Peru: Issues with Refunds from Travel Agencies Posted Online

Overview: Recent reports indicate problems with refunds from travel agencies operating online. Issues include cancellations and failure to refund payments for tours and other travel arrangements.
Recommendations:
- Check Cancellation Policies: Before using any online travel agency, make sure to thoroughly check and understand the cancellation policies and terms.
- Verify Agency Reliability: Confirm that the travel agency is trustworthy before booking.
Details:
1. Cancellation Issues: There have been reports where travel arrangements made through online travel agency websites for tours within Peru were canceled unilaterally just before the tour, with no refunds issued.
2. Refund Policies: Some online travel agencies sell low-cost products without clearly explaining the cancellation policies, leaving consumers inadequately protected. It’s essential to review cancellation conditions and terms thoroughly before making a purchase.
3. Verify Travel Agencies:
  - Check Registration with MINCETUR: Travel agencies operating within Peru are required to be registered with the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR). You can verify their registration through the following steps:
    - Access SUNAT: Visit the Peruvian National Superintendency of Tax Administration (SUNAT) website here.
      - Click on “Por Nomb. /Raz. Soc.” and enter the name of the travel agency in the search box, then click “Buscar.”
      - Click on the company information to check the tax identification number (Numero de RUC).
      - Be aware of similar names that might appear.
    - Access MINCETUR: Visit the MINCETUR website here.
      - Enter the tax identification number (Numero de RUC) previously verified from SUNAT in the “N° RUC” field and click “Buscar.”
      - If the agency is registered with MINCETUR, its details will be displayed.
Additional Resources:
- Consumer Protection: For further assistance, consider contacting consumer protection organizations or legal advisors specializing in travel-related disputes.