Latest updates: Safety and security β removed information about the state of emergency in parts of Lima and Callao; Natural disasters and climate β added information about heavy rains. 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. 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.
Back to top. 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. Mass gatherings large-scale events. The Peruvian government frequently declares regional states of emergency, particularly near the northern border, due to the security situation in Ecuador.
A state of emergency allows 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:. Cross the PeruβEcuador 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. Travel is particularly dangerous in areas where there is coca cultivation and processing. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, particularly in Lima, in other cities and even in crowded, public areas.
