A 30-day nationwide state of emergency has been declared in Peru with the military drafted in to help restore law and order.
The declaration came in response to continuing widespread protests following a change of government on December 7.
The decision was highlighted in renewed Foreign Office travel advice to the South American country.
More: Machu Picchu rail link suspended as Peru protests escalate
The travel alert said: “On 14 December, the Peruvian government announced a 30-day nationwide state of emergency. This supersedes all other states of emergency announcements made about specific local provinces.
“This announcement is a direct result of the ongoing unrest that began on 7 December when the Peruvian president announced the closure of Congress. The president was then impeached and a new president appointed.
“This has led to ongoing widespread protests around the country, including the centre of Lima.
“These protests can include road blockades, be violent and escalate quickly. Clashes between protestors and the security forces have resulted in casualties
“Protests in the coming days are expected to be concentrated in the centre of Lima around government and state buildings and you should consider avoiding these areas.
“As a result of the state of emergency, you may also see military forces assisting local police and authorities maintaining public law and order.”
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) added: “You should liaise with your local airline, hotel or tour operator for further advice and assistance that they will provide to mitigate disruption, and for information on alternate arrangements being made for onward travel.”
It suggested visiting the the Lima airport website for information on airport closures at Arequipa, Cusco and Juliaca (Puno), while reiterating that rail services to Machu Picchu remain suspended along with disruption to tour bus services in souther Peru.