Peru: Pope to visit several cities January 18-21

Event

Pope Francis is scheduled to visit Lima, Puerto Maldonado, and Trujillo from Thursday, January 18, through Sunday, January 21. The Pope will arrive in Lima at approximately 17:20 (local time) on January 18 and depart for Puerto Maldonado at 09:55 on Friday, January 19. On Saturday, January 20, the Pope will hold mass in the Esplanade of Huanchaco in Trujillo at 10:00. The event will be free and open to the public for individuals who have pre-ordered tickets. On Sunday the Pope will fly from Lima back to Rome at 18:45.

A visibly increased security presence and associated transportation disruptions (large crowds and congestion surround events related to the papal visit, temporary closures, etc.) should be expected. The military announced that it will support the National Police (PNP) in providing security during the Pope’s visit. A large influx of visitors will likely arrive in Lima, Puerto Maldonado, and Trujillo before and during the Pope's trip, which could also cause delays and congestion at local airports and other transportation hubs.

Context

The Pope will be meeting with a number of civil society groups during his visit. While in Puerto Maldonado, Pope Francis will meet with indigenous people from the Amazon rainforest to discuss the impacts of deforestation.

Advice

Individuals in Peru should anticipate localized transportation disruptions during the Pope's visit as well as an increased security presence.