Lima is full of unforgettable moments — ocean sunsets, buzzing food markets, colorful streets, and stories waiting at every corner. But in a city this big and alive, knowing what to do in an emergency can be just as important as knowing where to eat ceviche. This Lima Emergency Guide was designed to give travelers clear, reliable information before problems arise.
Most travelers never expect to need a hospital, the police, or an emergency number — until suddenly they do. A lost passport, altitude sickness, a taxi issue, or a sudden illness can turn a great day into a stressful one if you’re not prepared. That’s why this Lima Emergency & Health Guide was created — to help you move through the city with confidence, know exactly who to call, where to go for medical care, and how locals handle unexpected situations.
From emergency numbers and private clinics to traditional remedies and consular support, this guide gives you everything you need to stay safe, calm, and in control while enjoying your trip.
Because the best adventures are the ones where you feel prepared — not worried. At Lima Experience, we’re locals who know the city deeply and genuinely care about your experience, helping you explore Lima with confidence, comfort, and peace of mind.
Key Emergency Contacts for Tourists in Peru
In any situation, staying calm and knowing who to contact is essential. This Lima Emergency Guide helps you understand exactly which service to call depending on the situation. Peru has specialized services for tourists as well as general emergency lines:
- Tourism Police (01-4601060)
This branch is specifically trained to assist foreigners. They help with lost passports, issues with hotels or tours, scams, and general safety concerns. In popular tourist areas, many officers have basic English or Portuguese skills, making communication easier if Spanish isn’t your first language. They’re often the best first contact for non-violent situations involving tourists. - National Police (105)
The National Police handle crimes, traffic accidents, dangerous situations, and public safety across the country. If there’s a robbery, physical threat, serious disturbance, or accident in the street, this is the number to call. They respond 24/7 and work closely with Serenazgo and emergency medical services. - Fire Department (116)
The Fire Department does much more than put out fires. They respond to serious traffic accidents, rescues, building emergencies, and situations where people are trapped or injured. In major incidents, they are often among the first responders on scene. - Ambulance / Medical Emergencies (106)
This line connects you to emergency medical services for serious health situations such as accidents, sudden illness, fainting, or breathing problems. They coordinate transport to hospitals or clinics and can guide you on immediate steps while help arrives. - Municipal Serenazgo
Each district in Lima has its own Serenazgo team that patrols streets, parks, and tourist areas day and night. They are usually the fastest to arrive for minor incidents, disturbances, lost items, or when you feel unsafe. They also coordinate directly with police, ambulances, and firefighters. Since numbers vary by district, hotels and guides usually have them saved.
How emergencies usually work for tourists in Lima
In most situations, locals combine services rather than relying on just one. For example:
• Serenazgo arrives first and calls police or ambulance if needed
• Police secure the area and take reports
• Medical services handle injuries or transport
This teamwork makes response faster, especially in tourist districts like Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro.
Tip for Travelers
You can call all emergency numbers for free using:
• A Peruvian SIM card
• Most international roaming plans
No signal or phone issues? Walk into a hotel, restaurant, or store and ask staff to call — locals are generally very helpful in emergencies and often know exactly who to contact.
👉 Watch our video about Emergency Numbers-> https://www.instagram.com/p/DUZmtHejhQv/
Understanding the Peruvian Healthcare System
If you’re visiting Peru, it’s important to know that most medical care for tourists happens through private clinics, not the public system. The good news is that Lima has modern private hospitals with fast service, international insurance experience, and in many cases, English-speaking staff.
One of the main goals of this Lima Emergency Guide is to help tourists avoid confusion when seeking medical care. Knowing where to go ahead of time can save you stress in an emergency.
Private Clinics Tourists Commonly Use (by District)
- San Isidro
British American Clinic
One of the top choices for international travelers. High medical standards, emergency services, and staff used to working with foreign insurance providers.
- Miraflores
Delgado Clinic
Modern facilities, 24/7 emergency care, and strong experience with tourists and expats.
- Clínica Adventista Good Hope
Reliable for general medicine and emergencies, with bilingual attention in many cases.
- Barranco / Chorrillos
Clínica Maison de Santé
Smaller but helpful for minor emergencies and general medical care if you’re staying nearby.
- Downtown Lima
Clínica Internacional
Part of a large private network across the city, well-equipped and experienced with international patients.
Public Health Systems (Good to Know — Not for Tourists)
- Seguro Integral de Salud (SIS)
Covers Peruvian citizens and residents through public hospitals and clinics. Tourists are not eligible, but you may hear locals mention it.
- EsSalud
Social health insurance for Peruvian workers and their families. Generally not available for foreign visitors unless through special agreements.
- Private Insurance / Travel Insurance
This is what most tourists use. International travel insurance typically directs you to private clinics and covers emergencies, consultations, and exams.
👉 Watch our video about Healthcare System in Perú -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DUe4xJFDbtT/
Practical Safety Habits Locals Use Every Day
You’ll find major pharmacy chains like Mifarma and Inkafarma all over Lima — especially in Miraflores, San Isidro, Barranco, and downtown.
Common over-the-counter medicines include:
• Painkillers
• Cold and flu medicine
• Stomach relief
• Altitude sickness remedies (like Sorojchi pills)
– Antibiotics and stronger medications require a doctor’s prescription, which you can easily get after a clinic visit.
– Even without insurance, private clinics will still treat you immediately — you’ll just pay out of pocket (usually by card). Prices are far more reasonable than in many countries, and service is fast.
For serious situations, private facilities are usually the best option for tourists in Lima.
Local Remedies
Alongside modern clinics and pharmacies, Peru also has simple traditional remedies locals use daily for common travel discomforts. They’re easy to find, affordable, and surprisingly effective for minor issues.
- Sorochipill – A natural supplement widely used for altitude sickness in places like Cusco and Puno. It helps reduce dizziness, nausea, headaches, and fatigue caused by high elevations.
- Agua de Azahar (Orange Blossom Water) – Commonly taken before trips or during moments of stress. Locals use it to calm the stomach, ease light anxiety, and prevent dizziness.
- Traditional herbal teas – Found in markets and pharmacies across the country:
– Chamomile – soothes stomach pain and digestion
– Anise – reduces bloating and gas
– Ginger – great for nausea and motion sickness
You’ll find these remedies in pharmacies, natural health stores, and local markets throughout Peru. They’re perfect for small discomforts — but for strong symptoms, injuries, or persistent pain, professional medical care is always the safest option.
Consular Support for Foreign Visitors
Saving your embassy’s location and contact details before traveling can make emergencies much easier — especially for lost passports, legal issues, or urgent documentation.
- Embassy of the United States in Lima
📍 Av. La Encalada 1580, Santiago de Surco (+51 1 618 2000)
Emergency passports, legal assistance, support after accidents or crimes, and help during serious medical situations. - British Embassy Lima
📍 Av. Andrés Reyes 420, San Isidro (+51 1 617 3000)
Emergency travel documents, consular support, and help in urgent legal or medical cases. - British Embassy Lima
📍 Av. Andrés Reyes 420, San Isidro (+51 1 617 3000)
Emergency travel documents, consular support, and help in urgent legal or medical cases. - Embassy of France in Lima
📍 Calle La Floresta 498, San Isidro (+51 1 215 8400)
Lost documents, emergency assistance, and coordination with family or authorities. - Embassy of Brazil in Lima
📍 Av. La Encalada 1520, Santiago de Surco (+51 1 319 0200)
Emergency documents, assistance with authorities, and citizen support.
Traveler tip: Embassies don’t replace hospitals or police — but they’re essential for documents, legal help, and emergency coordination. Saving their contact info before arriving in Lima is a smart travel move.
How the Embassies Can Support You in Emergencies
Cities like Lima have consular services designed to assist travelers, but what they do is specific:
- Lost or stolen passport: They can issue temporary or emergency passports so you can continue your journey.
- Legal trouble: If you’re detained or need legal representation, embassies can help you understand local procedures and find a lawyer.
- Medical emergencies: While they don’t provide medical care, embassies can help you contact hospitals, notify family, or arrange repatriation if needed.
- Documentation help: Notarial services, birth/death certificates, and urgent paperwork can sometimes be handled through your embassy.
Being prepared ensures that you can enjoy Peru without worry — whether exploring Lima’s streets, hiking in the Andes, or visiting Machu Picchu. With this Lima Emergency Guide, you can focus on enjoying Peru while staying prepared for anything.
With Lima Experience, travel smart, stay safe, and remember — the key is Peru!
