Is Lima safe to visit right now? (September 2026)

Travel advisories for Peru

What the advice says

• The US State Department rates Peru at Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution, and this advisory is set at the country level rather than specifically for Lima.
• The UK FCDO notes a high global threat of terrorism affecting British nationals and states that attacks in Peru cannot be ruled out, including in places visited by foreign travelers.
• Political protests in Peru are described as unpredictable and can escalate quickly, sometimes leading to roadblocks or travel disruption; the FCDO notes that protests in Lima often center on the historic center but can spread elsewhere.
• Street crime, including muggings and thefts, is flagged as a significant problem in Lima and other major cities, with incidents reported even in tourist areas such as Miraflores and Barranco.
• Fake taxi drivers pose a particular risk, especially at the international airport and bus terminals, so using licensed or app-based taxis arranged through your lodging is advised rather than hailing a cab on the street.
• The FCDO warns of express kidnapping risk, where victims are forced to withdraw cash from ATMs, often at night, and advises against resisting attackers if this happens.
• Solo travelers, and especially women traveling alone, should take extra care after dark and in quiet areas, since the FCDO notes that personal attacks, while infrequent, do occur mostly around Cusco and Arequipa.