Cultural and natural wealth in Peru continues to gain global recognition. Five destinations across the country have earned a spot on the prestigious "Best Tourism Villages" list by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
Peru Strengthens Its Leadership in Rural Tourism with New International Recognition UNWTO has recognized five Peruvian villages as part of its "Best Tourism Villages" program, highlighting rural communities championing sustainable tourism and cultural preservation.
This year’s selected villages are Huancaya (Lima), Leimebamba (Amazonas), Maras (Cusco), Quinua (Ayacucho), and Sibayo (Arequipa). The awards were presented at a ceremony held at Huaca Mateo Salado, attended by Peru’s Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism, Desilú León, alongside local authorities, congressional representatives, and tourism industry leaders.
"This recognition not only places these villages on the global stage but also highlights their ability to preserve landscapes, traditions, and gastronomy while integrating tourism as a tool for sustainable development," Minister León emphasized.
Peru: A benchmark in rural tourism
With these additions, Peru has 13 destinations on the "Best Tourism Villages" list, making it the second most-awarded country globally, just behind China.
These Peruvian villages stand out for their natural beauty, cultural richness, and contribution to rural tourism:
- Huancaya: Stunning lagoons and waterfalls within the Nor Yauyos-Cochas Landscape Reserve.
- Leimebamba: Deeply connected to Chachapoya heritage, surrounded by breathtaking cloud forests.
- Maras: Home to the iconic salt mines and ancient agricultural traditions.
- Quinua: A historic site where Peru’s independence was sealed, known for its strong artisan and cultural identity.
- Sibayo: Preserving stone-built architecture, traditional weaving, and a thriving community-based tourism model.
With these new recognitions, Peru strengthens its position as a leader in rural and sustainable tourism, opening new opportunities for local development and sharing its cultural heritage with the world.
