The World Bank has announced a new initiative to bolster the Arequipa–Colca tourist corridor in southern Peru. This project, approved on 9 July 2026, focuses on improving infrastructure and tourism services, enhancing cultural and natural heritage, and promoting sustainable growth driven by tourism.
With a budget of $77.2 million, the programme aims to mobilise private investment, expand economic opportunities, and generate quality jobs, particularly for women, youth, and local communities. Investments will target key sectors including tourism, culture, transport, water and sanitation, health, environmental conservation, and destination management.
The project seeks to improve access to major attractions, enhance visitor experiences, and position the Arequipa–Colca corridor as a leading destination for cultural, nature, and adventure tourism. The tourism sector is one of the most employment-intensive industries in Peru, with significant potential to foster inclusive growth beyond traditional destinations.
Ariel Yepez, World Bank Division Director for Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela, stated, “This project represents a new approach to regional development in Peru, linking investments in tourism, roads, water and sanitation services, environmental sustainability, and destination management to strengthen the Arequipa–Colca corridor.”
Yepez added that by making the region more attractive to visitors and investors, the project could help stimulate private investment, create quality jobs, and expand opportunities for communities in southern Peru.
This initiative is one of the first multisector investment programmes in Peru and will be implemented by the Regional Government of Arequipa, with technical support from the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism. It also serves as a model for other subnational development initiatives in the country, aimed at harnessing the economic potential of specific regions to create more opportunities for people and communities.
