Is Peru Safe for Solo Female Travelers? (2025)

Is Peru Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

Safety Tips

Safety is key to any travel adventure, and using basic street smarts goes a long way. Always stay aware of your surroundings. Instead of unregulated taxis, stick to ride-hailing apps like Uber or book airport rides in advance. For longer trips, like visiting Machu Picchu, I recommend joining a tour group. And keep in mind, Peru is a popular tourist destination, so you’ll be in good company.

Personal Experience

During my trip to Peru, my experience with locals were generally friendly and happy to help if needed. While Spanish is the national language, I got by just fine speaking English. Staying aware of my surroundings and using basic precautions made everything run smoothly. As a Black traveler, I never felt uncomfortable or singled out. During my visit, I caught up with a friend who had been living in Lima as an expat for two years. She loved the expat community and found it easy to settle into the culture there.

Travel Insurance

I never overlook the importance of comprehensive travel insurance. It’s a safety net for unpredictable circumstances. From potential health emergencies to lost luggage, insurance comes in handy. Choose plans offering extensive coverage, particularly medical emergencies and evacuation; I recommend SafetyWing.

Things To Do In Peru Alone

Top Excursions

Peru is full of unforgettable experiences, from its breathtaking landscapes to vibrant indigenous cultures. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins or diving into nature, there’s plenty to discover.

• Visit Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake, and explore the Uros people’s unique floating islands made of reeds.  
• Take a guided tour through the Amazon Rainforest to see exotic wildlife and stunning biodiversity.  
• Don’t miss Colca Canyon, which is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and offers spectacular views.  

Where To Visit In Peru Alone

Continuing our journey of Peru safety for solo female travelers, let’s delve into some of the cities you may want to consider during your trip.

Best City To Stay For Shopping

If you’re seeking the ultimate shopping experience, make Lima your top destination. Known for its bustling markets and countless boutiques, Lima carries a wide range of products. From traditional Peruvian textiles and ceramics of countless colors and designs, to high-end fashion in the modern San Isidro and Miraflores districts, every shopper finds exactly what they’re looking for. Tours of these markets offer education and entertainment, and, more importantly, they are safe for solo female travelers. Just remember to exercise standard street smarts, ensuring you’re attentive and aware of your surroundings at all times.

Best City To Stay For Partying

Cusco stands out as a city alive with vibrant nightlife and incredible festivities. Many solo female travelers find Cusco safe and accommodating. If its lively atmosphere and joyful parties pique your interest, consider choosing Cusco as your vacation destination. The city’s colorful nightlife, ranging from traditional music gigs in peaceful plazas to pulsing discos and bars, is welcoming to every visitor. Cusco’s local authorities make a significant effort to maintain safety, making it a secure spot for a female traveler enjoying Peru alone.

Best City To Stay For Relaxation

After shopping in Lima and partying in Cusco, you might seek a serene retreat to unwind. Nestled between the Andes and the Pacific ocean, Mancora is a tranquil town popular for its idyllic beaches and renowned spas. Here, you can bask in tranquillity, while maintaining the right level of vigilance to feel at ease as a solo female traveler. Conditionally, Peru’s safety record is better in tourist-focused areas like Mancora, reinforcing its credibility as an ideal destination for solo relaxation.

FAQ

Is Peru safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Peru generally provides a secure environment for solo female travelers. According to the Global Peace Index 2024, Peru ranks 99thout of 163 countries in overall safety, highlighting its safety potential. Nonetheless, employing standard street wisdom remains crucial.

What safety measures should solo female travelers to Peru undertake?
Stay vigilant, particularly in crowded areas like markets, as these are common sites for pickpocketing. Unfortunately, catcalling can occur, it’s advisable to ignore such comments. Guided tours, especially for adventurous treks like the Inca trail, are beneficial.

What cities are safe and enjoyable for solo female travelers?
Cities like Lima, Cusco, and Mancora offer distinctive experiences while maintaining safety. Lima boasts diverse shopping options, Cusco brims with a vibrant nightlife, and Mancora’s tranquil beaches are perfect for relaxation.

Ultimately, with the right safety precautions, solo female travelers will find Peru both safe and enchantingly diverse.

Conclusion

So there you have it. After diving deep into the heart of Peru’s safety aspects, it’s clear that this vibrant country is indeed a secure destination for solo female travelers. Cities like Lima, Cusco, and Mancora are not just brimming with unique experiences but also uphold safety for solo explorers. With the right precautions, you’ll find yourself immersed in the diverse landscapes of Lake Titicaca, the Amazon Rainforest, and the serene beaches of Mancora. Remember, vigilance in crowded areas is key. Peru’s familiarity with tourists further enhances its appeal, making it a must-visit for those seeking adventure and relaxation. So ladies, pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Peru with confidence and peace of mind!