Tourism in Peru is a key economic activity that offers a great diversity of cultural and natural attractions, including archaeological sites like Machu Picchu. Although the post-pandemic recovery has been slower than expected, the sector is showing signs of growth, with an increase in international tourist arrivals and its contribution to GDP. The sector is vital to the economy, generating employment and foreign exchange.
World Heritage Site
Discovering Peru is to delve into 5,000 years of living history. Our country is a sum of traditions, cultures, and languages that unite Peruvians, like a solid bridge between the past and the present.
Peru has 13 sites declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO: 9 cultural, 2 natural, and 2 mixed. These include the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, the Historic Center of Lima, the Sacred City of Caral-Supe, the Qhapaq Ñan (Inca Road System), the Andean Road System, and Manu National Park.
Cultural Sites
- Historic Center of Lima: Founded in 1535, it is considered the political center of Spanish rule in South America, with important viceregal buildings.
- Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu: A stunning example of Inca architecture, situated in a beautiful natural setting.
- Sacred City of Caral-Supe: An archaeological site showcasing the pre-Columbian civilization that flourished on the central coast of Peru.
- Nazca and Palpa Lines and Geoglyphs: Enormous figures etched into the desert that still lack a definitive explanation.
- Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System: A network of roads spanning several South American countries, with immense historical and cultural significance.
- City of Cusco: The capital of the Inca Empire, with a rich history and architecture that blends Inca and colonial elements.
- Chankillo Archaeological Park: An archaeoastronomical complex featuring a 2,300-year-old temple.
- Historic Center of Arequipa: Known as the "White City," it is distinguished by its buildings constructed from volcanic stone.
- Chan Chan Archaeological Zone: The largest adobe city in the Americas, it was the capital of the Chimú kingdom.
- Modern And Natural Wonder
Peru shares with the world 12 sites recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. A cultural legacy that our country preserves with pride. Likewise, its biodiversity constitutes a universal value worthy of admiration. Natural paradises with flora and fauna unique in the world.
Machu Picchu
It is one of the “7 Wonders of the Modern World” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. It is undoubtedly the greatest architectural achievement of the Inca Empire.
Amazon
It extends from the Andes Mountains to the borders with Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, and Bolivia. It boasts the greatest biodiversity on the planet; its flora and fauna are unique in the world.
Awards
With 15 awards received at the 2016 World Travel Awards, Peru is the most awarded country in South America. These distinctions reaffirm its tourism offerings and diverse gastronomy. The world recognizes Machu Picchu and Peruvian cuisine, which has forged its mestizo identity over centuries.
Peru among the 25 best destinations in the world to travel to in 2026, according to Lonely Planet
Peru among the 25 best destinations in the world to travel to in 2026, according to Lonely Planet
Peru is going all out at the World Travel Awards 2025
Peru has won Best Culinary Destination 12 times (2012–2019, 2021–2024); we are also Best Cultural Destination in six editions (2018–2019, 2021–2024); Machu Picchu was World's Leading Tourist Attraction on six occasions (2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022 and 2024) and Lima was crowned World's Leading Heritage City Destination in 2023.
Cusco is chosen as the best destination in South and Central America!
A place steeped in centuries of history, savored in every traditional dish, and thrilling at every turn… That's Cusco! The capital of the Inca Empire has been recognized by thousands of travelers worldwide as the No. 1 City in Central and South America in the 30th edition of Travel + Leisure magazine's World’s Best Awards. Our country continues to solidify its position as one of the most admired destinations on the planet!
Peru Shines at the 2025 Smart Destinations Awards
Peru was the most awarded country at the 2025 Ibero-American Smart Destinations (DTI) Awards, receiving a total of 11 distinctions in the second edition of this prestigious competition. The event, held in Bonito, Brazil, brought together leaders in tourism, technology, and sustainability within the framework of the 3rd International Smart Destinations Fair (FIDI).
Peru Leads as Best Sustainable Destination According to Voyage Magazine
Our country continues to shine on the international stage thanks to its commitment to responsible tourism, sustainability, and the environment.
On January 14th in Beijing, Peru was awarded the title of “Best Sustainable Destination” by the readers of Voyage, one of the most renowned luxury travel magazines in China. This important recognition highlighted the country's efforts to lead in responsible and sustainable tourism.
Peru Shines in London and Wins Award as “Most Desired Destination for Adventure”
During its participation in the World Travel Market (WTM) tourism fair in London, our country won the silver award for “Most Desired Destination for Adventure,” awarded by the British magazine Wanderlust, one of the most influential travel publications in the United Kingdom.
This award, based on more than 3 million votes from 168,000 travelers worldwide, confirms Peru as a dream destination for those seeking adventure, culture, and gastronomy. In this category, only New Zealand took first place, leaving Peru in second, surpassing destinations such as the United States, Costa Rica, Colombia and Chile.
Cusco City
Capital arqueológica de América y del Imperio Inca. Cusco deslumbra por su belleza mestiza de dos mundos: el occidental y el andino.
Arequipa
Sus edificaciones a base de sillar la hacen conocida como la Ciudad Blanca. Arequipa posee una gastronomía exquisita, caracterizada por las
