The most important emergency numbers in Peru are 105 for the Police, 116 for the Fire Department, and 106 for SAMU medical emergencies. Tourists also have access to iPerú, a free information and assistance service available 24 hours a day.
You’ll probably never need to use them, but saving these numbers on your phone gives you peace of mind so you can enjoy your trip. In this guide, you’ll find a clear directory with each number, what it’s used for, and what information to provide when calling.
Emergency Numbers in Peru
These hotlines operate nationwide, 24 hours a day, and calls are free.
| Service | Number | When to Call |
|---|---|---|
| Peruvian National Police | 105 | Theft, robbery, threats, or any safety-related situation |
| Peruvian Volunteer Firefighters | 116 | Fires, traffic accidents, gas leaks, and rescues |
| SAMU (Ministry of Health) | 106 | Medical emergencies and ambulance dispatch |
| EsSalud | 117 | Medical emergencies involving people insured through EsSalud |
| Highway Police | 110 | Incidents during road trips |
| Civil Defense | 115 | Earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters |
| Infosalud (Ministry of Health) | 113 | Health advice for non-emergency situations |
| Line 100 | 100 | Cases of domestic or gender-based violence |
The Three Numbers Worth Remembering
If you’re only going to remember a few, make them 105 for the Police, 116 for the Fire Department, and 106 for an ambulance. These cover the vast majority of situations.
The 911 Emergency Hotline in Lima and Callao
Peru is implementing 911 as a single emergency number that directs each call to the Police, Fire Department, SAMU, or Line 100, depending on the situation. For now, it is operating in a testing phase in Metropolitan Lima and Callao.
If you’re in another region, such as Cusco, Arequipa, or Puno, use the numbers in the table above, which continue to operate normally throughout the country.
Tourist Assistance: iPerú
iPerú is PROMPERÚ’s official free tourist information and assistance service. It provides guidance on routes, attractions, and registered tourism companies, and helps you coordinate with the authorities if you experience any problems during your trip.
- 24-hour phone assistance: (01) 574-8000. From outside Peru: +51 1 574-8000.
- 24-hour WhatsApp, messages only: +51 944 492 314.
- Email: iperu@promperu.gob.pe.
It also has offices in major tourist cities, such as Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, and Puno, as well as information desks at Jorge Chávez International Airport.
Tourist Police
The Tourist Police specialize in assisting both domestic and international visitors. They operate in popular destinations such as Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, and Puno, and can help you file a police report if you lose your documents or become the victim of a theft.
If you don’t know where the nearest office is, contact iPerú, and they will tell you how to get there.
What Information to Provide When Calling an Emergency Hotline
A clear and brief call helps emergency services respond more quickly. Keep these points in mind:
- Briefly explain what happened.
- Explain where you are: your address, city, and a nearby landmark, such as a hotel, plaza, or store.
- Mention how many people need help and whether anyone is injured.
- If you don’t speak Spanish well, ask someone at your hotel or your tour guide to help you communicate.
- Don’t hang up until you’re instructed to do so.
Tips for Traveling Safely and with Peace of Mind in Peru
A few simple habits before and during your trip can help you handle unexpected situations calmly.
- Save emergency numbers on your phone with easy-to-find names, such as “Police 105” or “Ambulance 106.”
- Carry both digital and printed copies of your passport and travel insurance.
- Keep the contact information for your hotel, travel agency, and tour guide handy.
- Share your itinerary with a family member or friend.
- Book tours and transportation with registered, legitimate companies.
Embassies and Consulates in Peru
Most countries have their embassy in Lima, and some also have consulates in Cusco or other cities. Before traveling, write down your country’s embassy emergency phone number, as the embassy can help you obtain a travel document if you lose your passport.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Numbers in Peru
What Is the Emergency Number in Peru?
There is no single emergency number for the entire country. The main numbers are 105 for the Police, 116 for the Fire Department, and 106 for medical emergencies.
Does 911 Work in Peru?
Yes, but for now, only in Metropolitan Lima and Callao, where it is operating in a testing phase. In the rest of the country, you should use 105, 116, or 106, depending on the situation.
Are Emergency Calls Free in Peru?
Yes. You can call 105, 116, and 106 free of charge from any landline or mobile phone in Peru.
What Should I Do If I Lose My Passport in Peru?
First, file a police report at the nearest police station or with the Tourist Police. Then contact your country’s embassy or consulate to obtain a document that will allow you to continue your trip or return home.
Who Should I Contact If I Have a Problem with a Tourism Service?
You can contact iPerú at (01) 574-8000 or via WhatsApp at +51 944 492 314. They will provide guidance and, if necessary, put you in touch with the authorities who can help you.
