The warmth and hospitality of the Peruvian people and the beauty of Peru’s landscapes are the main attractions for tourists who travel to the country.These findings are based on responses from the 2005 Tourist Satisfaction Study led by the Commission for the Promotion of Peru (PromPeru) which was conducted at the top five tourist attractions in Peru: Machu Picchu, Inca Trail, Colca Valley, Nasca Lines, and the Lord of Sipan.

Tourism is one of the most dynamic and promising industries in Peru. The number of visitors to Peru reached 1,486,005 in 2005, representing a growth of 16.4% compared to 2004. The principal countries these visitors came from in 2005 were: United States (19.59%), United Kingdom (4.07%), Spain (3.94%), France (3.62%), Germany (2.85%), Canada (2.23%) and Italy (1.83%).

“The study shows us that foreign tourists have had very positive experiences in Peru,” said Elizabeth Barthelmess, General Manager of PromPeru. “We anticipate repeat visits and hope to generate an increase in international visitors so they can discover other facets the country has to offer in terms of adventure, history and culture,” adds Barthelmess.

The results of the study, which were compiled from 1,350 questionnaires by respondents over 18 years of age, measured cleanliness, security, customer service, accessibility and signage among other important characteristics for a success tourist destination. The outcome of the study revealed that 98% of tourists were pleased with their stays at Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, and Colca Valley due to Peru’s warm hospitality and beautiful, natural landscapes.

The results of this study allows PromPeru to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the country’s tourist attractions surveyed and understand how the quality of the services offered at each location influences the perception of these attractions. In addition, the results of the survey will serve as a guideline for travel agents and tour operators so they can better focus their strategies and reallocate their resources.

The Commission for the Promotion of Peru (PromPeru), founded in 1993, leads the promotion of the Peruvian tourism product and the country’s image both domestically and internationally. PromPeru evaluates, develops and executes policies and strategies to promote internal and receptive tourism. It also markets Peru as a tourism destination through advertising, public relations and promotional activities.
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