traveling on a bus or on a tour, you’ll be moving from city to city a lot and / or leaving your stuff behind in luggage storage at hotels. Multiple people will be handling your bags. I always like to be safe rather than sorry, so I highly recommend packing both luggage locks and a lockable purse . Luggage locks are super handy for your main bags and will give you peace of mind whereas a lockable purse is excellent for keeping your valuables safe while you’re out and about. The lockable purse travels with me on every trip, and I’ve never had anything stolen from it. Just to clarify: I’m not saying that Peru is unsafe but it’s always wise to do your part in keeping your items safe.

Psst: Check out my complete Inca Trail and Machu Picchu packing list HERE . 

Peru Travel Tips for The Inca Trail and Machu Picchu 

The Inca Trail is worthy of its own blog post entirely (coming soon), but for the sake of this Peru travel tips posts, here are the top things you need to do.

Yes, it’s worth it to hike the Inca Trail

I’m not going to lie to you: hiking The Inca Trail is  hard . The majority of the trail is rocky, a lot of it is steep, and the downhill part has plenty of rocks for you to potentially slip on (in case you’re wondering, I have a few bruises as souvenirs). That being said, there are really no words to describe the feeling of arriving to Machu Picchu after three and a half days of hiking and camping. Plus, you get the added bonus of seeing several Inca ruins along the trail that you can ONLY access if you do the hike. I booked this tour and it was spectacular. Psst: read the complete review here .

Test ALL your gear beforehand

You know what sucks? Starting a hike only to realize the water bladder you bought specifically for the trip leaks ( this one is awesome though). Or buying new hiking shoes and getting blisters. Or realizing your bag isn’t actually waterproof. Whatever it may be, make sure that everything you’ve purchased for your trip works like it’s supposed to. And if you purchase new hiking shoes, be sure to break them in as much as possible before you get to Peru!

Book The Inca Trail far in advance

Only 500 permits are issued for The Inca Trail per day. That may sound like a lot but that number actually includes porters and guides. Considering the sheer number of people who want to do The Inca Trail, this really isn’t a lot of permits.

I am the queen of last-minute bookings and this trip was actually no exception. I booked about a month before it was time for me to leave. However, I traveled during shoulder season, which was my saving grace in getting an Inca Trail permit. Booking with Intrepid Travel also made a huge difference because they reserve their trail permits in advance so you *might* get lucky and be able to do the trail with them, even if you book last minute. Even so – don’t risk it and book early!

Book Machu Picchu tickets ahead

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sally • Foodie Travel Blogger (@passportandplates)

Even if you decide you don’t want to hike, you still need to secure tickets and transport to Machu Picchu. If you’re traveling during peak season, I strongly recommend purchasing your tickets ahead of time , online because only 2,500 visitors are allowed in per day and visits are timed (four hours max between 6am – 12 pm or 12pm -5:30 pm). The cheapest way to purchase tickets is on the Ministry of Culture website (approximately $46 per adult). However, you’ll still have to purchase train tickets to Aguas Calientes ($140+ round trip from Cusco using Peru Rail or Inca Rail) and pay for the bus from town to the site itself ($24 round trip). Therefore, I highly recommend booking a tour from Cusco . Yes, it’s a little more expensive than booking everything independently but you save yourself the hassle of trying to figure out the logistics yourself. Plus you’ll have a guide inside Machu Picchu as well, which is invaluable.

Stay hydrated

Despite drinking liters upon liters of water per day, I could not stay hydrated on the hike, thanks to a bunch of stomach issues on the trail. Plus, a side effect of altitude sickness medication is dehydration, which didn’t help. If you’re planning on doing the hike and / or are taking altitude sickness medication in Peru, I highly recommend bringing electrolyte packets and rehydration salts . I used nearly my entire supply and didn’t regret bringing them along one bit.

Peruvian Food and Drink Travel Tips

Drink inca kola .

Confession: I’m not a fan of the national drink of Peru. It kind of reminds me of bubble gum soda. But for some reason, Peruvians (and lots of visitors) go bananas for it. So you should sample it at least once. Either you’ll become an addict or hate it. There is no in-between.

Get your caffeine fix

When I was in Arequipa, my guide told me that one brand of Peruvian coffee (called Cafe de Las Nubes) won the award for the best coffee in the world in a contest. But it’s only sold in Peru. So I bought some and sampled it for myself for… research . It is SO good. That’s not the only good coffee I had in Peru, either. I tried a bunch of different coffee shops all over the country and was very impressed. Don’t leave Peru without sampling some of their coffee.

Don’t drink unfiltered water

Guess what I did on my second day in Peru? You guessed it: I accidentally drank unfiltered water. I had an iced tea at a market before belatedly realizing that the water probably wasn’t boiled. Guess who had food poisoning the next day? THIS GIRL. I mean, I ate a bunch of random things that day so it might not have been specifically the water but…don’t think you’re invincible like I did. That being said, you CAN drink filtered water.

I always bring a water bottle with me when I travel because single-use plastic sucks for the planet and buying lots of bottled water is expensive and inconvenient. I bring along a Steripen , a UV water purifier that gets rid of 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa and use it in combination with my  CamelBak Insulated Water Bottle . This bottle is particularly awesome because it holds 20 oz and keeps liquids cold. If you’d rather purchase an all-in-one solution, Grayl’s water filtering bottle  is a great alternative so you can fill directly from the tap and drink almost immediately.

Be careful of what you eat…

Me on day two in Peru: I have a strong stomach! I can eat a meal at the local market. Me on day three in Peru: *gets food poisoning and diarrhea.* This happened RIGHT before hiking The Inca Trail too. It was truly awful. So here’s a rule of thumb: save your sampling of street food, market meals and other adventurous eats for after The Inca Trail, just in case. That way, if you get food poisoning, you can suffer in bed instead of on a hike. I rarely get food poisoning when I travel but my stomach never felt settled in Peru, unfortunately. I’m not saying it will happen to you, but be careful.

…But try local cuisine

Peru has been named the best culinary destination for for 7 years in a row and it would be a crime not to sample some of the best food in the world. Peruvians eat some less common delicacies like cuy (guinea pig) and alpaca but if you aren’t particularly adventurous, don’t miss out on eats like ceviche (a raw fish bowl), lomo saltado (beef stew with potatoes), and pollo a la brasa (rotisserie chicken). ALSO: Peru is very dietary restriction-friendly, especially Cusco. There are tons of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options so it’s really easy to eat no matter what restrictions you have.

Pro tip: Most restaurants offer a menu of the day (menu del dia) during lunch – 2-3 courses for a set price. Not only is it usually a steal , but you also get to sample more dishes. Keep an eye out for it when eating lunch.

Responsible Tourism Travel Tips for Peru

Don’t support animal tourism.

There are a lot of photos floating around the internet of older Peruvian women with llamas or alpacas in the middle of the city. I learned from my Intrepid tour guide that many of the animals are mistreated and used by their owners to get tips in exchange for photos from tourists. If the animals get sick or injured, the owners simply replace them. By continuing to tip people for photos, this practice of animal exploitation will continue. Let’s NOT support this practice so it will hopefully fade out!

Choose your Inca Trail company carefully 

I get it. Permits to do The Inca Trail are pricey and there are local tour companies that will do The Inca Trail for less than it costs with Intrepid Travel . But if you choose to go with an alternate tour company, be sure you vet them carefully . Many local companies don’t all abide by weight limits for porters or pay them well. I’d rather spend a little more knowing that the porters (the people who carry all your stuff on the trail) are ultimately benefiting from my tourism dollars. That’s part of what responsible tourism is all about!

How to Keep Yourself (and Your Valuables) Safe in Peru

Watch your stuff on public transport and in lima.

When I did a walking tour in Downtown Lima, our guide warned us to keep an incredibly sharp eye on our things because pickpocketing is notorious on public transport in Lima (and in a lot of countries, really). I’ve heard stories of pickpocketing and attempted (non-violent) robbery on public transport from multiple people who have visited Peru. In order to combat this, I recommend taking “luxury” long distance busses and / or trains instead. I traveled to various cities with Peru Hop and it was nice to have peace of mind about my things, knowing that everyone else on the bus was a tourist too. I also always travel with a lockable purse , which is designed to be incredibly difficult to pickpocket. It’s one of my best travel safety investments.

One weird thing that did happen to me (and my friend) in Lima : our smartwatches were stolen right off our wrists –  without us noticing . Those pickpockets are slick! We both had lower-end watches, not Apple watches or anything, but I’d say this is one thing to be wary of. RIP Garmie.

Don’t be afraid to take cabs

If you’re really worried about public transport or just don’t want to deal with the hassle, don’t be afraid to take licensed cabs. They’re inexpensive (be sure to negotiate prices before you get in , though) and safe. Make sure the cab is a licensed cab because there are plenty on the streets of Lima that I was uncertain about. Also – I’ve been told by multiple locals that it’s better to avoid taking Uber in Lima as the safety is questionable. I never tried attempted to test this statement out myself – I’m just the messenger.

Get travel insurance

As a follow up to the first point – get travel insurance. You’ll need it for if things (hopefully don’t but often do) go wrong. I already told you that my watch was stolen on this trip. On other trips, I’ve had an impressive variety of struggles too: I’ve been sick, needed stitches, crashed a rental car, had cash stolen and have dealt with luggage delays on various trips. I’ve learned my lesson about travel insurance the hard way. My go-to insurance is World Nomads cause they’re awesome, straightforward and easy to deal with . Be sure to check out the different plan options to pick one that’s right for you – and read the fine print!

Peru Travel Tips for Staying Healthy

Keep hand sanitizer and toilet paper handy.

Bathrooms in Peru are of…questionable cleanliness, even in the big cities. The existence of toilet paper seems to be hit and miss and the same goes for soap. I’m a little OCD about personal hygiene so I often travel with hand sanitizer and baby wipes anyway, but if you don’t, you’ll want to pack some for Peru . I like this hand sanitizer that you can just attach to your bag – it’s also very handy for hiking. For toilet paper, you can always grab some from your hotel room or just keep these small toilet paper rolls handy. For the Inca Trail, you’ll want both baby wipes (both for the bathroom and your body because there are no showers) and a SheWee for the squat toilets…or bushes.

Bring a first-aid kit 

I normally have a pretty decent immune system and strong stomach but for some reason, Peru got to me. I had various ailments the entire 3 weeks I was there. I recommend packing blister plasters , pain reliever , and anti-diarrheal at the very least. Bengay or Tiger Balm are particularly helpful for muscle relief on The Inca Trail. You can easily pick up things at the local pharmacy as well, but I suggest packing what you need on The Inca Trail from home.

Acclimate to the altitude

Altitude sickness is both unpredictable and sucky. How fit you are has nothing to do with whether or not you’ll get it and symptoms mainly include headaches, dizziness and vomiting. FUN. There are several ways to acclimate to the altitude, however. Firstly, you should definitely arrive to Cusco at least 2-3 days before you hike to acclimate because Cusco is at a higher elevation than the trail and than Machu Picchu. Also take it easy . The first day I was in Cusco I went all out and started climbing to viewpoints and things then felt terrible when I got back to my hotel. So be chill.

Secondly, drink coca tea , the all-natural remedy to altitude sickness in Peru. It’s available in all hotels and in cafes and locals say it helps. Coca tea is made out of the same leaves as cocaine – while it’s not illegal, it is a stimulant, so don’t drink it at night. If both of those options don’t work, you can take medication . You can get a prescription for Diamox from your doctor at home or get some medication once you arrive to Cusco. The meds make you dehydrated and side effects include stomach pain, nausea and loss of appetite (all of which happened to me) so monitor your body for symptoms.

Apply and reapply sunscreen

You know what makes you sunburn really quickly? High altitudes. And just Peru in general because it has some of the strongest UV rays in the world. Eeep. So pack some high-SPF sunscreen and reapply it. And wear a hat . And if your skin is particularly sensitive, wear some sun-protective pants and shirts . I’m 100% African and got sunburned both in Lima and at Machu Picchu. Don’t be like me.

Other Peru Travel Tips 

You get what you pay for.

This rule is really a global one but applies universally to both products and services in Peru. Here are a few examples:

• When shopping, many vendors at the markets like to claim that certain items are made of real baby alpaca. The labels confirm this. But if you’re spending 20 soles on a scarf (~$6), it’s not made of alpaca, no matter how soft it feels. If you want to buy alpaca items, go to the licensed alpaca stores.
• There are lots of flight options between Lima and Cusco, but they aren’t all created equally. The budget, local airlines are great for saving money but they will charge you a fee for checking a large bag, their flight desks don’t open early and they’re prone to delays. It’s a little more expensive to fly with Latam or Avianca, but it’s worth it.
• There are quite a few tours on offer locally that are cheaper than booking online, ahead of time. However, cheaper isn’t always better. For example – I booked a local sandboarding tour that was pretty inexpensive but the safety was questionable at best. Don’t get me wrong – I still had fun. But the guide just sort of gave some vague instructions (in Spanish and luckily I mostly understood him and translated for the group) and off we went. I would have rather paid for a tour that includes a lesson knowing I wouldn’t accidentally fall off the board (which happened to me and it was terrifying. Thankfully, sand is soft).

Learn a few Spanish phrases

Spanish is the national language of Peru (although some people also speak a second native language like Quechua or Aymara), but English is also spoken in parts of the country that are visited by lots of international travelers. That being said, not everyone speaks English and it would be helpful to learn a few key Spanish phrases to get by. This is a nice and respectful thing to do no matter which country you visit and locals usually appreciate it.

Travel during shoulder season

So when is the absolute best time to visit Peru? April. April is the start of the dry season in Cusco (I mean, no guarantees but significantly less rain) which is  excellent for hiking The Inca Trail. I hiked at the end of March and we had some rain, but April would have been perfect. The weather is also nice in April all over Peru and pleasant weather makes for a much nicer travel experience. Because April is still shoulder season (peak season is May – October), prices and crowds are significantly less compared to visiting just a month later. In fact, at the end of March, I maybe saw 2-3 groups on The Inca Trail, which surprised me. I expected a lot more people. If you can get away with visiting Peru during April, do it!

Don’t skip Lima

I was surprised to learn that most visitors hardly spend any time in Lima – maybe a day or two maximum. But having spent four days in Lima, I’d say it’s a huge shame to skip it entirely . Spend 2-3 days in this cool capital city: there’s plenty to do, see, and most importantly – eat. Check out my Lima guide for an awesome itinerary!

Keep your change

There seems to be a weird, perpetual shortage of small change in Peru . It’s just at small kiosks either. I even went to a few restaurants and markets (big ones) that told me they couldn’t make change with big bills. I imagine there’s just one Peruvian guy somewhere hoarding all the coins and small bills of Peru. Either way, whenever you get the opportunity to break a large bill while in Peru, do it. Not only will you want the 1 sol coins for bathroom visits (that’s the entry fee) but you’ll also want them for small purchases as well.

Bring extra room in your suitcase

I’m going to be honest – I don’t usually buy souvenirs when I travel, besides fridge magnets and maybe a specialty food item. But Peruvian souvenirs were an exception. All the accessories, clothing, and jewelry are brightly colored and beautifully patterned. Lots of items are hand-made. And most items aren’t too expensive. I happily supported locals by purchasing an impressive amount of items for myself as well as souvenirs for others. In fact, I ended up buying a duffel for my mom that I actually had to “borrow” for my trip home so I could fit everything. My bad. The good news? You’ll come home to some very happy friends and family (I know I did).

So there you have it. You are now armed with the best Peru travel tips for your first visit. I highly r ecommend booking a group tour to Peru: either just for The Inca Trail or for the full Peruvian experience (this is a very similar itinerary to mine – I just did part of my Peruvian travels independently). So what are you waiting for? Travel to Peru and see what this historically-rich country has to offer!

More Peru Resources

• Peru Travel Guide
• The Complete Inca Trail Packing List: What to Pack for Trekking Machu Picchu
• The Perfect Lima Itinerary: 2 Days in Lima
• An Honest Peru Hop Review of Peru's Hop On Hop Off Bus
• Exploring and Hiking in Peru with Intrepid Travel: A Review

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7 thoughts on “ Peru Travel Tips: 28 Things to Know When Traveling to Peru ”

A very informative post and some excellent points that I completely agree with! Food poisoning, I had it twice in Lima…. from a reputable expensive cafe too! I was so scared downtown of getting pick pocketed, and had to catch a local bus by myself on the first day, scary… but all valuables accounted for. Def prep for Altitude sickness, and just altitude adjustment, we spent two weeks at over 2000m and it wreaked havoc on sleep, skin, hair, bladders etc. I wish I had rain proof gear for my one day inca trail hike, it rained for 75% of it! But yes seeing Machu Picchu from the sungate is worth it. And yes I agree, don’t skip Lima!

This and the packing list post have been SO helpful – thank you for compiling all this information and sharing it! I’m booked to go to Machu Picchu in September through Intrepid. Only going to camp for two days, going back and forth on whether I should rent the sleeping bag/poles/pad or bring my own, did you rent or bring your own. Looking at the packing list I have no idea how to fit all this in one bag or a carry-on LOL. I know they only allow you to do one route when you get up to Machu Picchu – would it be worth going back another day to do another route, or to do the hike to the peak that overlooks the ruins?

I’m so glad to hear you found it useful, Inna! Also YAY for the upcoming trip! Haha you definitely have to be a bit creative with packing but I ended up bringing a larger backpack for this trip (a little larger than a carry on). For the Inca Trail itself, I used the Intrepid duffel and basically carried my toiletries in my day pack. I recommend renting (that’s what I did) if you don’t already own, especially if you’re traveling through other parts of Peru before/after.

I think one day is sufficient to see the ruins since the guide leads you through. It’s easy to purchase another ticket if you feel like your first day isn’t enough though. I didn’t hike Wayna Picchu (the peak overlooking the ruins) as I hear it’s quite difficult and not the safest. Intrepid doesn’t recommend it, either. You can book it when you arrive in Cusco if you’re intent on doing it though!

Hope that helps 🙂

Thanks For sharing very useful tips of Peru with us.

You’re welcome!

Great tips! Thank you . Planning to go for the first time in Nov.

That’s so exciting! I hope you have an amazing trip 🙂

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• Salkantay Mountain
• Machu Picchu
• Ollantaytambo
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• Essentials Peru
• The best time to visit Peru
• What to bring on a Hike
• Things to do in Peru
• Getting to Machu Picchu
• Inca Trail Trek & Tours FAQs
• Camping Equipment
• How to Book & Payment
• Booking terms & conditions
• Coronavirus Travel Policy

Peru Travel Advisory Updated 2023

Is it safe to travel in Peru?

Coast, Andean highlands, and Jungle: Peru is a diverse travel destination. Rich in cultural treasures, breathtaking landscapes and a multi-ethnic population, Peru has something for everyone.

Entering Peru is easy, especially if you arrive by plane. Some countries do not need a Visa.

These travel notes correspond to the current situation assessment in Peru. They are continually checked and adjusted as needed. Please also note the following country-independent travel information and the focus topics; they are part of this travel advice.

Is Peru open for traveling?

Yes, the Peruvian government has reopened all tourist attractions for relaunching the economy in the tourism industry which was highly affected because of social unrest with a lot of strikes which finally stopped. Now all tour companies are promoting traveling to Peru by following all safety measures. All tourist attractions are open at 100% capacity.

Should I cancel my trip to Peru?

At the moment, Peru is open to visitors and you can continue to plan your trip to Peru. If you are not safe to come to Peru. We recommend you postpone your trip for the next month or year. Contact your travel agency and don´t wait until the last minute.

If you want to cancel your trip, you will be lost your deposit, since the Ministry of Culture (Tickets to Machu Picchu and Inca Trail), flight tickets, hotels, train tickets, and others are not refunded or Maybe they will be reimbursed you without a percentage

Peru Travel Advisory

• Peru Travel current situation
• High security risk to travel to Peru

Peru Natural Risks

Visa entry requirements.

• Peru travel associations

Practical tips to travel to Peru

• Machu Picchu situation (Updated 2020)
• Coronavirus (Updated 2021)
• Travel Tips

Peru Travel Current Situation

The latest, at a glance (updated march 8, 2023), machu picchu can be reached again every day.

In the regions of Cusco and Puno (Lake Titicaca), trade unions, associations, and local organizations have called for stopped to strikes.

The temporarily suspended train service to and from Machu Picchu was resumed at the beginning of February, and the trains are currently running according to the regular timetable. However, travelers should think twice before making a trip. If the train service was stopped again at any time, they would be stuck in Machu Picchu. Apart from the three-day trekking tour of the Inca Trail, the train connection is the only way to reach the Inca site.

The railway company PeruRail is offering travelers a free rebooking of train tickets in view of the circumstances. Complete cancellations are possible against a retention of ten percent of the ticket price.

Train services on the Cusco – Juliaca – Puno (Lake Titicaca) railway line, which is almost 400 kilometers long, have also been resumed. There is also a well-developed road connection here, but this has also been the target of blockades time and again in the past. For this reason, disruptions to long-distance bus services are possible at any time.

RELATED: PERU TRAVEL INSURANCE

Current security situation (Updated February 10th, 2023) 

On February 5, 2023 , the Peruvian government declared a 60-day state of emergency for Madre de Dios, Cusco, Puno, Apurímac, Arequipa, Moquegua, and Tacna. A 30-day state of emergency has been declared for the Lima region and the greater Callao area, starting February 14, 2023.

Since the beginning of December 2022, there have been repeated demonstrations and unrest in various regions of the country.

An indefinite strike is in effect in the Cusco and Puno regions. In several regions of the country, especially in the south in the regions around Cusco, Arequipa, and Puno, routes are impassable due to road blockades. Demonstrations, some of them violent, have already claimed numerous lives.

The violence of the demonstrators is mainly directed against the emergency services on site, the courthouse, buses, and toll stations were set on fire, and police officers were injured. Many hotels in the Cusco area are closed for security reasons. A quick abatement of the protests cannot be expected.

In air traffic, significant restrictions must be expected at any time due to the short-term closure of airports for safety reasons.

Train traffic is also affected by restrictions. The train service to Machu Picchu can be stopped at any time for safety reasons.

Coronavirus (Updated December, 15 2022)

The state of emergency and all COVID-19-related restrictions have been lifted.

We know that recent news and uncertainty surrounding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and recent travel restrictions may cause you to take a closer look at your current travel plans or future travel options.

Machu Picchu , Inca Trail , Salkantay , Nazca Line, Peruvian Amazon, Mancora Beaches , Huacachina , Chachapoyas , Lima capital museums, and other important tourist attractions were closed for many months.

The Peruvian government actively closed the country’s borders by declaring a state of emergency that came into force on 16 March and lasted until 30 September 2020. However, all borders were reopened on 5 October 2020 and they remain open! International flights have been allowed again!

On March 15, 2021, all tourists attractions in  Peru  reopened with new safety protocols. All visitors must comply with all these safety measures.

Yes, the Peruvian government has reopened all tourist attractions for relaunching the economy in the tourism industry which was highly affected because of Covid restrictions. Now all tour companies are promoting traveling to Peru by following all COVID safety measures. All tourist atracctions are open with 40% capacity.

Updated June 4, 2021

Updated March 22, 2021

The Peruvian Government has taken these measures to fight against COVID-19:

• Tourists will be able to enter Peru by showing their molecular test (PCR). Upon arrival in Peru, visitors will be able to take an antigen test. A negative result will eliminate the mandatory 14-day quarantine. The cost of the test shall be borne by the passenger.
• The entrance of non-resident passengers travelling from United Kingdom, South Africa and/or Brazil, or who have made a stopover in such countries in the last 14 days, is suspended from March 15 to 28. Peru's land borders remain temporarily closed.
• The only requirement for flights to the interior of the country (local flights) is the signature of an affidavit stating that no symptoms of COVID-19 are present.
• High alert level : The movement of people schedule is from 04:00 h to 22:00 h, with vehicle restriction on Sundays in the regions of Huánuco and Piura.
• The use of mask to move throughout the country is mandatory and the population is reminded of hand washing and social distancing constantly.

Peru Safety Travels (Updated December 15 2020)

The peruvian government has taken the following measures to fight against the covid-19:.

• Quarantine (compulsory social isolation) was declared throughout Peru until the end of September 2020.
• The closure of international borders was ordered from Monday 16 March to 5 October 2020. All international air, sea, river and land passenger transport was suspended.
• Mandatory social immobilization took place from 6:00 pm to 4:00 am. In Tumbes, Piura, Lambayeque, La Libertad and Loreto, this measure started even earlier, at 4:00 pm.
• Any transportation of passengers within Peru (interprovincial) was prohibited from Monday, March 16 at 11:59 p.m.
• Public access to museums and monuments were suspended as well as public shows, cultural, sports and leisure activities.
• Likewise, restaurant activities, parades, parties, civic and religious activities were suspended.

Peru Travel : High security risk (security level 4) across the country.

Recent political developments have provoked ongoing social unrest in many parts of the country, with demonstrations, road blockades and confrontations with the security forces, often escalating into violent riots, which has already resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. In particular, regions in which Peru's main tourist attractions are located are affected. The feasibility of tourist activities in, around and between Arequipa, Puno (Lake Titicaca), Puerto Maldonado, Cusco (including the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu), Ayacucho as well as Tarapoto and Cajamarca is not guaranteed. It is also to be expected that shops and service providers will remain closed on a daily basis and public transport will be temporarily suspended in the locations currently affected. Travel in these areas can be associated with lengthy delays, severe restrictions and significant risks to health and life. Over a period of several days, it is difficult to foresee at which exact locations and routes such acute hindrances and hazards will occur. Airports in the interior of Peru can also be temporarily closed, so that a quick exit cannot always be guaranteed.

For absolutely necessary trips to Peru, it is highly advisable to keep a close eye on local developments in the respective travel area, which can prove to be very difficult without sufficient knowledge of the local language (Spanish).

The country is characterized by different zones with sometimes extreme geological and climatic conditions: desert, jungle, high mountains, volcanoes (in the south). In the Andes, the symptoms of altitude sickness should not be underestimated.

Peru is in an earthquake zone. Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions can cause tsunamis in addition to devastation on land. Tsunamis triggered by volcanic eruptions or earthquakes in the Pacific Rim can also reach Peru.

From November to April regional, heavy rainfall must be expected. They can cause floods, landslides and infrastructure damage. Travel may also be temporarily affected.

Let local, qualified guides accompany you on hikes, mountain tours and when practicing high-risk sports. Heed weather forecasts as well as warnings and instructions from local authorities (e.g. cordons around active volcanoes, evacuation orders).

Should a natural disaster occur during your stay, follow the instructions of the authorities and report to your relatives as soon as possible. Are the connections abroad

• All travel documents must be valid for six months upon entry.
• There are countries that do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days per half year. If the limit is exceeded, a fine depending on the length of the limit must be paid on departure before leaving the country.
• For longer stays, for specific purposes (work or business purposes, study) a visa must be applied for at the Peruvian consulate.
• Foreigners traveling to Peru for investment or income-generation purposes require a business visa. This entitles you to enter Peru within 12 months and is valid for a maximum of 183 days from the date of entry.
• Foreigners who come to Peru with the will to live and work there permanently require a resident visa.
• A sub-category of this residency visa is the work visa, which allows foreigners to work in Peru on a permanent basis. This type of visa must be applied for by the employer by presenting a valid employment contract.
• Visas are issued by immigration offices or by Peruvian consulates abroad. For further details on visas and employment contracts for foreigners, the responsible authorities (embassy or consulate of the Republic of Peru) should be contacted.

Peru Travel Associations

Peruvian associations of tour operators - Canatur , AATC and APTAE as well as professional tour guide associations - Colitur, Progatur and Agotur were talking with the Peruvian government to find a solution to open tourism of the country. 

Please note the following precautionary measures, among others:

• Do not carry any valuables (watches, jewelry, etc.) and only a small amount of money.
• Deposit valuables and identification papers in the hotel safe. However, always carry a photocopy of your passport with you.
• The crime rate can vary significantly depending on the town and district. Find out about local conditions at your places of stay from local contacts or at the hotel and inquire whether there are any areas that should be avoided.
• Special caution is required in larger cities, airports, bus terminals and train stations as well as on public transport.
• In the city centers of Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and Puno, be particularly careful after dark due to the increased risk of mugging and stick to the lighted and busy streets.
• Use your mobile phone as little as possible outdoors, as snatching thefts are common. They are often committed by people on bicycles or motorbikes.
• Never lose sight of your credit card when paying, as abuse is common.
• Preferably travel in groups and only during the day. Women in particular are advised not to travel alone, as sexual offenses are relatively common.
• Camping is discouraged. There are also nocturnal robberies of hotels and boarding houses. When choosing accommodation, pay particular attention to safety.
• It happens that criminals pose as police or drug enforcement personnel. Therefore, never get into an unmarked "police car", ask for your police ID and to contact the embassy in Lima immediately.
• It is generally not advisable to get into a taxi alone. Especially in Lima, and Arequipa, only use official taxis that you have booked in advance, or hotel taxis. At Lima's Jorge Chávez Airport, taxis should be booked at a taxi counter in the international arrivals hall.
• For hikes and excursions, join a group organized by an accredited travel agency and accompanied by a local guide. This also applies to the Inca Trail from Cusco to Machu Picchu.
• Reject the offers of self-proclaimed “tour guides”. Check with the Tourist Police or iPeru (Tourist Information and Counseling) for approved travel agencies and accommodation. Thefts are often committed by people posing as travel agency or hotel staff. These attempts at deception can happen anywhere, but are particularly common in the larger airports and in Puno.
• Be careful with contacts via the Internet. It happens that criminals try to lure people into the country and then use them as drug couriers.
• Pirate raids occasionally occur in Peruvian waters.

Inca Trail Permits & Machu Picchu Tickets (Updated 2020)

The Inca Trail and Machu Picchu were the most popular destinations of Peru. There were 3,000 travellers daily. During the Coronavirus, these sights were affected by the tourist decrease. The Inca Trail and Machu Picchu were closed until 15 July for Peruvian tourists and until 1 October for foreign travelers. But there were travellers who had booked the Inca Trail in advance. All was canceled! The Peruvian government was looking for a solution to avoid losing tourism. It decided that tourists could change or postpone the Inca Trail until to 31st December 2021 depending on the spots available.

The Ministry of Culture closed all their offices and websites until further notice from the Peruvian government. Then, only their accounting department worked.  

What Happened When Machu Picchu Tickets Were Suspended:

Every affected traveler had to wait until the quarantine was over. Once the Ministry of Culture reopened the office, affected passengers could present their claims to receive Machu Picchu ticket refunds

Machu Picchu Ticket Refund:

1) booked directly by the visitor:.

In this case, the Ministry of Culture has offered to postpone the tickets until December 2021 . You could return Machu Picchu tickets , but you must inform them by e-mail about their cancellation. You can postpone your Machu Picchu ticket for a future trip or receive a refund . Then you have to wait until their confirmation of your ticket refund .

2) Booked by a Travel Agency or a Tour Operator:

A travel agency or tour operator needs to send a letter requesting the refund of Machu Picchu and Inca Trail tickets . The ministry decides if this is possible. If so, their condition is that the travel agency/tour operator finds a replacement for the traveler so that the name and date are changed on the ticket.

Due to the state of the global coronavirus pandemic, the company Inca Trail Machu has announced updates to its policies that provide for the cancellation and modification of each reservation date in specific areas.

Perurail and Inca Rail Train Companies

PeruRail and Inca Rail  are train companies that operate trips to Machu Picchu. During the quarantine, they canceled all operations. If you had booked  train tickets in advance, you were able to postpone your trip until 2021. If you want to refund train tickets , you need to contact the train companies directly.

Peru Travel Advisory - Coronavirus 2021

There Were four travel advisory levels :

• Level 4: Do not travel.
• Level 3: Reconsider travel.
• Level 2: Exercise increased precautions .
• Level 1: Exercise normal precautions.

Peru  is currently at  Level 2  - exercise increased precautions. 

The Peruvian Government by means of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that regularly scheduled repatriation flights must end by Tuesday, April 21. The Government reviewed requests after this date on a case-by-case basis and approvals were reserved only for exceptional circumstances.

Travellers in Peru were urged to return to the United States, Europe, and other countries to take advantage of all viable travel options as soon as possible. When they chose not to depart at that time, they had to be prepared to remain in Peru until the government ended the nationwide travel restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Coronavirus Cancellations Policy - Inca Trail Machu

If you want to check our coronavirus travel policy to find about cancellations and future tours, please click on coronavirus travel to inca trail machu picchu ., inca trail or a trek involving the inca trail:.

Inca Trail:

a) Cancellation made months or a month prior to the departure date: If you have paid a 50% deposit or a 100% payment: Inca Trail Machu will refund reduce for the Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets already paid. This refund does not include a bank transfer fee. b) Cancellation made a month or less prior to the departure date will be considered as a "No Show" and no refund will be given. c) If the due balance of the Inca Trail is not paid at least 2 days before the trek departure date, Inca Trail Machu will assume that the client wants to cancel the trek and the deposit will not be refunded.

Alternative Treks, Machu Picchu Tours, or Travel Packages (Excluding tailor-made itineraries and mountain climbing programs):

a) Cancellation made at least 1 month prior to the departure date: Inca Trail Machu will refund reduced for entrance fee to Machu Picchu and train tickets already paid. b) Cancellation made less than 2 days prior to the departure date will be considered as a "No Show" and no refund will be given.

The Ministry of Culture has announced that the entrance tickets to the Inca city of Machu Picchu and to the Inca Trail network that are not going to be used on the date of the visit may be changed for another date and/or a visitor name during the year 2020 without any penalty, as long as there is availability. However, a refund is not possible!

Change of Dates of  Alternative Tours ONLY:

If passengers decide to change the date of the trip as a precaution: Our standard policy applies. However, we offer a 10% net payment as a credit for bookings 61 or more days before the departure date; or 20% of the net amount paid as credit for bookings 60 days or less before the departure date. This credit can be used for future bookings valid until 2021!

Change of Dates of the Inca Trail ONLY:

A change can be made as long as there is availability on another date, otherwise, there is no refund

Peru Travel Tips:

If Peru imposes restrictions on specific citizens or countries, or if the country of passengers imposes travel advice against Peru:

We will give you full credit for rescheduling the reservation, valid until 2021! However, we cannot cover other expenses booked elsewhere, such as flights, land travel arrangements, etc. We cannot provide any financial compensation in these cases. Seasonal surcharges and/or fees will apply to rescheduling to 2021.

How to Take an Action?

• If you travel in the next 7 days, contact us immediately!
• If it takes a longer time before traveling, check the nearest options for your trip for the latest policy information.
• Peru has canceled most of the travel restrictions but flights from Europe and Asia still remained suspended, at the moment.
• Most policies apply to bookings made until the end of March 2020 and allow customers to postpone the trip to later this year, or in some cases until 2021.
• Most of them require changes to be made within 30 days prior to departure, but for some, we give an alternative to making changes to the data you wish to make. However, changing the dates of the Inca Trail requires verification of permits available.

• Back to Articles

South America

Is peru safe to visit in 2024.

Laura Pattara  |  1 February 2024

TLDR : Peru is OPEN to tourists – the situation is calm and safe, and peak travel season is ready to kick off BIG TIME!

NB: We will keep this page updated as events unfold in 2024.

UPDATE 1 Feb 2024: A small group of people protesting a new ticket system implemented by the government for trains to Machu Picchu caused some minor disruption by blocking the train tracks and causing the temporary suspension of train services to the iconic Incan site. The situation is now resolved and train services are operating as normal once again.

Is Peru safe to visit?

Despite the fact that political protests and unrest is part and parcel of life in Latia America, Peru’s recent woes caught international attention with a little more gusto than usual. Undoubtedly it was because the Peruvian Government took the unprecedented decision to close Machu Picchu, the country’s most visited tourist highlight.

Although the ancient Inca citadel closed for barely one month and eagerly reopened to tourists in mid-February 2023, many prospective travellers are wondering if there are lingering safety issues they should know about.

Is Peru safe to visit in 2024? That’s the question on many explorers’ minds.

Cuzco Carnival parade party, traditional.

If you’re contemplating visiting South America in the coming year, you will be happy to know that Peru is back to its general safety levels and ready to kick off its 2024 peak travel season in earnest.

Machu Picchu is open to tourists, tickets to the sacred site are pre-selling fast, and all airports and major cities like Lima and Cusco are suffering no ill-effects of the trouble at the start of the year. The land borders between Peru and Bolivia – the most popular for Highlights of the Andes tours that cover Lake Titicaca, the Bolivian Altiplano, and Uyuni Salt Flats – are also all open and perfectly safe to cross.

At Viva Expeditions, our primary goal is to deliver unforgettable travel experiences to discerning explorers, ensuring their enjoyment and safety. To this end, we thought we'd give you the lowdown on the cause of Peru's woes at the start of the year, how it all evolved and offer a welcome update on the current situation. This will give you a better understanding of why trouble brews sporadically in Peru and how it affects tourists when the proverbial hits the fan.

Peru is now ready to welcome visitors with open arms, so go ahead and plan your dream trip to the land of llamas and ancient Inca sites – it's all good news on the safety front!

What's been happening in Peru in 2023?

First, a little background info.

After suffering through the devastating COVID pandemic, Peru was well on its way to ‘full recovery’ when it faced the start of social unrest and political protests at the end of 2022. The protests were sparked by a singular event, namely the expulsion of President Castillo and his replacement by vice-president Dina Boluarte who had, by then, aligned with Peru’s right-wing opposition.

Yet as with all political events, every socio-political expert agrees that the situation was both a long time in the making and much more complex than the one event might indicate.

Many Peruvians deeply resented having a new President imposed on them. They saw the move by Boularte as profoundly undemocratic – protests immediately broke out as people demanded a democratic voting process. If you want us to have a new president, the Peruvians protested, then we demand our right to vote for one.

Machu Picchu is now open and safe to go.

How the protests spread to Machu Picchu

The protests didn’t exactly come to Machu Picchu but they impacted train operations to the citadel, effectively leaving tourists stranded on either side. The government then decided to close the ancient site to preserve its integrity.

A handful of foreign tourists were stuck in Aguas Calientes for a few days but all were safely escorted out. It’s important to note that tourists are not typically targeted during times of social unrest, anywhere in South America. At most, they are inconvenienced. Some visitors needed to cut their trip short, or skip a particular destination.

Gaining deeper insight into Peru's social and cultural fabric and inequality between the well-to-do and disadvantaged minorities (mostly Quechua and Aymara communities living in the Andes) is a rewarding exercise for anyone who wishes to visit the country and make the most of their experience.

Luckily, Peru’s woes didn’t last long. The situation was defused by the government's announcement that Peruvians could go to the polls and vote for their chosen President in December 2024.

By mid-February, Machu Picchu was once again open to tourists. In mid-March, Cusco organized a huge festival to welcome back tourists. The government swiftly embarked on an international 'damage control' campaign to announce that all was back to normal in Peru and tourism could kick off once more.

And it sure did!

How was the 2023 travel season in Peru?

Tourist numbers to Peru may not yet have fully recovered from the COVID pandemic yet they certainly bounced back quickly from the protests. It was a stroke of unexpected good luck that the political unrest actually occurred during the country’s tourism off-season. The first four months of the year are characterized by heavy rains in the Andes – so much so that the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is closed every year in February for maintenance.

By May 2023, tourist numbers rose quickly. By July, they had reached a 3-year high, signalling a swift return from the drastic pandemic slump, where Peru saw a sudden 70% of its tourism revenue – from 5 million annual visitors in 2018 and 2019, to merely half a million in 2021.

Almost 3.5 million tourists visited Peru in 2023, post political unrest.

Peruvian flag and yellow church in the Barranco neighborhood in Lima, Peru

Projected visitor numbers for 2024

Projected visitor numbers for the 2024 season are promising for Peru, and point to expected incoming arrivals of just over 4 million tourists.

Truth be told, safety is something many first-time travellers to Peru and South America worry about. So, the question of whether Peru is a safe destination is one we field pretty much every single year.

Here’s quick overview of safety issues if travelling to Peru in 2024.

How safe is Peru for travellers, in general?

Aside from the odd stint of unrest, which is often seen all over Latin America (these are proud people who have fought fiercely for their independence and eagerly take to the streets to protect it), Peru is generally a safe place for tourists.

Petty and opportunistic theft is the most you’ll ever have to worry about here, as with the rest of South America. If you have your wits about you, take simple precautions, keep your valuables safe, and are reasonably vigilant, you’ll enjoy a rewarding and hassle-free trip in Peru.

The closure of Machu Picchu was an unprecedented and untypical event – the country relies heavily on tourism and constantly does its utmost to protect it like its economy depended on it. Because it does. It’s important to remember that if trouble does break out, tourists are rarely unsafe. Tourists are the country's lifeline in many ways, and protecting them is paramount.

Naturally, we recommend you always keep abreast of the latest news from your government’s travel advisory board before travelling anywhere. Also, keep up to date with Peruvian national news – sporadic protests for Boluarte’s resignation continue to this day and definitive election dates have yet to be confirmed.

Keep checking back to this page for updates.

What you can do to keep safe when travelling to Peru

Aside from keeping updated on Peru's news, your best safety bet is to book and travel with a reputable travel agent (like us!) working with an array of local reps. The benefits of travelling on an organized tour of Peru are that it comes with a virtual safety net – up-to-date news on the ground, 24/7 support should you ever need it, and peace of mind knowing that we have your back.

This doesn't just help during political unrest or 'big' troubles. Having our local guides and support team on the ground in Peru means you don't have to figure everything out alone. Like almost every country on earth, Peru has its share of not-so-safe regions and city neighbourhoods you should avoid – a local guide will ensure you do precisely that.

General safety guidelines for Peru include the following :

• Don’t display valuables (like expensive phones and cameras) in public
• Keep an eye out for pickpockets on public transport and crowded tourist sites
• Avoid travelling alone after dark (Peru is generally safe for lone travellers, even females. Yet moving about cities, taking taxis or buses late at night alone is not recommended)
• Only travel with 100% comprehensive travel insurance (that ‘random’ inconvenience does not need to cost you dearly!)
• Keep away from major coca-growing regions in the north
• Whenever you arrive in a new city, find out which neighbourhoods/areas/streets you should avoid
• Travel with a reputable tour/bus/travel operator

Peru is a land of incredible contrasts, ancient cultural traditions , extraordinary landscapes, fascinating histories, exquisite food , and warm, welcoming people. A visit to Peru is a trip not easily forgotten – for tours to the ancient site of Machu Picchu, luxury cruises in the Amazon, treks in the Andes and comprehensive itineraries showcasing the country's very best – visit our Peru Tours .

Llama pack in Cordillera Vilcanota, Ausungate, Cusco, Peru

Start planning your dream trip to Peru and Contact our Destination Specialists today.

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Watch CBS News

What time the 2024 solar eclipse started, reached peak totality and ended

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:04 AM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT.  In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

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Mexico to Require Visas for Peru Nationals After Migration Spike

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -Mexico will require a visa application for Peruvian nationals seeking to enter Mexican territory, according to an announcement published in the official gazette on Friday, amid a recent surge of migrants from the South American country.

The measure, issued by Mexico's interior minister, will be temporary and take effect in 15 days, according to the gazette.

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 Mexico.

The country has since seen a "substantial" increase in the number of Peruvians entering its territory "whose profile does not fit that of the genuine visitor or tourist and present inconsistencies in their documentation," the ministry asserted in the gazette entry.

In recent years, Mexico has imposed visas for visitors of different nationalities, arguing that they were using its territory to surreptitiously enter the United States.

(Reporting by Brendan O'Boyle; Additional reporting by Diego Ore; Editing by David Alire Garcia)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Tags: Mexico , Peru , South America

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, what you need to know to watch monday's total solar eclipse.

The NPR Network

A stunning celestial event is visible across the country Monday, when the moon crosses directly in front of the sun: a total solar eclipse. For those in the path of totality, there will be a few brief moments when the moon completely covers the sun and the world becomes dark.

Traveling for totality? Skip ahead.

This will be the last chance to catch a total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. for about 20 years, so here's what you need to know to safely enjoy!

When is the eclipse?

April 8, 2024 there will be a total solar eclipse that crosses from the Pacific coast of Mexico through the United States.

What is totality and why it matters

According to NASA , totality will start around 11:07 a.m. PDT/1:07 EDT in Mexico and leave Maine at around 1:30 pm PDT/3:30 pm EDT.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

Check out this table for when the partial eclipse and totality are visible in each region or check by zip code here.

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across the contiguous United States, so even if you're not directly in the path, you should be able to see something special, weather permitting.

Unable to get to totality? We'll be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you can't see it in real time.

Where to see totality?

More than 30 million people live in the path of totality for Monday's eclipse, and many more in nearby areas.

Here's what we know about Monday's weather forecast.

Why totality matters

As NPR's Neil Greenfieldboyce explains , "During a total eclipse, the sky darkens suddenly and dramatically . The temperature drops. Stars come out. Beautiful colors appear around the horizon. And the once-familiar sun becomes a black void in the sky surrounded by the glowing corona — that's the ghostly white ring that is the sun's atmosphere."

Eclipse Science

For april's eclipse, going from 'meh' to 'omg' might mean just driving across town.

A partial eclipse, while still a fun experience, is hardly as dramatic. Those with a view of the partial eclipse will see crescent-shaped shadows like those seen here in 2017.

How to watch safely

If you plan to look directly at the eclipse (partial or totality), you're going to need eclipse glasses handy because looking directly at the sun without proper protection ( traditional sunglasses don't count! ) can be harmful to your eyes.

The perfect celestial soundtrack to the total solar eclipse

As NPR's Joe Hernandez explains, "Proper eye protection must be worn throughout a total solar eclipse — except for the roughly 3 1/2 to 4 minutes when the moon fully obscures the sun, a brief period known as 'totality.' (You will need to take your glasses off during totality to actually see it.)"

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses, you can get crafty with things you have around the house ( like some of us did back in 2017!) More on that here.

Traveling for totality?

The celestial event is driving a ton of domestic travel to the path of totality. If you're headed out of town to view the eclipse, here are some NPR Network resources for areas in the path of totality:

Texas The path of totality crosses through the Lone Star State, with some areas expecting a possible influx of visitors in the hundreds of thousands to catch prime viewing. Our member stations across the state have gathered local resources to help you navigate the region and the eclipse!

• San Antonio: Check out the latest from Texas Public Radio
• Dallas: Explore KERA's coverage for the latest
• Austin: Head to KUT for the best local resources

Arkansas The eclipse will be cutting through the state, putting Little Rock in the path of totality. Check out Little Rock Public Radio for local resources.

The southwestern edge of the state will be well-positioned to witness the total solar eclipse this year. Kentucky Public Radio is covering the eclipse throughout the region, from Kentuckiana eclipse mania to the University of Louisville's free class about the celestial event. Keep an eye on WKMS for the latest local updates.

Missouri The southeastern corner of the state will be in the path of totality, crossing across towns like Whitewater and Ste. Genevieve. Head to St. Louis Public Radio for local coverage and resources. Illinois Carbondale seems to have won the eclipse lottery, being in the path of totality both in 2017 and for this year's eclipse . For resources from across the state, check out Illinois Public Media .

Indiana A huge portion of the state will be within the path of totality, giving cities across Indiana, including Bloomington and Indianapolis, prime viewing of the eclipse.

• Bloomington: Check out Indiana Public Media
• Indianapolis: Head to WFYI for the latest
• Fort Wayne: Just north of the path of totality, WBOI has resources for the Allen County area

Ohio The Buckeye State is getting bisected by this year's path of totality, plunging a number of the state's most populous areas into darkness for a few minutes on Monday.

• Cleveland: Head to Ideastream Public Media for the latest.
• Columbus: With the capital city just south of totality, head to WOSU for regional resources.
• Cincinnati: Totality will just miss the border town. Here are some tips from WVXU on how to navigate the eclipse in the region.

Pennsylvania Only the northwestern-most corner of the state will catch totality, with views from the lakeside in Erie being particularly well-positioned for a stunning viewing experience. WESA has more from across the region.

Plan to watch the eclipse from a wild mountain summit? Be ready for harsh conditions

New York Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Plattsburgh will fall under the path of totality on Monday. If you're planning to travel to the region for the best views, here are some local resources to stay safe and informed:

• Buffalo: Head to WBFO for the latest
• Syracuse: WAER has more on plans in the Salt City
• North Country: NCPR has the latest from across the region, as well as information on local viewing events to check out

Vermont The Green Mountain State will see totality across its most populous region, including Burlington and Montpelier, as well as the Northeast Kingdom on the Canadian border. Vermont Public has everything you need to know to navigate your time in the region to enjoy the eclipse safely. New Hampshire The northernmost region of the Granite State will be in the path of totality, providing prime viewing to those in Coos County. NHPR has info on local events, travel updates as well as special coverage with New Hampshire Public Television. Maine The last state in the path of totality in the U.S., much of Northern Maine will be positioned for prime viewing. The rural region is preparing for an influx of visitors, and safety officials are encouraging visitors and locals alike to be prepared. Maine Public will be covering the eclipse and has everything you need to know to navigate the region safely.

How to document the eclipse safely

With the ease of cell photography , it can be tempting to reach for your phone to document the eclipse and the moments of totality, but make sure to do so safely.

As NPR's Scott Neuman explains , "For starters, you'll need to wear eclipse glasses or similar protective eye gear while aiming your camera or even just observing the eclipse."

Feeling ambitious? Here are a few more tips.

Or if you're not inclined to capture the moment visually, you lean into some other forms of creative expression. Indiana, for example, has named Linda Neal Reising the official poet in the state for this year's eclipse.

As former NPR reporter and eclipse superfan David Baron shared with Life Kit , viewing totality "[is] like you've left the solar system and are looking back from some other world."

So consider focusing on being present in the moment to enjoy the celestial spectacle.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

• Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans? Check out these kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides from Vermont Public's But Why, and this great explainer from KERA Kids on the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse.
• Want to see how a solar eclipse alters colors? Wear red and green on Monday
• Plan to wander into the wild for the best view? Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
• Tips from Bill Nye on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time. NPR's Emily Alfin Johnson compiled these resources.

• 2024 eclipse