Peru: A top destination for gastronomic tourism

The flavors of Peru are conquering the world

For the twelfth year in a row, Peru has been named the "World's Best Culinary Destination" at the prestigious 2024 World Travel Awards. This honor celebrates the richness of Peruvian cuisine, renowned for its cultural fusion, diverse ingredients, and deep connection to the country’s unique biodiversity.

The success of Peruvian cuisine goes beyond its iconic dishes like Cebiche and lomo saltado. It also shines through its superfoods, such as avocado, blueberries, and cacao, which not only feature prominently in its recipes but also lead the country’s exports. By August 2024, exports of these products reached a value of USD 12.09 billion, driven by international markets that appreciate their exceptional quality and authenticity.

Source: PROMPERÚ

The profile of a gastronomic tourist in Peru

More and more travelers are choosing Peru as a destination to experience its renowned cuisine. In 2023, over 175,000 tourists visited the country driven by their love for Peruvian food, with most coming from Latin America, led by Chile. These visitors, primarily millennials, appreciate the authenticity of the dishes, the freshness of the ingredients, and the use of seasonal products.

These travelers seek experiences that go beyond simply dining: they enjoy cooking classes, cultural performances, and, of course, tasting Pisco-based cocktails. During their stays—typically lasting around 10 nights—they spend an average of USD 1,237, surpassing the spending of the average tourist. Popular destinations include Lima, Cusco, and Ica, which are key hubs of Peruvian culture and gastronomy.

Promoting Peruvian gastronomy

Source: José Cáceres / PROMPERÚ

The Peruvian government, through PROMPERÚ, actively promotes gastronomic tourism with initiatives like the Perú Mucho Gusto fair, which aims to highlight and preserve regional culinary traditions. In its most recent edition held in Lima, the fair drew over 182,000 attendees, further solidifying Peru's reputation as a leading destination for culinary tourism.

With its growing global influence, Peruvian gastronomy continues to prove that its flavors not only delight palates but also drive economic growth and strengthen cultural identity.