Safety in Peru

General Awareness & Urban Safety

Petty Crime & Common Scams

Pickpocketing and Bag Snatching

While Peru is a welcoming country, petty crime exists in busy urban centers. It is important to remember that these are typically crimes of opportunity, and incidents are rarely confrontational. A little awareness goes a long way.

• Remain vigilant in crowded areas such as local markets, bus and train stations, and popular public plazas where distractions are common.
• In dense crowds or on public transport, it is wise to wear your backpack on your front rather than on your back.
• Avoid the unnecessary display of expensive items like jewelry, large cameras, or the latest smartphones. Keep them secured when not in use.

Distraction Scams

• Be wary of common tactics designed to distract you, such as someone “accidentally” spilling a substance on you or creating a sudden commotion nearby while an accomplice attempts to take your belongings.
• If approached by strangers with unsolicited offers of help or goods, a polite but firm “no, gracias” is sufficient. Do not feel obligated to engage in conversation.

Counterfeit Currency

• Before you travel, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the look and feel of authentic Peruvian Soles. Note the watermarks, security threads, and texture. You can view a helpful guide here.
• When receiving change, especially for larger bills (50, 100, or 200 Soles), discreetly check the notes for these security features.

Using ATMs & Handling Money

ATM Safety

• For your security, prioritize using ATMs located inside bank branches, reputable retail stores, or modern shopping malls.
• Avoid using standalone ATMs on the street, particularly after dark, as they can be more susceptible to tampering.
• When entering your PIN, always shield the keypad with your other hand and quickly inspect the card slot for any unusual devices that may have been fitted over it.

Carrying Cash

• It is prudent to carry only the amount of cash you anticipate needing for the day’s activities.
• Keep your passport, credit cards, and the bulk of your cash secured in a money belt or a hidden internal pocket.
• For convenience, keep a small amount of cash for minor purchases like water or tips in a separate, easily accessible pocket or wallet. This avoids revealing the location of your main cash reserve.

Nightlife & Personal Safety

Staying Aware

• We advise against walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas or neighborhoods with which you are unfamiliar.

– In Lima, stick to well-trafficked and reputable districts like Miraflores or Barranco for evening activities.

• Your hotel concierge or front desk staff are an excellent resource. Do not hesitate to ask them for recommendations on safe areas to visit and the most reliable transportation options for your return.

Drink Safety

• Never leave your drink unattended in a bar or restaurant. If you must leave your table, finish your drink first or order a new one upon your return.
• Be cautious about accepting drinks from individuals you have just met.
• Please be mindful of your alcohol consumption. Intoxication can impair judgment and increase personal vulnerability.

Transportation Safety

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Official vs. Unofficial Taxis

Ground transportation requires a degree of caution. We strongly advise against hailing unmarked taxis from the street, a practice that is particularly risky at airports or late at night.

• Use official, registered taxi companies that can be booked by phone, or utilize trusted ride-sharing applications such as Uber, Cabify, or Didi.
• Your tour guide or hotel staff can always arrange for a trusted and secure taxi service on your behalf. This is often the safest and most reliable option.

Best Practices

• If a taxi is not metered, you must agree upon the fare with the driver *before* you begin your journey to avoid disputes later.
• For peace of mind, discreetly note the vehicle’s license plate number or use the app’s feature to share your ride details with a trusted contact.
• Place your bags and any valuables on the floor of the vehicle, not on the seat beside you where they are visible from the outside.

Bus Travel

Long-Distance Buses

For travel between cities, premium bus lines offer a significantly higher standard of security, service, and comfort, making them the preferred choice for longer journeys.

• We recommend using reputable, first-class bus companies such as Cruz del Sur or Oltursa, especially for overnight trips.
• Always keep your most valuable items (passport, money, electronics) in a carry-on bag that remains with you at your seat, never in the overhead compartment or in luggage stored under the bus.

Local “Colectivos” & “Micros”

• When using crowded local city buses, known as “colectivos” or “micros,” be extremely mindful of your personal belongings.
• These environments are common locations for skilled pickpockets, so keep bags zipped and held in front of you.

Health & Environmental Safety

Altitude Sickness (Soroche)

Symptoms and Prevention

Altitude sickness, or soroche, can affect anyone traveling to high-altitude destinations like Cusco or Lake Titicaca, regardless of age or fitness level. Common symptoms include headache, nausea, unusual fatigue, and shortness of breath.

• The most effective prevention is acclimatization. Plan to spend at least one or two days resting and taking it easy at your new altitude before undertaking strenuous activities like hiking.
• Upon arrival, stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid large, heavy meals, and limit your alcohol consumption for the first 24-48 hours.

Local Remedies

• Coca tea, or mate de coca, is a traditional Andean remedy used to alleviate symptoms and is widely available in hotels and cafes.
• We recommend you consult your doctor before your trip to discuss prescription medications such as Acetazolamide (Diamox), which can aid in acclimatization.

Food & Water Safety

Drinking Water

• It is essential that you do NOT drink tap water anywhere in Peru.
• Please use sealed bottled water or properly filtered water for drinking and for brushing your teeth.
• Avoid ice in your drinks unless you are in a high-end hotel or restaurant where you can be confident it has been made with purified water.

Eating Safely

• Choose to dine at busy restaurants and cafes, as a high turnover of customers suggests fresh ingredients.
• Street food can be a wonderful experience, but be selective. Opt for vendors that appear clean, are preparing food fresh to order, and are popular with local residents.
• As a general rule, it is safest to eat fruits that you can peel yourself. Avoid uncooked vegetables or salads unless you are dining in a reputable, tourist-oriented establishment.

Sun & Insect Protection

High-Altitude Sun

• The sun’s UV rays are significantly stronger at high altitudes, and you can burn quickly, even on an overcast day.
• Always apply a high-SPF sunscreen to all exposed skin, and wear a wide-brimmed hat and quality sunglasses for protection.

Insect-Borne Illnesses

• In the Amazon basin and other low-lying tropical regions, protecting yourself from mosquito bites is crucial. Use an effective insect repellent that contains DEET.
• Wear lightweight long-sleeved shirts and long pants, particularly during the peak mosquito hours of dawn and dusk.
• Before you travel, please consult your doctor or a travel medicine clinic regarding recommended vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis for the specific regions on your itinerary.

Adventure & Outdoor Safety

Hiking & Trekking

Guided Tours

Your safety is our priority. Please be assured that we only work with licensed, professional, and highly reputable tour operators who meet stringent safety standards.

• For your safety, all trekking must be done with your certified guide.
• You should never hike alone on unfamiliar trails.

Preparation

• Ensure you are physically prepared for the difficulty level of your chosen trek. A good fitness base will make the experience far more enjoyable.
• If you have purchased new hiking boots, be sure to break them in thoroughly before your trip to prevent blisters.
• Always carry sufficient water, some energy-rich snacks, and a basic personal first-aid kit.
• The instructions and decisions of your guide are paramount for the safety and well-being of the group. Please follow their lead at all times.

Amazon Rainforest Safety

Wildlife

• Observe wildlife from a respectful distance. Do not attempt to approach, touch, or feed any wild animals.
• In the jungle, it is a good habit to check your shoes and shake out your clothing for insects or spiders before putting them on.
• Your local guides are experts on the rainforest environment. Trust their knowledge and adhere to their advice regarding local flora and fauna.

Navigating the Environment

• Always stay on marked paths and trails, and never wander away from your guide or group.
• Wear appropriate clothing, such as long trousers and sturdy, closed-toe footwear, to protect yourself from insects, scratches, and stings.

In Case of Emergency

Important Contact Numbers

We recommend saving these numbers in your phone. Your tour guide will also have all necessary contact information readily available.

• Police (National): 105
• Tourist Police (POLTUR): (01) 460-1060 (Lima). Please note that numbers may vary by city; your guide can provide the local contact for areas like Cusco or Arequipa.
• Ambulance / Medical Emergency: 106
• Your Tour Operator’s 24/7 Emergency Contact: [Insert Number Here]
• Your Country’s Embassy/Consulate: [Insert Details Here]

Reporting a Crime

Immediate Steps

• Your first priority is to get to a safe location.
• Contact our 24/7 emergency line immediately. We are here to provide support and direct you on the next steps.
• For insurance purposes, you will need to file a police report, known as a denuncia, with the Tourist Police. Our local team will assist you with this process, providing translation and guidance.

Lost or Stolen Passport

Action Plan

• First, you must report the loss to the police to obtain an official police report. This document is non-negotiable for the next steps.
• Next, contact your country’s nearest embassy or consulate. They will provide instructions on how to apply for an emergency travel document to allow you to return home.
• Please be assured that our local team is on hand to provide support, helping you navigate the necessary appointments and procedures during this stressful time.