Brit tourists issued travel warning as ‘state of emergency’ declared in ‘magical’ country | World | News

British tourists planning to visit Peru this summer have been warned to avoid two areas after a recent surge in criminal activity. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel guidance for Peru after the country’s government declared a 30-day “state of emergency” for the regions of Lima and Callao. Peru has experienced a spike in crime in recent weeks and months, including violent robberies and assaults – and its leaders have handed increased power to authorities in an attempt to stem the tide of social unrest.

Until June 17, the police and army will be working together to clamp down on crime in the two regions, the FCDO said, including through “the restriction of some constitutional rights” such as detaining people without a court order if necessary. The state of emergency was announced on Monday, and will also include an increased officer presence at public transport stops and on patrol. It comes after the country recorded 549 killings between the start of the year and March 16, according to the Associated Press.

The FCDO warned holidaymakers determined to go ahead with their trips to the affected regions to “comply with the instructions of local authorities, avoid crowds and monitor the situation closely”.

Peru is one the most popular destinations in South America for British tourists, thanks to its Inca heritage, stunning mountains, the Amazon Rainforest and famed citadel of Machu Picchu.

The country’s main tourist attractions aren’t impacted by the state of emergency, but the FCDO warns that “no travel can be guaranteed [as] safe” and pointed to a risk of terrorist attacks, unpredictable political climate and petty crime across all regions.

Holidaymakers have also been warned not to venture within 20km south of the Peru-Columbia border or towards the Valley of the Apurimac, Ene and Mantaro Rivers for “safety and security reasons”.

A rise in organised gang activity has been among the factors blamed for the recent crime wave, alongside poverty, inequality and a weak justice system.

For many visitors to Peru’s less dangerous regions, though, the risk is worth the reward – with some taking to TripAdvisor to share their memories of the country’s “magical” landscapes, “beautiful” scenery and rich history.

One impressed tourist fresh from climbing Machu Picchu said: “The awe factor combined with the incredible surrounding views make this one of our best ever experiences. The history and culture is important to appreciate this place … All in all, an unforgettable experience and a definite must-see.”

“Unforgettable, majestic, sublime, etc… I [don’t have] the vocabulary to describe what it feels like,” another added.