Safety
General Security Situation
Peru is generally safe for tourists as long as you follow the usual precautions. The main tourist regions (Lima/Miraflores, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Arequipa) are well-policed. Millions of tourists visit Peru every year without incidents.
What to Watch Out For
- Pickpocketing: The most common issue. Especially in Lima (Centro, public transport), Cusco (markets, nightlife), and bus stations. Do not wear valuables openly, keep daypacks in front, always keep handbags on your body.
- Express kidnappings: Rare but occasionally occur in Lima, where individuals are briefly held in a taxi and forced to withdraw money. Only use official taxis or apps! Never get into a stranger's car.
- Fraud: Counterfeit money, inflated prices (always negotiate beforehand!), “friendly helpers” who take a commission. Be friendly but cautious.
- Night buses: Use only reputable bus companies (Cruz del Sur, Oltursa). Cheap buses sometimes have safety issues (robberies on night buses in remote areas).
- Drugs: Cocaine offers are common, especially in Cusco. Decline! Drug possession is severely punished in Peru. Do not get involved in any “transport”.
Safe vs. Unsafe Areas
| Area | Rating |
|---|---|
| Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro (Lima) | Safe (Day & Night) |
| Centro Histórico Lima | Safe during the day, caution at night |
| Cusco Old Town, San Blas | Safe (caution late at night) |
| Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu | Very safe |
| Arequipa Center | Safe |
| Puno | Safe during the day, caution at night |
| Callao (Lima) | Unsafe — visit only with organized tours |
| VRAEM Region (Jungle) | Avoid — drug cultivation area |
