Updated September 19, 2023

There’s something really special about Peru. And Lima, its capital city, is packed with fantastic sights, food, and activities. But is Lima safe?

Yes! Lima is absolutely a safe place for travelers. But there are some things that people should keep in mind. Below, learn about COVID-19 in Lima, which scams to watch out for, and how to navigate the city as a solo traveler. 

Is Lima Safe To Visit During COVID-19?

First things first, is Peru safe to visit right now? Is the country even open? 

Peru is open for travel!

Just like anywhere else in the world, COVID-19 means that traveling to Peru comes with new risks. But travelers can take precautions by monitoring case levels, getting vaccinated, and complying with local rules like wearing a mask.  

By taking simple steps like that, you can reduce your risk of getting sick and enjoy all the incredible activities that Peru has to offer. 

Here’s What Travelers Need To Know About Lima Safety 

Not only is Lima fairly safe, but it’s also one of the best places to visit in Peru. Still, a city is a city. And travelers will need to take a couple of normal precautions to stay safe. 

For starters, educate yourself on Lima’s neighborhoods. Neighborhoods like Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro are popular among travelers and are considered fairly safe areas of Lima. (Of course, you’ll still want to take precautions as you would in any big city.)  

Though it’s subjective, other neighborhoods have a less sterling reputation. To get the full low-down on which neighborhoods in Lima to explore, and which ones to avoid, just ask someone who lives there. They can tell you how they navigate their hometown. 

Common Scams To Know In Lima

Just like in any city, scammers exist in Lima. Keep these safety tips in mind as you explore Lima and the rest of Peru:

• Look out for pickpockets: Keep your phone use while out on the street minimal. Having your phone out all the time (or flashing other expensive items) makes you an attractive target for pickpockets. Plus, without your phone, you will be more aware of your surroundings which is always a good safety practice. 
• Keep an eye on your drinks: Drink spiking is a common scam. To stay safe, only accept drinks you ordered from bartenders, waitstaff, etc. And never leave your drink unattended. 
• Familiarize yourself with the currency and count your change: Be confident in your use of the local currency and you’re less likely to be a victim of skimming or overcharging.
• Ignore catcalls: Just keep walking. 
• Leave your valuables at home: If you don’t need it and you’d be heartbroken to lose it, don’t bring it. 
• Choose ATMs carefully: Try to find ones inside banks or hotels, and always choose ones in well-lit, busy areas.  

There’s no reason to fear traveling in Lima. Use common sense, appear confident, and have fun. Locals can show you the best (and safest) places to go in Lima. 

What To Know About Transportation In Lima

There are many transportations options in Peru, but for safety and efficiency, Lima locals recommend taxis and microbuses called combis. 

Taxi tips: Choose private taxis over public taxis. Private ones are a little bit more expensive, but they are safer and more reliable, well worth the extra few dollars. Taxi Seguro is a reputable choice in Lima that you can call to schedule pick-ups, or try the app TaxiBeat. 

Combi tips: Hail these anywhere along their routes. You’ll recognize them from the many stickers on the microbus and (usually) a crowd of people already on board. Before you board, double-check the destination with the driver; they’re generally happy to help make sure you get off in the right place. 

Required Vaccines For Peru Travel

In addition to the COVID-19 vaccine and routine vaccinations like flu, MMR, and polio, the CDC recommends the following vaccinations for safe travel to Peru:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Rabies
• Yellow Fever (for certain areas of Peru outside of Lima)

Tips For Solo Travelers In Lima

Lima is a popular destination for solo travelers in Peru. Follow these simple safety tips and enjoy your time in Lima. 

• Tell people where you are. Share your itinerary with loved ones before you go and get a data sim card so you can update family and friends during your trip. 
• Choose daylight. Like many cities around the world, Lima is safer during the day than at night, especially for solo travelers. Plan to do most of your sightseeing during daylight hours and if you do go out in the evening, use private taxis and go in a group if you can.
• Enjoy alcoholic beverages in moderation. Sip on one excellent Pisco Sour instead of downing several drinks so you keep your wits about you.
• Make friends. Stay at a hostel, go on a walking tour, or book a Peruvian cooking class. There are many ways to meet like-minded travelers who you could explore Lima with.

Is Lima Safe? Yes

Peru’s capital city is a safe and fun destination for travelers of all kinds. Plan ahead, listen to your intuition, and get ready to enjoy the best of Lima, from nightlife to historic sights to lush green spaces.