Peru’s cities reflect a wide mix of coastal ports, highland towns and Amazonian gateways, so safety and daily life can change a lot from one place to the next. Understanding those differences helps whether you’re planning a move, a work trip, or just a vacation route.
There are 12 Safest Cities in Peru, ranging from Abancay to Tacna. For each city the data are organized as Country,Population (est),Homicide rate (per 100k), and you’ll find the full list below.
How were these cities chosen for safety?
The selection is based on available crime statistics and reported homicide rates, adjusted for population size and local context; where possible we used official or widely cited sources so the table (Country,Population (est),Homicide rate (per 100k)) gives a quick, comparable snapshot rather than a definitive ranking.
Can I use this list to plan safer travel in Peru?
Yes—as a starting point. Use the list to identify generally lower-risk cities, but also check up-to-date local advisories, neighborhood-level info, and common-sense precautions (avoid isolated areas at night, secure valuables) before finalizing travel plans.
Safest Cities in Peru
| City | Country | Population (est) | Homicide rate (per 100k) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abancay | Peru | 80,000 (2023) | 1.4 |
| Chachapoyas | Peru | 35,000 (2023) | 2.2 |
| Huancavelica | Peru | 40,000 (2023) | 2.3 |
| Puno | Peru | 130,000 (2023) | 2.7 |
| Ayacucho | Peru | 210,000 (2023) | 3.0 |
| Cajamarca | Peru | 225,000 (2023) | 3.1 |
| Cusco | Peru | 430,000 (2023) | 3.3 |
| Moquegua | Peru | 70,000 (2023) | 3.5 |
| Huaraz | Peru | 140,000 (2023) | 3.7 |
| Arequipa | Peru | 1,157,000 (2023) | 4.3 |
| Tacna | Peru | 330,000 (2023) | 4.3 |
| Lima | Peru | 10,092,000 (2023) | 9.2 |
Images and Descriptions
Abancay
As the capital of the Apurímac region, Abancay has one of Peru’s lowest homicide rates. Its low-key, non-touristy atmosphere contributes to its security, offering an authentic slice of Andean life away from the more crowded and hectic destinations.
Chachapoyas
This remote northern city is the gateway to Kuélap. Its small size and strong community feel contribute to a very low crime rate. While opportunistic theft can occur, it’s widely regarded as a peaceful and welcoming destination for adventure travelers.
Huancavelica
Nestled high in the Andes, Huancavelica is one of Peru’s least visited regional capitals, resulting in exceptionally low crime. Its safety comes from a tight-knit community and lack of large-scale tourism, offering a glimpse into authentic highland culture.
Puno
Situated on the shores of Lake Titicaca, Puno is a major tourist hub with a generally safe and calm environment. A visible police presence in tourist zones helps deter crime, although visitors should still be mindful of their belongings in crowded markets.
Ayacucho
Once a conflict zone, Ayacucho has transformed into a vibrant, safe cultural center known for its colonial churches. The city is now considered very safe, with a welcoming atmosphere and a strong sense of community pride and security for residents and visitors.
Cajamarca
A historic and charming city in the northern highlands, Cajamarca offers a relaxed pace of life and low crime rates. It’s known for its colonial architecture and tranquil atmosphere, making it a safe choice for travelers seeking culture beyond the main tourist trail.
Cusco
As the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco has a heavy tourist police presence, making its historic center very safe. While petty crime like pickpocketing is a risk in crowded areas, violent crime is low, making it a top choice for travelers and expats.
Moquegua
A small, prosperous city in southern Peru, Moquegua is recognized for its high quality of life and low crime statistics. Its well-ordered community and stable economy make it an exceptionally safe, albeit non-touristy, place to live or visit in the country.
Huaraz
The trekking capital of Peru, Huaraz is a bustling hub for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is generally safe, especially concerning violent crime. Travelers should take standard precautions against petty theft, particularly around bus terminals and busy markets.
Arequipa
Peru’s beautiful “White City” is a large metropolis with a reputation for being significantly safer than Lima. Its historic center is well-policed and walkable. While standard urban precautions are advised, Arequipa is a comfortable and secure base for expats and tourists.
Tacna
Located on the southern border with Chile, Tacna is a clean and orderly commercial hub known for its patriotism and civic pride. The city benefits from a stable environment and has lower crime rates than many other coastal cities in Peru.
Lima
Peru’s capital has a high overall crime rate, but safety is hyper-localized. Affluent districts like Miraflores, San Isidro, and Barranco are heavily policed and considered very safe for residents and tourists. Caution is essential outside these secure bubbles.
