The US State Department updated its Peru travel advisory on 4 September 2026, and travellers planning a visit to Lima should read the current guidance before they go. A state of emergency is in effect for Lima and Callao, with an increased security presence and armed forces deployed in both areas.
What the Advisory Says
The overall Peru advisory is Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution). Within that, specific areas carry higher-level warnings:
- Do Not Travel: The Colombia-Peru border area in the Loreto Region, due to crime
- Do Not Travel: The Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM) region, due to crime and terrorism threats
- Reconsider Travel: Parts of Abancay, Ayacucho, Huancavelica, and Huancayo within the regions of Ayacucho, Cusco, Huancavelica, and Junín
The state of emergency in Lima and Callao is a domestic security measure and does not mean the city is unsafe for tourists — but it does come with a heightened police and military presence and the potential for travel disruptions if large protests occur.
Impact on Travellers
Lima and Callao: The city remains open and active. Most tourists visit the Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro districts without incident. However, political protests in the city’s historic centre (Lima Centro) have previously caused transport disruptions. Avoid large crowds and demonstrations, and monitor local news for any new restrictions.
Machu Picchu and Cusco: Cusco city and Machu Picchu itself are not in the restricted zones and remain open. The Inca Trail and other permitted trekking routes continue to operate as normal — see our Cusco city guide for practical planning information.
Transport: Protests have previously disrupted road and rail links between Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa. Check transport schedules before departing, particularly if travelling overland.
Practical Advice
Keep a copy of your passport and travel insurance details separate from your originals. Register your trip with your country’s embassy before you go. Travel insurance that covers political disruption is worth checking before departure.
September is a good time to visit Peru in terms of weather — the dry season is in full swing across the highlands and the altiplano, with clear skies and dry trails through most of October. For more on timing your visit, see our Lima city guide.