“Peru Travel Safety: Tips and Advisories for a Safe Journey.”

Exploring Peru: A Guide to Tourist Safety and Travel Advisories

Peru is a country that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant city of Lima, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this South American nation. However, as with any travel destination, safety is a concern for tourists. In this article, we will explore the safety of Peru for tourists, including areas to avoid and current travel advisories.

Overall, Peru is a safe country for tourists. However, like any country, there are areas that are more dangerous than others. The U.S. Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution in certain areas of Peru, including the regions of Ayacucho, Huancavelica, Junin, and Pasco due to crime. Additionally, the department advises travelers to reconsider travel to the regions of Apurimac, Cusco, Huánuco, and San Martin due to terrorism.

In Lima, the capital city of Peru, tourists should exercise caution in certain areas. The districts of Callao, La Victoria, Rimac, and San Juan de Lurigancho are known for high crime rates and should be avoided, especially at night. Tourists should also be cautious when using public transportation in Lima, as pickpocketing and theft are common on buses and trains.

Outside of Lima, the city of Cusco is a popular destination for tourists due to its proximity to Machu Picchu. While Cusco is generally safe, tourists should be aware of pickpocketing and theft in crowded areas such as markets and bus stations. Additionally, tourists should be cautious when hiking the Inca Trail, as there have been reports of robberies and assaults on the trail.

In the Amazon region of Peru, tourists should be aware of the risk of malaria and other mosquito-borne illnesses. It is recommended that travelers take precautions such as using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants to avoid mosquito bites. Additionally, tourists should be cautious when traveling by boat in the Amazon region, as there have been reports of piracy and armed robbery on the rivers.

In terms of current travel advisories, the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Peru due to COVID-19. Travelers should avoid all nonessential travel to Peru at this time. Additionally, the department advises travelers to reconsider travel to the regions of Apurimac, Cusco, Huánuco, and San Martin due to terrorism.

While Peru is generally safe for tourists, it is important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Tourists should be aware of their surroundings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables. It is also recommended that tourists use reputable tour operators and avoid traveling alone, especially at night.

In conclusion, Peru is a safe country for tourists, but like any travel destination, there are areas that should be avoided and precautions that should be taken. By exercising caution and being aware of potential risks, tourists can enjoy all that Peru has to offer without compromising their safety.