Peru’s Travel Advisory Level Reduced by U.S. State Department
Peru is a popular destination for travelers looking to experience its rich heritage, culture and wildlife, and to trek to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With more than four million tourists visiting Peru every year and Machu Picchu being the country’s most popular tourist attraction, visiting the country is on many bucket lists. The U.S. State Department recently issued a new travel advisory, reducing Peru’s level of perceived risk from “Level 3- reconsider travel plans” to “Level 2 – exercise increased caution.” This means that travelers can resume making their travel plans to Peru.
What Changed?
In recent months, the U.S. State Department had raised Peru’s travel advisory level to “Level 3” due to civil unrest. In late 2020, protests in Peru resulted in the removal of the country’s president, causing further political instability and violence. The COVID-19 pandemic also contributed to the hesitation among visitors to travel to Peru. However, with the situation improving and the new President Pedro Castillo taking office, the State Department reassessed the situation and lowered the advisory level.
What Does “Level 2” Mean?
A “Level 2” advisory means that travelers should exercise increased caution due to crime and civil unrest. However, travelers are not advised to reconsider their travel plans. This change in advisory level in Peru signifies a reduction in the potential risks for travelers while traveling to the country.
What Precautions Should You Take?
Although the overall risk level has decreased, it is still important for travelers to take precautions while traveling to Peru. Travelers should be aware of their surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and when using public transport. It is also advised to keep valuables safe and hidden when traveling, avoid carrying excessive cash, and to only use licensed taxis.
What About COVID-19?
Peru has implemented strict measures to control the spread of COVID-19, requiring travelers to provide a negative COVID-19 test before entering the country and enforcing social distancing and mask-wearing. Travelers should stay up to date with any changes in COVID-19 protocols and ensure that they comply with them during their stay.
Is Machu Picchu Open?
Yes, Machu Picchu has reopened with capacity limitations and social distancing measures in place. Visitors are required to wear masks and practice social distancing while on the site. However, it is important to check the most up-to-date information on capacity limits and any restrictions.
Conclusion
With the travel advisory level reduced, travelers can start considering Peru as a travel destination once again. However, it is important to take precautions and stay up to date with any changes in COVID-19 protocols and any other potential risks. With Machu Picchu reopened, travelers can once again enjoy one of the world’s most popular historical sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Peru safe to travel to now?
A: The U.S. State Department has lowered the travel advisory level for Peru from “Level 3- reconsider travel plans” to “Level 2 – exercise increased caution.” However, travelers should still exercise caution and awareness of their surroundings to reduce their risk of crime and civil unrest.
Q: What precautions should I take when traveling to Peru?
A: Travelers should be aware of their surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and when using public transport. It is advised to keep valuables safe and hidden when traveling, avoid carrying excessive cash, and to only use licensed taxis.
Q: What COVID-19 protocols are in place in Peru?
A: Peru has implemented strict measures to control the spread of COVID-19, requiring travelers to provide a negative COVID-19 test before entering the country and enforcing social distancing and mask-wearing. Visitors to Machu Picchu are required to wear masks and practice social distancing while on the site.
Q: Is Machu Picchu open?
A: Yes, Machu Picchu has reopened with capacity limitations and social distancing measures in place. Visitors are required to wear masks and practice social distancing while on the site. However, it is important to check the most up-to-date information on capacity limits and any restrictions.
Q: Is it safe to travel to Peru during the COVID-19 pandemic?
A: Travelers should be aware of the potential risks of traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic and should ensure they follow all applicable protocols to avoid contracting or spreading the virus. It is important to stay up-to-date with any changes in COVID-19 protocols and any other potential risks in Peru.
