U.S. citizens in Peru are being advised to take precautions due to a planned transportation strike and a series of demonstrations scheduled in several cities, including Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, from October 11 to October 20.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Lima, the transportation strike is being organized as a protest against increasing extortion and violence affecting public transportation drivers. Additional demonstrations are expected on a range of social and political issues.
The Embassy detailed the following events: On October 11 and 12, the “Gen Z” group will demonstrate at Plaza San Martín and Paseo de los Héroes Navales in Lima, with a march planned to Congress. Also on October 11, a Pro-Palestine group will march from Washington Park to the Embassy of Israel. From October 13 to 15, national transportation unions, with support from university student groups, will carry out a nationwide transportation strike, including a march in downtown Lima. Between October 15 and 20, anti-mining groups are expected to hold demonstrations in Cusco and Arequipa.
The Embassy warns that, “As with prior strikes, U.S. citizens should expect significant traffic disruptions, limited transportation options, and possible road closures. Demonstrations may occur with little or no advance notice.”
The safety advisory from the Embassy states: “U.S. citizens are strongly advised to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and to leave any area where crowds or protests develop. Demonstrations can escalate into violence. Expect heavy traffic, restricted movement, and a heightened security presence.”
Other recommendations include avoiding demonstration areas, large crowds, public gatherings, and roadblocks; exercising caution near large gatherings or protests; remaining alert when using public transportation; adjusting travel plans; following instructions from local authorities; and monitoring local media for updates.
The Embassy also notes that “the issues driving these protests are unlikely to be resolved quickly, and similar demonstrations may continue in the coming weeks.”
For more information or assistance, U.S. citizens are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Lima or the U.S. Consular Agency in Cusco. The Department of State recently launched a new version of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), and travelers are reminded to re-enroll at https://step.state.gov to continue receiving alerts.