State of Emergency in Lima and Callao: What Travellers Need to Know

A state of emergency is currently in effect for Lima and the adjacent port district of Callao, Peru’s international aviation gateway. Armed forces have been deployed alongside police in both areas in response to elevated security concerns. The measure increases visible security presence on the streets but does not constitute a curfew or restrict movement for tourists in established visitor areas.

Jorge Chávez International Airport, located in Callao, continues to operate normally. Arrivals and departures are unaffected, and airport access roads are open. Travellers transiting Lima on their way to Cusco or other Peruvian destinations should proceed as normal but should be aware of increased checkpoints and a heightened military presence near the airport district and in central Lima.

Areas and activities affected

The historic centre of Lima — the Plaza Mayor, Larco Mar, Miraflores, and the main tourist corridor — continues to receive visitors. However, authorities from Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States all advise exercising heightened caution throughout Lima and Callao, and recommend avoiding political demonstrations, which have the potential to turn disruptive and can block transport to and from the airport.

Past disruptions have included transport blockades affecting roads between Lima and Cusco. While no such disruptions are currently in force, travellers relying on ground transport should monitor local conditions. Flying between Lima and Cusco is the safest and most reliable option during periods of civil unrest; see our Lima to Cusco guide for current carrier options.

Staying safe

The major tourism-facing districts — Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro — have their own municipal security patrols and are considered low-risk for visitors staying within their boundaries. Our is Peru safe guide provides current, destination-specific risk breakdowns across the country.

Outside Lima, Peru is in the height of dry season. The Inca Trail, Sacred Valley, and high-altitude Andean routes are in optimal trekking condition, and Inti Raymi in Cusco on 24 June remains on schedule with a full 700-actor production. Daily visitor limits at Machu Picchu are set at 5,600 during high season (19 June–2 November). Waynapicchu Mountain remains closed throughout June for maintenance. Any travellers planning to visit Machu Picchu during this period should ensure they have booked both their Inca Trail permits and separate Machu Picchu entry tickets in advance, as the two are no longer bundled for 2026.