How Safe Is Traveling in Peru
How Safe Is Traveling in Peru
This is our second time visiting South America and first time traveling in Peru for almost three weeks. How safe is traveling in Peru?
Traveling in Peru can be safe if you take certain precautions and stay informed about the current situation. Overall, Peru is a popular tourist destination with many attractions, including Machu Picchu, Lima, Cusco, and the Amazon rainforest. However, like any other country, there are certain safety considerations to keep in mind.
Crime:
Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded tourist areas, markets, and public transportation. It’s advisable to be cautious of your belongings, keep an eye on your surroundings, and use common sense to minimize the risk of theft. Luckily, we didn’t encounter any crime and we sort of blend in as there are many Asian descendants in Peru.
Scams:
Some tourists may encounter scams, particularly in popular tourist areas. Be wary of individuals offering unsolicited assistance, overcharging for services or goods, or engaging in other suspicious activities. We have not encountered any scams as we are very alert of the surrounding due to our past traveling experiences.
Altitude sickness:
Peru has several high-altitude regions, such as Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Altitude sickness can affect individuals who are not acclimatized, causing symptoms like headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath. It’s recommended to take it easy upon arrival, drink plenty of fluids, and consider using medication or consulting a doctor if necessary.
We took the altitude sickness medication a few days before we flew to Cusco. On top of that, there are Coca leaf tea available in Cusco as the locals take it for high-altitude sickness.
Traffic and road conditions:
Peru’s road infrastructure can vary, and driving conditions may be challenging, especially in rural areas.
There are public transportation including metro and busses but they are pretty old school. Taxis are around and they usually do carpools for taxis.
There are taxi companies that you can book but you must have a local SIM card to register the app.
The traffic condition in Lima is quite bad (not as bad as Jakarta) and the locals love to honk.
Political and social unrest:
While protests and demonstrations can occur in Peru, they are typically localized and rarely target tourists. It’s advisable to stay updated on the current situation, avoid large gatherings or demonstrations, and follow the guidance of local authorities.
We were at Kennedy Park when there was a protest. It was a peaceful protest and no one was hurt.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, it is recommended to do some basic research on places you plan to visit, maintain a respectful attitude towards local customs and traditions, and consider using a reputable tour guide or agency for certain activities. Additionally, it’s always helpful to connect with other travelers or locals for insights and advice on specific locations.
We are lucky to have our Peruvian families to help us out during our travels in Peru. Based on our traveling experience, we can say Peru is very safe for traveling especially in Cusco. If you are planning to visit Peru, you can always reach out for us if we can help. Thanks for reading everyone, we love Peru, the people and their food!
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