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Peru Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Peru. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Oropouche in South America August 16, 2024 There are outbreaks of Oropouche in parts of Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, and Peru. Oropouche is spread by the bite of infected midges (small flies) and mosquitoes. Destination List: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Peru

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Peru, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Peru. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Peru—such as dengue, Zika, louse-borne typhus, and Chagas disease—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Peru include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Many popular destinations in Peru, such as Machu Picchu, are at high altitudes. You may experience altitude sickness as a result. Talk to your doctor about ways to prevent and treat altitude sickness.

See Travel to High Altitudes .

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Peru. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Peru’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Peru. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Peru may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Peru, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Peru, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Peru .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Peru, dial 116 for the fire department and 105 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you during your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Peru before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Peru from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Peru for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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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 .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Must have six months validity at time of entry.

One page required for entry stamp.

Free, issued at the port of entry.

None Required.

$30,000 USD. More than $10,000 USD must be declared upon entry.

Same as entry.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Lima Avenida La Encalada cdra. 17 s/n Surco, Lima 33 Peru Telephone: + (51)(1) 618-2000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (51)(1) 618-2000 Fax: + (51) (1) 618-2724 Email: [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency - Cusco Av. El Sol 449, Suite #201 Cusco, Peru Telephone: + (51)(84) 231-474 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  + (51)(1) 618-2000 Fax: + (51)(84) 245-102

Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Peru for information on U.S.-Peru relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

COVID-19 Requirements

• There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

Requirements for Entry :

• A passport with six months validity is required to enter Peru. Migraciones (Immigration) authorities may also require evidence of return/onward travel.
• Be sure your date and place of entry is officially documented by Migraciones, whether you arrive at a port, airport, or land border.
• Your length of approved stay will be determined by border officials at the time of entry, and can range from 30 to 183 days. Extensions for tourists are usually not approved, and overstays result in fines.
• The Embassy is unable to assist if you are denied entry. Peruvian immigration requires airlines to return travelers who are denied entry to their point of origin.

Requirements for Exit :

• If you do not have an entry record, you will not be allowed to exit the country until immigration authorities confirm the time and place of your entry into the country. This can be a difficult process, costing considerable time and money to resolve.
• Make sure Migraciones (Immigration) records your entry, and then save the record for your exit. An entry record is required even at remote border crossings, where often the proper officials are not present.
• Immediately report lost/stolen passports to local police and keep the report. You must apply for a new passport at the Embassy and obtain a replacement entry record from Migraciones using your police report prior to exiting Peru.

Travel with Minors : Regardless of nationality, all children who are traveling with both birth parents are required to have a valid passport and the necessary visa or citizenship of the country where they are traveling. Peruvian immigration procedures are complex for minors traveling without one or both parents/legal guardians.

For entry/exit from Peru, U.S. citizen minors under the age of 18, traveling alone (or with only one parent), generally do not require additional documentation if entering as a tourist for less than 183 days. However, if the stay lasts more than 183 days, then a Permiso Notarial de Viaje is required (see below).

U.S. citizen minors who are dual national Peruvians, traveling alone (or with only one parent), require a Permiso Notarial de Viaje. Furthermore, step-parents or guardians accompanying a dual U.S.-Peruvian citizen minor must provide a Permiso Notarial de Viaje from the non-traveling minor’s parents (as listed on the birth certificate). Finally, if an accompanying parent has sole custody, legal documentation is required (such as a foreign court-approved custody document stating sole custody, a death certificate, a Peruvian court-approved document for travel, or a birth certificate listing only one parent).

A Permiso Notarial de Viaje is a written, notarized authorization from the non-traveling parent(s). Peruvian immigration will not accept a document notarized by the U.S. Embassy or a document notarized by a U.S. notary in lieu of a Permiso Notarial de Viaje. Please be aware that these authorizations are valid for 30 days and one trip only.

How to get a Permiso Notarial de Viaje:

• In the United States, at the nearest Peruvian Consulate. There are multiple locations .
• In Peru, at most Peruvian notaries. An apostilled U.S. birth certificate is required for issuance.

The U.S. Embassy is unable to assist travelers who are prevented from traveling for lack of a Permiso Notarial de Viaje.

HIV Restrictions : The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to, or foreign residents of, Peru.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:   Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: 

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) 
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists 
• Places of worship 
• Schools 
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)  

U.S. Embassy Lima enforces a Restricted Travel Policy for Embassy personnel, which is based on its assessment of conditions and developments throughout the country. See the Overseas Security and Advisory Council’s Country Security Report for Peru. See the latest Travel Advisory for Peru .

The VRAEM (Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers) is particularly remote and a known safe haven for narcotraffickers and the last operational remnants of the Shining Path terrorist group.

For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.  

Crime : Crime is a widespread problem in Peru.

• Sexual assaults and rapes can occur, even in tourist areas. Travel in groups, do not leave food or drinks unattended, and use caution if a stranger offers you food or drink.
• Intoxicated travelers, including U.S. citizens, also have been sexually assaulted, injured, or robbed while under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
• Pick-pocketing, robbery, and hotel room theft are the most common crimes. Armed robberies have occurred throughout the city, including popular tourist destinations. Armed assailants usually target victims for their smartphones, wallets, or purses. If confronted by someone with a weapon, it is best not to resist.
• Incapacitating drugs, such as rohypnol and scopolamine, have been used to facilitate robberies and sexual assaults. Seek medical attention if you begin to feel ill.
• On routes to and from the airport in Lima, robberies have occurred where the assailant uses a tool to break a window while the vehicle is stopped in traffic.  Keep your belongings in the trunk or out of sight. Authorized taxi booths are present at the airport in Lima that will charge a flat rate according to the destination.
• Use hotel safes, if available. Avoid wearing obviously expensive jewelry or clothing, and carry only the cash or credit cards that you need.
• Stay alert in crowds and on public transportation. Be aware that thieves might create distractions to target you.
• Avoid isolated areas when on foot, especially after dark.
• Be alert for robberies in which criminals enter a taxi and force victims to withdraw money from ATMs.
• Use an app-based taxi service, order a taxi by phone, or use a service affiliated with a major hotel, as it is usually safer than hailing an unknown taxi on the street.
• Use ATMs in well-protected indoor areas such as banks or shopping malls. Avoid withdrawing large amounts of cash at one time.
• Do not let your credit card out of your sight in order to avoid credit card “skimming.” You should expect the vendor to use a credit card reader in your presence. The vendor will ask for your passport or ID number on the receipt.
• To avoid carjacking or theft from your car while you are stopped at intersections, drive with your doors locked and windows rolled up. Do not leave valuables in plain view.

There is little government presence in many remote areas of the Andes and Amazon basin. Illicit activities, such as illegal mining, logging, and coca production, are common.

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

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens along the Colombian border and in the VRAEM, as U.S. government personnel are restricted from traveling in these regions.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable; avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI pages for information.

Financial scams are prevalent in Peru. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• Money transfers 
• Grandparent/Relative targeting 

Victims of Crime :  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police and contact the U.S. Embassy in Lima. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

• U.S. Embassy: +51-1-618-2000 (phone is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week)
• Local police: 105 (National Police)
• Tourist Police: 0800-22221
• IPeru: 01-574-8000 (a tourist information service that has English-speaking personnel)

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you with reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide information on victims’ compensation programs in the United States .
• Provide information on assistance programs for victims of crime in Peru .
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence :  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. Telephone (answered 24 hours): +51-1-618-2000

Tourism : The tourism industry, including adventure activities (e.g. paragliding, sandboarding, etc.), is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. U.S. citizens are encouraged to pay attention to waiver and liability policies of tour companies, as they may vary or not exist. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties : You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Ayahuasca/Kambo/Hallucinogens:  Traditional hallucinogens, often referred to as ayahuasca or kambo, are often marketed to travelers as “ceremonies” or “spiritual cleansing,” and typically contain dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a strong hallucinogen that is illegal in the United States and many other countries.

• Intoxicated travelers, including U.S. citizens, have been sexually assaulted, injured, or robbed while under the influence of these substances.
• Health risks associated with ayahuasca are not well understood, and, on occasion, U.S. citizens have suffered serious illness or death after taking these drugs.
• These incidents often occur in remote areas and far away from modern medical facilities, making the risks even greater.
• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Peru are severe.
• Offenders can expect long pre-trial detention and lengthy prison sentences under harsh conditions with significant expense for themselves and/or their families.
• Never agree to carry a suitcase or package through customs for anyone.
• Peru uses strict screening procedures for detecting narcotics smuggling at its international airports.

Customs Currency Regulations :

• $30,000 USD or its equivalent in cash or negotiable items is the maximum allowed for entry or exit.
• Any amount in excess of $10,000 USD must be declared and the legal source proven.

Artifacts :

• Peruvian law forbids the export of pre-Columbian objects and other artifacts protected by cultural patrimony statutes.
• U.S. customs officials are required to seize pre-Columbian objects and certain colonial religious artwork brought into the United States.

Animal Products/Plants :

• Avoid products made of wild plants and animals, as many are of illegal origin and may involve protected or endangered species, whose sale and export are illegal.
• Peruvian authorities will seize any protected species that is sold or transported, either live or transformed into food, medicinal beverages, leather, handcrafts, garments, etc.
• Some products, including live animals, require special permits when leaving Peru.
• Knowingly importing into the United States wildlife or plants that were taken from the wild or sold in violation of the laws of Peru (or any other country) is a violation of the Lacey Act (16 USC § 3371).

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Special Circumstances : Many popular destinations in Peru are remote. These areas have few facilities that are able to provide advanced or emergency medical care.

• Local rescue capabilities are severely limited. Many mountain areas are too high for helicopters to reach safely. Accidents or injuries while hiking or climbing are common; crisis responders may take hours or even days to reach you if they are traveling over great distances and/or rough terrain.
• When using tourist company services, travelers are encouraged to use qualified and licensed operators. Many do not meet international safety standards. Inquire about safety standards prior to engaging in adventure activities. The Ministerio de Comercio Exterior y Turismo (Tourism Ministry) website provides information on tourism companies.
• Always check with local authorities before traveling about local geographic, climatic, health, and security conditions that may impact your safety.
• Be aware that you may not have access to phone or internet for days at a time. Check in with family prior to going to remote areas and leave detailed written plans and timetables. Use of a personal GPS beacon is encouraged.

Seismic Activity :  Earthquakes are common throughout Peru. On May 26, 2019, a magnitude 8.0 earthquake struck the Loreto region of Peru. One fatality in the Cajamarca region and 11 injuries as well as isolated power outages and some infrastructure damage were reported.

• Visit Peru’s National Emergency Operations Center (COEN) for more information.
• In the event of a natural disaster, monitor local media and government agencies, including IPeru , the Commission to Promote Peru for Exports and Tourism (PROMPERU) , and Peru’s National Meteorology and Hydrology Service (SENAMHI) for updates.
• WhatsApp: IPeru +51-944-492-314
• Twitter: @Promperu @COENPeru @SENAMHIPeru @Sismos_Peru_IGP
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on emergency preparedness and response.

Legal Issues in Peru :

• The legal system in Peru may require victims or their families to hire lawyers to advance their cases through the legal system, even for victims of serious crimes.
• U.S. citizens have reported unethical practices by lawyers and others, resulting in costly losses and little hope of remedy through the local judicial system.
• Peruvian laws are subject to change with little notice . The Peruvian government publishes little information in English. The U.S. Embassy cannot give detailed advice about Peruvian law.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods : Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers : See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports

LGBTQI+ Travelers : There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Peru.

See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  Peruvian law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical and mental disabilities, and the law is enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility may include ramps, special cashiers for those with disabilities, and elevators. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, and common in lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. There is a significant difference between Lima (and other large cities) and the rest of the country.

• Rental, repair, and replacement services are available for aids/equipment/devices.
• The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has a list of translators .

Students : See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

COVID-19 Testing:

• PCR and/or antigen tests are available for U.S. citizens in Peru, and test results are reliably available within one calendar day.
• Peru is able to test for COVID-19 in country. Private hospitals and laboratories as well as the Peruvian Ministry of Health (MINSA) are administering tests.
• U.S. citizens are responsible for their own COVID-19 testing costs.

COVID-19 Vaccines:

The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Peru. Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.  

• Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca, and Sinopharm vaccines are available in Peru.
• For more information about the Peruvian Ministry of Health’s (MINSA) national vaccine strategy, see (in Spanish)  MINSA's website .

Medical Care :

• Specialized medical care can cost tens of thousands of dollars, and you are expected to pay in full at the time of discharge.
• Pharmacies are widely available. However, some medications might not be offered, and brand names will differ from products in the United States.
• Exercise caution if you explore herbal and folk remedies.

For emergency services in Peru, dial 113 .

Ambulance services are not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except Lima and other major cities. Training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We do not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance : Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Government of Peru to ensure the medication is legal in Peru.

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information :

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality : Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health Facilities in General:

• Adequate health facilities are available in Lima and other major cities, but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is usually available. Some hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Private and public hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
• Travelers should make efforts to obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals if they do not have insurance.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery :

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Peru.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Peru.
• Although Peru has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Peru, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified.

Pharmaceuticals:

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.   

Please review Peru's rules on medication .  

Non-Traditional Medicine:

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died while seeking medical care from non-traditional “healers” and practitioners in Peru. Ensure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy :

• If you are considering traveling to Peru to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
• Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Peru, subject to complex local regulation.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Peru via assisted reproductive technology (ART) with a gestational mother, be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s citizenship. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk criminal prosecution.

Water Quality:

• In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water. 
• Many cities in Peru, such as Puno, Cusco, Arequipa, Ayacucho, and Huaraz, are at high altitude. Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, and take precautions before you travel. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Travel to High Altitudes .

Adventure Travel:

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel . 

General Health :

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Travelers’ Diarrhea
• Guillain-Barré Syndrome
• Hepatitis A and B
• Leishmaniasis
• Tuberculosis
• Yellow fever

Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.  

HIV/AIDS: For more information visit MINSA’s website (in Spanish): https://www.dge.gob.pe/vih/ .

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Resources for Travelers  regarding specific issues in Peru.

Air Quality:

• Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Peru. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.  
• Infants, children, and teen.
• People over 65 years of age.
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
• People with heart disease or diabetes.
• People who work or are active outdoors. 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety :  Driving conditions in Peru are very different from those found in the United States, and can be considerably more dangerous. Visitors are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with local law and driving customs before attempting to operate vehicles.

• Roads are often poorly maintained and may lack crash barriers, guard rails, signs, and streetlights.
• Fog is common on coastal and mountain highways, making conditions more treacherous.
• Slow-moving buses and trucks frequently stop in the middle of the road unexpectedly.
• Road travel at night is particularly hazardous. Due to safety concerns, U.S. Embassy personnel are prohibited from traveling on mountainous roads at night.
• Traveling in a group is preferable to solo travel. Spare tires, parts, and fuel are needed when traveling in remote areas, where distances between service areas are long.

Traffic Laws:  Traffic laws are often ignored and rarely enforced, creating dangerous conditions for drivers and pedestrians.

• Seat belts are mandatory for driver and front-seat passengers in a private vehicle.
• It is against the law to talk on a cellular phone while driving, and violators may be fined.
• When driving in urban areas, taxis and buses often block lanes impeding traffic.
• Directional signals are often not used, and vehicles frequently turn from the middle through traffic lanes.
• While driving outside major cities and on the Pan-American Highway, you must drive with your lights on.
• Traffic officers must wear uniforms and identification cards that include their last name on their chest.
• Traffic officers are not allowed to retain your personal identification or vehicle documents.
• Under no circumstances should you offer or agree to pay money to traffic officers.
• If you are involved in an accident, you MUST contact local police and remain at the scene without moving your vehicle until the authorities arrive. This rule is strictly enforced, and moving a vehicle or leaving the scene of an accident may constitute an admission of guilt under Peruvian law.
• If your car is a rental, call the agency or representative of the insurance company provided by the rental agency.
• Always carry your driver's license, a copy of your passport, and the rental agreement when you drive a rental car.
• International driver's licenses are valid for one year, while driver's licenses from other countries are generally valid for 30 days.

Public Transportation : Many buses are overcrowded, poorly maintained, and lack safety features such as seat belts.

• Bus accidents resulting in multiple deaths and injuries are common due to routes along narrow, winding roads without a shoulder and steep drop-offs.
• Accidents are frequently attributed to excessive speed, poor bus maintenance, poor road conditions, and driver fatigue.
• Individuals should use private taxi companies or car-share applications when traveling as opposed to hailing taxis on the side of the road for safety.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Peru’s  national tourist office  and national authority responsible for road safety. 

Aviation Safety Oversight : The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Peru’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Peru’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel : Mariners planning travel to Peru should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Peru was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Peru . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Peru travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: September 9, 2024 16:12 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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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 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:

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

If you’re in Peru:

• monitor local media for the latest information
• follow the instructions of local authorities

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.

Access to Vinicunca, the “Rainbow Mountain”, is regularly disrupted by violent disputes between communities located around routes in the Cusipata and Pitumarca districts. If you plan to visit Vinicunca, consult your tour operator to confirm that the area is secure and that access is open.

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 and give them your tour operator's contact information
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• obtain detailed information on each activity before setting out and do not venture off marked trails or slopes
• 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)

Sand buggies

There are reports of accidents, severe injuries and deaths involving recreational sand buggies, particularly in the sand dunes around Ica and Lake Huacachina. These vehicles are not always regulated, often poorly maintained, and safety equipment is not always available.  

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

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

Ecuador entry restrictions

If you enter Ecuador from Peru through land or river borders, you must present a criminal record check from your country of origin or residence. The original criminal record check and the Spanish translation must be apostilled and cover the past five years. Minors travelling with their family members are generally exempt.

If you cannot provide a criminal record check, the Ecuadorian Migration System will check to verify that you don’t have previous convictions.

Authentication of documents

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 - 9 September, 2024
• Oropouche fever in the Americas - 3 September, 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 level of risk may vary by:

The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause 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.

Learn more:

Insect bite and pest prevention 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.

Health and safety outside Canada

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+ persons

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 .

Dual citizens

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 Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

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.

El Niño

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.

• Emergency monitoring  – National Institute of Civil Defence (in Spanish)
• Nationwide weather warnings  – National Meteorology and Hydrology Service of Peru (in Spanish)
• 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.

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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 862.3 KB)

Americas (PDF 3.29 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 117 or go direct to the hospital.

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.

Reconsider your need to travel to the Valley of the Apurimac, Ene and Mantaro rivers (VRAEM).

Reconsider your need to travel to the Valley of the Apurimac, Ene and Mantaro rivers (VRAEM) due to the high risk of terrorism and crime.

• 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, including 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 at all times.
• 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 one parent or unaccompanied children must carry a notarial permit ('permiso notarial') from the non-travelling parent(s) to depart Peru. This applies if they have resident status in Peru or have stayed in Peru for over 183 days in one year. 

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Tourists don't need a visa. You can get a permit to stay for up to 90 days 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, 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, including 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 and decide to report it to the police, do it as soon as you can. You can expect to be examined to obtain forensic evidence as part of the investigation. If you delay reporting, you may experience more scrutiny by local authorities and some evidence may be lost.

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. 

Reconsider your need to travel to the Valley of the Apurimac, Ene and Mantaro rivers (VRAEM). Cocaine production and trafficking occurs in the VRAEM. Travel is particularly dangerous in areas where there is coca cultivation and processing.

Ayahuasca tourism

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

Ayahuasca is not illegal, but some participants have been assaulted, including sexual assault, 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

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.  

Kidnapping in Peru occurs and is primarily perpetrated by criminal groups. Express kidnapping is relatively common, particularly in urban areas. A large proportion of the incidents take place in Lima. Tourists travelling alone are particularly at risk.

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited.  

To reduce the risk of kidnapping:  

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings  
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk  
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures  
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone  
• notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location   
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs  
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours  
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone  

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.  

More information:  

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. These include airport and land border closures, railways, roads and river blockades. In Lima, the historic centre is often the site of demonstrations. 

States of emergency may be implemented in response to civil unrest, allowing the armed forces to support the police in maintaining law and order. Some civil rights could be suspended. For information on states of emergency, visit the legal gazette  El Peruano official newspaper  (in Spanish).

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. 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. 

• 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, this includes the Valley of the Apurimac, Ene and Mantaro rivers (VRAEM) where drug traffickers operate.

Take care if you travel to:

• Huancavelica

These places may harbour members of the Shining Path terrorist movement, and incidents of domestic terrorism have occurred in the region. 

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.

Ziplining, rafting, diving, sand-dune buggy-riding and other adventure tour operators are not always regulated and 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, some parts of Peru have imposed a State of Emergency for severe climate conditions. This may cause some travel service disruptions and restricted inter-provincial road travel. Some tourist attractions may be temporarily closed. For information on states of emergency, please visit the legal gazette  El Peruano official newspaper  (in Spanish).

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 (Machu Picchu town)

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)
• Geophysical Institute of Peru  (in Spanish)
• Hydrography and Navigation Directorate of Peru  (in Spanish)

Several volcanoes in southern Peru are active. Ubinas volcano in the Moquegua region and Sabancaya volcano in the Arequipa region 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) (in Spanish)
• Geology, Mineralogy and Metallurgy Institute Instituto Geologico Minero y Metalurigico (INGEMMET) (in 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:

• Colca Canyon
• Puno and 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 and oropouche are a risk . 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 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. This applies if they have resident status or have stayed in Peru for over 183 days in one year. For more information, see the Peruvian government's  website . 

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include lengthy prison sentences. Prison conditions in Peru are challenging.  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 can support the Police in the control of law and order. Some civil rights may be suspended and curfews imposed.

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

Information on states of emergency is published in the legal gazette  El Peruano official newspaper  (in Spanish).

Proof of identity

You must carry photo identification at all times. The Peruvian Police may ask to see it. Failure to show identification may result in detention.

It's illegal to photograph military or police sites and personnel.

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 1 321 5560.

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.

Do not leave Peru with coca leaves, coca tea bags or similar products.

It is illegal to remove certain fauna and flora items from Peru. 

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

Peru recognises dual citizenship. You must enter and exit Peru using the same nationality.

• 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 90 days when you arrive. The maximum stay permitted is 183 days in one year. 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

International 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.

You can check the number of days you have been granted to stay legally in Peru, on the Peruvian Immigration Office  website  (in Spanish).

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 seaports, 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 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, 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 .

You need to have at least 6 months validity remaining in your passport to enter Peru.

Emergency travel documents can be used to enter, transit, or depart Peru as long as they have at least 6 months of validity from the moment of entry in Peru.

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 or go to Lima International Airport to get an entry stamp for your new passport. Check  Superintendencia Nacional de Migraciones (Spanish)  to find the nearest office.

If you leave Peru with a replacement passport different from the passport you entered Peru (e.g., an emergency passport), you'll need to show a Police report for the loss of the previous passport to the Immigration officers at the moment of departure.     

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.

• LGBTQIA+ 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 in one year). 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 can be involved in road accidents. They can also be 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 can target riverboats in the Amazon region.

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

If you are travelling along a river on a cruise in the Amazonian area, 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)
• +51 95993 7312 (Plan Vital)

Medical enquiries

Call 113 (Ministry of Health)

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 X:  @embauslima Instagram: @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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Is Cusco Safe? 2024 Travel Safety Guide

Welcome to our Cusco travel safety guide.

Situated deep within the Andean mountains, Cusco is by far the most popular city for travel in Peru, with an almost endless list of things to see and do .

As a result, there’s a variety of accommodation, restaurant and nightlife options in Cusco. This makes it the perfect place for tourists to set up camp, from where it’s then easy to explore the surrounding Sacred Valley region.

Cusco Quick Summary:

📍 Where is it: Southern Peru 🗺 Difficulty Getting There: Moderate/Easy ⏱ Time needed: 6+ Days ☀️ Best Time to Visit: September/October

What's in this guide?

Is Cusco Safe?

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

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 Cusco Safe Right Now?

Quick Answer: Cusco is quite a safe city, even despite the large amount of bustle that passes along its streets every day.

The Historic Centre and the San Blas districts are the safest areas for tourists to stay, although you’ll still want to be careful flashing valuables on the street.

Where to Stay in Cusco

Kokopelli Hostel is by far the best option for backpackers looking for cheap prices and good value. As well as having a lively atmosphere, you’ll also have free breakfast included in the rate too!

El Virrey Boutique is the best option for those who want a more comfortable private room. Located right on the Plaza de Armas, you’ll have everything within touching distance, as well as a hearty breakfast included too.

Things to do in Cusco

Cusco it’s known for its incredible architecture, and there’s no better place to start marvelling than by heading to the Plaza de Armas.

After seeing buildings like the Cusco Cathedral, you can then weave through the streets of San Blas where you can spot the infamous Twelve Angled Stone , before climbing up to the mirador for the very best views over the city.

We then have the stunning Sacred Valley . It’s full of ancient Inca ruins including the circular structures of Moray as well as those of Ollantaytambo . You can also visit some stunning areas of natural beauty too such as Lake Humanatay and the Ausangate National Park .

Machu Picchu is a must of course, and you can head on this guided full-day tour of this legendary citadel.

Is Cusco Safe to visit?

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

Cusco Peru Travel Warnings

Cusco is facing some protests given the current political climate, however these aren’t affecting tourists (unless you get involved of course). Some tourism is affected, with certain sites being closed by the government in response.

As a whole, petty crime isn’t too common with tourists , however, you’ll still want to take precautions and avoid heading out of the touristy neighborhoods at night alone.

Crime in Cusco

The Historic Centre and the San Blas neighborhood are some of the safest areas you can stay and visit within Cusco.

Violent assault is virtually non-existent, although pickpocketing and petty crimes can still happen from time to time. It’s best to take extra precautions if walking through busy markets (such as San Pedro), given it’s easier for a thief to remain undetected.

The neighborhoods outside of these areas are much poorer and less amicable towards tourists, so it’s best to dress down if heading to these parts.

Cusco Safety during the Day

Cusco is pretty safe during the day, and there’s not any of the usual risks you’d need to otherwise plan for.

There is one thing though, and probably not one you would have otherwise thought of – The Roads . Peruvians aren’t the greatest of drivers (George would say harsher things but we’ll leave it at that), and Cusco is notorious for car accidents.

Make sure you only get in registered taxis, and to double check before crossing any roads here. As we always say, learning some Spanish from this book will help you out a ton here.

Cusco Safety at Night

Cusco can really come alive at night, which is focused mostly within the area of the Plaza de Armas and the street of Tecsecocha just behind.

Again no real worries here, where you can head out as you normally would say in Arequipa or in the Miraflores district of Lima. Just try not to get to black-out drunk, and to watch out when crossing roads (as we mentioned earlier on).

Got travel insurance for Cusco?

7 Safety Tips for Cusco

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

1. Watch the Roads

Hopefully by now we’ve hit the point home well, but yes the roads here can be chaotic at the best of times. Also make sure to choose a reputable colectivo for when heading into the Sacred Valley (you can ask your Hostel or Hotel for recommendations).

2. Leave Valuables in your Accommodation

Cusco is actually quite a safe and touristy city, so the risk of being pickpocketed is quite low. However this increases when in busy markets , so when heading here either leave them at home or seal them in this secure Money Belt .

3. Use Caution when leaving Touristy Areas

As always the touristy areas are the safest, given the better infrastructure and more welcoming attitude of locals. Heading further out is best done during the day in groups, or going with a reputable tour.

4. Use Reputable Tour Providers

Speaking of which, this is an absolute must for when embarking on hikes and multi-day trips. As beautiful as these sceneries are, some can be quite dangerous (especially with changing weather conditions) so you’ll need an expert on hand to guide you all the way. We recommend this two-in-one tour which includes hikes to both the Rainbow Mountain as well as Lake Humantay.

5. Take the Altitude Seriously

Located at 3399m, Cusco can be hard work for your respiratory system. Whilst symptoms are usually tolerable, they can cause problems higher up such as sickness (it led to George’s ill-fated volcano attempt in Arequipa). Be sure to take your time, and also use Coca Leaves and Soroche Pills to keep it all in check.

6. Bring lots of Water when Exploring

Dehydration isn’t taken so seriously in Peru, however many of these hikes are pretty demanding (there’s a reason why many of these multi-day treks take as many as 8 days). Keep drinking plenty of fluids to keep your system in optimum condition.

7. Use Sunscreen on Day Trips

You’d be surprised given how cold Cusco is, however the sun here can burn quite easily as we’re up at a high altitude. Walking the city is fine, however you’ll definitely want to carry a top-rated sunscreen like this one when out hiking.

Cusco Safety FAQ Guide:

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

Is Machu Picchu safe?

The site itself is very safe, with rangers patrolling the area making it very hard for any thieves to steal personal items. Please stick to the roped paths, as remember that we are on the top of a steep mountain (over a year ago a tourist went off-piste and unfortunately fell to his death).See our Machu Picchu safety guide for more information.

Is Cusco, Peru expensive?

Cusco is a cheap city to stay in, and backpackers could easily get by on $20-25 a day . There’s also a range of nice hotels and restaurants too, so it really depends on your trip style and preferences. Tours can be hit or miss with price, so it’s best to research the best deals beforehand.

Is Lima cheaper than Cusco?

Again it all depends on the areas that you stay within these cities. However if comparing the touristy areas (such as Miraflores in Lima vs Centro Histórico in Cusco), then Cusco is by far the cheaper city . See this guide on how much it costs to travel to in Peru for even more insight.

What areas to avoid in Cusco?

Is cusco safe final words.

And that’s all for our guide on how to stay safe in Cusco.

A classic staple when backpacking Peru, even those with a loose itinerary through South America will also want to make a stop here. Here you’ll find beautiful sceneries, ruins and a culture that makes Cusco like no other .

Cusco is also a very safe city to visit, with hardly any issues with the touristy areas (even outside they’re pretty rare too). Just make sure to follow our top tips and anything you hear from your local travel advisory, and you’ll have a really memorable time here.

In this guide, we’ve explored the current safety situation in Cusco , which includes the areas to avoid, as well as any current travel advisories.

As well as looking at the best things to do in Cusco, we’ve also included our FAQ which answers your most burning questions.

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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Warnings and insurance

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where  FCDO  advises against all but essential travel  

Within 20km south of the peru-colombia border .

FCDO  advises against all but essential travel to areas within 20km south of the Putumayo River and border between Peru and Colombia (Loreto region) except for: 

• the Amazon River
• the area of the triple border with Brazil and Colombia from and including the towns of Caballococha in Peru up to the actual triple border at Santa Rosa de Yavari town

The Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers ( VRAEM )

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers, also known as the VRAEM region.

Most visits to Peru are incident free. FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the two areas above for safety and security reasons.

Find out more about  why  FCDO  advises against travel . 

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see  general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about  safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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Latest updates and travel restrictions for entering Peru

The latest news and travel restrictions for entering Peru were  updated in March 2024.

Traveling to Peru in 2024

Peru is a safe country for travelers , and we have thousands of travelers from all over the world who are arriving to visit the most extraordinary places like Machu Picchu. Still, like any destination, there are some safety considerations that visitors should keep in mind. Here are some tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Peru:

• There have been no more strikes or civil unrest in Peru since January 2023. All travels to Peru, Machu Picchu, Inca Trail are back to normal. 
• Be aware of petty crime: Pickpocketing and other forms of petty crime can occur in popular tourist areas, so it's important to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items. Use common sense and stay alert, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable tour operators : When booking tours or activities, choose reputable tour operators and travel providers with good reviews and established reputations. This can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Take precautions in remote areas: If you're traveling to remote areas or hiking in the mountains, be sure to research the area and take appropriate safety precautions, such as hiring a guide or traveling with a reputable tour company.
• Follow health and safety guidelines: As with any destination, it's important to follow health and safety guidelines related to COVID-19 or other health risks. This may include wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and following local regulations and restrictions.
• Respect local customs and traditions : Peru has a rich culture and history, and it's important to respect local customs and traditions, including dress codes and religious practices.

Latest travel-related FAQs. 

Is traveling to peru safe right now.

Yes, travel in Peru is back to normal after the political crisis in January. All tours are 100% confirmed, and travel to Machu Picchu is safe. If you have plans to come to Peru, this is the best time to travel, as we have great deals on hotels and flights, and Machu Picchu has fewer visitors. 

Is Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail open?

Machu Picchu is fully open, and hundreds of travelers are visiting the Inca citadel. The Citadel was temporarily closed from January 21st to February 11th, 2023; this measure was taken to prevent any incidents due to the political crisis in Peru. 

The Inca Trail has been fully open since March 1st, 2023. Every day, we have group tours departing to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail.

All tours to Machu Picchu after March 1st, 2023, are confirmed. 

Is the airport in Cusco and others operating?

Yes, the airport in Cusco is open, and flights are operating normally.

Are the Machu Picchu Trains running?

Yes, the Machu Picchu trains, Inca Rail, and Peru Rail are in operation, and we have several trains daily. 

Is Peru/ Cusco/ Machu Picchu safe for travelers?

Yes, 100% safe to travel. Despite warnings from many countries that advised people not to travel to Peru, Cusco and Machu Picchu are among the safest towns in Peru for travelers. 

International flights arriving in Peru

There are no longer travel restrictions to enter Peru related to Covid 19. Travelers must verify with the airline company if anything is needed to board the flights. 

Domestic flights in Peru

From October 1st, there are no restrictions to board domestic flights in Peru.

Restrictions while traveling in buses in Peru

• No restrictions to travel on buses.
• Contact the company to verify if they have any requirements. 

Restrictions in Hotels, Restaurants

• There are no travel restrictions.
• Contact the hotels or restaurants to verify if there are any special requirements. 

Machu Picchu restrictions

• Inca Trail Tours : There are no restrictions on entering the Inca Trail.
• Machu Picchu Citade l: No restrictions
• Machu Picchu bus : No restrictions.
• Machu Picchu trains : No restrictions.

Travelers Flying out of Peru

Contact your embassy or flight company; this depends on the country of destination policy. 

The Classic Inca Trail , 4 days to Machu Picchu - 2024,  is open to book, and some dates are selling out fast.

Peru Travel restrictions to enter the country, updated on October 23rd, 2022.

Face masks and vaccination cards are no longer mandatory in Peru in open spaces and well-ventilated places. You must only wear only if you have symptoms of Covid 19.

Wearing masks and vaccination cards will still be mandatory when traveling by car or train and in enclosed spaces.

From October 1st, all Peruvians, resident foreigners, and non-resident foreigners aged 12 or over have 2 options when entering Peru.

• Non-resident foreigners  over 12 years or older must be fully vaccinated according to their country's protocol (This is for most tourists arriving in Peru)
• Peruvians and foreign residents aged 12 years and older must provide proof that they have received three (3) doses of vaccination against COVID-19 in Peru or abroad.
• Children under 12 can board the plane as long as they are asymptomatic. This rule applies to Peruvians and foreigners.

Option 2:  

• Non-vaccinated travelers can present a negative molecular test dated  48 hours before boarding.

Travel restrictions for domestic flights in Peru

• From October 1st, 2022, COVID-19 Vaccination cards or PCR/Antigen COVID tests are not required anymore.
• Face masks are optional for passenger

Peru Land border restrictions

Land borders with Ecuador, Bolivia, Basil, and Chile are now open.

• Bolivia:  Desaguadero, Kasani, Tillai, CEBAF Desaguadero
• Ecuador: Tumbes, Huaquillas
• Brasil: Iñapari (Madre de dios)

Travelers must show the following:

• Current documents (Passport or National ID in case of Latin America).
• All Peruvians and residents over 18 must prove they have received three (3) doses.
• All Peruvians and residents from 12-17 years old must provide proof of double vaccination.
• Travelers under 12 can enter as long as they are asymptomatic
• Non-vaccinated travelers must have a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours.
• Foreigners must show a full vaccination card according to their country's protocol 

Travelers going to Chile from Peru: 

• Contact your embassy to request more information 

Travel Restrictions inside Peru

Wearing a mask is optional in all public areas:

• Wearing a mask is not mandatory anymore in public areas or well-ventilated places. 
• A double mask is mandatory in buses, trains, hospitals, clinics, or enclosed spaces; 1 disposable mask + 1 reusable fabric mask or 1 KN95 mask. 
• Face shields are not required anymore.
• Vaccination cards are not required anymore.

What is new when traveling to Machu Picchu?

Train companies are no longer requesting face shields.

• Machu Picchu: Wearing a mask is optional in Machu Picchu
• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu:  Wearing a mask at checkpoints is optional; you need to wear a mask when you are traveling by bus and train
• Inca Rail: A double or 1 KN95 mask  is mandatory .
• Peru Rail: A double or 1 KN95 mask  is mandatory .
• Bus to Machu Picchu: A double mask , or 1 KN95 mask, is mandatory .

What happens if I show symptoms or test positive for Covid?

• The National Health Authority can test passengers for COVID-19 and implement additional health measures for positive cases.
• If you show symptoms of COVID-19, a physician will examine you. The MINSA will offer transportation to medical services or the isolation unit if necessary.
• In the Affidavit, you must provide the address and phone number of your 14-day isolation place. The Minsa does a health check every three days. Monitoring ends after 14 days.
• If you must leave the country before the 14-day quarantine period, you must pay for and undergo an additional molecular test on the 6th day after your arrival. If your test results are negative, the health department will release you. You may be quarantined at Villa Panamericana or another temporary facility if you do not comply.

How to Stay Safe While Traveling in Peru

Taking basic precautions is the best way to stay safe while traveling in Peru. First, make sure you are up-to-date on all your vaccinations. Second, wash your hands often. Third, avoid touching your face. Fourth, clean and disinfect surfaces that you come into contact with. Fifth, stay in well-ventilated areas as much as possible. Finally, wear a face mask if you cannot avoid close contact with others.

If you get sick while traveling in Peru, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Many hospitals and clinics in Peru can provide you with the necessary care.

Are covid, antigen, and/or PCR tests available for U.S. citizens in Peru? 

Yes, you can take a Covid 19 test in Peru; hundreds of laboratories and clinics can issue a covid test certificate allowing you to travel in case your flight company requests you to the U.S. or any other country. 

• Rapid/Antigen test : it takes around 30 minutes to get the results, and the average cost is around 120 soles. 
• PCR/Molecular test : it takes around 5 hours to get the results, and the average cost is around 280 soles
• People who show symptoms of COVID-19 have to dial the toll-free number 113, send a WhatsApp to +51-952-842-623, or email  [email protected] . The answers are usually only in Spanish. For more information on requesting a COVID-19 test through MINSA, visit this website (in Spanish only): https://www.minsa.gob.pe .
• Beware, all travelers are responsible for the costs of testing for COVID-19.
• For information on how to protect yourself from COVID-19 while traveling, visit the CDC website .

More Information Covid-19

• Tourism: All Peru travelers  can visit the  iPeru  website for the latest tourist guide. iPerú has a WhatsApp number that will answer questions in English: (+51) 944 492 314.
• For official COVID-19 health-related information and statistics, visit the Peruvian Ministry of Health website (in Spanish): https://www.gob.pe/8736-coronavirus-informacion-para-viajeros .
• For more information and updates on the latest decrees and official publications, visit https://elperuano.pe/ .
• COVID-19 Information page for travelers on travel.state.gov
• CDC page on COVID-19
• Country Information Page and Travel Advisory

FAQs About Travel Restrictions in Peru

What can i do if i have symptoms of covid 19 while traveling in peru.

If you are having symptoms of Covid 19, report immediately to your tour guide, hotel or you can call INFOSALUD:

• (+51) 952842623 (Only WhatsApp Available)
• [email protected]

What if I test positive for Covid 19 while traveling in Peru?

Report immediately to the hotel, tour operator, tour guide, or INFOSALUD:

Is tourism safe in Peru?

Traveling in Peru, traveling to Cusco and Machu Picchu is safe.

Are the land borders open between Peru, Ecuador, Chile, and Bolivia?

Land borders are open; for travel restrictions, you need to contact your embassy or the country of destination to verify travel restrictions.

The Classic Inca Trail , 4 days to Machu Picchu - 2023, is open to book, and some dates are selling out fast.

Peru Travel restrictions, updated on August 4th, 2022.

The latest travel restrictions for Peru are that all travelers must be fully vaccinated or have a negative COVID-19 test result within 48 hours of their flight. They must also complete a Health Declaration form before arriving in the country.

• Non-resident foreigners must be fully vaccinated according to their country's protocol, regardless of their origin.
• Peruvians and foreign residents aged 18 years and older must provide proof that they have received three (3) doses of vaccination against COVID-19 in Peru or abroad.
• Travelers aged 12 to 17 must prove double vaccination against COVID-19 in Peru or abroad.
• Children under 12 can board the plane without a PCR test if they are asymptomatic. This rule applies to Peruvians and foreigners.
• Non-vaccinated travelers can present a negative molecular test dated no more than 48 hours before boarding.
• The use of a double mask is mandatory, or 1 KN95 mask
• All travelers must complete the "Traveler's  Electronic Health Affidavit and Geolocation Authorization " within 72 hours before the trip. Your legal guardian must complete this document if you are minor or dependent.

Travel restrictions for domestic flights in Peru:

• All non-resident travelers over the age of 12 require double vaccination
• Triple vaccination for Peruvians over 18.
• Travelers under 12 can enter without a PCR test as long as they are asymptomatic
• Non-vaccinated travelers must present a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours.
• All travelers must complete the "Traveler's  Electronic Health Affidavit and Geolocation Authorization ."

Peru border restrictions:

Land borders with Ecuador, Bolivia, Basil, and Chile are open now. Travelers must show the following:

• Proof of COVID-19 vaccination certificate with the total dose.
• Or PCR test (taken no more than 48 hours).

Wearing a mask is mandatory in all public areas:

• Áncash, Ica, and Lima, the usage of face masks in open places is optional
• In all other regions, masks are mandatory in all public places; 1 KN95 mask or 1 disposable mask + 1 reusable fabric mask is required.
• Machu Picchu: It is mandatory to wear a mask; surgical, reusable fabric mask, or a KN95
• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu:  It is mandatory to wear a mask in public places or around people, a surgical, reusable fabric mask, or a KN95. You can remove it when hiking.
• Inca Rail:  To board the trains, you must be fully vaccinated or have a negative Covid 19 test. The use of a double mask is mandatory, or 1 KN95 mask.
• Peru Rail: You must be fully vaccinated or have a negative Covid 19 test to board the trains. The use of a double mask is mandatory, or 1 KN95 mask.
• Bus to Machu Picchu: You must be fully vaccinated or have a negative Covid 19 test to board the buses. The use of a double mask is mandatory, or 1 KN95 mask.
• If you must leave the country before the 14-day quarantine period, you must pay for and undergo an additional molecular tes t on the 6th day after your arrival. If your test results are negative, the health department will release you. You may be quarantined at Villa Panamericana or another temporary facility if you do not comply.

The best way to stay safe while traveling in Peru is to take basic precautions. First, make sure you are up-to-date on all your vaccinations. Second, wash your hands often. Third, avoid touching your face. Fourth, clean and disinfect surfaces that you come into contact with. Fifth, stay in well-ventilated areas as much as possible. Finally, wear a face mask if you cannot avoid close contact with others.

Peru Travel restrictions, updated on December 15th, 2021.

New restrictions to enter the country from December 10th, 2021, to January 2nd, 2022

• From December 10th, 2021, a physical or virtual card of complete vaccination is required to enter enclosed spaces for anyone over 18 years old. This restriction includes trains from Machu Picchu, restaurants, and malls.
• Fully Vaccinated travelers are no longer required to present a PCR test; they must have completed the vaccinations 14 days before or more from when they board the flight to Peru. (Important: you must verify with your airline company if you have any tests to board the flight to Peru).
• Travelers who have completed the vaccination 14 days or less from entering Peru must show a Negative PCR test taken within 72 hours.
• Non-vaccinated travelers must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours.
• Travelers under 12 years old will enter the country without a PCR test; they must be healthy.
• Travelers who show symptoms when entering the national territory must complete a mandatory 14 days of isolation.
• All travelers must complete the "Traveler's  Electronic Health Affidavit and Geolocation Authorization " within 72 hours before the trip.

Country restrictions, Inside Peru from December 10th, 2021:

• People over 18 years of age who wish to enter venues for economic and religious activities must present a physical or virtual card to prove that they have completed their vaccination program against COVID-19 in Peru or abroad.
• All travelers over 18 years old need to present a physical or virtual card of complete vaccination to board domestic flights or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours.

Border restrictions, Peru Border closure:

• All land borders with Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador, Chile, and Brazil are closed. International land transportation is not allowed in these countries. Travelers from these countries must book a flight to Lima first, then a domestic flight to any province in Peru.
• Using masks is mandatory in all public places; 1 KN95 mask or 1 disposable mask + 1 reusable fabric mask is required.
• Face shield is not required anymore in public transportation. However, the train ride to/from Machu Picchu is still needed.

What is new when traveling to Peru?

• Train companies to/from Machu Picchu request proof of complete vaccination; this can be a physical card or virtual. Non-Vaccinated travelers will not be allowed to board the trains: IncaRail requests from December 10th, while PeruRail asks for all travelers from December 15th, 2021.
• To board domestic flights in Peru, complete vaccination is required for all travelers over 18. Otherwise, they can present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours.
• Using KN95 masks is mandatory in all public places, or a double mask (1 disposable mask + 1 reusable fabric mask)

Alert Levels in all of Peru until January 16th, 2022: 

Moderate level: Curfew from 2:am to 4:am

• All other provinces in Peru

High Alert Level: Curfew from 23:pm to 4:am

• Bagua, Chepén, Concepción, Huamanga, Huancavelica, Santa, Sullana, Piura, Sechura, Talaram, Virú

Very High Alter: Curfew from 10 pm to 4:am

Extreme Alert: Mobday to Saturday curfew from 21:pm to 4:am, Sundays curfew from 4:pm to 4:am

Peru Travel restrictions, updated on October 9th, 2021.

All passengers entering Peru must have a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before boarding a flight to Peru (both vaccinated and unvaccinated guests must present the PCR test results)

Contrary to the Government's latest announcement, unvaccinated passengers can still enter the country. They must show a negative PCR test and fill in the Affidavit ( link ) required to board the flight to Peru. The sworn health affidavit must be filled up within 72 hours or less.

Passengers under the age of 12 need not provide a negative PCR test but a medical certificate of good health.

Travelers who have tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 3 months can provide evidence of discharge instead of being negative by PCR.

Travelers from Brazil are again allowed to enter Peru without mandatory isolation.

Passengers from South Africa are not allowed to enter

Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are again running at 100% capacity.

Huayna Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu Montaña are now open to hiking.

Peru Travel restrictions were updated on September 25th, 2021.

All travelers entering Peru must have a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before boarding the flight to Peru (fully vaccinated and non-vaccinated guests must show the PCR test)

Contrary to the last announcement from the Government, travelers without vaccination are still allowed to enter the country. They need to show proof of a negative PCR test and fill up an affidavit ( link ) necessary to board the flight to Peru. This form must be filled up within 72 hours or less.

Travelers under 12 need not provide a negative PCR test but a medical certificate of good health.

Travelers who have tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 3 months may provide evidence of discharge instead of a negative PCR test.

Travelers from Brazil and South Africa were again allowed to enter Peru without Quarantine.

Machu Picchu and Inca Trail are once again operating at 100% capacity.

Peru Travel restriction, updated on September 18th, 2021.

Peruvians, resident foreigners, and non-resident foreigners whose final destination is Peru, passengers, regardless of the country of origin, must have a negative molecular test with a result date no longer than 72 hours before boarding the flight and have completed the respective doses of vaccines according to the requirements of the country where they were vaccinated."

You must be fully vaccinated to enter Peru, and also, you will need to have a negative PCR test taken 72 hours or less from the time you are boarding the flight. The rule is not clear about the Antigen test.

According to this new restriction, from September 20th, 2021, only fully vaccinated travelers will be allowed to enter Peru. Unvaccinated travelers might not be allowed to enter Peru.

These new rules contradict the last restrictions published just a week ago, where fully vaccinated travelers were not required to show tests.

Entry is suspended until October 3rd, 2021, for all travelers, residents, non-resident foreigners from South Africa , or foreigners who have stayed there within the past fourteen (14) calendar days.

Peruvians and foreigners entering Peru from South Africa or stopping in that country will be subject to fourteen (14) calendar days of compulsory isolation at their homes, residences, or other temporary isolation centers, counting from the country's arrival.

Before entering the country, all travelers must fill out an affidavit ( link ) necessary to board the flight to Peru. This form must be filled up within 72 hours or less.

Restrictions to enter Peru, updated on September 14th.

Important update for travelers arriving in peru this september.

Fully Vaccinated travelers no longer need to provide a PCR or Antigen test to enter Peru.

Travelers holding a double vaccination certificate no longer need to show a negative Covid 19 test when entering Peru.

Vaccinations that are accepted in Peru are:

• Pfizer/BioNTech
• Johnson & Johnson
• Oxford/AstraZeneca
• Serum Institute of India, Sinopharm, and Sinovac.

Non-vaccinated or single-dose vaccines still require a negative PCR test taken no later than 72 hours before the arrival to the country. Please note that the Antigen tests are no longer valid; we recommend contacting your airline company for more details.

Before entering the country, all travelers must fill out an affidavit ( link ) necessary to board the flight to Peru. This form must be filled up within 72 hours or less. 

Travels from South Africa are still suspended.

Machu Picchu has been open at a total of 100% capacity again since September 1st, 2021. Huayna Picchu Mountain and Montaña Machu Picchu are still closed but is expected to open soon.

The Government of Peru has classified the regions on different levels:

The Government has arranged a series of targeted measures to face the COVID-19 pandemic in Peru. Locate your place of visit and the standards that you must comply with according to the alert level from September 6th to 19, 2021 (Supreme Decree No. 151-2021-PCM):

Provinces with a high up level

Luya and Chachapoyas (Amazonas), Cangallo, La Mar and Paucar del Sara Sara (Ayacucho), Tahuamanu (Madre de Dios), Azángaro, Carabaya, Chucuito, El Collao, Huancané, Lampa, Sandia and Yunguyo (Puno).

• Private cars are allowed on Sundays.
• Curfew: Monday to Sunday from 11:00 pm to 4:00 am
• Commercial establishments must be closed one (01) hour before the curfew.
• Inter-provincial land transportation: allowed.

It's not allowed: Large-scale events, carnivals, traditional festivals.

Provinces with a moderate alert level

All other provinces, including Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.

• Curfew: Monday to Sunday from 1:00 am to 4:00 am (This will not affect the tours to Machu Picchu)
• Commercial establishments must be closed one hour before the curfew, but Lima and Callao must be closed two hours before.

Peru Travel restrictions during Machu Picchu Tours:

During this pandemic, traveling to Machu Picchu is safe; all our tours are organized with all safety protocols to prevent Covid 19.

When participating in our tours, you must follow the following restrictions.

• Temperature checks are mandatory.
• You need to wear a face mask in public areas like Machu Picchu.
• When you are hiking, you can remove it to make it easy to breathe
• Whenever you are around people, tour guides explanation, or checkpoints, you need to wear a mask
• You must wear a face mask and shield when traveling by bus or train.

Peru Travel restrictions were updated on June 22nd.

Great news for all nature and adventure lovers, the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is opening this July 15th, 2021. All permits for the 2021 season will be released this June 25th at 9:am, and some dates will sell out immediately. We recommend that all travelers waiting for this trek book get one of the limited spots to hike this amazing trail as soon as possible.

Only 250 people, including guests, tour guides, chefs, and porters, will be allowed daily. This is only 50% of its total capacity.

The Peruvian Government has implemented the following safety measures to reduce the spread of Covid 19 in Peru.

1.- Passengers entering must present a negative molecular test (PCR), Antigen test, or an epidemiological discharge medical certificate before boarding the plane. Test results must be obtained within 72 hours before check-in.

2.-  All travelers must fill out an affidavit ( link ) necessary to board the flight to Peru.

3.- Travel restrictions to Brazil, India, and South Africa have been extended until July 11th

4.-  For domestic flights in Peru, no Covid test is required; however, you must fill out an affidavit ( link ) and wear face shields and masks

5.- No quarantine is required upon arrival to Peru, except for travelers from India, Brazil, and South Africa, who must complete a mandatory 14 days quarantine before arriving in Peru.

6.- Sunday lockdowns in Cusco are over, and you can travel to Machu Picchu on any date.

Moderate Alert:

Ucayali, Loreto: Curfew from 12 am to 4 am; everything open at 60% capacity

High Alert:

Cajamarca, Huancavelica, Huanaco, Ica, La Libertad, Lambayeque, Lima, Madre de Dios, Piura, Puno, San Martin, Tumbes: Curfew from 11 pm to 4 am, everything open at 50% capacity

Very High Alert:

Amazonas, Ancash, Apurimac, Ayacucho, Cusco, Junin, Moquegua, Pasco, Tacna: Curfew from 10 pm to 4 am; archeological sites and museums are open at 40% capacity, and partial restrictions for vehicles on Sundays. Machu Picchu and other places are open on Sundays.

Extreme Alert:

At this level, we have specific provinces in different regions, including Cusco.

In Amazonas ( Chachapoyas ), Arequipa ( Arequipa, Camaná, Caravelí, Castilla, Caylloma and Islay ), Ayacucho ( Lucanas ) and Cusco ( Espinar ). Curfew form 9 pm to 4 am, Sunday mandatory lockdown.

Total Lockdown in Arequipa:

Epidemiological fence in Arequipa, all air and land traffic is suspended until July 11th to prevent the spread of the Delta variant of Covid found in Arequipa. If you have travel plans during this time, please reschedule.

To enter Peru, you only need a PCR or Antigen test and fill out the Affidavit; then, you can travel without restrictions in Cusco and Machu Picchu. You will always be required to wear a mask in public areas and a face shield whenever you travel on buses and trains to Machu Picchu.

Peru Travel restrictions updated on March 11th, 2021

Great news for all International Travelers. From March 15th, the mandatory 14-day quarantine is over. Starting from March 15th, all travelers arriving in Peru don't need to keep the quarantine. However, there are still a few restrictions.

• All travelers must present a negative Covid 19 test to enter Peru. This test must be no later than 72 hours from travel time.
• A sworn health statement is required; click here to download the document.
• The use of masks is mandatory in all public areas.
• We are organizing tours to Machu Picchu with all safety protocols

Peru Travel restrictions updated on March 2nd, 2021

Machu Picchu was closed all February 2021 due to the second wave of Covid 19. Machu Picchu reopened on March 1st, 2021, and now we have travelers arriving every day. All trekking tours, tours by train, and day tours are available.

This March 2021 will depart with all safety measures and guidelines with Covid 19 protocols. See restrictions below.

New Peru  Travel restriction with Covid 19 in 2021

• All international travelers arriving in Peru must stay in a mandatory 14 days quarantine. The quarantine can be completed at any hotel.
• The 14-day quarantine can end on the 6th day if you take a Covid test negative for Covid 19.
• Flights longer than 8 hours are still suspended.

Peru Travel restrictions updated January 23rd, 2021

 New Safety Protocols for International Travels

  Due to the new variant of Covid 19 found in many countries and the 3 first cases in Peru, the Peruvian Government passed a series of security protocols to help prevent the spread of the virus and minimize the second wave's effects in Peru. All our tours are confirmed after March 1st, 2021; however, if you cannot travel, you can reschedule your tour at any time in the future.

• From January 4th . All travelers arriving in Peru must complete a mandatory 14-day quarantine. On the 6 th day, travelers can leave quarantine if they test negative on a molecular Covid-19 test.
• The 14- days quarantine can be completed at any location of their choice (hotels, hostels, Airb&B). The cost of this quarantine is on travelers.
• All travelers must have a negative molecular test for Covid-17 to enter Peru. This test must be no later than 72 hours from when it was taken.
• Flights from Europe will be suspended until January 31st. Same with flights longer than 8 hours.
• Non-resident travelers from Europe or South Africa (or travelers who have transited there in the last 14 days) cannot enter Peru until January 31st, 2021.

As of January 13th, 2021, there is a daily curfew in all regions of Peru. The curfews in the areas are ranked from Moderate to Very High .

Moderate level alert

• Amazonas, Ayacucho, Huancavelica, Loreto, San Martín y Ucayali.
• Curfew: 11:00 p. m. a 4:00 a. m.

High-level alert.

• Arequipa, Apurímac, Cajamarca, Provincia del Callao, Cusco , Huánuco, La Libertad, Lima Metropolitana, Madre de Dios, Moquegua, Pasco, Puno y Tumbes.
• Curfew: 9:00 p. m. a 4:00 a. m.
• Private transportation is not allowed on Sundays

Very High-level alert

• Ancash, Ica, Junín, Lambayeque, Lima provincias, Piura y Tacna.
• Curfew: 11:00 p. m. a 4:00 a. m
• Lockdown on Sundays

Update on October 28th:

The Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC) has announced that from November 1st, Peru will open 25 new international flights, including the USA, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. With this further expansion, Peru will be allowing 36 destinations.

From October 5th, Peru has allowed flights from Latin America as part of the Economic Reactivation's Phase 4. The expansion to more international destinations is with the Ministry of Health (MINSA), and all travelers must comply with international flights' health protocols.

The new destinations are:

• Los Ángeles
• Ciudad de México
• Montego Bay

República Dominicana

• Toronto (Canadá)
• Foz de Iguazú
• Porto Alegre
• Buenos Aires

El Salvador

• San Salvador

From October 5th, Peru has opened to 11 destinations from Lima to Guayaquil, La Paz, Quito, Bogotá, Santa Cruz, Cali, Medellín, Panamá, Asunción, Montevideo, and Santiago . It's important to note that all passengers must have a negative molecular test for COVID-19.

Machu Picchu : Although international flights are allowed to Peru, Machu Picchu is closed until November 1st. From November 1st to November 15th, Machu Picchu is reopening with free entry for Peruvian and is completely sold out. For International, Travelers is expected to be open this November, but no date has been confirmed yet.

Inca Trails : the Classic Inca Trail 4-days remain closed; only the Shorter Version (2 days Inca Trail) is opening this November 1st; however, due to the current situation of the country as we are recovering from this pandemic, international visitors are not allowed yet officially. Together with Machu Picchu, the Inca Trails are expected to reopen this November as part of the Economic reactivation Phase 4.

Flexible options for Existing bookings.

All bookings are now transferable to any date in the future; however, they remain non-refundable. The permits, tickets, trains, hotels, and other expenses we incur to organize our tours are not offering any refunds but are flexible in rescheduling.

In response to COVID-19, we've introduced the option to convert the amount you've paid to credit for future tours run by TreXperience. We know it is challenging to decide on a new date due to the current situation and worldwide travel restrictions. For this, we are introducing new flexibilities for all our guests.

• Inca Trail Tours: You can use 100% of your deposit to rebook on any date until December 31st, 2023. Please, keep in mind that permits are released the year before, around the weeks of October. For instance, if you want to rebook for 2021, you must provide a travel date before October 2020. See HERE for more information about booking for Inca Trail 2021. Please note that once permits are booked, under normal circumstances, these permits are non-transferable and non-refundable.
• Alternative Treks and Tours by Train: You can use the 100% to rebook on any date until December 31st, 2023. You can use the amount paid to book the same tour or any other tour offered by TreXperience. The tours can be rescheduled at any time up to 48 hours before the departure at no cost.

Flexible dates for Future bookings.

• Inca Trail Tours: Book your tours in advance and benefit from the 10% discount on our group departures. For all tours for 2020 and 2021, you can change the date of departure at no cost until September 30th, 2020.
• Alternative Treks and Tours by Train: Book the best alternative tours and benefit from the group departure discounts. For all future bookings, if you can't travel or travel restrictions, you can change departure time as many times as necessary with no charges.

Peru Coronavirus Travel Restrictions FAQs

My tour has been suspended or canceled - what happens.

Suppose you have a tour scheduled to depart between March 16th, 2020, and October 5th, 2020. You can rebook the same or any other tours with TreXperience at no extra fee. All rebookings will also automatically apply the 10% discount, or you can have a complimentary day tour for all your party (City tour, Sacred Valley, Humantay Lake, or Rainbow Mountain tour).

If you have a tour from October 5th onwards, please contact us if you cannot travel; the TreXperience team will help you reschedule your tour at no extra cost.

How do I convert my deposit into credit for future tours?

Please email [email protected] or call +51 957 011 937; you can contact us on WhatsApp and the same number; you need to specify the date number of the travelers.

When do I need to provide a new travel date?

For Inca Trail tours, if you plan to rebook for this year, 2020, the earlier you provide a travel date, the better to get your preferred date. Please keep in mind that permits tend to sell out fast. For 2021, the ideal is to provide a travel date before  October of this year. The 2021 Inca Trail will be released in the first weeks of October 2020.

For Alternative tours, you can rebook at any time in the future, depending on departure availability. The tours can be rescheduled in need at no cost at all.

What happens if we still have travel restrictions on my travel date?

If we still have travel restrictions when your travel date, we will assist you and rebook at no extra cost.

Can I change the number of travelers and names?

Only for rebookings will you be able to transfer your reservation and deposit to any friend or family member. For Inca Trail, tours can be done before we book the new permits. Please get in touch with us at [email protected].

A Humble Message from TreXperience

TreXperience is a local Peruvian tour company. We are committed to helping all our guests, staff, and community during this challenging situation. Initially, we never thought Coronavirus would harmfully affect the whole world. We know things are getting tough everywhere; everything has stopped, and millions of jobs are lost in Peru, especially in Cusco, a 90% tourism-based city. TreXperience has decided not to lay off any of our regular staff, and we are supporting monthly bonuses to all our porters, chef, and guides.

If you cannot reschedule, the non-refundable deposit will go straight to support our porters, chefs, and all our staff in a more vulnerable situation.

If you cancel your tour now and decide to travel to Peru later in the future, please send us an email, and we will reactivate your booking, and your deposit will be used for your new tour. This way, we will ensure you do not lose any money, but you also help us support our staff.

Warm regards

Priscila Coronel

Founder of TreXperience

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Juan Coronel - Author

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A Raucous Cusco Wedding With a Stop at Machu Picchu

It’s safe to say that travel is incredibly important for Megan Spurrell and Henry Urrunaga Diaz , both of whom travel the world for a living: Megan is a Californian who works as the associate director of articles at Condé Nast Traveler in New York , and Henry is a Peruvian who films his adventures for his YouTube channel . The pair met through friends in 2014 while spending a few months in Rio de Janeiro around the time of the World Cup. They’ve lived together in Henry’s native Lima, traveled around Southeast Asia in tandem, and logged some long-distance years before settling in New York City in 2019.

“We’re not very traditional,” says Megan of the couple’s marriage; they first wed in New York’s City Hall in January 2020, but they always knew they’d hold a larger wedding later. Doing so in Peru made the most sense for many reasons: Henry has a big family with nine siblings (which would require lengthy visa processes for visiting the US), and Megan was eager to show her own family and friends her husband’s beautiful country after she having spent so much time there. So, in May 2024, the couple welcomed 120 guests to a rowdy, hug-filled weekend (which swelled, for many, to a half-month vacation) in and around Cusco and Peru’s Sacred Valley . Ahead, they share what they learned through the process of planning a Peru destination wedding .

Megan Spurrell and Henry Urrunaga on a pre-wedding day trip to Mountain View lodge in the Sacred Valley.

Llamas, alpacas, dogs, and horses roamed the grounds at Mountain View while guests tipped back Aperol spritzes and chilcanos.

Give in to the location, but not its rules

Though Henry and his family are from Lima, the couple opted to hold their wedding in the city of Cusco for its Incan ruins, colonial architecture, and proximity to the Andes . It was a stunning location that would represent a special, adventurous trip for the majority of their guests. Plus, “Every American who comes to Peru is probably going to want to go to Machu Picchu, so we were just helping them to get there,” Megan says.

From there, they did a ton of research and made two planning trips to the city before formally locking in their venue. The first visit was to get a feel for the area’s venues, and the latter came once they had found a planner, Tie the Knot in Perú , and put down a deposit at their preferred spot. “We were going to look at it and hoped we’d like it, and if we didn't, we had enough time to make another plan,” Megan says.

They needed a lot of room for their large guest list, which could be hard to find in charming, small-scale Cusco—unless they wanted to book a space in one of the city’s international luxury hotels, which they did not. The city’s venues also tended to have limitations on sound past a certain time of night, particularly in the historic center, and the couple knew their rowdy group wouldn't take well to limits on their fun.

Ultimately, they wanted to recreate the vibe of the groom’s family’s famous house parties, which are held at their house for just about every holiday—last year's Christmas eve “dinner” ran until sunrise. They found just the place with Hacienda Canopata , a family-owned, 16th-century home located 30 minutes outside the city’s noise restrictions.

Local remedies, like coca leaf tea, were always on offer to help guests acclimate to the high altitude; pisco always flowed as well.

Peruvian dishes like pachamanca—an Inca-era earthen oven of meat, corn, and tubers—were the basis of the weekend's menu.

Don’t expect any contracts (or credit card points)

One major issue that a wedding planner helped the couple resolve was deciding which vendors to put their faith in. “Culturally, we Peruvians are really informal in some ways—like there are really no contracts,” Henry says. Enter a wedding planner who “knew the providers for years, and trusted them.” With certain vendors, they still had to push for a written agreement—and after an attorney friend told them a contract was basically unenforceable, “handshake agreements” were the name of the game, Megan says.

Another nitty-gritty aspect of dealing with Peruvian vendors was that they typically preferred to be paid in cash. “I had a vision of racking up credit card points by planning a wedding, but no, all bank transfers,” Megan says.

On their wedding day, the couple and their families did a procession through the historic city center to buses that would whisk them to the venue.

Megan and Henry pose for photos at the 16th-century-built Hacienda Canopata, where the main event was held.

Make it a once-in-a-lifetime vacation for everyone

Given the distance, many of the couple’s non-Peruvian guests decided to use the celebration as a jumping-off point for a major trip of up to two weeks. The couple’s own plans were to visit Lima the week before the wedding, then visit Machu Picchu the week of the wedding: They took the train to Aguas Calientes on Monday, hiked the ruins on Tuesday before taking the train to the lovely town of Ollantaytambo, and then returned to Cusco on Wednesday for the kick-off to the wedding. When other guests asked for tips about visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site, Megan shared their plans and hotels for others to come along.

“Next thing I knew, it became this caravan of at least 20 people, which to be honest was my dream!” she says. “I never would've asked everyone to do that. But everyone was like, ‘great, then we'll just buy the train tickets for the same time and do exactly what you're doing.’” A wedding-week trip with their nearest and dearest was a deeply special way to lead into the wedding.

Megan and Henry did their vows in English and Spanish, so guests from both sides of the party could catch every word.

The couple hired Rommel Heinz to play the saxophone—covering songs by Kali Uchis, Sergio Mendes, and Kylie Minogue.

Include a multi-day itinerary

With friends and family traveling across the globe, the couple felt compelled to keep everyone entertained for a few days’ worth of wedding festivities. On Thursday, they hosted welcome drinks at Museo del Pisco , a much-lauded bar and exhibition space popular with tourists that’s dedicated to Peru’s favorite spirit. Friday, they organized a day trip to Mountain View , a lodge near the town of Maras that they had initially considered for their wedding day; surrounded by the Andes and with llamas running wild all around, the lodge hosted an Incan-style meal for guests.

“We did pachamanca , an Incan earthen oven, so the experience was like a barbecue but they cook all the ingredients in the ground,” Megan says. “Throughout the weekend, we really wanted to show people Peruvian culture and give both Peruvians and Americans a chance to celebrate that and learn about the destination.” Guests also had the option to stop at another archeological site in the Sacred Valley , Moray, on the way to their lunch.

Saturday was the wedding itself, and on Sunday their loved ones enjoyed a goodbye breakfast at Cusco’s San Pedro market. “Anyone who’s visiting, the first thing I would tell them to do is go there and eat everything,” Megan says. “So we did that. We didn’t organize anything; people could meet us there, then walk through the market and pick out whatever they wanted. It was so fun to have everyone we knew bumping into each other, and reconvening around the same juice stall.”

The décor, a mix of market finds like colorful flags and adobe pottery; native plants like eucalyptus and camomile; and cumbia-style signs was meant to evoke a typical Cusqueño street party.

Henry's brothers, Alex and Valery, dig into dessert. In place of a wedding cake, picarones (a Peruvian doughnut-like dessert made of squash and sweet potato, drizzled with syrup) were made on the spot.

Celebrate local food

The couple’s wedding menu was designed entirely around local products. “Everything was made in Peru. That was really important to us, again, to show people the culture and to put money back into Peru with our wedding,” Megan says. Dinner revolved around pork cooked in a Caja China, or big roasting box, with pastel de papa, or potato pie ("There's nothing 'more Peruvian than the potato,’ goes the saying,” Megan notes) and local veggies. Dessert was small local doughnuts known as picarones, and late in the night the couple served pizzettas and anticuchos, or grilled cow hearts on skewers. An overflowing table of Andean cheeses and breads was also laid out for grazing.

In addition, their drinks were based around Pisco, local vermouths, and Peruvian wine. “We had cases of Matacuy , a digestif that we served after lunch… and then people ended up drinking from the leftover bottles later at night,” the bride laughs.

Get ready to hug

Though only some of Megan’s guests could speak Spanish, and much of Henry’s family doesn't speak English, the camaraderie was easy and apparent at the welcome cocktail party—particularly after many of the aforementioned drinks. “At the end of the night, people were dancing and they couldn’t speak but they were all hugging. [In Peruvian culture], we touch a lot,” says Henry. “So it was hugging, hugging, hugging. They were surprised just by the hugging, and then you get used to it after two or three days.”

The couple's first dance, to salsa song “Amor y Control” by Ruben Blades, began with the two of them before family rotated in.

Traditional Peruvian dancers, like danzantas de tijeras, showed off local culture—and keep the day-to-night party going.

Pack in all the Peruvian traditions

Cultural differences were apparent again when the wedding planner warned Megan that their guests would likely expect to party for at least 12 hours. “I was like, ‘excuse me?!’ And she said, ‘Peruvians love a party, no one’s going to want to leave,’” she recalls.

To keep everyone entertained, the couple brought in salsa performer Jordan Valle , and handed out cigars. They also hosted an hora loca , or crazy hour, to reinvigorate the party, a common tradition in many Latin American cultures. “You can choose a theme, from your favorite soccer team to celebrity impersonators to Disney movies,” Megan says. As another nod to their location, Megan and Henry opted for an Andean theme, hosting dancers in costumes who demonstrated traditional moves—then led the guests in the Macarena and other more modern dances.

The groom wore a linen suit, before changing into a soccer jersey for his favorite team, Club Universitario de Desportes; the bride wore a dress by Venezuelan designer Efrain Mogollón, before changing into a red set later in the night. Eventually, everybody's shoes were off.

Include a nod to home, too

Once the energy was up from the hora loca and the couple started blasting more dance music, they brought out a special prop: foam hats that resembled the crown on the Statue of Liberty, as a touch of their current home in New York. While that was a clear visual marker, one wedding tradition from the U.S. snuck its way into the proceedings: speeches, which they held during the wedding luncheon, so as not to interrupt the evening’s party.

“We had [members of] both of our families speak, and it was amazing to me how many Peruvians came up after to say, ‘It was so nice to hear from your family! We don’t usually do this at weddings!’” Megan says.

Keep your eye on the prize

In the months leading up to the wedding, Henry felt the pressure of plotting such a major occasion. “I was getting in my head a bit, because I have never planned this kind of big thing, and it was really tough for me to worry about letting a lot of people down,” he says. But once he was at the wedding, looking around at friends and family from all over the world grooving on the dance floor, he realized it was all worth it.

“Seeing all my family and her family dancing together, eating Peruvian food, being happy in my country, creating these memories in a place that I really love—that was my favorite part,” he says.

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£1599pp—Machu Picchu, Lima & Lake Titicaca: 11-nt Peru tour

Discover the majestic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and vast Lake Titicaca on this action-packed trip

Why We Love This Deal

Explore a gorge deeper than the Grand Canyon, visit Lake Titicaca's islands, and savour ceviche. At £1599 per person, this Peru tour includes your flights, accommodation, and excursions throughout.

W hat's included

• Return international flights
• Transfers and domestic flights as per the itinerary
• Overnight at the Ibis  Lima  Larco Milaflores
• Two nights at the Casona Plaza Hotel AQP,  Arequipa
• Overnight stay at the Pozo del Cielo,  Chivay
• Two nights at the Hacienda  Puno
• Three nights at the Agustos  Cusco  Hotel
• Two nights at the Ibis  Lima  Larco Milaflores
• Daily breakfast and two lunches
• All entry fees and tours with an English-speaking guide as indicated in the itinerary

When Depart from London , Birmingham , or Manchester on select dates from 23 November, 2024 –5 March, 2025.

Fly from Aberdeen, Belfast, Bristol, Glasgow, or Newcastle from £1699 per person.

Travel in April from £1699 per person. 

For more information or to book online, see our partner's website . 

Itinerary highlights

• Arequipa…  its city centre is UNESCO-listed and adorned by a  white volcanic stone building. It's " one of the most  visually stunning cities  in Peru"  ( Fodor 's). Enjoy an included half-day city tour and discover the fascinating  Santa Catalina Monastery . 
• Colca Canyon…  head to a canyon that's over 4000-metres deep. You'll watch the huge Andean condors flying through the valley and experience the breath-taking mountain scenery. Take an optional tour to  La Calera hot springs in the Colca Valley.  
• Lake Titicaca...  head out on an included full-day trip to Lake Titicaca—the largest lake in South America. You'll visit the unique floating Uros islands, crafted from totora reeds. Head to Taquile island for lunch, and explore its stone paths with magnificent lake views.
• Machu Picchu**...  between the mist and the peaceful Andean peaks lies the Lost City of the Incas. With an included guided tour, you can discover the history of this unsolved archaeological mystery.
• Cusco...  take in the hum of activity on the Plaza de Armas. Views of the Andean mountains abound all over the city. Wander the cobbled colonial streets, and head out after dark to sample some pisco sours. Take an optional tour to the striking  Vinicunca  (Rainbow Mountain).
• Lima...   explore the city's colonial architecture and visit the Museo Larco. You'll also see Casa Aliaga—the former home of the conquistador Jerónimo Aliaga.

Other options Alternatively, hike the Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain , and zip-line over the Sacred Valley   on this 10-night tour from £1799 per person.

Transfers & baggage Shared transfers are included throughout. Checked baggage is included on some departures; check with Exoticca when booking. 

£1599pp

When you can go.

Select dates Nov, 2024–Mar, 2025

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