--- title: "Safest Cities in Peru: The Complete List" url: https://33travels.com/safest-cities-in-peru/ author: "Lena Marchetti" published: 2025-11-20 updated: 2026-04-06 place: "Peru" --- # Safest Cities in Peru: The Complete List 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](https://33travels.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/abancay.jpg) ### 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](https://33travels.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/chachapoyas.jpg) ### 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](https://33travels.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/huancavelica.jpg) ### 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](https://33travels.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/puno.jpg) ### 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](https://33travels.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/ayacucho-1.jpg) ### 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](https://33travels.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/cajamarca.jpg) ### 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](https://33travels.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/cusco.jpg) ### 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](https://33travels.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/moquegua.jpg) ### 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](https://33travels.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/huaraz.jpg) ### 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](https://33travels.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/arequipa.jpg) ### 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](https://33travels.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/tacna.jpg) ### 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](https://33travels.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/lima.jpg) ### 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.