strengthens destinations through cultural authenticity, heritage value, and sustainable economic development potential, such as the Chavin de Huantar district, which was recognized as Peru's thirteenth "Charming Town" and the second in Ancash region after Chacas.
Foreign Trade and Tourism Minister Desilu Leon highlighted that this recognition, granted through Deputy Ministerial Resolution No. 0048-2025-MINCETUR/VMT, reflects the national strategy to diversify the tourism offer promoted by the sector.
The aim is to strengthen destinations with cultural authenticity, heritage value, and sustainable economic development potential.
Located at 3,137 meters above sea level, Chavin de Huantar is the guardian of the renowned archaeological monument declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 1985, considered one of the main ceremonial centers of Andean civilization.
In addition, the town offers visitors comprehensive experiences that combine nature, culture, and tradition: hikes to Lake Tishguyoc and the Weya Ruri gorge, tours of the National Chavin Museum, and cuisine that keeps ancestral customs alive.
Great potential
"Recognizing Chavin de Huantar as a Charming Town is a way to highlight its history, its people, and its identity. This achievement reflects how sustainable tourism can become a driver of pride and progress for Peru's communities," Minister Leon stated.
Thus, the international positioning of Ancash is strengthened as one of the regions with the most tourist towns.
Technical assistance
With the inclusion of Chavin de Huantar, there are now 13 Charming Towns recognized in Peru, including Ollantaytambo, Lamas, Malabrigo, Sarhua, Villa Rica, Yanque, Sibayo, Quinua, Cascas, Oxapampa, Huancaya, and Chacas.
Mincetur provides technical assistance to various regions to identify and enhance new destinations that could be incorporated into the Charming Towns initiative.
This recognition will encourage national and international visitors to discover the authenticity, cultural richness, and hospitality of these towns, which help position the country as a diverse, competitive, and sustainable destination.