The Current Security Situation in Peru what Travelers should know
Peru is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America mainly because of its world-famous attractions. These include, above all, the ruined Inca city of Machu Picchu, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire Cusco and Lake Titicaca. However, the security situation in the country at the moment is more than tense. In light of the sometimes bloody demonstrations, the German Foreign Ministry is advising against non-essential travel to Peru.
Since December, there have been frequent, sometimes violent, political demonstrations in Peru. Dozens of people have already died. According to media reports, popular tourist attractions such as the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu have been closed for security reasons. Faced with the tense security situation in the country, Itamaraty advises against non-essential trips to Peru. It is highly discouraged to travel to the popular tourist areas of Cusco, Arequipa, Puno (Lake Titicaca), Puerto Maldonado and Apurímac (all in the south of the country).
The impetus for the ongoing demonstrations in Peru was the impeachment and arrest of controversial President Pedro Castillo in December of last year. He is accused of trying to illegally dissolve parliament to avoid accountability. Since then, the current president is Dina Boulwart, who previously served as vice president. Castillo’s supporters are calling for new elections, the politician’s release, Boulwart’s resignation, as well as the dissolution of parliament and constitutional changes.
The Current Security Situation in Peru
The government of Peru declared a state of emergency for 30 days on January 14, 2023. It was imposed in the regions of Lima, Callao, Cusco and Puno. In Puno, there is also a night curfew from 8 pm to 4 am, writes the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on its website. In many regions of Peru, particularly the regions south of Cusco, Arequipa, Puerto Maldonado and Puno, roads are impassable due to road closures. There are always bloody demonstrations that claim many lives.
Due to the tense situation, many hotels in the Cusco region are already closed for security reasons. Currently, there are also restrictions on air, rail and road transport. Cusco’s airport has been closed several times due to protests. “Star”. The Cusco – Lake Titicaca and Cusco – Juliaca – Arequipa train routes, popular with tourists, have been suspended until further notice, according to the website of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In addition, intercity buses no longer serve destinations in southern Peru and the Panamericana cannot be crossed due to the closure of the border with Bolivia. The land border between Peru and Bolivia is currently closed.
The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises travelers who are currently in Peru to wait until the country’s roads are passable again or have a confirmed flight to Lima before continuing their journey. It is currently not possible to arrive at the airport without confirming a flight or presenting a valid airline ticket.
