Warning level 2 continues to apply for Peru: increased caution is required. However, new warnings about crime in the country have been added to the travel advisory. Due to crime, civil unrest, and the risk of kidnapping, travelers in Peru are advised to exercise increased caution.
Do not travel to:
- Due to criminal activity, exercise caution in the Colombian-Peruvian border region within the Loreto Region.
- Additionally, be vigilant in the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM), encompassing territories in the Departments of Ayacucho, Cusco, Huancavelica, and Junin, as it faces risks associated with crime and terrorism.
Overview of the Country
Crimes such as car thefts, robberies, assaults and other violent crimes are widespread in Peru and can also occur during the day. Although kidnappings are unusual, they do occur. Crimes tend to take place at night. Roadblocks have been used by organized crime gangs to rob victims outside of Lima, the country’s capital.
Latest Update
There has been considerable civil unrest in the department of Puno in recent months. Nevertheless, we strongly advise you to reconsider your need to visit the Puno region. To protect yourself, you should take safety precautions. Stay away from places affected by the unrest. If it is safe to do so, evacuate the area if protests start there. Follow the instructions of the local authorities. Contact your airline or travel company for the latest information.
Other Safety Recommendations
- Recent civil unrest has impacted certain areas in central and southern Peru, notably the Puno region, including Lake Titicaca. Stay clear of protests, stay informed through local media, and heed the guidance of local authorities.
- Instances of violent crime are prevalent, especially in Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa. Exercise caution when alone, especially at night, and be mindful of petty crime in public spaces, hotels, and restaurants. Thieves may appear well-dressed, so keep your belongings secure and valuables concealed. There is an increased incidence of street theft of mobile phones; refrain from using your phone at curbsides to prevent snatch-and-grab incidents.
- Travelers relying on unlicensed taxis have faced robbery and even assault. Avoid hailing taxis on the street; opt for licensed taxis through a phone dispatch service or a taxi app. Criminals may target stationary cars at traffic lights, so keep doors and windows locked while in motion. Robberies and assaults have been reported on intercity buses; avoid placing personal items on overhead racks or under seats, and choose reputable bus companies.
- Conduct thorough research on ayahuasca tour operators before making any bookings.
- In remote areas, particularly the Southern Highlands, there is a potential presence of members from a local terrorist group. Exercise caution when venturing outside populated regions.