Revenue from inbound tourism in Peru will total 5.4 billion dollars in 2026

This year, inbound tourism is expected to generate $5.4 billion in revenue in Peru, a figure that would exceed the pre-pandemic level, according to projections by the Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism, Rogers Valencia Espinoza.

The official noted that the sector’s recovery should not be measured solely by the number of visitors, but also by how long they stay in the country and how much they spend. “In that regard, we would already have surpassed the $4.8 billion collected in 2019; during this period, we would reach $5.4 billion,” stated Rogers Valencia.

He explained that there are three indicators for measuring tourism activity: the number of travelers, the length of their stay, and the amount they spend during their visit. He also noted that although the country still needs to increase visitor numbers to match pre-pandemic figures, tourism spending has already surpassed that level.

“The goal is to attract 4 million foreign visitors and continue restoring pre-health crisis levels,” he said.

The minister emphasized that new opportunities are emerging to attract more visitors to the country, particularly through improved air connectivity. He also announced that flight frequencies between Santiago, Chile, and Cusco will increase from 10 to 17 per week, an increase of nearly 50 percent.

She also mentioned that the first direct flight between São Paulo and Cusco was officially announced this week, connecting the Imperial City with Brazil’s main economic hub.

“Direct routes facilitate the consolidation of destinations, and the connection with São Paulo opens up a significant market for Brazilians and residents of southern Peru, who will be able to reach other destinations via South America’s main transportation hub,” she said.

Valencia Espinoza also highlighted the impact that Pope Leo XIV’s upcoming visit to Peru will have on tourism. It is estimated that more than 800,000 people will travel to the country, primarily for domestic tourism, during the visit. “Beyond the sheer number of visitors, it is also a priority to increase the length of their stay and their spending,” he said.

The minister noted that the pontiff’s visit will also help raise Peru’s international profile, particularly during his stops in Cusco, Pucallpa, Chiclayo, and Lima.