Peru's rural community-based tourism is expected to record 900,000 visits and yield around S/40 million (about US$11.77 million) in 2021, thus benefiting communities dedicated to this activity, Foreign Trade and Tourism Ministry projected.
Said results will be possible thanks to 70 highly-competitive products (tourist attractions and services) in culture, nature and adventure sub-sectors. These will be developed towards the country's Independence Bicentennial.
Upward trend
This modality has been promoted by the Tourism Ministry with outstanding results.
Each experience encompasses cultural exchange and enriching practices based on respect and appreciation of multiple cultures and traditions.
This year, said tourism segment has contributed more than S/16 million (about US$4.7 million) to rural economy, doubling 2011's S/8 million (about US$2.35 million) revenues.
Workshops
Goals towards 2021 were set during a series of rural community tourism workshops held in 10 regions: Arequipa (Colca Valley), Puno, Cusco, Madre de Dios, Ancash, Lambayeque, San Martin (Moyobamba), Amazonas (Chachapoyas), Loreto and Lima.
The workshops gathered over 400 people, including entrepreneurs and rural community tourism managers, who were able to exchange views, network, as well as consolidate objectives, values and future scenarios.
This tourism segment is also prioritized by Peru's National Strategic Tourism Plan 2016-2025 and Bicentennial Plan.
The Tourism Ministry will present the Strategic Rural Community Tourism Plan in the first quarter of 2017.