Be Safe in Lima

Visiting Lima is an extraordinary experience, but visitors should take some small necessary precautions to ensure that they have an enjoyable holiday. Much of Peru is poverty stricken and this has increased the petty crime rates. However, if visitors to Lima are sensible and cautious, they can have a truly enjoyable and unforgettable experience.

Safety

Petty crime is the most immediate threat to tourists, and you are advised to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Pick-pocketing usually occurs in crowded places like the markets, buses and on crowded streets at night. Pick-pockets often work in gangs to cause a distraction while stealing someones wallet.

Dont string your camera on your neck and always hold on to your packages and belongings. Be careful when walking in crowded areas and also when sunbathing or swimming. Do not carry all your cash with you and leave jewellery and passports in a safe locker if possible. There has been a slight increase of armed robbery in Lima, but this is usually gang related. However, visitors are advised not to walk alone at night. Armed robberies usually occur on buses travelling at night.

Health

Travellers should avoid drinking water from the tap and only consume beverages that are in sealed bottles. Drinks served at restaurants and cafs are safe to drink, but you should avoid ice.

Always take with you any medication that is needed, as the standard of medical treatment and health facilities in Lima are not up to the standards found in most western countries.

Yellow fever inoculation is required if you are planning to visit the jungle areas, although there have been no reported cases of yellow fever for more than 15 years. You will need to have proof that you have been vaccinated, so please ask your doctor to issue you with a certificate. It is advisable for you to obtain all inoculations at least two weeks before travelling. You may wish to consider being inoculated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B and diphtheria. Ensure that your tetanus and polio shots are also up-to-date.

Travel insurance

Planning and going on a holiday involves a lot of time and expense, and in return, travellers hope that the holiday will be well worth the effort. Having a travel insurance plan that offers coverage for vacation and trip cancellation, travel interruptions and delays, emergency medical and health expenses, lost baggage and more is necessary if you want to travel with peace of mind. It is a small price to pay and comes in very handy when incidents that are beyond your control occur.