Travel Warning: Peru

October 26, 2000
Sporadic political demonstrations are likely to continue in Peru until after the national elections tentatively scheduled for early April 2001. American citizen visitors and residents in Peru are encouraged to monitor local newscasts closely to keep informed about demonstrations, which are usually announced in advance. While marches and demonstrations in recent months have been largely peaceful, they have the potential to turn violent, and police often use tear gas to subdue crowds.

There has been no evidence of any anti-American sentiment in recent demonstrations. Nevertheless, U.S. citizens in Peru are advised to avoid demonstrations and crowds, and to plan in-country travel in accordance with U.S. Embassy travel restrictions contained in the Department of State's Consular Information Sheet for Peru.


Machu Picchu and other major tourist sites have been largely unaffected by political demonstrations. However, travelers have been occasionally inconvenienced by transportation strikes that have caused delays on the Cusco/Machu Picchu railroad, on major highways, and in downtown Lima. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid riding public buses during transportation strikes, as passengers have occasionally been injured in strike-related confrontations.

For further information on travel to Peru, please consult the Department of State's latest Consular Information Sheet for Peru. News and information about current events is also available on U.S. Embassy Lima's web site at www.rcp.net.pe/usa.