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Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.
Exercise increased caution due to crime, civil unrest, and the risk of kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
Do not travel to:
* The city of Cusco and popular tourist sites nearby, like the Sacred Valley, the Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu, are not located in the affected area.
Country Summary: Crime is common in Peru. Petty theft, carjackings, muggings, assaults, and other violent crime often happen even in daylight hours and with many witnesses around. Kidnapping is rare, but it does occur. The risk of crime increases at night. Criminal groups sometimes set up roadblocks to rob people in areas outside of Lima.
Ayahuasca and Kambo Usage
U.S. travelers should not use Ayahuasca or Kambo because of the known dangers. U.S. citizens have suffered serious illness and, in some cases, died after taking these drugs. They have also been sexually assaulted, injured, or robbed while under the influence of these substances.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country. Public demonstrations can take place for a variety of political and economic issues. Demonstrations can shut down local roads, trains, and major highways. This often happens without warning or clear information on reopening times. Road closures can limit access to public transportation and airports. Closures may also disrupt travel in and between cities.
Due to road safety risks, U.S. government employees working in Peru are prohibited from nighttime driving except within cities, between Lima and Huacho (to the north), and Lima and Paracas (to the south). U.S. government employees working in Peru may travel at night with commercial bus companies along the Pan-American Highway, to Huaraz, and on the Lima-Arequipa-Cusco corridor.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Peru.
If you decide to travel to Peru:
Colombian-Peruvian border area in the Loreto Region – Level 4: Do Not Travel
Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM) includes areas within the Departments of Ayacucho, Cusco, Huancavelica, and Junín – Level 4: Do Not Travel
Must have six months validity at time of entry.
One blank visa page required for entry stamp.
None for tourist stays less than 90 days.
None.
$30,000 USD. More than $10,000 USD must be declared upon entry.
Same as entry.
U.S. Embassy Lima
Avenida La Encalada cdra. 17 s/n
Surco, Lima 33
Peru
Telephone: + (51)(1) 618-2000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (51)(1) 618-2000
Email: LimaACS@state.gov
U.S. Consular Agency - Cusco
Av. El Sol 449, Suite #201
Cusco, Peru
Telephone: + (51)(84) 231-474
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (51)(1) 618-2000
Email: CuscoACS@state.gov
Requirements for Entry:
Requirements for Exit:
Travel with Minors: Peruvian immigration procedures are complex for minors traveling without one or both parents/legal guardians.
U.S. citizen minors under the age of 18 traveling to Peru alone or with only one parent do not usually require additional documentation if entering as a tourist and staying for less than 183 days. If the stay lasts more than 183 days, or if they are dual U.S.-Peruvian nationals entering Peru with their Peruvian passport, they will require an "Autorización de Viaje para Menores de Edad" (Travel Authorization for Minors) to leave the country, regardless of the length of their trip. Please refer to the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website for more information. There are very limited exceptions to this rule.
An “Autorización de Viaje” is a written, notarized authorization issued by the Peruvian government with the approval and consent of the non-traveling parent. It can also be authorized by a Peruvian judge when the non-traveling parent is absent or missing. Peruvian immigration authorities will not accept a document notarized by the U.S. Embassy or a U.S. notary in lieu of an “Autorización de Viaje.”
You can get an “Autorización de Viaje” from a Peruvian notary or a judge, or overseas at a Peruvian consulate. An apostilled U.S. birth certificate may be required for issuance of an “Autorización de Viaje.”
The U.S. Embassy is unable to assist travelers who are prevented from traveling for lack of an Autorización de Viaje.
Visit the Embassy of Peru website for the most current visa information.
HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Peru.
Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction, and customs regulations on our websites.
Terrorism: Terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them want to attack U.S. citizens outside of the United States. They are using simpler methods of attack like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. They often go after unprotected or vulnerable targets.
U.S. Embassy Lima enforces a Restricted Travel Policy for Embassy personnel traveling to the VRAEM (Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers) and specific areas of the Colombian border, which is based on its assessment of conditions and developments throughout the country. See the Overseas Security and Advisory Council’s Country Security Report for Peru. See the latest Travel Advisory for Peru.
The VRAEM is particularly remote and a known haven for drug traffickers and home to the last operational remnants of the Shining Path terrorist group.
For more information, see our Terrorism page.
Crime: Crime is a widespread problem in Peru. All types of crime occur in Peru. The most frequent are robberies and pickpocketing. Notably, sexual assaults and rapes can occur, even in tourist areas.
There is little government presence in many remote areas of the Andes and Amazon basin. Illicit activities, such as illegal mining, logging, and coca production, are common.
Drug trafficking and other criminal activity, combined with poor infrastructure, limit the capability and effectiveness of Peruvian law enforcement in these areas.
The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens along the Colombian border and in the VRAEM, as U.S. government personnel are restricted from traveling in these regions.
Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays and during international events.
Scams: Internet romance scams and financial scams are prevalent in Peru. Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information.
Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.
Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S.-based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.
GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation apps may give you the shortest route without safety considerations. If using a GPS app while walking, step into a store or building to consult the map as thieves target cell phone users in public areas.
Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.
Report crimes to the local police at 105 (National Police) or 0800-22221 (tourist police) and contact the U.S. Embassy at +51-1-618-2000. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. If you are in immediate danger, please contact the local police.
Tourism: The tourism industry is not well regulated. Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. Dangerous areas/activities are not always labeled properly. Staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or recognized authorities. If you get injured, you will likely find appropriate medical treatment only in or near major cities. First responders cannot reach areas outside of major cities to provide urgent medical care. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you break local laws, even if you don’t know it, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or put in prison. If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should obtain information from the local authorities before you start.
Ayahuasca/Kambo/Hallucinogens: Traditional hallucinogenic drugs, often referred to as ayahuasca or kambo, are often marketed to travelers as “ceremonial” or “spiritual cleansers.” These drugs typically contain dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a strong hallucinogen, that is illegal in the United States and many other countries.
U.S. citizens have suffered serious illness or death after taking these drugs and have also been sexually assaulted, injured, or robbed while under the influence of these substances. Facilities or groups offering ayahuasca/kambo are not regulated by the Peruvian government and may not follow health and safety laws or practices.
Drugs: Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Peru are severe.
Offenders can expect long pre-trial detention and lengthy prison sentences under harsh conditions with significant expense for themselves and/or their families. Never agree to carry a suitcase or package through customs for anyone. Peru uses strict screening procedures for detecting narcotics smuggling at its international airports.
Customs Currency Regulations: $30,000 USD or its equivalent in cash or negotiable items is the maximum allowed for entry or exit. Any amount more than $10,000 USD must be declared and the legal source proven.
Artifacts: Peruvian law forbids the export of pre-Columbian objects and other artifacts protected by cultural patrimony statutes.
U.S. customs officials are required to seize pre-Columbian objects and certain colonial religious artwork brought into the United States.
Animal Products/Plants: Avoid products made of wild plants and animals, as many are of illegal origin and may involve protected or endangered species whose sale and export are illegal.
Peruvian authorities will seize any protected species that is sold or transported, either live or transformed into food, medicinal beverages, leather, handcrafts, garments, etc.
Some products, including live animals, require special permits when leaving Peru. Knowingly importing wildlife or plants into the United States that were taken from the wild or sold in violation of the laws of Peru (or any other country) is a violation of the Lacey Act (16 USC § 3371).
Some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Special Circumstances: Many popular destinations in Peru are remote. These areas have few facilities that can provide advanced or emergency medical care.
Local rescue capabilities are severely limited. Accidents or injuries while hiking or climbing are common; crisis responders may take hours or even days to reach you.
When using tourist company services, travelers are encouraged to use qualified and licensed operators. See the Ministerio de Comercio Exterior y Turismo (Tourism Ministry) website for more information on licensed tourism companies. IPeru also provides information on tour companies.
Before you travel, always check with local authorities about local geographic, climatic, health, and security conditions that may impact your safety.
Be aware that you may not have access to phone or internet for days at a time. Check in with family prior to going to remote areas and leave detailed written plans and timetables. Use of a personal GPS beacon is encouraged.
Seismic Activity: Earthquakes are common throughout Peru. Visit Peru’s National Emergency Operations Center (COEN) for more information. In the event of a natural disaster, monitor local media and government agencies, including IPeru (Tourist Information and Assistance), the Commission to Promote Peru for Exports and Tourism (PROMPERU), and Peru’s National Meteorology and Hydrology Service (SENAMHI) for updates.
Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on emergency preparedness and response.
Legal Issues in Peru: Victims or their families may need to hire lawyers to advance their cases through the legal system.
Peruvian laws are subject to change with little notice and U.S. citizens have reported unethical practices by lawyers and others in the judicial system. The U.S. Embassy cannot give detailed advice about Peruvian law and does not provide translation services.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has a list of translators.
Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries. They may be illegal according to local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. Review the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.
Faith-Based Travelers: Review the following webpages for details:
International Volunteers:
Gay and Lesbian Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Peru. Same-sex marriage is illegal in Peru and same-sex marriages from other countries are not recognized. Two same-sex parents are not allowed to be listed on the birth certificate for a child born in Peru.
See our Gay and Lesbian Travelers Information page and our Human Rights reports for further details.
Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Peru prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, but the law is not consistently enforced. The most common types of accommodations for physical disabilities include ramps, express lane cashiers in stores, and elevators. General accessibility accommodations are less common outside of Lima and other large cities. Public transportation throughout the country has limited accessibility accommodations.
Rental, repair, and replacement parts are available for assistive technologies and accessibility aids/equipment/devices.
Review our Travelers with Disabilities page.
Students: Review our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.
The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
Medical Care:
For emergency services in Peru, dial 113.
Ambulance services are
See our Health Abroad page for more information.
The Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. Review our Insurance Overseas page for more information on insurance providers with overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travel Insurance page for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.
Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your prescription. Check with the Peru Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Peru.
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Air Quality: Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Peru. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you. Consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.
Health facilities in general:
Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:
Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, may have the wrong strength, or may have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration have rules for bringing medication back to the United States. Medication bought abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back. The medication must be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. Visit the websites of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.
Please review Peru's rules on importing medication.
Non-Traditional Medicine: U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died while seeking medical care from non-traditional “healers” and practitioners in Peru. Ensure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases.
Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:
Water Quality & Food Safety:
Altitude:
Adventure Travel:
General Health:
The following diseases are prevalent:
Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers, even for short stays.
Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Peru.
Road Conditions and Safety: Driving conditions in Peru are very different from those found in the United States and are considerably more dangerous. Visitors are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with local law and driving customs before attempting to operate vehicles.
Traffic Laws: Traffic laws are ignored and rarely enforced, creating dangerous conditions for drivers and pedestrians.
Public Transportation:
See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Peru’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Peru’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.
Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Peru should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and the NGA broadcast warnings.
Peru was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Peru. For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA) report.
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