Is Peru safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Peru is generally safe for visitors on the main tourist route of Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Lake Titicaca, though petty crime is common. The realistic risks are pickpocketing and bag snatching, taxi-related robbery, altitude sickness and road travel. Protests and road blockades sometimes disrupt travel.
The real risks
Pickpocketing and bag snatching
Common in Lima's centre, markets, bus stations and around Cusco's Plaza de Armas. Keep bags in front and phones out of sight in the street.
Taxi robberies
Hailing unmarked taxis on the street carries risk. Use Uber, Cabify or InDrive in Lima, and taxis booked by your hotel elsewhere.
Altitude sickness
Cusco is at about 3,400 metres and Puno at 3,830 metres. Rest on arrival, start in the Sacred Valley and drink water.
Protests and blockades
Demonstrations can close roads and railways, including to Machu Picchu. Follow local news and keep spare days.
Road travel
Night buses on mountain roads have a poor safety record. Choose reputable companies and day travel where possible.
Areas and times to take care
Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro are the usual bases in Lima and comfortable for visitors; the historic centre is fine by day but quieter at night. In Cusco, the centre and San Blas are busy and safe with normal care; take a taxi late at night on empty streets.
Getting around safely
Use Uber, Cabify or InDrive in Lima and Cusco, or official taxis from your hotel. From Lima's airport, use the official taxi desks or the Airport Express bus. Choose first-class bus companies such as Cruz del Sur for long distances.
Solo and women travellers
Many women travel Peru alone. Expect comments in the street, use app taxis at night, avoid walking alone on empty streets late, and book tours with reputable agencies. Be cautious with 'shamans' offering ayahuasca or similar ceremonies.
Health, water and heat
Drink bottled or filtered water. Altitude sickness is the main health issue: ascend gradually, drink coca tea and water, and avoid heavy alcohol on the first days. UV is intense at altitude, so wear sunscreen and a hat. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for Amazon regions. Take travel insurance that covers evacuation.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
Some links on this page are partner links. If you book through them TonyPlan earns a small commission — the price you pay is exactly the same.
Common questions
Is Peru safe for tourists?
The main tourist route is generally safe with care. Petty theft, unmarked taxis and altitude are the main issues.
How do I avoid altitude sickness in Cusco?
Stay in the lower Sacred Valley first, take it easy, drink water and coca tea, and avoid heavy alcohol.
Are protests a problem in Peru?
They occasionally block roads and trains, including to Machu Picchu. Follow local news and keep spare days.