will comprise three main events, allowing the Supreme Pontiff to meet with Church representatives, local residents, and the thousands of visitors who will arrive in the Imperial City from different regions of Peru and abroad,
Cusco prepares to welcome thousands of visitors
Pope Leo XIV's visit will have a significant impact on the movement of people and tourism activity as well.
The government official estimated that more than 800,000 people will travel nationwide during the event.
Meanwhile, around 50,000 international visitors will arrive in the destinations included in the papal itinerary.
Valencia said Cusco and Lima have the necessary tourism capacity to accommodate this significant influx of visitors.
"Cusco and Lima have sufficient tourism infrastructure to accommodate these visitors," he noted.
In addition to Cusco, Pope Leo XIV will visit Pucallpa and Chiclayo, as well as Santa Cruz province in Cajamarca region, destinations that are also preparing to welcome the pontiff and the faithful who will attend his activities.
In the case of Chiclayo, northern Peru, the visit holds special significance, as Leo XIV carried out part of his pastoral ministry there as bishop of that diocese before becoming Supreme Pontiff.
A visit with an international impact on Cusco
According to the minister, the Pope's presence represents an opportunity to showcase Peru's main tourist and cultural attractions to the world.
In this context, he underscored the importance of strengthening Cusco's international air connectivity, particularly with Brazil, whose tourism market represents an opportunity for Peru.
The government official announced that direct air connectivity between Sao Paulo and Cusco has already been authorized. The corresponding flights are set to begin on March 1, 2027.
He explained that tickets can be purchased starting now, while the airline completes the logistical preparations necessary to begin operations.
The Cabinet member highlighted that connecting Cusco with Sao Paulo will bring Peru's main tourist attraction closer to a market of more than 20 million residents in Greater Sao Paulo and strengthen the integration process between the two countries.
Lastly, he stressed that Pope Leo XIV's visit will once again place Cusco at the center of national and international attention, not only because of its religious significance, but also because of the opportunities it represents for tourism and tourism-related services.
(END) MAO/MVB
Publicado: 9/9/2026