A 60-day state of emergency has been being imposed in two parts of Peru amid ongoing political unrest.
The declaration led to updated Foreign Office travel advice.
The new state of emergency covers some districts of the Lima and Piura regions. The Lima region surrounds the nation’s capital city, while Piura is in northwest Peru on the border with Ecuador.
Two other states of emergency are already in place in Pataz province in La Libertad and on the southern Apurimac-Cusco-Arequipa road corridor.
The states of emergency allow military forces to assist local police and authorities in maintaining law and order.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office said on Thursday: “If you do decide to visit any area under a state of emergency you should follow instructions given to you by police, military or other officials.
“Political protests in Peru can lead to road blockades, suspension of train services, disruption in immigration services of land borders and airport closures – often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines.
“Protests can be unpredictable, can include violence, and can spread and escalate quickly.
“Clashes between protestors and the security forces have resulted in casualties in the past, which included significant violent civil unrest in the Puno and Apurimac regions in December 2022 and January 2023.
“Local police and emergency services do not have the same capacity to respond to traveller emergencies in these regions as elsewhere in Peru.”
The FCDO also cautioned: “Where protests or criminal activity result in travel disruption or damage to infrastructure, the British government’s ability to provide consular support will be limited, as may that of local authorities, especially if infrastructure such as airports, roads and railroads are affected.
“In Lima protests often have a focus in the historic centre, where access can be restricted, but can also spread to other areas. Other regions that have seen recent protests include Cusco, Arequipa and Puno.
“Foreign nationals in Peru cannot participate in political activities by law, including in demonstrations against the government.
“You should be especially vigilant and take particular care to avoid all areas of large gatherings, demonstrations and protests. If possible, you should remain in a safe place, follow the authorities’ advice, and monitor local media, including social media channels. Be wary of unverified, unofficial information.
“Travellers arriving in Peru should be aware that travel to some parts of the country or the return to Lima could be affected by protests and should be prepared for delays or disruption.
“You should ensure you travel with a sufficient supply of food, water, cash in local currency and personal medication, and allow extra time to reach your destination.
“You should liaise with your local airline, hotel or tour operator for further advice and assistance that they may provide to mitigate disruption, and for information on alternate arrangements that may need to be made for onward travel, including bus and rail journeys.