Americans planning to visit Peru, a nation celebrated for ancient wonders like Machu Picchu, are being put on high alert by the U.S. State Department, which has updated its travel advisory to highlight significant risks including violent crime, kidnapping, terrorism, and the dangers of potent local drugs. While the overall advisory level remains at “Exercise Increased Caution” (Level 2), specific regions have been designated as “Do Not Travel” (Level 4), encompassing the Colombia-Peru border area in Loreto and the Valley of the ApurÃmac, Ene and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM), including Vilcabamba, as well as the cities of Abancay, Ayacucho, Huancavelica, and Huancayo, due to heightened threats of crime and terrorism. The advisory warns of pervasive risks such as petty theft, carjackings, muggings, and assaults, which can occur even in broad daylight, and specifically flags the danger of “express kidnappings” where victims are forced to withdraw money from ATMs. Although popular tourist destinations like Cusco and the Sacred Valley are not directly covered by the “Do Not Travel” warning, experts urge travelers to remain vigilant, especially when venturing beyond these main hubs, and to research their specific destinations thoroughly. Furthermore, the State Department cautions against participating in ayahuasca and Kambo ceremonies, citing instances where U.S. citizens have suffered serious illness, death, sexual assault, injury, or robbery after consuming these substances, and advises against consuming coca products like tea and candy due to their status as controlled substances and potential for adverse drug interactions, even as these traditional experiences are a draw for some visitors.
Adapted from: Travel News Today on Fox News
