Political protests in Peru are unpredictable and can escalate quickly and include violence. You should take particular care to avoid large gatherings and all areas of protests. If there are protests and it is possible, you should remain in a safe place. You should follow the local authorities’ advice and also monitor local media, including social media channels.

Protests may cause travel disruption, including with road blockades, suspension of train services and airport closures including in tourist areas. SeeA large political protest has been announced for 19 July. See Safety and Security.

It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

There may be a higher risk to your safety in areas where there is organised crime and terrorism linked to the production of drugs, notably in the border areas with Ecuador, Colombia and Brazil and the Valley of Apurimac, Ene and Mantaro rivers (VRAEM). See Local travel.

Where there are greater security concerns or local authorities currently have limited presence, the British Government will have limited ability to offer assistance, and may not be able to provide emergency or consular support. While we will liaise with local authorities to request assistance, their ability to respond may also be very limited if circumstances are unfavourable.

Where protests, natural disasters or criminal activity results in travel disruption or damage to infrastructure, the British Government’s ability to provide consular support will be limited, as may that of local authorities.

For specific advice on conditions in the different regions of Peru, in English or Spanish, visit the i-Peru website (the official source of information for tourists in Peru) or call them on +511 574 800 (option 2 for English).

Following countrywide floods in Peru, the country is experiencing a major dengue outbreak. On 25 May 2023 the Peruvian authorities declared a 120-day national health emergency in some districts of Peru. For further information about dengue fever visit the TravelHealthPro website. See Health.

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Peru (including Cusco, Puno, the Colca Canyon and Kuelap). See Health.

The rainy season in Peru runs from November to May and can cause heavy rain and snow in Northern Peru, the Andes, including Cusco, and other parts of the country. It can cause disruption of some travel and tourism services.  See Natural disasters.

Drug trafficking is a serious crime and drug smugglers face long periods of imprisonment. See Local laws and customs

There are risks involved in flying over the Nazca Lines. See Nazca Lines

There is a risk of robbery by bogus taxi drivers, especially to and from the airports and at bus terminals. See Crime

Driving standards are poor. Crashes resulting in death and injury occur frequently. See Road travel

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Peru. See Terrorism

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.