Five Peruvian Destinations Receive UN Recognition as Best Tourism Villages

Erika

February 25, 2025

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has recognized five Peruvian destinations as part of its prestigious list of “Best Tourist Villages”, highlighting their commitment to sustainable tourism, the preservation of their cultural and natural heritage, and community development. This recognition highlights the richness and diversity of Peru’s rural regions, promoting their attractiveness internationally.

Recognized Villages and their Attributes

The five Peruvian towns that have received this important recognition are:

1. Chacas (Ancash): Located in the northern highlands of Peru, Chacas is famous for its colonial architecture, its legacy of wood craftsmanship and its natural environment that is part of the Huascarán National Park.(

2. Lamas (San Martin): Known as the “Folkloric Capital of the Amazon”, Lamas stands out for its living culture, its indigenous traditions and its impressive natural viewpoint.

3. Raqchi (Cusco): This town houses the Temple of Wiracocha, one of the most emblematic structures of the Inca civilization, and is an example of well-organized community-based tourism

4. Taquile (Puno): Located on Lake Titicaca, Taquile is famous for its textiles, considered an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, and its system of tourist self-management.

5. Chavín de Huántar (Áncash): This archaeological site is the cradle of the Chavín culture, one of the most influential pre-Inca civilizations, and attracts tourists interested in history and archaeology.

“This distinction not only places these towns in the eyes of the world, but also highlights their ability to preserve and promote their landscapes, traditions, gastronomy and community values, integrating tourism as a tool for sustainable development,” highlighted the head of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur).

“Beyond the technical criteria, what really makes this recognition special is the spirit of its people. They are the families, the artisans who shape history with their hands, the farmers who work the land with love and the entrepreneurs who open their doors to the world with hospitality and warmth,” detailed Minister Desilú León.

The awarding of this title is part of the “Best Tourism Villages” initiative of the UN Tourism. The distinctions were given by this organization. It is important to mention that this achievement was the result of coordinated work between Mincetur, local governments and the communities involved in the application and evaluation phases of the towns in key areas such as the preservation of natural and cultural heritage, the sustainability of these spaces in all their dimensions, their infrastructure, connectivity and security.

Impact and Benefits of Recognition

UNWTO recognition places these towns on the international tourism map, which represents an opportunity to boost the local economy through responsible tourism. It also encourages investment in infrastructure, training in sustainable tourism and the preservation of cultural and natural heritage.

Challenges and Future Perspectives

While this recognition is an incentive for tourism development, it also implies the challenge of managing tourism growth without compromising the ecological balance and cultural authenticity of these villages. Local authorities, together with the community, are working on strategies to ensure inclusive and sustainable tourism.

Peru continues to consolidate itself as an attractive destination not only for its archaeological and natural wealth, but also for the authenticity and hospitality of its rural communities, which are now receiving a well-deserved worldwide distinction.