Building on its recent participation at OTM Mumbai, the Tourism Board of Peru has taken its engagement with the Indian travel trade a step further with a dedicated workshop in New Delhi. The initiative signals a shift from broad market visibility to focused, relationship-driven efforts aimed at expanding awareness of Peru as a premium travel destination for Indian travellers.
The three-day engagement brought together tour operators, travel agents, and destination management companies to explore evolving Indian travel trends, highlight Peru’s diverse experiences, and outline upcoming initiatives aimed at easing travel and improving destination knowledge.
From Curiosity to Commitment
Luis Cabello, Trade and Tourism Counsellor of Peru in India, emphasized the changing nature of engagement with Indian travel professionals. “The visitors to our pavilion are no longer asking what Peru is. They want to work with tour operators, sell Peru, and start operations,” he said. “Earlier, people asked if Peru was a company or a DMC. Now, the quality of engagement has improved significantly.”
Visa procedures remain a common query from Indian agents, though Cabello reassured that the process is straightforward. Indian nationals with a valid visa for countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, or China can travel to Peru without a separate visa. For others, a Peru visa can be processed within five working days.
The workshop also addressed practical considerations for Indian travellers, including cultural guidance, local customs, and dietary options. “Agents are keen to know about destinations, food, and local culture. Peru has numerous Indian restaurants and vegetarian options, so food is not a challenge,” Cabello noted.
Expanding Reach Beyond Mumbai and Delhi
Encouraged by strong market interest, the Tourism Board is extending its outreach to cities including Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and Chennai. “We are seeing demand from travellers seeking unique experiences and new destinations. This has prompted us to engage more widely across India,” Cabello explained.
The New Delhi workshop featured 15 Peruvian companies, many of which are new entrants to the Indian market, reflecting the growing interest in South America. Cabello highlighted that demand is steadily increasing, with Indian travellers looking for authentic cultural experiences alongside iconic sites like Machu Picchu, Nazca Lines, and Lake Titicaca.
Insights from Indian Travel Professionals
Indian outbound travel experts participating in the workshop expressed enthusiasm about Peru’s potential. Harjit Singh, Founder and Chief of Guest Experience at Delhi-based luxury travel firm Travel Twist, noted that Indian travellers increasingly seek destinations beyond traditional circuits. “For many Indian travellers, Peru is a one-off destination—part of their bucket list. They are interested not just in Machu Picchu but in broader cultural and outdoor experiences,” Singh said.
Singh also highlighted the importance of trip duration and multi-country itineraries. Stand-alone Peru trips typically last 10–15 days, while multi-country trips, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, or Colombia, can range from six to seven nights, covering major destinations like Cusco, Lima, and Machu Picchu. Flight costs and travel time remain key factors influencing travel decisions.
Growing Demand and Market Potential
Peruvian representatives at the workshop confirmed that demand from India has been steadily recovering post-pandemic. “Travel has grown since 2023, and while numbers are still approaching pre-pandemic levels, interest is strong,” said Camille Champenois and Carla Ramos of Lima Tours. The market is predominantly FITs, including families and honeymooners, with group and MICE travel being minimal due to distance and logistics.
While Delhi and Mumbai remain primary source cities, the Tourism Board is observing interest from Bengaluru, Pune, Chennai, and Kolkata. A segment of Indian travellers visiting Peru also resides abroad, leveraging visas from other countries to ease travel.
Looking Ahead
Cabello outlined plans for continued trade and media engagement, including familiarisation trips to Peru with Indian travel companies. “We aim to strengthen relationships, provide hands-on experiences, and support the Indian market as it grows year by year,” he said.
With dedicated outreach, practical guidance, and increasing awareness, Peru is positioning itself as a compelling destination for Indian travellers seeking culture, history, and adventure beyond the ordinary.
