In a remarkable achievement for its tourism industry, Peru has clinched the prestigious title of ‘South America’s Leading Destination’ at the 2024 World Travel Awards (WTA). This accolade comes alongside three other significant wins, cementing Peru’s status as a premier travel destination in the region.
For the seventh consecutive year since 2018, Peru has been named ‘South America’s Leading Cultural Destination,’ a testament to the country’s dedication to preserving and sharing its rich heritage with the world. This recognition underscores Peru’s commitment to cultural tourism and its success in showcasing its diverse traditions and historical sites to international visitors.
The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, located in the Cusco region, has also maintained its reign as ‘South America’s Leading Tourist Attraction’ for the seventh year running. This iconic Incan site has not only captivated tourists with its ancient mysteries but has also set a precedent in sustainable tourism by becoming the first tourist destination to achieve international carbon-neutral certification.
Adding to its list of accolades, Peru has been crowned ‘South America’s Best Culinary Destination,’ reinforcing its position as the gastronomic epicenter of the region. This recognition builds upon the country’s culinary prestige, which was previously acknowledged in 2011 when the Organization of American States (OAS) awarded Peruvian cuisine the title of ‘Cultural Heritage of the Americas.’
These achievements are the result of consistent efforts by PROMPERÚ, the country’s export and tourism promotion agency, which has been actively promoting Peru’s natural beauty, rich culture, and outstanding cuisine since 2009. The four awards collectively solidify Peru’s reputation as a cultural and culinary leader in South America.
Claricia Tirado, Executive President of PROMPERÚ, emphasized the country’s commitment to excellence, stating that Peru strives to set the highest possible standards for travel and tourism in the region. This dedication was further recognized on the global stage in December 2023, when Peru received three world titles at the World Travel Awards: World’s Best Culinary Destination, World’s Best Cultural Destination, and Lima was named the World’s Best Heritage City Destination.
The World Travel Awards, a globally recognized brand in the travel industry, conducts several regional editions, including Africa, Asia, Australasia, the Caribbean and Central America, Europe, the Indian Ocean, the Middle East, North America, and South America. Peru’s success in these awards highlights its growing influence in the global tourism market.
For travelers, these accolades serve as a powerful endorsement of Peru’s diverse offerings. Visitors can expect world-class cultural experiences, from exploring ancient Incan ruins to engaging with vibrant contemporary traditions. The country’s culinary scene promises a gastronomic adventure, blending indigenous ingredients with innovative techniques that have captured international attention.
Peru’s recognition at the World Travel Awards not only boosts its tourism profile but also has potential economic implications. Increased visibility on the global stage can lead to growth in visitor numbers, contributing to local economies and supporting jobs in the tourism sector. Moreover, the focus on cultural and culinary tourism can encourage sustainable travel practices and promote the preservation of Peru’s natural and cultural heritage.
As Peru continues to excel in these prestigious awards, it sets a benchmark for tourism excellence in South America. The country’s success story offers valuable lessons for other destinations seeking to develop and promote their unique cultural and natural assets on the world stage.
This news story relied on a press release distributed by News Direct. Blockchain Registration, Verification & Enhancement provided by NewsRamp™. The source URL for this press release is Peru Crowned South America’s Leading Destination at World Travel Awards.