Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Peru?
No, tap water in Peru is not recommended for drinking, including in Lima and Cusco. Use bottled or purified water throughout your trip, including at high altitude.
Water Source
Lima's utility SEDAPAL treats water from the Rímac River, but distribution infrastructure and intermittent supply mean water isn't considered safe to drink directly from the tap.
Contaminants & Concerns
Bacterial contamination risk from aging pipes and inconsistent pressure is the primary concern across urban and rural systems.
Regional Variations
Not safe anywhere, including Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, and Machu Picchu-area towns.
Water Hardness
Not centrally published; not relevant given universal bottled/purified use..
Do Locals Drink Tap Water?
No, Peruvian households commonly boil water or buy bottled water rather than drink directly from the tap.
Tips for Travelers
- •Bottled water is sold everywhere and inexpensive
- •Boiled water is used for coca tea and hot beverages at altitude and is generally safe
- •Use bottled water for brushing teeth, especially in your first days at altitude
Recommended Precautions
- •Drink only bottled or purified water
- •Use bottled water for brushing teeth
Cities in Peru
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & References
The safety rating and guidance on this page draw on the following sources. See our full methodology.
- •WHO Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality
- •CDC Travelers' Health destination pages
- •WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme (JMP)
- •National and municipal water utility public quality reports