Quick verdict: is it safe to travel in Peru?

For most travelers, Peru is a safe trip when you take sensible precautions and plan your logistics. Tourist routes are well traveled, and people are generally welcoming. The risk profile is similar to other major travel destinations: you’re more likely to deal with petty theft than anything serious.

If you want one guiding rule, it’s this:

Peru is safer when you travel deliberately. Choose accommodation in good areas, use reputable transport, avoid flashing valuables, and keep your phone secured—especially in crowded places.

Common safety concerns in Peru (what actually happens)

Travelers often imagine worst-case scenarios. In practice, the issues that show up most often are straightforward:

• Pickpocketing in crowded markets, bus stations, and tourist-heavy streets
• Phone theft (snatch-and-run) when holding a phone near roads or doorways
• Bag theft when a backpack is left on a chair or hung on a table
• Transport scams (unofficial taxis, inflated prices, confusing “help” offers)
• ATM risks (distraction, skimming, “helpful stranger” approach)

None of this is unique to Peru, but the better you handle it, the more relaxed the trip feels.

Safety in Lima: what to know by neighborhood and routine

“Is it safe in Lima Peru?” is a common search because Lima is big, and it’s easy to end up somewhere you didn’t intend—especially after a long flight.

What increases safety in Lima

• Choose accommodation carefully (well-reviewed, good location, secure entrance)
• Use reputable transportation and confirm details before getting in
• Keep your phone discreet and avoid standing at the curb checking directions
• Plan nighttime movement: if it’s late, take a ride instead of walking long distances

What to avoid in Lima (simple, effective)

• Accepting rides from unverified drivers who approach you
• Carrying all cash/cards in one place
• Using ATMs in empty locations late at night
• Wandering in unfamiliar districts without a clear plan

If you arrive at night, treat the first evening as a “logistics night.” Get to your accommodation, eat nearby, and save exploring for the next day.

Cusco and the Sacred Valley: generally tourist-friendly, still not careless

Cusco is a major tourist hub. That’s good for travelers—lots of services, tours, walkable areas. It also means the basics matter because crowds create opportunity.

Street safety tips in Cusco

• Use a crossbody bag with zippers and keep it in front in crowded areas.
• Don’t keep your phone in your back pocket—ever.
• Keep your passport stored securely (hotel safe if available) and carry a copy when appropriate.

Altitude can affect your safety habits

Cusco’s altitude can make travelers feel tired, foggy, or off-balance. That can reduce awareness. On day one, it’s smart to slow down, hydrate, and keep your schedule light.

Most travelers who feel “unsafe” in Cusco are actually feeling tired and disoriented from altitude and travel fatigue. Don’t underestimate that factor.

Machu Picchu: safety is mostly about organization

Machu Picchu itself is typically not where tourists run into crime issues. The bigger risk is logistical stress: missed connections, lost ticket confirmations, or confusion around meeting points.

• Keep digital backups of tickets, reservations, and IDs.
• Download offline maps for key areas.
• Carry what you need for a full day: water, snacks, layers, and a small power bank.

Transport safety in Peru: the rules that prevent most problems

Transport is where tourists can get overwhelmed—airports, bus terminals, long-distance transfers. Keep it simple:

• Use reputable airport pickups or verified ride options when possible.
• Confirm details (plate, driver name, destination) before entering.
• Keep your day bag with you at all times—passport, phone, cards, medications.
• Don’t leave bags unattended even for a minute at stations.
• Arrive early for major connections so you aren’t making rushed decisions.

Rushed travelers make bad choices. Most “scam” stories start with “we were late and…”

Money and documents: low-effort habits with high payoff

• Carry two payment methods and store them separately.
• Keep a small amount of cash accessible and the rest hidden.
• Use ATMs in well-lit, busy areas and avoid help from strangers.
• Store digital copies of passport and travel insurance (securely).

Why staying connected matters for safety (and not just convenience)

This is where people underestimate Peru travel: being connected helps you avoid the exact situations that create risk. Mobile data lets you:

• navigate quickly without looking lost
• book verified transport instead of taking random offers
• message your accommodation or guide if plans change
• check official updates and local changes in real time
• share your location with a friend or family member when needed

A Zetsim travel eSIM is an easy way to get data without hunting for a SIM shop after arrival. Install it on Wi‑Fi before your flight, then activate it when you land in Peru.

If your phone supports dual SIM, keep your home SIM for SMS verification codes and use Zetsim for data.

Solo travelers (including solo female travelers): how to keep it smooth

Solo travel in Peru is common, especially around Cusco and the Sacred Valley. The safety strategy is mostly about routine:

• Stay in well-reviewed areas and avoid isolated accommodation far from main streets.
• Be predictable at night: take a ride, don’t wander.
• Trust your instincts. If a street feels wrong, it probably is.
• Use data to plan routes before you step outside.

Confidence helps. Knowing where you’re going (and not showing confusion) reduces attention from opportunistic thieves.

FAQ: Is it safe in Peru?

Official resources

Gobierno del Perú · Peru Travel (official tourism)