In an emotional ceremony,
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 Urosevic highlighted 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.