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Peru: Virgin of Candelaria Festival in Puno projected to attract over 380,000 tourists

Photo: ANDINA

00:06 | Lima, Jan. 16.

The Virgin of Candelaria Festival in 2025 is expected to welcome over 384,000 visitors, including both domestic and international tourists, according to projections by the Regional Directorate of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Dircetur) of Puno Regional Government.

As is known, this celebration is among the most significant in southern Peru.

Dircetur Puno Chief Reynaldo Yucra stated that the festival achieved a remarkable tourist turnout in 2024.

A 20% increase is projected for this year, which is attributed to improved organization and event planning.

The majority of tourists are expected to arrive from various Peruvian regions, such as Lima, Trujillo, Tacna, Arequipa, Cusco, and Moquegua.

Both international and local tourism will also play a significant role during the festivities.

This year, the increase in visitors is credited to well-defined venues, such as the stadium of the National University of the Altiplano, where competitions in traditional and costume dances honoring the Virgin of Candelaria will take place.

Additionally, the routes for veneration are fully established, unlike the previous year.

Yucra also reported that 75% of accommodations in Puno have already been reserved by domestic and international tourists. Only 25% of hotel capacity remains available for those still looking for lodging.

Alternative Lodging Options

As an alternative, community-based experiential tourism is being promoted for around 10,000 visitors. This type of tourism includes visits to the Capachica Peninsula, Illachon, the Chucuito Peninsula, and the floating islands of Uros, all located along Lake Titicaca shores.

Additionally, private homes will be made available to accommodate tourists, in accordance with an ordinance issued by the Provincial Municipality of Puno. This initiative will help address the high demand for lodging during the upcoming festivity.

Puno already in Celebration

Leading up to the festival, notable activities will include the official presentation of Virgin of Candelaria, scheduled for Friday, January 17, at 6:00 p.m. at Enrique Torres Belon Stadium.

Additionally, a parade commemorating another anniversary of the Puno Region Folklore and Culture Federation will take place on Sunday, January 19.

With these preparations, Puno gets ready to welcome thousands of visitors who will arrive to participate in this traditional and emblematic festival, recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.