The 2025 Virgen de la Candelaria Festival in Puno, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is expected to surpass previous attendance records with projections of over 384,000 visitors. As one of Peru’s most significant celebrations, it promises an extraordinary display of culture, faith, and tradition in the Andean highlands.
The Regional Directorate of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Dircetur) of Puno projects a 20% increase in visitors compared to last year, driven by improved organization and enhanced event promotion. This growth includes domestic tourists from regions like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, and international travelers eager to experience this unique festivity in southern Peru.
Enhanced organization and visitor influx
- Defined venues: Main events, such as the traditional dance and costume contests, will take place at the National University of the Altiplano Stadium, providing ample space and comfort for attendees.
- Procession routes: Processional routes are fully mapped out this year, ensuring a seamless experience for both devotees and spectators.
- Accommodation availability: Up to 75% of Puno’s hotel capacity has already been booked, leaving only 25% available for late reservations.
To accommodate the growing number of visitors, community-based tourism is being promoted in iconic locations such as:
- Capachica Peninsula
- Illachón
- Chucuito Peninsula
- Floating Islands of the Uros
These experiences offer tourists the chance to stay with local families and enjoy the warm hospitality of communities around Lake Titicaca. Additionally, private homes will be available under an initiative by Puno’s Provincial Municipality to meet the high lodging demand.
Kickoff events for the Virgen de la Candelaria Festival
Before the central celebrations, Puno begins to embrace the festive spirit with notable events, including:
- Official Presentation of the Virgen de la Candelaria: Scheduled for Friday, January 17, at 6:00 p.m., at Enrique Torres Belón Stadium.
- Institutional Parade: Taking place on Sunday, January 19, commemorating another anniversary of the Regional Federation of Folklore and Culture of Puno.
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