Health & Safety

Health & Safety

Altitude Sickness. Altitude sickness, or soroche, is a common risk in the Andes. Drink plenty of water and coca tea, move slowly, and avoid alcohol.

Safety. The Central Highlands is not the lawless region controlled by the Shining Path that it was in the 1980s and 90s. Terrorism has been eradicated and a military presence is strong. The only major concern is conflicts between the police and illegal coca growing and narco trafficking, particularly in the area from Huánuco to Pucallpa. This has little effect on tourism; however, the occasional road block does occur.

Petty crime in cities happens less than the coast. If you take the usual traveling precautions in your hotel and when walking or driving you shouldn't have any trouble. Carry your passport and other important identification at all times. Call 105 for an ambulance, the fire department, or the police.