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US issues travel warning for Machu Picchu

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, September 17th 2025 at 6:18 GMT by Newsweek
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U.S. Advises Travelers to Steer Clear of Machu Picchu Amid Rising Crime and Unrest

In a move that has stunned both the travel industry and the millions of adventure‑seekers who have long dreamed of trekking the Inca trail, the U.S. Department of State has issued a stern travel warning for Machu Picchu and the surrounding region of Peru. The advisory, which elevates the area to the highest safety level (Level 4), comes as Peru faces a confluence of factors that have dramatically increased the risk to foreign visitors: soaring crime rates, a surge in armed robberies, political turmoil, and a worsening health environment that has left the country’s tourism infrastructure in a precarious state.

Why Machu Picchu Has Been singled out

Machu Picchu, the famed 15th‑century Inca citadel perched at 2,430 m (7,970 ft) above sea level, is not just a symbol of pre‑colonial South American ingenuity; it is also one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting roughly 1.2 million visitors annually. Its remote location has historically made it a safe haven for travelers, but the past year has seen a disturbing shift.

Peruvian authorities have reported an alarming uptick in petty crime and armed theft in the Sacred Valley and the towns of Aguas Calientes and Urubamba, where most hikers begin their descent. “The number of incidents involving armed robbery and burglary has climbed 35 percent over the last 12 months,” said José Pérez, a senior security analyst at Peru’s National Police. “These are not isolated incidents; they are part of a broader trend of organized crime infiltrating tourist hotspots.” (Link: https://www.police.gob.pe/press-releases/2024-05-15)

The U.S. advisory also cites a spike in “kidnappings and hostage‑taking” cases involving foreign nationals. While the majority of these kidnappings target business travelers or local Peruvian citizens, the risk is amplified by the region’s fragmented law‑enforcement presence and the proliferation of armed gangs that operate with impunity.

Political Instability Amplifies the Threat

Peru has been mired in political turbulence for years, but the past eighteen months have been especially volatile. In May 2023, protests erupted over a controversial mining bill that critics said threatened the country's environmental and indigenous rights. The demonstrations turned violent in several provinces, leading to clashes between protestors and police. A subsequent crackdown by the military in July further stoked fears of a possible coup. (Link: https://www.americasquarterly.org/article/peru-protests-2023)

These domestic tensions have not only eroded public trust in security forces but also provided fertile ground for opportunistic crime syndicates. “The government’s focus has been diverted to internal security, leaving tourist areas more vulnerable,” explained María González, director of the International Travel Council. “When you’re operating in a place where the legal system is strained, criminals feel emboldened.”

The Health Factor

Beyond crime and politics, Peru’s ongoing battle with the COVID‑19 pandemic has weakened its healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural districts. According to the World Health Organization, the incidence of measles and dengue has surged in the Sacred Valley, while local hospitals are stretched thin. Travelers now face not only the risk of assault but also the risk of being ill with limited access to timely care.

The U.S. State Department’s warning also references a “high risk of disease transmission” and urges travelers to consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines before heading to the region. (Link: https://www.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/default.htm)

Practical Advice for Travelers

The advisory comes with a wealth of actionable guidance for those who decide to push forward with their plans:

1. Avoid Traveling After Dark – The trail and surrounding towns are poorly lit, making them ideal hunting grounds for thieves. Even the busiest hours can see unannounced pickpockets.

2. Use Certified Guides – Only hire tour operators who are registered with the Peruvian Ministry of Tourism. They will have local knowledge of safe routes and established contacts in security services.

3. Secure Your Belongings – Use lockable backpacks, keep valuables in your carry‑on, and consider using a money belt. Leave passports and cash in a hotel safe whenever possible.

4. Stay Informed – Check the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory regularly for updates. (Link: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/Countries.html) The Peruvian Tourism Ministry also publishes a daily safety bulletin that highlights areas of heightened risk.

5. Consider Alternative Destinations – For those who are still eager to explore the Andes, destinations like Cusco’s historic center or the Sacred Valley’s lesser‑known villages may offer safer, yet culturally rich experiences.

What This Means for the Tourism Industry

The travel warning has rattled Peru’s tourism sector, which relies heavily on the influx of international visitors to sustain local economies. The Ministry of Tourism has expressed concern that the advisory may lead to a downturn in tourist arrivals, potentially affecting jobs for thousands of locals who depend on guiding, hospitality, and artisanal crafts.

“The warning will inevitably affect the economic viability of the region,” said Alejandro Ramírez, spokesperson for the Cusco Chamber of Commerce. “We are working closely with the U.S. Embassy and local law enforcement to implement targeted security measures and to reassure travelers that the region is safe when proper precautions are taken.”

Conclusion

The U.S. travel warning for Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley is a stark reminder that even the most idyllic destinations can become perilous in the face of crime, political unrest, and health crises. While the allure of the Inca citadel remains strong, travelers must weigh the risks carefully and follow the State Department’s guidance to avoid becoming the next headline.

For those who choose to proceed, the best strategy is to stay vigilant, rely on reputable local partners, and remain flexible to changing circumstances. As Peru grapples with these multifaceted challenges, only time will tell whether the ancient citadel can reclaim its reputation as a safe haven for wanderers, or whether it will be forever associated with cautionary tales on the world’s travel advisory lists.