US Warns Tourists Against Travel to Certain Peruvian Regions

The U.S. Department of State has updated its travel advisory for Peru, a popular South American tourist destination, citing risks including violent crime, kidnappings, terrorism, and dangerous substances. The overall threat level for Peru remains at Level 2, "Exercise Increased Caution," but specific areas are designated Level 4, "Do Not Travel."

Updated recommendations warn tourists about robberies, armed carjackings, assaults, and petty theft, which can occur in broad daylight. The advisory also highlights "express kidnappings," where victims are forced to withdraw money from ATMs. While rare, these incidents persist. Crime rates significantly increase at night, with criminal groups reportedly setting up roadblocks outside Lima to rob motorists.

Israel's National Security Council also classifies Peru as having a mixed threat level, recommending standard precautions but advising against non-essential travel to the VRAEM region and areas along the Colombian border. The highest threat level (Level 4) applies to the border region with Colombia in the Loreto department and the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro River Valley (VRAEM), including Vilcabamba. Cities like Abancay, Ayacucho, Huancavelica, and Huancayo are also discouraged for U.S. citizens due to crime and terrorism risks.

Despite these warnings, major tourist sites like Cusco, the Sacred Valley, the Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu are not included in the "Do Not Travel" zones. Tourism expert Ángel Castellanos advised Americans venturing off the beaten path to heed warnings and research destinations, noting that most visitors to popular sites use guides or tour companies, especially for the Inca Trail.

The advisory also addresses risks associated with traditional and medicinal plant tourism, particularly ayahuasca and cambo ceremonies offered in areas like Cusco. U.S. citizens are strongly advised against consuming these substances, as incidents have involved severe illness, death, sexual assault, injury, and robbery due to impaired judgment. The use of coca leaf products, such as tea and candy, is also cautioned against, as they contain a controlled substance that can interact dangerously with prescription medications. Castellanos acknowledged the importance of plant medicine tourism but urged caution and consultation with a doctor before consumption.