The U.S. Embassy in Lima, Peru, is closely monitoring reports of landslides and weather-related emergencies along the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu and nearby hiking routes. The affected areas include routes between Santa Teresa and Collpapampa, as well as the Balcompata sector. The Regional Government of Cusco has advised against taking the Salkantay Trek due to increased dangers from heavy seasonal rains.
Recent landslides have blocked access to Humantay Lake and stranded hikers for extended periods. These events pose risks of injury or death, with further landslides and flash floods remaining a high possibility due to ongoing heavy rains. Roads and railways in the region may close unexpectedly and remain closed indefinitely, complicating rescue operations or emergency assistance in these remote areas.
The U.S. Embassy advises individuals in or traveling through affected regions to reconsider their plans and adhere to local authorities' guidance. Travelers are encouraged to review updates from iPeru, a governmental service supporting tourists in Peru, as well as monitor information from local media and government agencies such as GERCETUR, PROMPERU, COEN, and SENAMHI.
Travelers should avoid areas impacted by heavy rains or flooding, seek alternative routes when necessary, remain vigilant about their surroundings due to potential flash floods or mudslides occurring without warning, and prepare accordingly with first aid supplies, food, water, and emergency kits for any hike or trek.
For those planning travel to remote regions of Peru's tourist destinations, enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is recommended for receiving alerts from the U.S. Embassy in Lima.
Contact information for the U.S. Embassy Lima includes Avenida La Encalada cdra. 17 s/n Santiago de Surco 15023, Lima; phone: +51-1-618-2000; email: LimaACS@state.gov; website: https://pe.usembassy.gov. For U.S. Consular Agency Cusco inquiries: Avenida El Sol 449 Cusco; email: CuscoACS@state.gov; State Department – Consular Affairs phone numbers are +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444.
Travelers can receive alerts by enrolling in STEP and accessing Peru Country Information online while staying connected via Facebook and X platforms.