Most visits are trouble-free. However, street crime is a problem, particularly in Lima and other big cities. Robberies by rogue taxi drivers in the main tourist areas, including Lima airport, Cusco and Arequipa, are an increasing problem. Travellers are advised to book taxis through reputable companies rather than hailing them in the street.

The Ministry of Transport & Communications has suspended the activities of the CIAL bus company on the route between Lima and La Paz via Cusco following a fatal bus crash on 4 December 2007.

Peru was struck by an earthquake measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale on 15 August 2007. About 595 people died, mostly in the cities of Ica and Pisco (around 100 miles south of Lima), the area most affected. 318 are still missing. Local travel and communications were affected, but previously suspended bus services have now resumed. The area is still suffering from the devastation caused by the quake, with infrastructure seriously affected.

Since late June 2007, there has been an increasing number of civil disturbances, including strikes, demonstrations and street protests, which have now spread to all areas of the country. While the demonstrations have been mainly peaceful, there have been incidents of violence. There is also disruption to travel in many areas including blocked highways and airport closures. In particular, road and rail services between Puno and Cusco are severely disrupted. Travellers are strongly advised to check with your travel company or airline before travelling within Peru.

There is a risk of 'express kidnappings'. Travellers should exercise caution when arriving in, and travelling around Peru and be aware of the general risks of crime for visitors. 

Heavy rainfall has led to several instances of flooding and landslides in central Peru, and the blockage of many roads. Travellers are advised to check before travelling to the central areas of the country. 

There has been a marked increase in cases of dengue fever in Trujillo, La Libertad province.

Street demonstrations and protests are commonplace in Peru, and sometimes turn violent. Travellers should take care to avoid any area in which large crowds are gathering.

The Inca Trail is closed during the month of February. This is an annual closure in order to carry out maintenance and conservation works.

Travellers should carry some form of identification at all times. A photocopy of your passport's relevant pages is sufficient.

You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel