Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
fense is theft, and readers have regularly reported muggings. You are unlikely to be phys-
ically hurt, but it is nonetheless best to keep a streetwise attitude.
Do not wear flashy jewelry, and keep your camera in your bag when you are not using
it. It is best to keep your cash in your pocket and take only as much as you'll need for the
day. And, unless you think you'll need your passport for official purposes, leave it at the
hotel; a photocopy will do. Blending in helps, too:
limeños
favor a muted wardrobe of
jeans and sweaters. Hitting the streets in designer sneakers or brand-new trekking gear
will get you noticed.
Be wary at crowded events and the areas around bus stops and terminals. These bring
out pickpockets - even in upscale districts. Late at night, it is preferable to take taxis, es-
pecially in downtown, or if you've been partying until late in Barranco. The areas of
Rímac, Callao, Surquillo and La Victoria can get quite rough so approach with caution
(taxis are best). The most dangerous neighborhoods are San Juan de Lurigancho, Los
Olivos, Comas, Vitarte and El Agustino.
In addition, be skeptical of unaffiliated touts and taxi drivers who try to sell you tours
or tell you that the hotel you've booked is a crime-infested bordello. Many of these are
scam artists who will say and do anything to steer you to places that pay them a commis-
sion. For more tips on safe travel in Peru,
Click here
.
Emergency
Policía Nacional head office
( 460-0921; Moore 268, Magdalena del Mar; 24hr)
24hr)
A division of the Policía Nacional (National Police) that usually has English-speak-
ing officers who can provide theft reports for insurance claims or traveler's-check refunds.
In heavily touristed areas, it is easy to identify members of Poltur by their white shirts.
Immigration
For general information about visas, stay extensions and a list of embassies,
Click here
.
Arrive first thing in the morning at the
oficina de migraciónes
(immigration office;
200-1000;
www.migraciones.gob.pe
;
Prolongación España 734, Breña; 8am-1pm
Mon-Fri)
if you want to get your tourist-card extension (US$20) on the same day. Rights
to the specially stamped paperwork can be bought beforehand at the nearby Banco de la
Nación (S12.25). You will need a copy of form F-007 (available for download on the web-
site, in the section titled
Prórroga de Residencia
), along with your passport and the im-
migration slip you received upon entry into Peru. Make an extra photocopy of each to
make the process faster. If you don't have the original immigration slip, you may be fined
and have status delayed. You may have to show a return ticket out of the country, or proof
