Health & Safety When Traveling to Peru

Medical, Health & Safety in Peru

Once you’re properly insured, it’s time to start preparing for your trip. Here are some of the top Peru travel health and safety concerns to keep in mind as you plan.

Common Diseases

Peru has a warm, tropical climate, which means it is home to various diseases and health risks that U.S. visitors don’t encounter at home.

To prevent malaria and other mosquito-borne illnesses, like dengue fever and chikungunya, which are prevalent, pack protective clothing and insect repellent, and consider talking to your doctor about antimalarial medication before you go.

Altitude sickness is also a common concern in high-elevation destinations, such as Cusco or Machu Picchu. Travelers should be on the lookout for symptoms, like headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath, and seek medical attention for serious illness.

For current travel advice, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) for health news and updates before your departure.

Vaccinations

No vaccinations are required to enter Peru, but the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises visitors to be up-to-date on all routine vaccines, as well as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, measles, and tetanus.

A yellow-fever vaccine is also recommended for travelers visiting areas less than 2,300m (7,550ft) in elevation in the regions of Amazonas, Cusco, Huánuco, Junín, Loreto, Madre de Dios, Pasco, Puno, San Martín, and Ucayali, as well as designated areas of Ancash (far northeast), Apurímac (far north), Ayacucho (north and northeast), Cajamarca (north and east), Huancavelica (far north), La Libertad (east), and Piura (east).

This information is likely to change, so always check the CDC site for the most recent updates ahead of your trip.

Local Medical Treatment

Peru has a mix of public and private healthcare facilities. Major cities, like Lima and Cusco, offer high-quality private clinics and hospitals, which are commonly visited for medical tourism. Rural areas, however, may lack advanced or adequate care.

Of course, private care can be costly. To help cover any medical emergencies, U.S. travelers should make sure their travel insurance includes medical-evacuation coverage, as costs for transportation to high-standard facilities can be significant, as well as waivers for any pre-existing medical conditions.

Water & Food

It’s best to avoid tap water in Peru and drink bottled or boiled water instead. Be wary of ice and raw fruits and vegetables, including salads.

Street food is widespread in Peru, and you’ll have plenty of options, so try to choose high-volume vendors practicing good hygiene — traveler’s diarrhea is a common issue resulting from contaminated food. Just in case, it’s smart to carry over-the-counter remedies or antibiotics prescribed by your healthcare professional in your first-aid kit.

Air Quality

Air quality can vary, from Lima and other cities, where pollution may affect sensitive individuals, to high-altitude areas, where thinner air can compound breathing difficulties. To stay healthy, travelers with respiratory conditions should check the air-quality index and monitor local conditions during their trip.

Crime & Personal Safety

Peru is generally safer than some other countries in South America, but both petty and violent crime do occur. For detailed travel advisories, including current risk factors, safety alerts, and areas to avoid, consult the U.S. Department of State’s country information page regularly before your departure.

In general, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, scams, and petty theft, is common in popular tourist destinations. Use ATMs inside banks to withdraw money, avoid displaying valuables, and pay attention in crowded spaces and on public transportation.

Throughout the country, demonstrations and other forms of civil unrest happen regularly and can disrupt travel. Monitor local media and follow Peruvian authorities’ instructions to keep out of trouble.

Violent crime is also common across the country, according to the State Department. Kidnapping is rare but not unheard of, while carjackings, muggings, and assaults can occur day or night — although the risks increase at night, so it’s wise to avoid walking alone after dark in certain areas of major cities, like parts of Lima. And if you’re venturing out of the capital city’s limits, roadblocks can be used to stage robberies, so remain alert to any potential dangers.

Natural Disasters

When it comes to natural disasters, Peru is prone to earthquakes and landslides, particularly during the rainy season (November to March).

To be prepared, keep an eye on the weather forecast when planning travel, and register for the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) in case of emergencies. If any natural disasters occur during the course of your visit, familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures, monitor local media for ongoing incidents or threats, and follow official advice.

Local Laws

To avoid complications in Peru, you can familiarize yourself with some of the local laws and regulations relevant to travelers.

Under Peruvian law, drug possession and drug trafficking are heavily penalized, so steer clear of illegal drugs — even ones that are legal at home. Always carry photo identification — i.e., your passport or a copy of it — and be prepared to show it to local authorities if asked.