Is it safe to travel to Peru? A guide for foreign tourists

If you are reading this, it is because you have already decided that Peru interests you, but you still have that reasonable doubt that appears before any trip to a country you do not know. The short answer is yes: Peru is a safe destination for foreign tourists. In 2025, it received more than 4.1 million international visitors, with a 4.1% increase compared to the previous year, and the vast majority of those travelers returned home without any incidents beyond a sunburn or a headache from the altitude. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

That said, safe does not mean you can walk around without paying attention. Like anywhere in the world, there are areas that are calmer than others, basic precautions worth taking, and situations best avoided. In this guide, we give you the real picture so you can travel informed and enjoy your trip without worries.

How safe are tourist areas

The areas you are most likely to visit (Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Arequipa, tourist Lima, and Lake Titicaca) are among the most monitored in the country. The Peruvian government understands that tourism is a key economic driver and has reinforced the presence of the Tourism Police in these destinations. Cusco, for example, is considered one of the safest cities on the South American travel circuit, and Machu Picchu operates with regulated access and constant supervision.

In Lima, the districts of Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro concentrate the tourist-oriented cultural and culinary offerings, with good lighting, security, and reliable transportation services. The historic center is also safe to visit during the day, although at night it is better to move around by ride-hailing apps or organized transfers.

The only area of the country that should be completely avoided is the VRAEM (Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro river valley), linked to drug trafficking. However, this region is entirely outside any tourist circuit, so it will not appear in your itinerary unless you intentionally seek it out.

Real risks and how to handle them

The most common safety issue tourists face in Peru is not violent crime but petty theft: pickpocketing in markets, bus terminals, or crowded squares. This happens in Cusco, Lima, and Arequipa just as it does in Barcelona, Rome, or Mexico City. Prevention is simple: carry your backpack in front in crowded places, do not display expensive phones or cameras, and keep your original documents in your hotel (carry a copy on your phone or a physical photocopy).

Another point worth mentioning is minor scams. In tourist areas, you may encounter counterfeit bills when receiving change, inflated taxi fares without meters, or tours sold on the street at prices that sound too good to be true. The golden rule is to book excursions with formal agencies like Machu Picchu Viajes to ensure a safe and reliable experience.

Road travel deserves special mention. If you plan to travel by bus between cities, choose formal transport companies and avoid overnight journeys through the central and southern highlands. It is not that incidents are common, but mountain roads can be demanding, and it is better to travel them during the day.

Protests and demonstrations: should you worry?

Peru has an active social dynamic, and demonstrations are relatively common, especially in Lima and some southern cities. Most are peaceful and resolved within hours, but occasionally they can affect land transport or access to certain destinations, including routes to Machu Picchu.

The best way to handle this is to stay informed during your trip. The information service (available via WhatsApp at +51 995 050 803, 24 hours a day) provides updated information on any situation that may affect your itinerary. If you travel with Machu Picchu Viajes, the local agency will adjust logistics in real time so your experience is not affected.

In general, demonstrations are not directed at tourists nor intended to disrupt tourism. If you encounter one during your trip, follow the guidance of your guide or local authorities, avoid gathering areas, and be patient. They are usually resolved faster than they seem.

Health and safety precautions

Peru does not present unusual health risks for a tropical and Andean country, but there are some precautions worth taking. If you plan to visit the Amazon (Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado, Tambopata), the yellow fever vaccine is recommended and should be taken at least ten days before your trip. It is also advisable to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing to protect yourself from dengue and malaria in humid areas.

In the highlands, the main challenge is altitude sickness, which affects many travelers arriving directly in Cusco (3,400 m) or Puno (3,830 m) from sea-level cities. Hydration, rest on the first day, and coca tea at your hotel are your best allies for a smooth acclimatization.

Regarding food, Peruvian cuisine is one of the highlights of the trip, but your stomach may need a few days to adjust. Avoid eating at street stalls with questionable hygiene, do not drink tap water (always bottled), and moderate portions during the first days. Medical care in private clinics is of good quality, especially in Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, but it is paid for tourists. Traveling with medical travel insurance is a smart decision that helps you avoid unexpected costs.

Practical tips that make a difference

Traveling with a digital copy of your passport stored in the cloud can save you a lot of trouble if you lose the original. It is also a good idea to have your consulate or embassy contact information and the iPerú contact in case you need official guidance.

For money, withdraw cash from ATMs located inside banks or shopping centers, during the day and in busy areas. The Peruvian sol is the local currency, but dollars are accepted in many tourist establishments. Always check your change and avoid street money exchangers.

And the most important advice: traveling with a reliable local agency is not a luxury, it is a smart way to move around. A team that knows the terrain, has contacts in every destination, and can reorganize your itinerary if something unexpected happens gives you a level of peace of mind that no blog or forum can replace. Peru is a country to enjoy, and with proper preparation, you will do so from day one.