Cajamarca is gearing up for Peru’s biggest carnival. It is ready to welcome thousands of local and international visitors in what promises to be one of its most spectacular editions in recent years.
Excitement is building as the Cajamarca Carnival prepares to host more than 30,000 tourists from March 1 to March 5. According to Madeleine Burns, Peru’s Vice Minister of Tourism, this celebration not only drives tourism in the region but also showcases Cajamarca’s cuisine, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage.
The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) expects a strong economic boost for the area as thousands of travelers arrive for the festivities.
During the carnival, Cajamarca bursts into life with parades, dance troupes, traditional song contests, and the famous water and paint battles. This highly anticipated festival offers a mix of culture, fun, and tradition. Some of the key events include:
- Arrival of Ño Carnavalón – The central figure of the carnival, representing the spirit of the celebration, is welcomed with street music and dance.
- Grand Carnival Parade – A spectacular procession of elaborately decorated floats, accompanied by traditional dance performances.
- Copla and Dance Contests – A stage for participants to showcase creativity through music, colorful costumes, and choreographed performances.
- Carnival Queen Election – An event that highlights the charm and elegance of young women from Cajamarca.
- The Burial of Ño Carnavalón – A symbolic ritual marking the end of the celebration and the anticipation of next year’s festivities.
Beyond the carnival, visitors can explore Baños del Inca, Cuarto del Rescate, Cajamarca Cathedral, and the Santa Apolonia Viewpoint, adding depth to their experience in the region.
Cajamarca Carnival: Tourism growth in Peru
On a national level, Vice Minister Burns announced that Peru expects 4.4 million international tourists this year, a significant increase from 2023. The government is rolling out promotional campaigns and strategies to strengthen both international and domestic tourism.
To attract investment, Mincetur is organizing roadshows that connect local tourism projects with banks and international cooperation agencies. These initiatives aim to fund improvements in infrastructure and services, ensuring long-term growth for the sector.
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