Why 2023 is the Best Year to Travel to Peru
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You might have read that title and thought, “But isn’t it dangerous to travel to Peru right now? Aren’t people protesting?”
Christiana, our Taste of Peru tour host, is a US expat that has been living in Peru for the last 10 years and is here to share what the situation is really like in Peru today.
Peru experienced political unrest and protests from December 2022 to February 2023, as it has experienced many times before. Peruvians often express their discontent with political or social situations through roadblocks and peaceful strikes or protests. This time, however, the situation made international headlines when roadblocks and demonstrations turned violent.
To be clear, tourists were never targeted in any Peruvian demonstrations, and it’s always been safe - albeit sometimes logistically difficult due to road closures - to move around the country.
“What caused the protests?” you might ask. This Aljazeera article explains what sparked the most recent protests, but ultimately the frustration and discontent are rooted in decades of political corruption, large political and social systemic issues, and discrimination.
Many Peruvians are still unhappy with the current political situation, but the protests have lost a lot of public support because they have caused many people to suffer financially, especially those in the tourism, hospitality, and agricultural industries. As a result, life in Peru has gone back to normal since late February - roads are open, markets are bustling, children are in school, parents are at work, and tourist attractions like Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are open.
Not only are tourist attractions open, but they’re practically empty, which is why now is the time to visit Peru. As a result of the situation earlier this year, many people canceled their travel plans, which means that the normally crowded archeological sites are peaceful and intimate. One of our tour guides described the Inca Trail as “deliciously quiet” right now, since he and his group didn’t run into a single person during their four days on the trail.
We’ve recently heard from numerous Peruvian small business owners in the hospitality industry, and they all say the same thing: (1) the media haven’t accurately portrayed the situation, (2) the political and social situation has stabilized, (3) the tourist sector is open and operating normally, and (4) there are fewer crowds and more discounts or upgrades on offer.
No matter where you travel and no matter the political climate, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy.
Ready to visit Peru? Join us on our Taste of Peru and Machu Picchu Tour and experience the vibrant culture, incredible history, and delicious flavors this beautiful country has to offer. Contact us here if you have any questions or concerns and we’d be happy to set up a time to talk.
If you’re traveling to Peru on your own and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our customized travel coaching and optional booking service.
No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - who offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy.
