British holidaymakers heading to South America have been issued a fresh warning.
As Peru declares a "state of emergency" in two regions following security concerns, the UK Government has updated its travel guidance.
The state of emergency will be enacted in Lima and Callao until June 17, 2025, according to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
Emergency measures were implemented in response to unspecified security issues affecting parts of the country's capital and neighbouring port city. In Lima, eight specific districts are impacted.
Before visiting Peru, consult the FCDO's latest guidance
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Lima districts affected by state of emergency measures
- Ate
- Carabayllo
- Comas
- Puente Piedra
- San Martín de Porres
- San Juan de Lurigancho
- Villa María del Triunfo
- Villa El Salvador
The state of emergency will see police and military forces working together with expanded powers.
According to the FCDO, it will "permit the restriction of some constitutional rights". For example, "the police will be able to detain people without a judicial order if they deem it necessary".
Sharing more information on states of emergency in Peru, officials stated: "States of emergency have been declared in some parts of Peru.
"You can read a list of the areas with a state of emergency in El Peruano official newspaper (in Spanish). For more information on your destination, contact the iPeru information service."
In these areas, visitors may notice "an increased security presence".
They were advised to "comply with the instructions of local authorities, avoid crowds, and monitor the situation closely".
Peru is a very popular tourist destination, known for beautiful sites such as the Amazon Rainforest, Rainbow Mountains and Lake Titicaca.
Visitors can enjoy culinary delights such as ceviche and quinoa, and witness Andean animals like llamas and alpacas.
Of course, a trip to Peru is not complete without exploring Machu Picchu.
Over a million people take a trip to the iconic site every year, meaning the Incan citadel sees around 4,000 visitors every single day.
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Peru is a popular tourist destination known for its exceptional beautyGETTY IMAGES
One visitor to Lake Titicaca described it as a 'magical experience'GETTY IMAGESAs described by the UNESCO World Heritage Convention, "Machu Picchu stands 2,430 m above sea-level, in the middle of a tropical mountain forest, in an extraordinarily beautiful setting".
On Tripadvisor, one visitor declared it is a "must" during a visit to Peru, while another called it "a wonder in every sense".
One visitor to Peru who booked a tour of Lake Titicaca said that their experience was "perfect" and "fascinating".
A second called it a "magical experience". These sites are not affected by the current state of emergency.
Before visiting Peru, Britons should consult the FCDO's latest travel guidance for the South American destination.
This will include the most up-to-date information on warnings and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, regional risks, health, and getting help.
It's important to note that the FCDO "advises against all travel" to some parts of Peru. Under "Regional risks", Britons can read detailed guidance on visiting specific areas.
