Foreign Office warns UK tourists over 'state of emergency' until June 17

The FCDO has issued updated information on the State of Emergency in the regions of Lima and Callao.

Peru has declared a "state of emergency" in two regions following security concerns, with millions of UK tourists warned. The FCDO has issued updated information on the State of Emergency in the regions of Lima and Callao.

Foreign Office advised: "The Peruvian government has declared a State of Emergency until 17 June in the regions of Lima and Callao following security issues.

"In Lima the measure applies to the following districts: Ate, Carabayllo, Comas, Puente Piedra, San Martín de Porres, San Juan de Lurigancho, Villa María del Triunfo and Villa El Salvador.

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"This will see the police and army working together, and 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."

Peru’s government has taken drastic measures in response to escalating crime across Lima and its port city counterpart, Callao. With over 549 killings reported between January and mid-March, the country has reached a crisis point.

The emergency comes after weeks of escalating violence blamed on criminal groups, which often target businesses such as transport companies. The FCDO has told travellers visiting Peru that the country’s army and police are working together and are permitting 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,” the FCDO said.

The state of emergency was announced on Monday after President Dina Boluarte's government published a decree applying to Lima and neighbouring Callao.

Travel and Tour World advised: "Peru is still a dream destination for many. But as British tourists consider their summer plans, realism must match the romance. Until conditions stabilize, avoiding Lima and Callao is not just recommended—it’s essential.

"Stay tuned for updates. Monitor official channels. And if you’re traveling to Peru, make your itinerary work for you—not against your safety."