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

Travel advisories for Peru

What the advice says

• The US State Department rates Peru as Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution (dated September 4, 2026); this advisory is issued at the country level, not specifically for Lima.
• The UK FCDO notes a high global threat of terrorism affecting British nationals and states that terrorist attacks in Peru cannot be ruled out, including in places visited by foreign tourists, so travelers should stay aware of their surroundings and follow local media updates.
• Political protests occur in Peru and can escalate quickly, sometimes leading to roadblocks and travel disruption; in Lima these often happen in the historic center, though they can spread elsewhere, and foreigners are legally barred from participating in demonstrations.
• Street crime such as muggings, pickpocketing, and bag-snatching is a significant problem in Lima, including in tourist areas like Miraflores and Barranco, so solo travelers should avoid displaying valuables and avoid walking alone in quiet areas or at night.
• Fake taxi drivers pose a robbery risk, particularly at Jorge Chavez International Airport and bus terminals; travelers are advised to use licensed app-based or hotel-booked taxis rather than hailing one on the street.
• Express kidnappings have targeted tourists, especially those traveling alone, often at night, with victims forced to withdraw cash from ATMs; if confronted, the guidance is not to resist and to report the incident to police afterward.
• Sexual assaults are described as infrequent but have occurred mostly in the Cusco and Arequipa areas, with some tour agents reported to have targeted young women traveling alone, so extra caution is advised when booking tours in those regions.