Is Lima safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Lima's tourist districts of Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro are generally safe and busy, and most visitors have no problems. The realistic risks are phone snatching, pickpocketing, express kidnappings in unlicensed taxis and petty theft in crowds. Some outer districts have high crime but are not on visitor routes.
The real risks
Phone snatching
Thieves on foot or bikes grab phones; keep yours away from the kerb and use it inside cafés.
Unlicensed taxis
Never hail unmarked taxis in the street; use Uber, Cabify, InDrive or official airport taxis.
Pickpocketing
In the historic centre, markets and on buses; keep bags in front.
Fake police and scams
Be cautious of strangers asking for documents or offering to change money.
Earthquakes
Lima is in a seismic zone; note the safe zones marked in buildings.
Areas and times to take care
Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro are the best bases. The historic centre is fine by day around the Plaza Mayor and main streets; take care at night and avoid the surrounding side streets and areas like La Victoria and Rímac away from the main sights. Callao has some risky areas; visit the port only with tours.
Getting around safely
Use app-based rides (Uber, Cabify, InDrive) or official taxis. The Metropolitano bus is safe by day but crowded at rush hours. From the airport, use the official taxi desks or Airport Express Lima.
Solo and women travellers
Women travel solo in Lima regularly. Catcalling is common; it is best ignored. Use app-based transport at night and stick to Miraflores and Barranco after dark.
Health, water and heat
Do not drink tap water; use bottled or filtered water. Street food is generally fine where it is busy and cooked fresh, but take care with raw seafood away from reputable places. Lima is at sea level, so altitude only matters later in Cusco.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Lima safe for tourists?
Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro are generally safe; watch for phone snatching and use app taxis.
Is the historic centre safe?
By day around the main squares, yes; at night take an app taxi and avoid side streets.
Can I drink tap water in Lima?
No; drink bottled or filtered water.