Peru waives quarantine requirements -- here's what you need to know

The ongoing pandemic has ravaged destinations around the world, and few countries have been hit as hard as Peru.

But in a move that signals the restart of tourism to the South American nation, travelers will no longer have to quarantine upon arrival, according to an update from the U.S. Embassy in Peru.

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The 14-day quarantine required upon entry to Peru may be lifted ​under certain conditions. ​Travelers arriving in Peru on international flights still must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken less than 72 hours before arrival, regardless of vaccination status.

The country is also lifting its ban on most flights longer than eight hours, which will further boost travel to Peru.

Related: Country-by-country reopening guide

At this time, nonresident passengers from Brazil, South Africa and the United Kingdom will not be allowed to enter until at least March 28, 2021​, and that includes ​transit passengers.

Last fall, Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra announced that international flights would resume with the implementation of Phase 4 of the country's economic reactivation plan.

Lima has been moved from an “Extreme” to “Very High” alert, which lessens movement restrictions, but some provinces are still considered extreme."

Under the "extreme" designation, there is a curfew from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m., private vehicles are prohibited on Sundays and many public spaces such as gyms and clubs are closed. Under the "very high" designation, public spaces including shopping centers, cinemas, tourist areas, places of worship, casinos, gyms and clubs all operate at reduced capacity.

Machu Picchu reopened to visitors on March 1, 2021, but is operating at only 40% of its total capacity.

Related: This is what it's like to fly during the pandemic right now

According to the U.S. Embassy, travelers from the United States will not be barred from entering. However, as is the case with traveling anywhere during the pandemic, regulations may change at any time.

Additional reporting by Vikkie Walker.