Peru is surging the travel industry with new visa-free policy for 93 countries including Schengen nations, Spain, UK and Thailand – Travel And Tour World

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Peru shines as a top-tier tourist destination, offering a harmonious blend of adventure, culture, and luxury, perfectly suited for leisure travel, holidaymakers, corporate travel, and business travel. Peru is surging the travel industry. This is all due to the new visa-free policy for 93 countries including Schengen nations, Spain, UK, Thailand, and more. Celebrated for its profound historical heritage, Peru invites visitors on a journey through time, featuring iconic sites like Machu Picchu and remnants of the expansive Inca Empire. Its diverse geography—from the majestic Andes mountains to the lush Amazon rainforest and dramatic coastal deserts—provides ample opportunities for adventure enthusiasts, including hiking, trekking, and wildlife exploration. Holidaymakers are captivated by lively cities such as Lima, celebrated for its exceptional culinary scene, and Cusco, the entrance to the Sacred Valley. For those on leisure travel, Peru boasts tranquil beach resorts, opulent cruises on Lake Titicaca, and rejuvenating wellness retreats amidst pristine nature. In terms of corporate travel and business travel, Peru’s burgeoning economy and vibrant urban centers offer vast possibilities. Lima, in particular, is evolving into a focal point for international conferences, business gatherings, and corporate functions. The hospitality sector in Peru excels in catering to business travelers, providing superior hotels, efficient services, and modern amenities. Whether for enjoyment or professional endeavors, Peru’s synthesis of culture, adventure, and luxury promises a remarkable experience.

TTW Editor in Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan said: “The implementation of Peru’s visa-free policy for 93 countries, including Schengen nations, has been a transformative force for the tourism sector. This strategic move has not only simplified the entry process for millions but has also broadened our appeal across diverse travel sectors. Additionally, this policy has invigorated niche travel markets, such as culinary tourism, adventure travel, and wellness retreats, enriching the travel experience and fostering significant economic growth and cultural exchange.”

Visa-Free Entry to Peru: Categorized List of Eligible Countries

Citizens from the following countries can enter Peru without a visa for tourism. The list is organized by continent and region for clarity:

1. Schengen Area Countries

1. Austria
2. Belgium
3. Czech Republic
4. Denmark
5. Estonia
6. Finland
7. France
8. Germany
9. Greece
10. Hungary
11. Iceland
12. Italy
13. Latvia
14. Liechtenstein
15. Lithuania
16. Luxembourg
17. Malta
18. Netherlands
19. Norway
20. Poland
21. Portugal
22. Slovakia
23. Slovenia
24. Spain
25. Sweden
26. Switzerland

2. European Union Non-Schengen Countries

27. Bulgaria
28. Croatia
29. Cyprus
30. Romania

3. Non-EU European Countries

31. Andorra
32. Belarus (also listed as Byeliorussia)
33. Monaco
34. North Macedonia
35. San Marino
36. Serbia
37. United Kingdom – 183 days

4. The Americas

38. Antigua and Barbuda
39. Argentina
40. Bahamas
41. Barbados
42. Belize
43. Bolivia
44. Brazil – 180 days
45. Chile – 180 days
46. Colombia
47. Costa Rica
48. Dominica
49. Dominican Republic – 60 days
50. Ecuador
51. El Salvador – 183 days
52. Grenada
53. Guatemala
54. Guyana
55. Honduras
56. Jamaica
57. Mexico
58. Panama
59. Paraguay
60. Saint Kitts and Nevis
61. Saint Lucia
62. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
63. Suriname
64. Trinidad and Tobago
65. United States – 183 days
66. Uruguay
67. Venezuela

5. Asia-Pacific

68. Australia
69. Brunei
70. Fiji
71. Hong Kong
72. Indonesia
73. Israel
74. Japan
75. Kiribati
76. Malaysia
77. Marshall Islands
78. Micronesia
79. Nauru
80. New Zealand
81. Palau
82. Papua New Guinea
83. Philippines
84. Samoa
85. Singapore
86. Solomon Islands
87. South Korea
88. Taiwan
89. Thailand
90. Tonga
91. Tuvalu
92. Vanuatu

6. Africa

93. South Africa

7. Special Cases

• China and India: Eligible for visa-free entry if they hold a valid visa or residence permit from the US, Canada, UK, Australia, or any Schengen country, valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Peru.

Top 5 Countries by GDP

1. United States
   • GDP: Approximately $26.7 trillion (2022)
   • Visa-Free Stay in Peru: Up to 183 days
   • The US has the world’s largest economy, driven by a diverse industrial base, high productivity, and a significant consumer market.
2. Japan
   • GDP: Approximately $4.2 trillion (2022)
   • Visa-Free Stay in Peru: Up to 90 days
   • Japan’s economy is known for its advanced technology, manufacturing, and export-oriented industries.
3. Germany
   • GDP: Approximately $4.0 trillion (2022)
   • Visa-Free Stay in Peru: Up to 90 days
   • Germany is the largest economy in Europe, characterized by its strong industrial sector and robust export market.
4. United Kingdom
   • GDP: Approximately $3.1 trillion (2022)
   • Visa-Free Stay in Peru: Up to 183 days
   • The UK economy is highly diversified, with significant contributions from finance, manufacturing, and services.
5. France
   • GDP: Approximately $2.8 trillion (2022)
   • Visa-Free Stay in Peru: Up to 90 days
   • France has a strong economy with major sectors including manufacturing, aerospace, and services.

Top Airlines in Peru

1. LATAM Airlines Peru
   • Overview: As part of the larger LATAM Airlines Group, LATAM Airlines Peru is the leading carrier in Peru, offering extensive domestic and international routes. It serves major destinations in North and South America, Europe, and Oceania.
   • Benefits for Visa-Free Travelers: Travelers from visa-free countries can take advantage of LATAM’s robust network for convenient access to Peru, with efficient connections to Lima and other key Peruvian cities.
2. Avianca Peru
   • Overview: A subsidiary of Avianca Holdings, Avianca Peru provides comprehensive coverage of both domestic and international routes. It is known for its quality service and connectivity to other Latin American destinations.
   • Benefits for Visa-Free Travelers: Avianca’s extensive network allows easy access to Peru from several countries in Central and South America, making it ideal for visa-free travelers looking to explore Peru or connect to other regional destinations.
3. Sky Airline Peru
   • Overview: Sky Airline Peru is a low-cost carrier that focuses on affordability and efficient service within Peru and to nearby international destinations. It is popular for budget travelers looking to explore Peru and other parts of South America.
   • Benefits for Visa-Free Travelers: Sky Airline offers cost-effective options for travelers from visa-free countries, making it easier for them to explore Peru on a budget.
4. Viva Air Peru
   • Overview: As a part of the Viva Air Group, Viva Air Peru is another low-cost carrier that focuses on providing affordable flights within Peru and to select international destinations.
   • Benefits for Visa-Free Travelers: Viva Air’s competitive pricing and efficient services benefit travelers from visa-free countries looking for affordable travel options within Peru.
5. JetSmart Peru
   • Overview: JetSmart, originally from Chile, has expanded into Peru, offering ultra-low-cost flights to various destinations within Peru and nearby countries.
   • Benefits for Visa-Free Travelers: JetSmart provides more budget-friendly travel opportunities for visitors from visa-free countries, enhancing their ability to explore multiple destinations within Peru.

Top Airports in Peru

1. Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)
   • Location: Lima
   • Overview: The primary international gateway to Peru, Jorge Chávez International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in the country, handling the majority of international flights.
   • Benefits for Visa-Free Travelers: As the main hub, it offers extensive international connections and serves as a convenient entry point for travelers from visa-free countries.
2. Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
   • Location: Cusco
   • Overview: Serving the historic city of Cusco, this airport is crucial for travelers heading to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. It handles a significant number of domestic flights and some international routes.
   • Benefits for Visa-Free Travelers: Visitors from visa-free countries can directly connect to Cusco, facilitating easier access to Peru’s premier tourist attractions.
3. Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP)
   • Location: Arequipa
   • Overview: This airport serves the southern city of Arequipa and is a key hub for both domestic and limited international flights.
   • Benefits for Visa-Free Travelers: It provides access to the scenic city of Arequipa and the nearby Colca Canyon, enhancing the travel experience for those entering Peru visa-free.
4. Capitán FAP Guillermo Concha Iberico International Airport (PIU)
   • Location: Piura
   • Overview: Located in the northwest, Piura’s airport is vital for travelers heading to the northern beaches and nearby regions.
   • Benefits for Visa-Free Travelers: It facilitates easy access to the northern part of Peru, known for its beautiful coastal areas.
5. Coronel FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport (IQT)
   • Location: Iquitos
   • Overview: Serving the Amazonian city of Iquitos, this airport is essential for access to the Peruvian Amazon and its unique ecological attractions.
   • Benefits for Visa-Free Travelers: Enables visa-free visitors to explore the Amazon rainforest without the need for additional travel arrangements.

Benefits for Visa-Free Travelers

1. Convenient Access: The well-connected international airports in Peru provide direct and indirect flights from many visa-free countries, simplifying the journey for tourists.
2. Affordable Travel: Low-cost carriers such as Sky Airline, Viva Air, and JetSmart make it economically feasible for visa-free travelers to explore Peru and neighboring countries without breaking the bank.
3. Regional Exploration: Major airlines and airports in Peru serve as gateways to different regions, allowing visa-free travelers to easily visit popular destinations like Cusco (for Machu Picchu) and Iquitos (for the Amazon).
4. Cultural and Economic Exchange: Easier travel logistics for citizens from visa-free countries encourage more frequent cultural exchanges and economic activities, benefiting both the travelers and Peru.

Peru is renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it a top destination for travelers. Here are some of the best tourist locations in Peru and how to get there:

1. Machu Picchu

Location: Andes Mountains, near Cusco

Why Visit:

• One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city nestled in the Andes. Its stunning architecture and panoramic views make it a must-see.

How to Get There:

• From Cusco: The most common way is to take a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The train journey takes about 3.5 hours. From Aguas Calientes, a 20-minute bus ride takes you to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
• Hiking: The Inca Trail is a famous multi-day hike leading directly to Machu Picchu, offering a challenging but rewarding experience.

2. Cusco

Location: Southeastern Peru

Why Visit:

• Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is known for its rich colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and proximity to numerous Incan ruins.

How to Get There:

• By Air: Fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. There are direct flights from Lima and other major cities in Peru.
• By Bus: Long-distance buses connect Cusco with other parts of Peru, including an overnight journey from Lima.

3. Lake Titicaca

Location: Border of Peru and Bolivia

Why Visit:

• The highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca is known for its deep blue waters and the unique floating reed islands inhabited by the Uros people.

How to Get There:

• From Puno: Puno is the gateway city to Lake Titicaca. You can reach Puno by a 1-hour flight from Lima to Juliaca followed by a 1-hour drive, or by an overnight bus or train from Cusco.
• Boat Tours: From Puno, take a boat tour to explore the lake and visit the floating islands.

4. The Sacred Valley

Location: Between Cusco and Machu Picchu

Why Visit:

• This fertile valley was a crucial area for the Incas, offering stunning landscapes, vibrant markets, and numerous archaeological sites, such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

How to Get There:

• By Car/Bus: Tours and buses run regularly from Cusco to the Sacred Valley. It’s about a 1-2 hour drive.
• By Train: The train to Machu Picchu passes through the Sacred Valley, making it accessible from Cusco or Ollantaytambo.

5. Nazca Lines

Location: Nazca Desert, Southern Peru

Why Visit:

• These enormous geoglyphs, created by the ancient Nazca culture, are best seen from the air and remain one of the world’s great archaeological mysteries.

How to Get There:

• From Lima: Take a 7-hour bus or a short flight to Nazca.
• Flights Over the Lines: Small planes offer aerial tours over the lines from Nazca or nearby Pisco.

6. Colca Canyon

Location: Near Arequipa, Southern Peru

Why Visit:

• One of the deepest canyons in the world, Colca Canyon is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, traditional villages, and the opportunity to see Andean condors.

How to Get There:

• From Arequipa: A 4-6 hour drive or bus ride takes you from Arequipa to Chivay, the main town near the canyon. Tours and buses run regularly from Arequipa.
• Hiking: Multi-day treks into the canyon start from Chivay or nearby Cabanaconde.

7. Lima

Location: Central Western Coast of Peru

Why Visit:

• The capital city of Peru, Lima is known for its historical architecture, vibrant food scene, and coastal views.

How to Get There:

• By Air: Jorge Chávez International Airport is the main gateway for international and domestic flights.
• By Bus: Long-distance buses connect Lima to other major cities in Peru.

8. Amazon Rainforest

Location: Eastern Peru

Why Visit:

• The Peruvian Amazon offers incredible biodiversity and the chance to explore one of the world’s most famous rainforests, with wildlife tours and river cruises.

How to Get There:

• From Iquitos: Fly from Lima to Iquitos, the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon. From Iquitos, riverboats and guided tours take you into the rainforest.
• From Puerto Maldonado: Fly from Cusco or Lima to Puerto Maldonado, then take a boat to reach various lodges and tour destinations in the Tambopata National Reserve.