Paracas expects over 60,000 visitors during year-end festivities
Paracas, a picturesque resort town in Pisco Province, Ica, is gearing up for a bustling holiday season. With Christmas 2024 and New Year celebrations for 2025 just around the corner, the town is set to welcome over 60,000 visitors. Eduardo Jaúregui, president of The Peruvian Chamber of Tourism and Foreign Trade of Paracas (Capatur), shared this exciting news with the Andina News Agency. Paracas is not just a destination; it is a vibrant hub known for its stunning beaches, sunny weather, and rich culinary traditions.
A Thriving Tourist Destination
Paracas has solidified its reputation as one of Peru’s premier tourist destinations. Its attractions include the breathtaking Ballestas Islands and the expansive Paracas National Reserve. These natural wonders draw both domestic and international tourists, eager to explore the unique landscapes and wildlife. Jaúregui noted that hotel bookings are already impressive, with 70% of accommodations reserved a week before Christmas. The expectation is that bookings will reach full capacity in the coming days.
The tourism sector anticipates closing 2024 with around 900,000 visitors. This surge in tourism is a boon for local businesses, including restaurants, craft vendors, and wineries. Many are preparing for the holiday season, particularly the traditional Christmas dinner and New Year’s Eve celebrations. The local economy thrives on this influx of visitors, and the anticipation among tourism operators is palpable. They are eager to showcase the best of Paracas, from its stunning landscapes to its delicious seafood cuisine.
The Impact of Cruise Tourism
One of the key drivers of growth in Paracas is the cruise ship market. Jaúregui highlighted that this year alone, the town welcomed about 20 cruise ships, with expectations of 30 more in 2025. Each ship brings approximately 3,000 tourists, significantly boosting local commerce. The arrival of these cruise ships creates a lively atmosphere, with markets showcasing local crafts, folklore, and tastings of Pisco and wines.
Moreover, the cruise arrivals stimulate transportation services, with around 100 buses operating from Lima to transport visitors to key attractions. These include the Ballestas Islands, the Huacachina Oasis, and the Paracas National Reserve. Jaúregui expressed optimism for the future, predicting that Paracas could surpass one million tourists in 2025. However, he noted that the full operational status of the “Capitán FAP Renán ElÃas Olivera” International Airport in Pisco is crucial for this growth. The current delays in the airport’s functionality have posed challenges for tourism expansion, but local businesses remain hopeful.
Wedding Tourism: A New Trend
In addition to its natural beauty and vibrant culture, Paracas is emerging as a popular wedding destination. Jaúregui pointed out that the town’s serene environment, favorable climate, and stunning sunsets make it an ideal location for couples looking to tie the knot. Recently, four weddings were held in Paracas, primarily hosted by beachfront hotels.
The rise of wedding tourism is largely attributed to Paracas’s proximity to Lima and its extensive hotel infrastructure. This allows families and guests to comfortably attend ceremonies. On average, weddings in Paracas host around 200 attendees. With multiple weddings occurring simultaneously, the town can see an influx of nearly 1,000 visitors in a single night. The cost of hosting a wedding in Paracas typically starts at 50,000 soles, excluding live music arrangements, making it a lucrative market for local businesses.
As Paracas continues to grow as a tourist destination, the combination of its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and emerging wedding tourism will undoubtedly attract even more visitors in the years to come.
