Violent protests in Peru: travel warning for tourists in Lima!

Violent protests in Peru: travel warning for tourists in Lima!

There is currently a threat of violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces in Peru. Precarious situations are particularly evident in the capital Lima, as well as in other large cities. On October 16, 2025, massive protests broke out in which one protester was killed and a total of 113 people were injured, including 84 police officers. The protests are directed against corruption, rising crime and political instability. In this tense situation, the Peruvian government has announced a state of emergency for Lima, which could potentially include night curfews. [Merkur] reports that the Foreign Office has subsequently updated its travel advice and warns of possible violent clashes.

Around 10 million residents in the Lima metropolitan region as well as all local tourists are affected by this situation. In addition, there were already conflicts last month in the Cusco region, which is known for the impressive Inca site of Machu Picchu, which led to the blockage of the only railway line to the ruins. According to [Tagesschau], around 1,600 tourists had to be evacuated in a nighttime rescue operation, while another 900 were stuck for days.

Evacuations and access to Machu Picchu

The protests in the Cusco region led to residents blocking train traffic to the Inca site. This blockade had extended since Monday, making Machu Picchu difficult to reach. Peruvian authorities are working to evacuate local tourists. Tourism Minister Desilú León announced that around 1,400 people were brought to safety on Tuesday night. In addition, around 900 tourists were still stuck at Machu Picchu at this time.

It is unclear how many foreign tourists are affected, as an average of around 4,500 people visit the Inca ruins every day. Most travel is by train from Cusco, 110 kilometers away, with most visitors taking buses from Aguas Calientes train station. The protests are demanding that a new bus company be set up that better takes into account the interests of local residents.

Travel advice and security situation

The Foreign Office published stricter safety instructions for Peru on October 17, 2025, but there is currently no official travel warning. Package holidays cannot generally be canceled free of charge, and insurance often only takes effect in the event of travel warnings. Travelers are therefore encouraged to register on the ELEFAND crisis preparedness list and to closely follow the security situation in the Peruvian media.

Other safety tips include avoiding crowds and demonstrations, avoiding blockades by breaking through, using only licensed taxis and carefully planning connecting flights with sufficient time buffers. Travelers should also keep copies of all important documents separately and not resist attacks. Crime rates are high in Peru, particularly in Lima, Cusco and Arequipa, with thefts, robberies and "express kidnappings" common.

The airport transfer in Lima is considered a risk zone because taxi drivers have repeatedly been involved in crimes. Political upheaval in Peru began on October 10, 2025, when President Dina Boluarte was deposed by parliament. José Jerí has ​​been the new president since then. The situation remains tense and further developments can be expected.