Security & Emergencies

Security: In Lima, as in every major city, there are some areas more dangerous than others. Visitors should be alert. Before going anywhere, travelers should check to see if the area is risky to prevent any trouble.

Take the normal precautions to guard against purse snatchers.
Carry a copy of identification documents. Keep originals and your valuables in the safety deposit box of your hotel and make sure to list down what you deposit and verify the responsibility assumed by the establishment.

Carry valuables discreetly. Do not carry large amounts of cash. Keep an eye on your bags and luggage, and if taking along a film or photographic camera, ensure it is kept hidden most of the time.

Do not carry suitcases, bags or sac packs on your back. Do not carry flashy handbags or briefcases.

Do not exchange money out in the street.

Do not walk around late at night through areas with poor lighting or without a companion.

Emergencies
- Lost items, thefts and robberies

If you have an emergency first of all contact your embassy or consulate, which will provide the right advise on how to solve your problems.

You can also contact the Tourist Protection Service (SPT), an entity set up by Peruvian authorities to help out travelers. The service has a hotline which attends tourist's calls 24 hours a day.
The service handles queries in several languages at telephone: (511) 224-7888, or call the Tourism Police.

Arequipa
Calle Jerusalén 315-316, Cercado.
Tel: (054) 20-1258

Ica
Av. Elías cuadra 4.
Tel: (034) 22-7673

Ayacucho
Jr. Arequipa cuadra 1.
Tel: (064) 81-2055 / 81-8372

Iquitos
Calle Sargento Leres 834
Tel: (094) 23-1851

Cajamarca
Av. 13 de Julio s/n
Tel: (044) 82-3042

Lima
Jr. Moore 268, Magdalena del Mar.
Tel: (01) 460-1060 / 460-0965

Chiclayo
Av. Sáenz Peña 830
Tel: (074) 23-6700

Nazca
Av. Los Incas cuadra 1 s/n
Tel: (034) 52-2442 / 52-2084

Cuzco
Calle Saphi s/n
Tel: (084) 24-9654

Puno
Jr. Deustua 538
Tel: (054) 36-4806

Important telephone numbers

Cancellation of traveler's checks
American Express: 001-800-8602908

Cancellation of credit cards
Visa: 001-800-4281585 / 1-410-5210120
Master Card: (01) 311-6000
American Express: (525) 326-2660 (collect call, operator assisted 108)
Diners Club: (01) 221-2050

i peru assistance
inside peru: 01 574 8000

Peru features a tourist information and assistance service called iperú, where visitors can ask about official tourist information on Peru, as well as assistance if the tourist feels the service paid for was not provided as advertised.

iperú, the tourist information and assistance service, provide tourist information on the following:

Attractions, routes and cities.
Availability on tourist services.
Rates, itineraries of flights, busses and trains among others.

iperú, the tourist information and assistance service, can provide tourists with assistance:

If, when paying the bill, this contains charges that were not informed beforehand.
If the tourist made a reservation at as establishment and this was not kept.
If a travel agency offered a series of services and conditions that were not provided.
If a flight was delayed or cancelled, and the airline did not comply with providing necessary compensations and information during the interruption.
If the airline or overland company take no responsibility for loss of luggage.
If the tourist was charged a higher rate for a service provided due to the fact he or she was a foreigner
If the tourist needs advice because he has lost documents or valuable objects have been stolen.

To be able to serve you better, we need your cooperation to provide us with clear facts and documents. In every case, read carefully the conditions of the goods and services to be paid for.

It is important to note that iperú, the tourist information and assistance service, does not give recommendations for travel agencies, lodgings or transport services, nor does it make reservations or file applications for customs or immigration.

Money

Currency:
The official currency of Peru is the Nuevo Sol (S/.) which is divided into 100 cents. Coins in circulation include the amounts of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, as well as 1, 2 and 5 Nuevos Soles. Paper bills come in 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 Nuevos Soles.

Currency Exchange:
US Dollars are accepted in most commercial establishments, restaurants and service stations, at the current exchange rate. It is not recommended to exchange money from street vendors. ATMs are now generally regarded as one of the best ways to obtain money in Peru.

Credit & Debit Cards:
Most of the establishments accept the most popular credit cards, such as Visa, Master Card, Diners and American Express. When paying with a credit card, make sure you are only paying the amount of the service or goods purchased. In case of needing cash you may use one of the numerous ATMs located all over the country.

Travelers' Checks
Are used with some limitations. Inquire at the establishment as to whether or not they are accepted. A 7% commission fee will be charged at the airport, 6% to 9% at banks in the city, while only a 2% will be charged in exchanging bureaus.

Taxes:
Visitors coming to Peru should bear in mind that all goods and services are taxed an 18% (IGV). Restaurants and hotels add a 10% service fee. By law, all traders have the obligation to show the client the final price, including taxes.