U.S. Issues Travel Warning for Peru: Crime, Unrest, and Kidnapping Risks Highlighted

    The U.S. State Department has issued a travel advisory for Peru, warning visitors of increased crime, civil unrest, and even kidnapping risks, particularly in certain regions outside of popular tourist areas like Machu Picchu. The advisory provides guidance on precautions travelers should take, such as staying aware of their surroundings, checking local media, avoiding demonstrations, and enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.

 

 Crime and Safety Concerns in Peru

- Peru is experiencing high levels of crime, including petty theft, carjackings, muggings, and other violent crimes, even in broad daylight and with many witnesses around.  

- Kidnapping is rare but does occur, and the risk of crime increases at night. 

- Criminal groups sometimes set up roadblocks to rob people in areas outside of Lima.  

- Certain regions near the Colombia-Peru border, the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro rivers, and parts of Ayacucho, Cusco, Huancavelica, and Junín are particularly dangerous due to crime and terrorism. 

- Drug trafficking and poor infrastructure in these regions make it difficult for law enforcement to operate effectively.  

Machu Picchu: Entry Ticket

 Precautions for Travelers

- The advisory stresses that the city of Cusco and popular tourist sites like the Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu are not located in the affected high-risk areas. 

- Travelers are advised to stay aware of their surroundings, check local media, avoid demonstrations and large crowds, and develop a communication plan with family or employers.  

- Travelers should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, review the Country Security Report for Peru, and prepare a plan for emergency situations.  

- Travelers should also buy travel insurance, check with their provider about evacuation assistance, medical coverage, and trip cancellation. 

 Concerning Activities

- The advisory warns travelers to avoid using the drugs ayahuasca and kambo, as people have suffered serious illness and even death from these substances.  

- The advisory also notes that public demonstrations can take place for political and economic reasons and can disrupt transportation, including local roads, trains, and major highways.