The World Bank has approved a US$77.2 million project to strengthen Peru’s Arequipa–Colca tourism corridor, supporting sustainable tourism, attracting private investment, and creating quality jobs across southern Peru. The initiative is designed to improve tourism infrastructure and services while enhancing cultural and natural heritage sites to drive long-term regional economic growth.
Unlike traditional infrastructure projects, the program takes a multisectoral approach by investing in tourism, transportation, water and sanitation, healthcare, environmental conservation, cultural heritage, and destination management. Guided by market demand, the investments will focus on expanding cultural, nature, and adventure tourism experiences, improving access to major attractions, and enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Tourism is one of Peru’s most employment-intensive industries, and the project is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs throughout the tourism value chain. Local businesses, artisans, farmers, service providers, and communities across the Arequipa–Colca corridor are expected to benefit, with particular emphasis on creating opportunities for women and young people. The initiative also aims to encourage greater private investment by making the region more attractive to visitors and investors.
The project will be implemented by the Regional Government of Arequipa with technical support from Peru’s Ministry of Trade and Tourism. It represents one of Peru’s first multisectoral regional investment programs and is intended to serve as a model for future regional development initiatives that combine infrastructure, tourism, and sustainable economic growth.
According to World Bank Division Director Ariel Yepez, the integrated investment strategy will strengthen the Arequipa–Colca corridor, unlock private investment, create quality employment opportunities, and deliver lasting economic benefits for communities across southern Peru.
