Is it safe for U.S. citizens to travel to Peru right now?

Let me first start by saying I’m an American living in Lima Peru for 11 years, and while there is crime, its not that much different from any other major city. So yes, I feel safe, but my lived expereince doesn’t take away from the bigger picture. You’re flying to a diferent country and may not speak or understand the language and that by itself can make things difficult to understand the situation. many U.S. citizens travel to Peru safely, but the U.S. government advises travelers to exercise increased caution because of crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, and terrorism risks in certain areas.

The key is understanding the words “certain areas.” The State Department identifies specific regions and cities where it advises against travel. These are not the places most visitors have on their itineraries. Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and Arequipa are among Peru’s best-known destinations, although visitors should still take sensible precautions against crime.

Crime is widespread in Peru, including pickpocketing, robberies, and scams. Sexual assaults can also occur, including in tourist areas.

Take note: The U.S. State Department’s travel warnings cover specific areas of Peru, and those warnings can change without prior notice. Some of these areas have had ongoing security concerns for years, but they are separate from the main tourist routes most visitors follow. If your plans include remote regions or destinations outside the usual tourist circuit, check the current advisory and follow local safety guidance before traveling.

In Lima, take particular care with your belongings, especially around transportation hubs and when traveling by taxi. Keep valuables out of sight, avoid displaying your phone or jewelry unnecessarily, use reputable transportation, and stay informed about protests and road closures. Travelers can also enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updates from the U.S. Embassy.

Understanding the geographic limits of the travel warnings, staying aware of local conditions, and taking sensible precautions can help U.S. citizens plan a more informed trip to Peru. Always check the current U.S. State Department travel advisory for Peru before departure.

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