Emergency contacts and the U.S. Embassy in Lima.

Emergency contacts and the U.S. Embassy in Lima When traveling abroad, knowing where to find help can make all the difference. If you ever face an accident, theft, health issue, or political unrest, having access to emergency contacts and the U.S. Embassy in Lima ensures fast and reliable assistance. This guide provides updated phone numbers, embassy details, and safety recommendations to keep travelers secure during their visit to Peru.

Understanding Emergency Services in Peru

Every traveler should have a basic understanding of how emergency systems work in their destination country. Peru, like most nations, has a centralized structure for emergencies, but knowing how to use it correctly can save valuable time.

Lima, as the capital, has better infrastructure and English-speaking assistance than other regions, yet travelers in smaller towns or jungle areas (like Tambopata or Iquitos) may face slower response times. That’s why being proactive and carrying emergency numbers is essential before you leave your hotel or lodge.

Main Emergency Numbers in Peru

Here are the most important emergency numbers you must save before your trip:

• 105 – National Police: The main emergency hotline in Peru for thefts, assaults, or any general incident. Operators can dispatch local police units.
• 106 – Ambulance / Medical Assistance: Public emergency health line, connecting you to hospitals and paramedics.
• 116 – Fire Department: Used not only for fires but also for rescues, car accidents, or serious injuries.
• Tourist Police: (01) 460-1060 — a specialized division trained to assist foreign visitors in English, particularly in Lima and Cusco.
• Private Medical Services (Lima): Clínica Anglo Americana (+51 1 616-8900) and Clínica Ricardo Palma (+51 1 224-2224) are the most reputable.

Save all these numbers in your phone with labels, and write them on a card to keep in your wallet. In rural areas, local hotels or tour operators are often the fastest link to emergency help.

How to Communicate During an Emergency

Language barriers can be challenging during urgent situations. Although Lima’s emergency lines are improving in English response, it’s wise to learn a few essential Spanish phrases:

• “Necesito ayuda, por favor” — I need help, please.
• “Hay una emergencia médica” — There is a medical emergency.
• “He perdido mi pasaporte” — I lost my passport.

Always remain calm and speak slowly. Use translation apps if needed, and provide your name, hotel, and the nearest reference point (street, plaza, or monument). If you cannot communicate clearly, show your passport to the responder — it helps authorities identify you faster.

Travelers are also advised to keep a portable power bank to ensure their phone is charged, and to download Google Maps offline, so they can share their exact location even without mobile data.

The U.S. Embassy in Lima

The U.S. Embassy in Lima serves as the main point of contact for all American citizens in Peru. Whether you’ve lost your documents, suffered an accident, or simply need guidance, the Embassy is your official lifeline.

It is located in one of Lima’s safest districts, Santiago de Surco, close to major hotels and accessible by taxi or rideshare apps like Uber and Cabify. Travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the route from their accommodation — even before they need it.

Embassy Address and Contact Information

1. U.S. Embassy Lima
2. Address: Avenida La Encalada, Block 17, Santiago de Surco, Lima 33, Peru
3. Telephone: +51 1 618-2000
4. Working Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed on Peruvian and U.S. holidays)
5. Website: https://pe.usembassy.gov

Outside business hours, the same number connects you to the Emergency Duty Officer, available 24/7 for American citizens needing urgent assistance — such as arrests, accidents, or deaths of U.S. citizens abroad.

Services Provided to U.S. Citizens

The Embassy offers a wide range of consular services:

• Replacement or emergency issuance of U.S. passports.
• Consular assistance for arrests, accidents, or hospitalizations.
• Help locating missing citizens or contacting relatives in the U.S.
• Legal and medical resource lists (doctors, hospitals, attorneys).
• Guidance and safety updates during national protests or natural disasters.

For preventive safety, U.S. citizens should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service allows the Embassy to email you safety alerts, travel warnings, or evacuation instructions in case of serious incidents in Peru.

What to Do in Case of an Emergency

Emergencies abroad can be stressful, but having a plan makes them manageable. Whether it’s a health problem, theft, or natural disaster, following clear steps keeps you safe and ensures authorities can assist you effectively.

Medical or Health Emergencies

If you or someone in your group experiences a serious medical issue, go to the nearest hospital immediately. The Clínica Anglo Americana (San Isidro) and Clínica Ricardo Palma (San Borja) are the most recommended for travelers due to their bilingual staff and modern equipment.

Before treatment, call your travel insurance company to confirm coverage and preferred hospitals. If you lack insurance, request a written estimate of costs before authorizing procedures. Always bring your passport and insurance policy information.

If you’re outside Lima (for example, in Cusco or the Amazon), local clinics may have limited resources — contact the U.S. Embassy for a list of approved facilities and emergency evacuation support.

Legal or Security Emergencies

If you are detained, robbed, or assaulted, report it immediately to the Tourist Police (01) 460-1060. File an official report (denuncia policial) — you’ll need it for insurance or embassy support.

Next, contact the U.S. Embassy. They can provide:

• Contact with family or employers in the U.S.
• A list of bilingual lawyers in Lima.
• Help with passport replacement if stolen.

Avoid direct confrontation or attempting to negotiate with offenders. Always let official authorities handle the case.

Important Recommendations for Travelers

Emergencies are unpredictable, but preparation minimizes impact. As a professional travel agency, Chullos Travel Peru advises every visitor to Peru to take the following preventive steps:

Save emergency contacts and embassy details on both your phone and a printed card.

Download offline maps of Lima and your destination area.

Keep copies of your passport and insurance policy separate from the originals.

Enroll in STEP before arriving in Peru — it takes less than five minutes online.

Internal Link for More Safety Information

For complete advice on travel protection and insurance, visit our full article:
  Travel Insurance Coverage Recommendations

It explains how to choose the right insurance plan, understand medical coverage, and respond confidently to emergencies or trip interruptions during your travels in Peru.