PERU NEWS - PERUVIAN TOURIST NEWS Peru is the home to various pre-Columbian civilizations, most notably the Incan Empire, Chavin, Moche, and Nasca. The ruins of Machu Picchu are the most internationally recognized of all the ruins of Peru and therefore receive the most tourists. This is not to say that they are the only ones present as there are hundreds of other ruins not popularized to the magnitude as those of Machu Picchu. The most popular ruins, not including Machu Picchu, are that of Chan Chan, Sipan, Kuelap, Nazca lines, Ollantaytambo, Caral, Sacsayhuamán, and Sillustani. There are hundreds of others besides these. The other form of cultural tourism is directed towards the colonial architecture present in many cities in Peru. Some of the most astounding examples of Peruvian colonial architecture are located in the cities of Lima, Arequipa, Trujillo and Cusco. PERU TRAVEL AGENCY - PERU TOUR OPERATOR - MACHU PICCHU TOURS INFORMATION
PERU TOURS - PERU TRAVEL - PERUVIAN TOURS Peru is a magical spot which involves one of the richest biodiversities of Earth, and is a melting pot of different cultures. Peru, the most fascinating destination in South America. Visit Peruvian highlights cities: travel to Cusco, explore the incredible sites of Machu Picchu, Choquequirao, Chan Chan or Sipán, overfly the Nazca Lines, go into Manu rainforest, navigate the Titicaca Lake or walk the Inca Trail. Practice your favourite adventure sport in the coast, rivers or mountains, or be in touch with the widest variety of flora and fauna of the Peru Amazon jungle. Visitors will be amazed by Peru’s vast geography, its flora and fauna, its rich culture and its diverse people. Peruvian Tours is the best and most informative site on Peru for travel and tourism. You can pick the touryou like or you can book a complete program with us. We have a team of professional sales executives to assist you. Discover why Peru is for many the heart of South America's greatest civilizations - PERU VACATIONS, PERU TRAVEL INFORMATIONS, PERU TOURS -
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Peru's Inti Raymi: Reliving Inca splendor at Main Square
With over 180 artists on stage and the presence of Tawantinsuyu's sovereign, the Inca, along with his imperial entourage, the celebration revived Inca tradition in the heart of the Peruvian capital.
Six music groups accompanied the reenactment, while the Inca addressed his people from the top of Lima Cathedral's staircase, in a ceremony filled with symbolism and grandeur.
This event was attended by Lima's Mayor, Rafael Lopez Aliaga; Cusco's Provincial Mayor, Luis Beltran; Emufec Chairman, Roberto Callañaupa; as well as members of the diplomatic corps accredited in Peru.
Beltran stated that Inti Raymi is the cultural and spiritual heart of Cusco.
"This event not only honors the Sun, the source of life, but also reminds us of the rich cultural heritage the Incas left us. It is the connection of our people with nature," he expressed.
Meanwhile, Lopez Aliaga emphasized that Inti Raymi is a great festivity. Similarly, he praised the human quality of Cusco's people, heirs of a great culture whose city welcomes tourists year-round.
The Inti Raymi is an ancient Inca religious celebration in honor of Inti, the Sun god.
During the Inca Empire, the festival used to last nine days and included sacrifices and dances in honor of the Sun. The last official ceremony during the Tawantinsuyu era took place in 1535.
In modern times, on June 24, 1944, the festival was staged for the first time at the Saqsaywaman esplanade, with then-President Manuel Prado Ugarteche in attendance.
Since then, it has become Cusco's most important festival, attracting thousands of domestic and foreign tourists.
Lima is filled with history and culture through one of the most emblematic celebrations of the Inca legacy. The Festival of the Sun shines in the capital, heralding the beginning of a year of grand festivities in Cusco, the world's navel.
(END) RRC/JMP/MVB
Pisco Week: Peruvian Embassy in Hungary promotes flagship drink
Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru
13:41 | Budapest (Hungary), Feb. 26.
Peruvian Pisco continues to shine abroad. Since last Friday, Hungary has been hosting "Pisco Week," an event aimed at promoting the consumption of Peru’s flagship spirit in the European country.
As part of Pisco Week celebrations, the fifth edition of "Pisco Night" was held in Budapest.
The event is part of a project led by the Peruvian Embassy in Hungary, aimed at strengthening Pisco's presence among Hungarian consumers.
Attracting experts, influencers, Peruvian culture enthusiasts, members of the diplomatic corps, and a large local audience, the event took place on February 21 at the exclusive Pavilon Restaurant & Bar at Dorothea Hotel Budapest.
The evening featured the participation of talented bartenders from Pavilon Restaurant & Bar, who crafted a variety of Pisco-based cocktails, from the classic Pisco Sour and Pisco Mule to innovative creations like "Potion for Cusco," a signature drink exclusive to the bar.
A selection of dishes inspired by Peruvian cuisine was also offered to attendees, designed to enhance and highlight the fresh flavors and vibrant aromas that characterize Pisco.
The event included a performance by the Peruvian dance group "Sonqoy Tusuy," whose dancers presented Festejo and Landó performances, further enriching the cultural experience of the evening.
Pisco Week will continue until Friday, February 28, offering all interested parties the opportunity to enjoy a special menu featuring a variety of Pisco-based cocktails.
(END) NDP/MDV/JMP/MVB
Published: 2/26/2025
Archaeological remains of Lima's first bridges from 16th and 17th centuries discovered
Photo: ANDINA/Melina Mejía
12:37 | Lima, Feb. 25.
A five-meter-high brick arch has been unearthed just a few meters from the Government Palace, at the southern end of Trujillo Bridge in Lima's Historic Center. According to archaeological research led by the Municipal Program for the Recovery of the Historic Center (Prolima), these remains are believed to be from a 16th-century bridge built to connect the city with Rimac River's northern bank.
In 1610, that brick bridge was replaced by the iconic stone bridge, whose foundations have been identified by specialists as well.
During the research, specialists also found English porcelain plates, 16th-century silver coins, and various stone elements with Latin inscriptions.
"The Puente de Piedra is one of Lima's oldest constructions. It has remained buried for centuries, and inside, we have found a variety of objects, such as ceramics, amphorae, porcelain, silver coins, and other items (…)," Prolima's General Manager Luis Martin Bogdanovich stated.
"Our goal is to connect the mill arches with the stone arch, leading us towards the Parque de la Muralla, and later reconstruct the old entrance arch to city of Lima, which was destroyed by a fire in 1879. This is a highly complex archaeological project," he highlighted.
As part of this project, Prolima identified the base of one of the pillars of the ancient bridge arch, a historic 17th-century structure that served as an entrance to Ciudad de los Reyes (City of Kings) until it was destroyed by a fire in 1879.
Additionally, these findings have helped pinpoint its original location and orientation.
In line with the recovery of Lima's Historic Center, Prolima has developed a project to restore the bridge arch based on historical evidence and field data, aiming to return one of the city's most significant architectural landmarks to the Peruvian capital.
The plan includes the establishment of an information hall and a viewpoint overlooking the Rimac River and the Cercado de Lima, taking advantage of the site's strategic location, according to officials.
(END) NDP/OPG/KGR/JMP/MVB
Peru: The secret of Chancay mummies and their eternal tattoos that astonish scientists
00:30 | Lima, Feb. 23.
At the beginning of 2025, an archaeological discovery left the international scientific community astounded. A study published in mid-January in the prestigious journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) revealed a remarkable secret hidden in the mummies of the Chancay culture, a civilization that flourished between 1100 and 1400 AD on the central coast of Peru.
Thanks to advanced analysis techniques, researchers discovered that impressive tattoos remain intact on the skin of these mummies, displaying a resolution that surpasses even modern techniques.
This revelation not only confirms the artistic complexity of the Chancay culture but also raises new questions about the methods used to preserve these designs over the centuries.
Cutting-Edge Technology to Decipher the Past
The team of scientists, led by Judyta Bak (Jagiellonian University of Kraków, Poland), Thomas G. Kaye (Foundation for Scientific Advancement, Arizona, USA), Henry William Marcelo (Jose Faustino Sanchez Carrion National University, Peru), and Michael Pittman (Chinese University of Hong Kong), employed an innovative technique called Laser-Stimulated Fluorescence (LSF).
This method allows researchers to penetrate the surface layers of mummified skin and illuminate the tattoos from within, revealing details that had been hidden by time.
The results were astonishing: fine lines measuring just 0.1 to 0.2 mm thick, geometric figures, and zoomorphic representations with a precision comparable to —or even surpassing— the Chancay culture ceramics and textiles.
"The images obtained through LSF show exceptional artistic quality, with designs that rival the finest pre-Columbian artistic expressions," explained Michael Pittman in statements gathered by the German news agency DW.
The Secrets of an Ancient Technique
According to the scientists, more than 100 Chancay mummies were examined, and after determining that they date from between 1222 and 1282 AD, they indicated that ultraviolet light was used for the initial analysis, followed by a 405 nm laser scan and digital image processing to adjust colors and saturation.
Peruvian archaeologist Henry William Marcelo, director of the Arturo Ruiz Estrada Museum, who participated in the research, emphasized to Andina News Agency that tattoos were one of the most sophisticated artistic expressions of the Chancay culture.
"Their level of detail surpasses that of other art forms, such as ceramics and textiles," he stated.
Marcelo suggested that the study suggests these tattoos may have had a social or ritual significance, possibly reserved for individuals of high status.
In an interview with Andina News Agency, he revealed that the research identified the materials used to create the tattoos: cactus spines or sharpened bones that likely served as needles.
The Mystery of Lord of Chancay
One of the most intriguing findings was a mummy believed to belong to an elite figure —possibly a healer or shaman— who had tattoos not only on his limbs but also on his chest.
Among the designs were geometric figures and sacred symbols, including representations of the Sun, Pachamama, a feline, a fox, and Vichama, the god of life in the Andean worldview.
These patterns, characterized by meticulously aligned triangles and diamonds, suggest a deep understanding of symmetry and art.
"The mathematical precision in these designs is impressive. Despite more than a thousand years having passed, the pigmentation of the tattoos remains extraordinarily well-preserved," Marcelo noted.
A Glimpse into the Future of Research
The Peruvian researcher affirmed that this discovery not only expands our knowledge of ancient tattooing techniques in pre-Columbian Peru but also marks a milestone in archaeology.
He emphasized that the Jose Faustino Sanchez Carrion National University has established a long-term collaboration with Kraków University, involving a six-year project that will include tomographic studies in Peru and further in-depth analyses in Polish laboratories.
Although the use of tattoos in Andean civilizations was already known —such as in the case of the Dama de Cao (1200 BC)— this study confirms that the Chancay culture developed tattooing art with remarkable precision.
"The Chancay culture not only mastered the art of tattooing but also advanced medicine. Skulls have been found with surgical trepanations that were reconstructed with metal inlays, suggesting an exceptional level of medical and technological expertise," Marcelo highlighted.
As research progresses, scientists hope to uncover more details about the symbolism and function of these tattoos within Chancay society.
For now, what is certain is that these designs have withstood the test of time, revealing a previously unknown facet of one of the most enigmatic cultures of ancient Peru.
(END) MAO/JMP/MVB
UN recognizes five Peruvian destinations as 'Best Tourism Villages'
The recognized villages are Huancaya (Lima region), Leimebamba (Amazonas), Maras (Cusco), Quinua (Ayacucho), and Sibayo (Arequipa).
On November 14, 2024, these locations were chosen among 55 villages from various countries for their cultural richness, sustainability, and contribution to rural tourism.
"This recognition not only places these villages in the global spotlight but also highlights their ability to preserve and promote their landscapes, traditions, gastronomy, and community values, integrating tourism as a tool for sustainable development," Minister Leon emphasized.
The presentation of this recognition to the authorities of these five villages took place at Huaca Mateo Salado in Cercado de Lima district on Thursday night.
This event was attended by Deputy Tourism Minister Madeleine Burns, Congresswoman Luz Maria Zeta, and the district mayors of Maras, Perci Huaman; Quinua, Rupert Limaco; Abanto Miranda; Leimebamba, Luis Alex Zumaeta; and Sibayo, Pepe Pedro Samayani; as well as Huancaya's Deputy Mayor, Carmela Sandoval.
"Beyond technical criteria, what truly makes this recognition special is the spirit of its people. It is the families, artisans shaping history with their hands, farmers working the land with love, and entrepreneurs welcoming the world with hospitality and warmth," the Cabinet member underscored.
The award was granted as part of UN Tourism's "Best Tourism Villages" initiative.The distinctions were officially presented to the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) in a ceremony held in Cartagena, Colombia, in November 2024.
This achievement is the result of coordinated efforts by Mincetur, local governments, and the communities, involved in the nomination and evaluation phases of these villages, in key areas such as natural and cultural heritage preservation, sustainability, infrastructure, connectivity, and security.
"Private investment plays a crucial role in transforming these recognitions into sustainable development hubs. Investing in these villages is not only profitable but also a commitment to life, culture, and the deep Peru that fills us with pride," the Cabinet member added.
Cascas: On its way to becoming a Best Tourism Village
During the ceremony, a special recognition was also awarded to Cascas, received by Gran Chimu Province Mayor Diber Perez.
Cascas has been included in the UN Tourism's Upgrade Program, which supports a select group of destinations advancing in meeting the criteria established by the BTV initiative. This allows these sites to reach the required rating and eventually earn the "Best Tourism Village" title.
In the video presentation at the ceremony, UN Tourism Executive Director Zoritsa Urosevichighlighted that Peru has so far secured recognition for 13 villages under the BTV initiative, with three more participating in the Upgrade Program.
"This demonstrates that Peru's policies in this area serve as a model for leadership in rural tourism and development," she stated.
Peru now ranks as the second country, after China, with the most destinations recognized as "Best Tourism Villages."
The list also includes Ollantaytambo, Raqchi, and Paucartambo (Cusco), Chacas and Chavin de Huantar (Ancash), Lamas (San Martin), Pozuzo (Pasco), and Taquile (Puno).
Best Tourism Villages in the World
The UN Tourism BTV initiative honors villages that serve as outstanding examples of rural tourism destinations, promoting and preserving rural and community values, products, and lifestyles.
Among the recognized villages, Huancaya stands out for its breathtaking waterfalls and lakes while preserving its cultural traditions.
Leimebamba is notable for its mountainous landscapes, cloud forest, and historical ties to the Chachapoya culture.
Maras is a destination known for its iconic salt mines and its millennia-old history.
Quinua holds historical significance as the site where Peru’s independence was sealed, alongside its vibrant cultural and artisanal heritage.
Sibayo was recognized for preserving its traditions through stone-built homes, ancestral weaving, and the warmth of its people.
The five sites, recognized as "Best Tourism Villages" in 2024, will join the BTV Network, a platform for exchanging experiences, best practices, and learnings.
This network also connects experts and public and private sector partners dedicated to promoting tourism as a driver of rural development.
PromPeru invites tourists to enjoy carnival season, extended until April
Regions including Amazonas, Ancash, Ayacucho, Arequipa, Apurimac, Cajamarca, Cusco, Huanuco, Huancayo, Junin, Loreto, Madre de Dios, Pasco, Puno, San Martin, Tacna, Ucayali, Tumbes, and Piura are expecting to welcome tourists during this festive season, which will run until April this year.
PromPeru invites Peruvian and international visitors to explore the country's diverse regions and take part in these vibrant celebrations.
This is a unique opportunity to enjoy cultural activities while discovering the marvelous tourist attractions that Peru has to offer.
Through the digital campaign #CarnavaleaPerú, PromPeru aims to position carnivals as a key tourism attraction and promote the diverse cultural activities planned throughout the season.
Carnivals Across the Country
Ayacucho Carnival (March 1 - 5): Declared Cultural Heritage of Peru in 2003, it is an iconic celebration that fills the streets of Ayacucho with joy, colors, dances, and music, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Tarma Carnival, Junin Region (February 28 – March 5): This colonial-origin celebration is known for the "Rompimiento de la Muliza," where neighborhoods compete with new compositions that exalt love, heartbreak, and pride for Tarma and its people. Participants showcase elaborate, colorful costumes in a lively display of local culture.
Cajamarca Carnival (March 1 – 5): One of the most significant festivities in the region and the country. Its celebrations extend for nearly a month, from preparations to the main week, featuring competitions, parades, and major events.
Click here for more information on carnival activities and programs.
Peru: Culture Ministry confirms no damage to Nasca Lines from landslides and heavy rains
17:00 | Nasca (Ica region), Feb. 18.
The Ministry of Culture on Tuesday ruled out any damage to the iconic Nasca Lines and Geoglyphs from the heavy rains and landslides recorded in the province of Nasca, in Ica region.
"After a thorough inspection, it was confirmed that the iconic Nasca Lines are safe," the government agency highlighted through its official account on the social media platform X.
However, the statement added that Minister Fabricio Valencia emphasized the urgent need for a deep cleaning and comprehensive maintenance, as this heritage site has not received proper intervention in years.
During his visit to the Nasca Lines, the high-ranking official announced that his department is working on a plan to restore and revitalize key areas that will boost cultural tourism in the region.
From February 11 to 13, the province of Nasca endured heavy rains that triggered landslides, causing significant damage to several rural communities.
"We are here at the Nasca Lines due to the recent rains, and what we have observed is that there has been no significant damage to this area. However, what is needed and recommended is a thorough cleaning," he stated.
During his inspection at the Nasca Viewing Tower, the Culture minister noted that this cleaning in the Nasca Lines area has not been carried out for years and is planned to take place within a month.
"We will also request that the structure next to the Viewing Tower be transferred from Plan Copesco (Mincetur) to the Ministry of Culture so that the entire space can be used on a larger scale," he emphasized.
During this visit, the Culture minister was accompanied by Alberto Martorell, director of the Ica Decentralized Directorate of Culture (DDC), and specialists from the Ministry.
Peru surpasses pre-pandemic tourism revenue levels
"Now, there are two important facts worth mentioning. In terms of foreign currency earnings from tourism, we have already surpassed pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, tourist arrivals through Jorge Chavez International Airport have increased significantly," said PromPeru's Executive-President, Ricardo Limo, in an interview with Andina News Agency.
"Tourism-related foreign currency income reached approximately US$5 billion by the end of 2024," he added.
Likewise, Limo highlighted that international arrivals through Jorge Chavez International Airport exceeded 2.1 million in 2024, significantly surpassing the 1,642,851 recorded in 2023.
"More than 2.1 million tourists have arrived through Jorge Chavez International Airport," he stated.
According to the National Superintendence of Migration, in 2024, 66.2% of international tourists (2,157,213) entered Peru though the Migration Control Post at Jorge Chavez International Airport, reaching 81.7% of pre-pandemics levels (2019), when it recorded 2,640,128 foreign visitors.
"There are already promising indicators that allow us to affirm we can meet our 2025 goal of welcoming 4.4 million international tourists in Peru," said the PromPeru official.
"We are running campaigns to reach domestic tourism figures while also launching international promotions to attract more visitors to Peru. This year, we hope to achieve pre-pandemic numbers," he concluded.
