Peru Extends Lima, Callao Emergency to November 21

Peru's interim government enacted a 30-day state of emergency for Metropolitan Lima and the Constitutional Province of Callao beginning just after midnight on October 22, 2025. The measure authorizes the armed forces to support the national police and temporarily restricts certain civil liberties to address a surge in violent crime. For travelers, this means more patrols, occasional checkpoints, and potential limits on gatherings in high-traffic districts, along with slower access to Jorge Chávez International Airport through November 21.

What changed and where it matters

Officials confirmed the 30-day order by Supreme Decree No. 124-2025-PCM, covering all of metropolitan Lima and Callao, the port city that also hosts the capital's primary international airport. The decree enables joint military-police operations and suspends freedom of assembly during the period, among other temporary measures.

In practical terms, visitors should expect a larger uniformed presence around central Lima landmarks and government buildings, and along key hotel and dining corridors in Miraflores and Barranco. Authorities can establish spot checks and ask for identification. Canada's official advisory explicitly notes that, during a state of emergency, security forces may restrict movement, conduct searches, detain persons of interest, and it advises travelers to carry valid ID at all times.

Airport access and transfers

Jorge Chávez International Airport sits in Callao, where security coordination is tightest. While flights are operating, transfers can take longer if traffic is rerouted or if security sets up intermittent screening near approach roads. Build in an extra 30-60 minutes beyond your normal buffer, confirm your ride in advance, and use registered airport taxis or app-based services with in-app plate verification. News reporting and official statements confirm the emergency window and military support provisions; local airport bulletins have focused on unrelated fee matters this week rather than flight curbs, indicating that the airport remains open with standard operations under heightened security.

Ports and logistics in Callao

The Port of Callao is Peru's main cargo gateway and the call point for most cruise and logistics activity serving Lima. Industry bulletins flag tighter gate controls and security posture during the emergency period, which can slow trucking, pickups, and terminal access even when marine operations continue. Travelers meeting ships or arranging freight pickups should allow more time and keep in close contact with their line, agent, or tour operator.

Neighborhood notes: central Lima, Miraflores, Barranco

Crowds can form quickly around Plaza Mayor and government offices in the historic center. During the emergency, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings altogether, even if they appear peaceful, and follow police instructions promptly. In Miraflores and Barranco, movement remains normal for hotels, restaurants, and the coastal parks, but plan direct routes on major avenues, stick to well-lit areas at night, and expect occasional ID checks near parks or bridges along the Costa Verde. International and domestic reporting emphasize that protests and police operations have been a trigger for past restrictions, and that foreign nationals should refrain from participating in political demonstrations.

Background

The decree was announced shortly after a leadership transition and amid heightened concern over extortion and homicides in the capital region. Reuters and AP note the government's intent to "move from defense to offense" against organized crime, while civil-society groups continue to organize protests that can snarl traffic without notice. This backdrop explains the joint patrols and the legal ability to limit assembly during the 30-day period.

What to do next

If you are in Lima or Callao through November 21, monitor local media, avoid protest sites, and carry your passport or government-issued ID at all times. For airport days, confirm your ride and leave earlier, keeping your booking reference handy in case of additional screening. For port or cruise activity, check with your carrier regarding any gate or terminal access changes. Embassy and government advisories remain the best source for up-to-date movement guidance during a state of emergency.

Sources

• Reuters, "Peru declares 30-day state of emergency in Lima to tackle rising crime," October 22, 2025
• Andina, "Peruvian Government declares state of emergency in Metropolitan Lima and Callao," October 22, 2025
• AP News, "Military and police patrol streets of Peru's capital as state of emergency begins," October 22, 2025
• Government of Canada, "Peru travel advice and advisories, State of emergency," updated October 2025
• Kuehne+Nagel industry bulletin, "Peru enforces 30-day state of emergency in Lima and Callao," October 2025