Is Peru safe for tourists? An honest guide for 2026
Yes — Peru is generally safe for tourists, and millions of travellers visit every year without any problems. Like any popular destination, it has petty crime and a few local risks worth knowing about, and in the Andes the altitude affects far more visitors than crime ever does. Here is our honest, practical view as a team based in Cusco.
The short answer
| Risk | How common | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Pickpocketing, bag snatching | The most common issue | Keep valuables out of sight in crowds |
| Taxi overcharging | Frequent but minor | Use apps or taxis called by your hotel |
| Altitude sickness | Very common in Cusco | Acclimatize before high excursions |
| Strikes and road blocks | Occasional, regional | Stay flexible and follow local advice |
| Violent crime against tourists | Rare in tourist areas | Normal precautions, avoid empty streets at night |
Petty theft and how to avoid it
The most likely problem is opportunistic theft in busy places: markets, bus stations, crowded streets and nightlife areas.
- Use a cross-body bag with a zip and keep your phone in a front pocket.
- Do not hang bags on the back of chairs or leave phones on restaurant tables.
- Carry only the cash you need for the day and leave the rest in the hotel safe.
- Keep a photo of your passport; carry the original only when you need it, for example for Machu Picchu and the trains.
Travel Peru with a trusted local team
Licensed guides, hotel pickup, oxygen and first-aid kits on every tour.
Taxis, scams and tours
Most “scams” in Peru are minor overcharging rather than anything dangerous. Use a ride-hailing app or a taxi called by your hotel, especially at night, and agree on the fare before getting in when there is no meter or app. Change money only at banks or official exchange houses, never on the street. Be wary of street sellers offering cheap tours: book with an established operator with real reviews — it matters for safety, not just quality.
The real risk in the Andes: altitude
In Cusco (3,400 m), at Lake Titicaca and on the high passes, altitude is far more likely to disrupt your trip than crime. Take it easy for the first day or two, drink plenty of water and leave the highest excursions for later. Machu Picchu itself is lower, at about 2,430 m. Read our altitude sickness guide.
Strikes and protests
Peru occasionally has regional strikes (paros) or road blockades, which can affect trains and roads for a day or more. They are usually announced in advance and are not aimed at tourists. Keep away from demonstrations, check current travel advice from your government before you go, and leave a little flexibility in your itinerary. If a strike affects one of our tours, we contact you to reschedule.
Solo and female travellers
Peru is a popular destination for solo and female travellers. Standard precautions apply: choose well-reviewed accommodation and operators, avoid walking alone in quiet areas late at night, use trusted taxis and watch your drink. Joining group tours and treks adds both company and security. See our solo travel guide to Cusco.
Health basics
- Water: drink bottled, boiled or filtered water, never from the tap.
- Food: eat in busy places and go easy on street food at first.
- Sun: UV is very strong in the Andes; use sunscreen and a hat.
- Insurance: travel with insurance that covers medical care and, if you trek, high altitude.
What about Cusco?
Cusco is one of the safest cities in Peru for visitors, with a compact, busy historic centre and a visible tourist police presence. Our dedicated guide covers it in detail: is Cusco safe?
Emergency numbers
- Police: 105
- Fire brigade: 116
- Save your embassy’s contact details and your insurer’s emergency line before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the main tourist areas are generally safe. Check your government’s current travel advice before you go, as regional strikes can occasionally affect transport.
Petty theft in crowded places and, in the Andes, altitude sickness. Violent crime against tourists is rare in the main travel areas.
Generally yes, with normal precautions: reputable accommodation and tours, trusted taxis at night and avoiding quiet streets late at night.
Use ride-hailing apps or taxis called by your hotel or restaurant, especially at night, and avoid unmarked cars offered on the street.
Police 105 and fire brigade 116. Also save your embassy’s number and your travel insurance emergency line.
