Security in Perú
Theft
Theft is still a big problem in Peru. Most ‘common' is robbing from the backpack or handbag while travelling in a bus. Don't watch a moment and they may have succeeded. Some precautions are good to take. It is better not to wear too fancy clothes or jewellery because it could attract thieves. Don't take too much money with you, just take the necessary amount and leave the rest in the hotel room. Keep your photo camera on a discrete place where it does not draw attention.
Always be attentive, look around from time to while and if something looks too suspicious, just leave. All this suspicion sometimes does make travelling less fun, bun if you don't do it, it will cost you money. It is better to avoid really big crowds when wearing a backpack or handbag, for there are people who want to (tear) open it. The best thing is to travel together in order to watch for each other.
Terrorism
Years ago attacks happened every day by the guerrilla. Nowadays the leaders of the two most important groups (Sendero Luminoso and MRTA) are imprisoned and attacks hardly ever happen, let aside attacks on tourists.
Women travelling alone
Most women find Peru a very pleasant country to travel alone. It is not necessary to for instance wear a veil like in Muslim countries. The only thing that can be a bit uncomfortable for western women is the fact that there is still a lot of ‘machismo' amongst the men. Flattering compliments or whistles are not uncommon. Going solely to lonely places or remote areas is better to do with company, especially at night. Going somewhere alone as a western woman with a Peruvian man, should only be done when knowing the person really well. The last thing we want to mention is to take a regular taxi, not the ‘pirate' ones.
Sources
- Wikipedia
- Landenweb.nl (dutch website)
- Yellow pages
