Peru’s tourism sector is facing two consecutive months of contraction, with arrivals dropping 5.7% in April and 1.3% in May, according to data from PromPerú. This downturn follows a strong start to the year, driven by international markets like China and Australia. Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have pushed global oil prices higher, directly inflating airfare costs by an average of 28.3% for flights to Lima and 27.2% for Cusco, according to Sol Velásquez, Director of Tourism Promotion at PromPerú.
Why are travel costs to Peru rising?
The spike in travel expenses is primarily linked to the 43% increase in regional fuel costs triggered by international tensions near the Strait of Hormuz. According to Sol Velásquez, travelers are increasingly sensitive to these costs, which have risen by 32.8% for flights to Latin America overall. Long-haul markets—specifically Europe, Asia, and Oceania—have seen the steepest impact, with ticket prices to Peru climbing between 40% and 50%. These elevated costs are discouraging potential tourists who are now reconsidering their travel budgets in a more volatile global economic environment.
Despite the dip in total arrivals, the average spending of international tourists arriving at Jorge Chávez International Airport has increased to over US$ 1,500, compared to approximately US$ 1,200 prior to 2019, according to the 2025 Profile of the Foreign Tourist study.
How is the global tourism market shifting?
Peru is not alone in experiencing this cooling trend. Regional neighbors Chile and Brazil have reported significant declines in international arrivals, falling by 25% and 13% respectively. The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has responded to these global conflicts and economic pressures by downgrading its initial growth projections for the sector from a 3%–4% range down to 1%–3%. This shift indicates that the travel industry is facing a broader, systemic challenge rather than a localized issue unique to the Andean region.
What is the future of the “four million tourists” goal?
The Peruvian government is currently re-evaluating its target of reaching four million international tourists by 2026. Sol Velásquez confirmed that officials are reviewing these figures due to the unexpected volatility in oil prices and the looming threat of the El Niño climate phenomenon. The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism is monitoring monthly data closely to assess how different regions will perform. Meanwhile, visits to the country’s flagship destination, Machu Picchu, saw a 4% decline among foreigners between January and April.
Pro Tip: Diversifying the travel experience
To reduce pressure on Machu Picchu and distribute economic benefits, PromPerú is actively promoting alternative routes such as the Moche Route, the Amazon, and the Áncash region. Officials emphasize that successful destination positioning typically requires at least three years of sustained investment in infrastructure and connectivity.
Is there a shift toward higher-spending travelers?
While the volume of arrivals has fluctuated, the profile of the visitor has evolved. PromPerú reports that modern travelers prioritize authentic experiences, gastronomy, and local culture, which correlates with higher expenditures. Specialized segments, such as adventure and luxury tourism, show particularly high engagement; adventure tourists spend roughly 26% more than the average visitor. Furthermore, those attending international congresses and events contribute approximately US$ 754 per trip, helping the sector’s total revenue surpass 2019 levels by 12% last year.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is it expensive to visit Cusco? Travelers must typically connect through Lima, which adds to the total cost and travel time, a challenge exacerbated by limited interregional connectivity.
- Are tourists still visiting Peru? Yes, though growth has slowed due to higher airfares. PromPerú expects a gradual recovery between June and August.
- What is the strategy to improve tourism? The government is focusing on improving interregional airport connectivity and promoting Lima as a destination for “short getaways” to increase the average length of stay.
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