NEWS ARCHIVEBack to our most recent news
¡FELIZ NAVIDAD Y PRÓSPERO AÑO NUEVO! Merry Christmas and peaceful holidays filled with serenity and harmony. Wishing you all the joys of the holiday season; may there be peace, hope and love in your home. Have fun drinking hot wine punch, making snowmen and baking christmas cookies with your beloved ones. Our call center in Passau is going to be closed from December 19th to January 6th due to the holidays. Nevertheless, please feel free to keep sending your travel requests or requests for information via mail. We are very pleased to respond to your mails at anytime. Please write to callcenter@peruline.com or info@peruline.com. In this sense, our peruline-team wishes you ¡Felices Pascuas y un Venturoso Año Nuevo! Merry Christmas and a happy new year!
VESTIGES OF AN OLD CITADEL DISCOVERED An expedition consisting of members of the Tourist Information and the Touristic Consultation Committee of Bagua recently made an astonishing discovery in the region of Amazonia: They found vestiges of an old citadel, which probably had prospered between the 16th and 19th century in Peru’s province of Bagua. In Santiago de Lomas they discovered walls of adobe, two spires that are apparently related to a temple, a water reservoir protected by limestone, traces of streets and passages and about 20 human skulls. After the discovery, the authorities demanded the restoration and touristic promotion of the citadel as well as the improvement of the accommodation road to the small town in order to avoid difficulties for the tourists who want to access this area from Bagua.
RAILWAY ROUTE FROM CUSCO TO AGUAS CALIENTES OPERATED AGAIN FROM TOMORROW ON Although the strike that was announced for today could be paused due to yesterday's negotiations between local peasants and governmental armed forces, PeruRail holds up the strike of the railway transportation from Cusco to Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu Pueblo. This railway route constitutes the only possibility to approach Machu Picchu by means of transportation and is therefore of significant importance to Peruvian tourism. As a consequence, more than 1,500 tourists were not able to visit the ruins of the old Inca fortress today. From Tuesday, 5th of November 2008 until Sunday, 9th of November 2008 railway transportation in this area will again be operated. The company regrets the inconvenience caused for national and international tourists as well as for the residents living in communities nearby. The residents of La Convención - located in the Sacred Valley of the Inca - announced that they would go on strike at 10th of November 2008 which will cause further exposures of the railway transportation. Changes to itineraries by organizers and travel agencies are possible.
SPRING IN LIMA STARTS WITH FLOWER TRADE FAIR The weather in the Peruvian capital is slowly changing and the winter gives way to spring, which causes many people to leave their homes in order to visit the different types of trade fairs organized in the metropolis. After the successful gastronomic trade fair "Peru, mucho gusto" from 16th to 21st of September in Lima, on the first weekend of October another trade fair took place in the Parque Central in the district of Miraflores: the second international flower trade fair "Perúflora 2008" where the country's different plants and flowers were exhibited. Ranging from cactuses to rainforest plants, there was something for everyone and many people bought an exotic treasure to decorate their living rooms with. Therefore, from 2nd to 5th of October Lima lived up to its name (the translation of the Spanish word flores is flowers).
COLCA CANYON - ONE OF THE NEW 7 WONDERS OF NATURE? After Machu Picchu was voted one of the New 7 Wonders of the World in July 2007, now the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest Canyons of the world, is nominated to be elected Wonder of Nature. For this purpose the city of Arequipa starts a campaign next Sunday called "Week of voting for the Colca Canyon" which is meant to promote the election of the Colca Canyon as one of the 7 Wonders of Nature. During the campaign polling and information booths will be set up in order to motivate people to vote for the impressive natural site. It is also possible for everyone to cast their vote on the websites of the New7Wonders Organisation. Other sites in Peru that are nominated are the Cotahuasi Canyon, also situated near Arequipa, Machu Picchu and the Lake Titicaca. You can also cast your vote for the Colca Canyon in the election of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, just visit the following website: www.natural7wonders.com.
TOURISM MOST IMPORTANT SECTOR OF ECONOMY The National Chamber of Tourism in Peru (Cámara Nacional del Turismo del Perú CANATUR), lately stated that tourism is the most dynamic and most important sector of international economy. Tourism is even more important than industry, agriculture and mining, so they say. Alejandro Toledo, ex-president of Peru, once announced the creation of a ministry exclusively for tourism, but this idea was soon to be stalled as the creation of the ministry of foreign trade and tourism (Ministerio de Comercio Exterior y Turismo, Mincetur) was pushed forward. Consequently, there is currently no ministry, but only a chamber of tourism. Discussions about the importance and the expansion of the sector have been going on for a while, but despite great protests on the part of the population the government seems to disregard the subject. Even the current president, Alan García, did not address the issue much when he held his speech on 28th of July, Peru's national holiday. CANATUR mentioned that tourism is the most productive sector with the greatest and most sustainable development. Furthermore it has been growing continuously exceeding 10% annually for 15 years now.
SPECTACULAR DISCOVERY NEAR CHICLAYO Recently, the unexpected discovery of a 1.700 years old tomb, approximately 40 kilometers from Chiclayo, delighted the Canadian project leader Steve Bourget and his colleague Bruno Alva Meneses. The remains of the Mochica sovereign show similarities in comparison to the excavations of the Huaca Rajada by the famous archeologist Walter Alva, father of Bruno Alva. 20 years ago, he revealed the holy tombs of Sipán. The recently discovered tomb in the archeological complex of Úcupe contains a body and some oblations like golden earrings, nose clips and diverse ceramics, as well as two extraordinary beautiful gold pieces that have been transported to the museum Tumbas Reales de Sipán in Chiclayo for conservation and maintenance. Until now, the investigators act on the assumption that this is the main tomb and more will be found in the ambit, for example a priest or a warrior. The excavations started one month ago and are protected for eventual plunder by the police. The construction of a museum for the exhibition of the funds and the touristic development is already planned.
POPULATION GROWS CONSTANTLY After the population census on the 21st of October 2007 the government finally published the actual population statistics. According to this, 28.220.764 people are living in the Andean estate, so that the amount increased annually to 1.6 percent in comparison to the last registration procedure in 1993 and makes Peru to the fourth most populated country in South America. Especially the coast and rainforest regions notify an enormous increase, of which the capital Lima, followed by Piura, La Libertad, Cajamarca and Puno constitute altogether 52.5 percent of the population. In contrast to that, Tacna, Pasco, Tumbes, Moquegua and Madre de Dios are with 3.8 percent less populated. Furthermore, the population grows annually approximately by 400.000 people and is relatively young. That means 30 percent are less than 15 years old and the working age group (age from 15 to 64) represent 63 percent.
MACHU PICCHU BECOMES MORE POPULAR FROM YEAR TO YEAR After Machu Picchu was declared to one of the 7 new world wonders in June 2007, the tourist stream to Cusco increased to 10 percent this year. The number of 900.000 tourists, that visited this mystic city of ruins last year, shall grow to 20 percent in 2008 according to experts. Of the more than 200.000 visitors that traveled to Cusco from January to March this year, only 8 percent are Peruvian inhabitants, whereas 92 percent are represented by international tourists, especially from the USA, France, Spain, Germany and England.
SPECTACULAR DISCOVERY NEAR ICA During the 9th and 11th of April 2008 the group of investigators "Ojos del Cóndor" (the eyes of the condor) and editors of the diary El Comercio discovered a new geoglyph in Ocucaje, in the region of Ica. The 137 meter long and 87 meter wide condor is according to the information of the research director an effort of the Paracas Cavernas culture, which settled there from 600 to 800 before Christ and revered the lord of the heaven as their divinity. This image is completed by 3 further drafts: an insect, a mollusk and another bird. This finding represents one of the most impressive ones of the last years in that region.
20 MILLION US DOLLAR FOR PERU According to information of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation APEC, there will take place an investment of 20 million US dollar this year in order to enlarge the tourist infrastructure. Altogether, there are expected 10 million visitors from all over the world, like economic leaders, experts and journalists. The extraordinary culinary network of Lima will be extended by more than 40 restaurant openings this year to satisfy the gusto of the international guests
PERU - AWARD FOR PRESENTATION AT THE ITB Tourism experts nominated the exhibition stand of PromPeru as the best in the category America/Caribbean the 4th year in succession. The outstanding and exotic stand of the Andean country stood up to others in criteria as information, service, activities and lasting overall impression. The crowd puller predominantly convinced with its innovative design that combined knowledge, fun and entertainment to a real adventure. Many visitors remained in the jungle corner or marveled at the simulated Machu Picchu in the digital photo area that invited to take some nice memory shots. With an inviting bar, the team of PromPeru created a cordial atmosphere in which judges, as fairgoers enjoyed appetizers of the national heritage declared cuisine and the national beverage Pisco Sour..
2.5 MILLION VISITORS DURING THE DAYS OF EASTER According to information of the Peruvian chamber of foreign trade, 2.5 million people will travel through Peru during the Semana Santa (Holy Week). For many natives those days represent the ideal time to visit their remote living family or they want to participate in the impressive processions like many tourists do. Ayacucho, with the most spectacular ceremonial processions of whole Latin America, expects the largest amount of tourist arrivals in whole Peru, while also other cities prepare themselves for the rush of visitors. Cajamarca, for example, provides 4.000 beds for their tourists. Travelers should count on higher prices for accommodation and transportation.
DISCOVERY OF OLDEST PERUVIAN AND SOUTH AMERICAN CONSTRUCTION According to information of German and Peruvian archaeologists, a few weeks ago they have found a 5.500 years old historical site in Sechín Bajo in the valley of Casma, which is situated approximately 370 km north of Lima. This is the discovery of the oldest construction in Peru and even South America and opens a complete new chapter in history of Peru. 16 years ago, Renate Patzschke, at that time a German Student who was investigating for her final thesis, came to Casma and since then she is involved, together with the director of the project Peter R. Fuchs in the archaeological excavation in Sechín. On the basis of carbon dating, it was determined that the construction was build 3.500 before Christ. It is build mainly out of natural stones which indicates that the builders had a considerable knowledge and capability of erecting constructions durables. With astonishment, the archaeologists discovered a relief which shows the “Degollador”, the executioner who holds a knife in his right hand and a snake in his left hand. Until now, it was assumed that this character derived from a later time.
STRIKE IN CUSCO Many tour operators threaten to declare a strike in Cusco. The just modified law 29164 which implies the privatization of cultural treasures in Peru - including Machu Picchu - outrages especially the residents of Cusco. Already on February 7th a strike was called in Cusco. No buses o taxis were allowed to drive in the city center and even the train to Machu Picchu stood still. With the new law, private investors could restore, conserve and obtain cultural assets in Peru, archaeologically sites, museums or integral nature reserves. The inhabitants of Cusco don’t want to “sell” their sanctuary, as they express it. The chamber of commerce and industry in Lima informed that strikes in Cusco would have a negative impact with financial losses of millions, especially for the tourism sector in Cusco and the whole country. Furthermore, the reputation of Peru as a tourism destination would suffer enormously. Many tourists travel to Peru, for the only purpose to see Machu Picchu.
TENNIS DAVIS CUP IN LIMA, PERU VS. SPAIN For the next three days, from the 8th to the 10th of February keep your fingers crossed for the tennis players Luis Horna and Ivan Miranda. Both of them have to play against four Spanish players in the Davis Cup - the most important competition for national teams in men's tennis. Even though the stars of the Spanish team Rafael Nadal and Juan Carlos Ferrero are not playing in Lima, it is not going to be an easy World Cup match for the Peruvians. The Spaniards are the favorites in this competition. The matches will take place in the late afternoon, avoiding the heat that would heavily influence the player's conditions. The head coach of the Peruvian team is very pleased that 2008 is Peru's first appearance among the elite 16 nations. He hopes that his boys will perform well.
PERULINE AT THE THE TOURISM FAIRS IN STUTTGART 12. - 20.01.2008 AND VIENNA, 17.-20.01.2008 As every year, peruline is present at the most important fairs in the German-speaking countries. In Stuttgart at the CMT Holiday Fair from the 12. - 20.01.2008 which will take place at the new venue near the airport, you will find us at the stand of the Arbeitsgemeinschaft Lateinamerika ARGE e.V. The booth with the index 6D11 is located in hall 6. In Vienna peruline will participate in the Ferien Messe 2008 from the 17. - 20.01.2008. In those four days you can find us from 10 am on at our stand A0 133 of the Arbeitsgemeinschaft Lateinamerika ARGE e.V. in hall A. We would be delighted to welcome you at one of the fairs and introduce
you to the diverse country of Peru and everything that it has to
offer. Also, we are more than happy to facilitate your vacation
arrangements to Peru. We hope to see you there!
PERULINE AT THE CMT STUTTGART, 12.-20.01.2008 From the 12.01.-20.01.2008 the CMT Holdiay Exhibition in Stuttgart will take place, this year at the new venue near the airport with even more exhibition space. We from peruline will be present at the fair and would be pleased to welcome you in Stuttgart. You are going to find us in the hall 6 at the stand of the Arbeitsgemeinschaft Lateinamerika ARGE e.V at the booth 6D11. There, we will answer all of your questions about Peru and assist you in planning your next journey to Peru. We are looking forward to meeting you at the CMT Holiday Exhibtion!
BILATERAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES After months of negotiations, the Senate of the United States signed the treaty of the Free Trade Agreement with Peru. This shall neutralise the existing trade barriers between the two states. The Free Trade Agreement is an important step for Peru, enabling it to appear on the global market with a stronger position. The main goal of this treaty is to flourish the trade between Peru and the United States as well as to fight sufficiently against the cultivation of drugs. Peru as an equal partner wants to attract further foreign investors, become more competitive and as a result reduce the unemployment rate. The Peruvian officials signed already the contract on the 28th of June in 2006. More than a year later, on the 4th of December 2007, the US Senate has done so as well. Now, the President of the United States George W. Bush only has to ratify the bill.
4000 YEAR OLD TEMPLE FOUND IN THE NORTH OF PERU Under the patronage of Walter Ave, archaeologists have made a very important discovery - a 4000 year old temple, which is ornamented with remarkable mural paintings. The finding suggests that the civilization in the north of Peru was a lot more advanced and complex than scientists had expected it. The uniqueness of this discovery does not only refer to the remarkable age of 4000 years, but also corresponds to the construction of the temple and the usage of bright colours for the mural paintings. Walter Ava points out that the temple was constructed in a very unique way which is quite uncommon for this region. The building fabric is not based on rocks or the typical adobe, but on clay bricks which were gained from the sediments of the close-by lake. Moreover, the alignment of the buildings was done with utter precision. The temple for example is aimed exactly to the north. But most outstanding from this finding are the colourful mural paintings. On one of the images illustrates a deer in a colourful background, which is now known for being the oldest mural painting in South America. The temple is located in the in Ventarrón, approximately 20 kilometres away from Chiclayo. The region is known for the numerous, archaeological findings. One of the most important discoveries is the tomb of Señor de Sipán, which was also found by Walter Ave in 1987.
NEW INITIATIVE FOR PROTECTING THE NAZCA-LINES Since the 15th of October 2007 all visitors, who have booked a flight over the Nazca-Lines, will have to pay an extra sum of 11 Nuevo Sol. This contribution is not only used for financing the daily restoration, but also for protecting, preserving and maintaining the unique geoglyphs which are located in the Nazca desert of Peru. The INC - Ica points out the importance of this extra contribution because for the first time financial resources are at hand for adequate work to be carried out, with and on the Nazca-Lines. The Nazca-Lines are not only lines and triangles but also display certain figures such as people, apes, fishes and birds, which can have a size of ten to a couple of hundred metres. The geoglyphs are a UNESCO World Cultural Site.
PERULINE CELEBRATES ITS BIRTHDAY 6 years ago, 30th of October 2001, a touristical promotion agency named peruline with headquarter in Lima/Peru was founded. Over the last years, the company grew and today can say from itself - and not without a little bit of pride - to have an already continued existence on the market, a steady rise of partners and is more present in German and Peruvian newspapers than ever. A big part of this success do you have: our Homepage user and news reader as well as all of those that send us e-mails seeking for answers about Peru. We will go on providing you with the latest news and will have an open ear for all your inquiries. Celebrate with us: to 6 years of touristical promotion and information!
POPULATION CENSUS IN PERU As we already mentioned in the German edition of our monthly newsletter, last Sunday, 21st of October 2007, the official census of the Peruvian people (and all the strangers within the borders of the country) took place. Recently, we got to know that the first results will be published already in the first quarter of the following year; detailed and complete statistics however, are not to be expected before July 2008. The Peruvian government tries, at least every 10 years, to organize a statistic census of all inhabitants. 100% reachability is the goal - up to 5% of the population that will not be counted, is justifiable.
LATIN AMERICAN DAY IN HAMBURG From the 11th to the 12th of October Hamburg is all about Latin America. The Museum of Ethnology in Hamburg has organized the "Latin American Festival". Topics are amongst others the 10th anniversary of the "Latin American Festival" and the 40th obit of Ernesto Che Guevara. On the 11th of October, Peru is going to open the "Latin American Day", which is hosted by the "Lateinamerika-Verein", with the topic "Economy Day Peru" in the Chamber of Commerce in Hamburg. Important representatives of politics and commerce are about to participate in the meeting to discuss and strengthen the intercultural relationship between Germany and Latin America. Ministers from Brazil, Chile, El Salvador, Germany, Panama and Peru are to be expected.
WORLD TOURISM DAY 2007 Today, the World Tourism Day of the WTO, World Tourism Organization, is addressing women and their role in tourism. The theme of 2007 is: "Tourism Opens Doors for Women". The accomplishments of women in the tourism industry are celebrated and acknowledged. The goal for the future is that the gender equality is further promoted and grievances are depleted. The annual World Tourism Day on the 27th of September covers topics which are recommended by the Executive Council and are then chosen by the WTO assembly. This year the festivity is hosted by Sri Lanka in Bentota and is accompanied by round table discussions.
FORMER PRESIDENT EXTRADITED After spending months in custody in Chile former Peruvian president Alberto Fujimori has been extradited on Saturday afternoon, the 22nd of September 2007. The Supreme Court of Justice in Chile decided that Fujimori has to face the Peruvian justice. He is accused of bribing ministers and violating the human rights during his term in office from 1990 to 2000 for which he has to take the responsibility now for. The maximum penalty that Fujimori may face is 35 years in jail. People in Peru appreciated the decision of the Chilean Supreme Court of Justice and are now hoping for a fair conviction. Fujimori fled to Japan in 2000 and abdicated via fax from his presidency after the corruption skandal was made public.
METEORITE NEAR PUNO The meteorite which has crashed down on Saturday the 15th of September close to the city of Carancas (near Puno), is still a mystery. Inhabitants were witnesses of the crash and told scientists and journalists that they had seen a fire ball in the sky. Moments later the six meter deep and approximately 30 meter caliber crater was found. As the scientists at the scene conveyed, no radioactive irradiation is radiated. Meteor crashes are nothing unusual for Peru. Just in June 2006 a meteorite crash in the region of Arequipa had been reported. Neither then nor today harm to property or people are reported.
MORE TOURIST ARRIVALS IN SPITE OF THE EARTHQUAKE The latest statistic provided by the institute of MINCETUR presents the total number of arrivals at the Jorge Chávez airport in Lima, which shows an increase in arrival by 17.9% in comparison to the year before. Despite of the earthquake from the 15. August 2007, more tourists have visited Peru and the up-coming half year estimation is already expecting an increase of around 13.7%. PromPerú confirmed that and stresses that this development has been achieved due to the intensive national and international tourism campaigns.
BUSES ARE OPERATING AS USUSAL BETWEEN LIMA, PARACAS AND ICA The route Lima - Paracas - Ica - Nazca, which has been temporarily closed down due to the earthquake, is used again by the most important bus company, Cruz del Sur, since last Friday. Furthermore the popular boats tours to the Ballestas Islands in the Paracas reservation are carried out again. Most of the hotels in Paracas are working as usual, as it has been reported by the local press. For the reconstruction of the area which is affected by the earthquake, the government has launched the consignment FORSUR.
TOURISTIC ACTIVITIES RESTART IN PARACAS After the earthquake from the 15th of August 2007, all reconstruction in the area is in full progress. Experts from the national institute for natural resources INRENA have confirmed that the Ballestas Islands, which are one of the main attractions in the area, have not suffered any damages due to the earthquake. Furthermore the bay of Paracas where the excursions to the Ballestas Islands start, are partly arranged therefore trips by tourists are possible again.
RELIEF ACTION AFTER EARTHQUAKE UNDER WAY The sad statistics after the earthquake: more than 500 death victims and thousands of people homeless. The search for death and injured persons has been stopped in most parts of the area. Contrary to other news, there is no danger of contagion or epidemic, according to official information, neither in the affected area, nor in the rest of the country. Relief actions already began shortly after the earthquake on Wednesday evening and will continue further on. In the whole country and in neighboring states, fund-raising is about to reach all inhabitants. Most of all, water, blankets, drugs and groceries are collected. National and international aid organizations and authorities coordinate the distribution of the urgently needed goods into the completely destroyed region around the city of Pisco. Up till now, about 670 tons of relief supplies already reached the region. The next big issue after the humanitarian aid will be the re-construction of the destroyed villages and cities. If you want to donate, please contact one of the known international organizations such as Red Cross, Misereor or Caritas International that all have their representation and partner agencies in situ and that coordinate the distribution of the goods.
EXTENT OF DESTRUCTION AFTER EARTHQUAKE In the course of last night, the number of death victims after the large earthquake of Wednesday rose to 500 and back staff is still searching for survivors in the wreckage. Up to now (3 pm local time) more than 350 softer aftershocks hit the region - also in Lima, so called "replicas" have been noticed. Out of fear to go back to their houses, a lot of people in those affected areas spend day and night out in the streets. What they need most in those days is, next to fresh drinking water and preserves, blankets and warm clothes. National authorities, churches and private companies as well as a lot of helpers coordinate the distribution of the supply directly. Inhabitants and international organizations are still asked to help as much as they can and donate. The villages of Pisco, Cañete and Ica have been mostly destroyed. Also the touristical infrastructure is damaged heavily as it can be seen with the example of Hotel Paracas, one of the best hotels in the bay of Paracas and starting point for lots of tourists to excursions to the isles of Ballestas. All guests and staff of the hotel have been evacuated with anticipation. According to the National Institute of Culture, a severe number of archaeological objects and mummies in the museums of Ica and Paracas partly suffered irreparable damages. In the National Reserve of Paracas the famous rocks called "La Catedral" and "El Fraile" have been practically vanished. The Panamericana is damaged at different parts between Chincha and Pisco, reparation works have been started already. On the contrary, the mystical Nazca-lines, main attraction of the city of Nazca, south of Ica, did not suffer any damage, according to official news. Here, and in the rest of the country of Peru, all touristical activities are functioning back to normal.
EARTHQUAKE IN PERU Wednesday, 15 August 2007, at 6.40pm local time, Peru was hit by a large earthquake that had an intensity of 7.5 of scale Richter. The epicenter was located in the ocean at the coast of Pisco, about 150 km south of Lima. The most affected region are the cities of Chincha, Cañete, Pisco and Ica. A large number of houses had been destroyed here. According to information of public health authorities, 300 people died, some hundreds have been injured. The inhabitants of the capital got off lightly as only minor damage was reported. People of other areas of the country felt the earthquake as well but only a few injured or material damage occurred. At the moment, we recommend to all people traveling to Peru to avoid visiting the region of Ica until all cleanup efforts have been finished. We will keep you updated. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office here in Lima: info@peruline.de
More tourists in Peru Latest information confirm that the number of arrivals of international travelers during the month of July was about 114,300 and that this figure means a rise of 18.7% in contrast to the dates of the previous year. All arrivals at International Airport Jorge Chávez in Lima were considered. Besides, first statistics were published that make sure that the total amount of people entering the country (by plane and via frontiers) rose about 13.1% in contrast to 2006. By the end of the year, it is expected to brake through the 1.8 million tourists figure of last year.
Sudden climate change in Puerto Maldonado On Wednesday, the 25th of July, heavy rainfall and strong wind surprised the inhabitants of Puerto Maldonado. As a result, all the streets were flooded and the trees were shaken. Electricity supply in this region was cut off for a couple of hours as a safety measure to prevent more damage. By now, everything is under control again but the Sebnamhi (the national service for meteorology) informed that the temperature could decrease in the rain forest and particularly in the south jungle. All this because of the sudden climate change that affects the whole world at the moment.
End of Tie-up Yesterday, the strike of the SUTEP against the new teacher evaluation law imposed by the government ended. The seat of the council of the ministers announced that the SUTEP (the Peruvian teachers association) would go on revocation of their strike. The Peruvian teachers association had the intention to deal with the high authorities of the government to come to an agreement. With the negotiations that already started between both authorities, the strike ended and in all schools teaching will start over again, declared the secretary of the SUTEP Luis Muñoz. At yesterdays conversation in the afternoon also prime minister Jorge del Castillo and the education secretary Jose Chang participated. With this negotiation, 14 days of strike with violent confrontations between police and demonstrators ended. Not only tourism was heavily affected, besides, pupils could not attend school for 2 weeks.
Train to Machu Picchu leaves again Followers and members of the SUPTEP and other trade unions still are on strike out on the streets to protest against the measures that is the government about to take. In some places, however, blockades already have been stopped by local police. In Cusco and Machu Picchu where lots of tourists had to stop because of the strike, the train service to Machu Picchu started again today and the whole situation is about to get normal again. In Puno, at lake Titicaca, on the contrary, the situation is uncertain and still remains. No flights until unknown.
Tie-up in Cusco and Puno Last Thursday, the Peruvian teachers association SUTEP went on strike to protest against the new teacher evaluation law (ley de la carrera magistral). In the whole of the country, it came to blockades on streets and other important trade and travel routes. Especially around Cusco and Puno, the most important streets were blocked by huge stones. The trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu were abandoned today on purpose, in order to guarantee the security of all tourists. In Puno, at lake Titicaca, the airport of Juliaca was occupied and assigned by striking people. In both regions, travelers have to face immense disorders of all types of touristy activity. Police and local activities are having discussions with the striking officials right now.
Breaking news: Machu Picchu made it! Much more important for tourism in Peru as the qualification for the soccer-cup South America in Venezuela, was the last Saturday. It was the day, all people of Peru have been waiting for weeks: would THE national sight Machu Picchu enter the list of fhe "Seven New World Wonders"? And it must have been a "miracle" if not! Yes, Machu Picchu made it into the list of the "Seven New World Wonders" and placed itself on a fantastic fourth place after Chichén Itzá, the Jesus-Statue of Rio de Janeiro and the Chinese Wall. We congratulate and want to thank all our readers that voted for Machu Picchu!
All scheduled flights at the airport in Iquitos operate again Because of the threat of thousands of turkey vultures that might cause trouble for the landing of airplanes, all the arrivals and departure during the day were closed at the airport Francisco Secada Vigneta two years ago. This situation was originated because of the closer location of the waste dump to the international airport in Iquitos. On Thursday, 5th July the competent national authorities informed the local authorities in Iquito about the actual situation of the airport. They decided to re-allow the operation of all scheduled flights during the day because of the relocation of the waste dump and the decrease of turkey vultures in the mentioned area. All the Airplanes are allowed to landing not only early in the morning or late in the afternoon at the airport in Iquitos, from now on all the scheduled Flights can also operate during the day.
After one week ended the strike in Pucallpa After an agreement between the competent authorities, the regional authorities and the demonstrators in the region of Ucayali the strike ended after one week of protest. From now on all scheduled flights operate as usual.
All scheduled flights fail at Pucallpa airport because of strike Since the last week all scheduled flights with destiny and departures from and to Pucallpa airport "Capitan Abenzur" are canceled because of the demonstration of hundreds of demonstrators that follow a call for strike in Pucallpa. Leonie Roca, the general manager of all airports in Peru, affirms that all airlines decided to cancel their service because of the threat of the demonstrators to assail the installations of the airport if the scheduled flights still operate. She also said that the last Thursday only one scheduled flight of Star Peru could operated and the police avoided that all the demonstrators entered the terminal of the airport. As a precaution, all the scheduled flights will be canceled until the provincial government of Ucayali and the Defense Front of Ucayali (Fredeu) reach an agreement to stop with this strike.
Decrease of temperature in the Peruvian jungle It was prognosticated that in the jungle of Peru the temperature will reach the 12° C. as a consequence of the extremely cold weather. According to the declaration of the meteorologist of the Senamhi (the national service for meteorology) in the regions of Madre de Dios and Ucayali, the temperature will decrease dramatically as penalty of the cold spell onto the Peruvian territory. The director of the Senamhi, Julio Villafuerte also presumed that up to the middle of July - when the official winter in Peru starts - the temperature will decrease drastically in these regions. Currently 8 regions - such as Cusco, Puno, Junin, Huanuco and others - had declared the state of emergency because of the cold spell. Therefore, authorities of Peru suggest to those tourist that are planning a trip to the jungle to take winter clothes on their trip.
More than 200.000 tourists come to the Inti Raymi this year! Around 200.000 national and international tourists are coming to Cusco this year to attend the spectacular and beautiful event of Cusco called the "Inti Raymi". This commemoration will take place on Sunday, June 24th; it begins in the morning and ends in the evening. As in the last 40 years, this immemorial ceremonial act will take place at the fortification of Sacsayhuaman and will have the participation of national actors. We have already taken some means of security in Cusco, affirms the mayoress Marina Sequerios. A special agreement between the state police and the vigilante group (Defensa Civil) is arranged. Maria Sequerios also said that around 500 security forces will be employed; of whom many are bilingual so that they can help all the international tourists. The security forces will also help to protect the historical patrimony place where the commemoration will take place.
SIT 2007 from 24.05 - 26.05.07 Today Thursday May 24th starts in Lima the International Fair of Tourism ("Salón Internacional de Tourismo" - SIT 2007) at the Hotel Maria Angola. This year the fair will have the participation of more than 324 expositor. As every year the visitor will have the opportunity to buy travel offers or travel promotion with 60% discount as usually. "Around the world in 3 days" is the motto that the organizers chose for the SIT 2007. The organizers of the fair also believe that the commercial transaction could increase 20% more than the last year. In other words the fair could bring an income of US$ 500 thousand. The first day of the exhibition is only open for corporate companies, the second one for travel agencies and the last one will be open for all visitor that are interest in.
10 Million Soles for the improvement of the "Nazca Lines" According to the declaration of Oscar Gonzalez, the director of the cultural institute of ICA, next year will start the works to improve the conditions of the patrimony "Nazca Lines". All this Work will have the financial support of the provincial government and the Cultural institute of ICA that spend about 10 Millions soles for this action. This financial support will help to improve the security and to restore the actual condition of the Lines. In the new plans of Improvement is also including the relocation of the expressway that cross the Lines. A new one will be constructed approximately 3.73 mi west from the tourist place of Nasca, announced Oscar Gonzalez. The director also affirms that the Cultural Institute ICA will assume the responsibility for the fascinating patrimony of Nasca.
The inauguration of the Peru Travel Market 2007 On Friday the April, 19 at 8pm the Peru Travel Mart 2007 - one of the most important events of the Peruvian tourism market began. At the golden salon of the government palace, Peruvian president Alan García held the inauguration speech. After the ceremony all visitor including the president could see the wonderful spectacle "Estampas Peruanas". The PTM 2007 takes place from April, 19 to 25. in the cities of Pisco, Nazca, Arequipa and Colca Valley. For the international visitors a sightseeing tour through Lima started on Saturday morning at the Cathedral of Lima and ended at the museum Larco Herrera, where the agreement between the PTM and the BITE from Ecuador was signed. On Sunday the visitors continued their tour to Paracas, where they could visit the famous Ballestas Island, the Candelabro and the Bay of Paracas. Everybody hopes that the visit of this international visitor originates more opportunities and positive incentives for the Peruvian tourism market.
Tourism growth rate in Peru above world average Tourism is growing fast in Peru. Peruvian Viceminister of Tourism
Eduardo Arrarte declared that the Peruvian tourism growth rate doubles
the world avering growth rate of 5%. He also declared that he and
his sector will promote the development of tourism in Peru to achieve
new records of international tourist arrivals in 2007 and 2008.
Machu Picchu on fourth position of the provisional list of the new Seven Wonders of the World According to the new provisional classification of the institution
"The new 7 Wonders", Machu Picchu occupies at the moment
the fourth place in the list of the new 7 wonders of the world.
KLM flies directly to Europe since last Sunday Since last Sunday Netherland´s airline KLM flies directly from Peru to Europe and back. The route Lima - Amsterdam without any stop - a great chance for Peru, states KLM. So far there has been a two-hour stop in Bonnaire on the way. The company mentioned that direct flights to Europe meant a great adventage for the Peruvian aireconomical market and positive signals would be set this way. The new installed routes with airplanes type Boeing 777 connected Peru significantly to the rest of the world.
1,6 million tourists came to Peru in 2006 Lately the Peruvian Ministry for Tourism published last year´s number of visitors in Peru. In total 1.634.573 foreign tourists came to the Peruvian country and increased this way the number of visitors from 2005 by 10 percent. The number of tourists coming from Germany grew as well: In 2006 43.186 tourists could have been registrated - almost a 1000 more than in the year before. On the other hand travelled 1.857.085 Peruvians abroad to other countries, which represends an increasement of only one percent.
ITB - peruline says welcome! The biggest tourism fairs worldwide ITB opens its doors again,
starting Wednesday, 7th of March, in Berlin and peruline is again
part of it! Like every year we are there for you the entire five
days, until Sunday and would be more than happy to welcome you.
Inca-Trail closes 1st of February for one month Because of the rainy season, when fewer tourists would be coming anyway, the Inca-Trail will be closed throughout the whole month of February, starting the 1st. This time of the year is meant for recreation and will be used for cleanups and maintenance work. Chief of the Parque Arqueológico de Machu Picchu and Antropologist Fernando Astete announced in the newspaper La República that around 15.000 tourists won't be able to use the Inca-Trail since it will be closed. In return the infrastructure as far as Campsites and pathes should be improved.
Record attendance in Colca Canyon: 143.000 foreign tourists in 2006 143.000 foreign tourists visited the Colca Canyon in the South of Peru during the last year. Compared to the previous year, when in total 118.000 visitors were registered, this record implicates an increase of 14%. "Autoridad Autónoma del Colca (Autocolca)" Secretary General José Luis Talavera Suárez said that more than a million US Dollars were made. The main part of all visitors came from Europe. In detail: 11% France, 10% Great Britain, 8% Germany, 7% Spain, 6% Italy.
Peru official partner at the CMT Stuttgart Good news: Peru is this year's official partner at the tourism- and holiday-exhibition CMT in Stuttgart! Just one reason why peruline is more than happy to be present, too! From the 13th till the 21th of January 2007 we would be very pleased to welcome you at our ARGE stand in hall 4.0, stand # 418. Come for a visit and enjoy!
Air Madrid: Payday Starting tomorrow the recently closed down no-frills airline Air Madrid disclosed in a document that all low-fare workers should be paid. Despite this announcement the workers' association ATAM mentioned that at least until next Monday 8th of January, all workers should receive their wages completely. Carlos Paino, ATAM's chairman said that the company assured to pay for the current month, but "nobody explained why some should get their salary first and others not. We are all workers for Air Madrid." If the payments will not me made until Monday, the court for labors would be involved.
Air Madrid gives up The Spanish no-frills airline Air Madrid announced its shutdown and closed all operations with immediate effect last Friday. In a statement published online the company blames the ministry of transport threatening the airline with the cancellation of its license. Reason for suspending Air Madrid and issuing an ultimatum was its massive and repeated delay. Being aware of this time limit the company still kept on selling tickets, 30.000 alone in the last couple of days. With the sudden close-down 130.000 passengers - 120.000 from Latin America (Ecuador, Columbia, Argentina, Chile, Panama, Costa Rica, Brazil, Mexico and Peru) stood in the dark. A crisis management set up by the Spanish civil aeronautical authority is supposed to help them till at least the 21st of December. One step was ordering shutter flights; the first one took off last Saturday morning from Gran Canarias heading Buenos Aires with stop in Barcelona and Madrid. Air Madrid was founded three years ago and belongs to the mallorquian Hotelier José Luis Carrillo. With its nine Airbuses the airline transported 2.6 Million passengers each year.
The Peruvian airline Wayraperú finished its operations
Peruline organizes press tour for German journalists Our duty as tourist information service also includes the promotion
of Peru as tourist destination on the German-spoken market. Supported
by our Peruvian business partners and further institutions we succeeded
in organizing a 10 day press tour within Peru for 7 notable German
journalists according to the motto "Archeological wonders and
sustainable tourism".
Regional and local elections in Peru The results of the elections on the regional and local level last
Sunday led to surprises: The party of the current president Alan
Garcia, APRA (Alianza Popular Revolucionaria Americana), the party
PNP (Partido Nacionalista Peruano) of the disputed rival candidate
of the last presidential elections Ollanta Humala and the rest of
the traditional political parties come off as losers. The bad result
of Alan Garcia's party is traced back on the party intern conflicts
of the last few weeks. Humala`s defeat is led back to the loss of
trust through the separation of his party in two blocks, the Humala
allegiant nationalists and the UPP (Unión por el Perú).
The non-consideration of Humala`s party during the election shows
the unpredictability of the Peruvian electors. Thus, the election
of Humala as presidential candidate during the election at the beginning
of this year was only a demonstration of their precarious situation
and no vote for him as person.
Treasures of the Inca on exhibition in the museum of ethnology in Hamburg Next Sunday, November 19th, 2006, the "treasure chamber of the Andes" will be solemnly inaugurated in the museum of ethnology in Hamburg. From this day on various precious artworks, for example adornment
and cult artifacts, from Panama, Peru, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Columbia
will be exposed to the public. From Peru you can see exhibits of
the collection of the German archeologist H. Brüning (1848-1928).
The collection embraces gold adornments, silver instruments, bronze
miniatures and small stone sculptures of Northern Peru. The inauguration of the exhibition will take place on Sunday, November 19th, 2006, in attendance of Maria Teresa Merino de Hart, general consul of Peru. From January 21st, 2007 on the museum of ethnology in Hamburg will present the Inca gallery in the Old American exhibition.
Peru among the leading brand destinations worldwide In a recently published study about the global Country
Brand Index (CBI) from FuturBrand and the PR agency Weber Shandwick,
Peru was declared best country brand for exotic and remote long
haul destination. The CBI discusses countries as "brands"
and evaluates new global travel trends in the economic sector with
the worldwide biggest increase: journeys and tourism. The survey
was presented on the World Travel Market 2006 in London, the leading
yearly fair of global tour operators. Australia leads as country
brand, followed by the USA and Italy. Best country brand for authencity
received India, the USA as best destination for family and business
trips. The Bahamas accommodates the most beautiful beaches worldwide
(best country brand for beaches) and New Zealand captivated with
its astonishing nature (best country brand for breathtaking nature).
Best country brand for price-quality is Thailand and for security
Canada.
PromPeru arranged a workshop and a cooking course in Germany This event rose the attention of the media, travel agencies, tour
operators and German chefs: according to the motto "Peru -
a country in action" PromPeru recently organized for travel
agencies a workshop in Frankfurt on the Main. The objective of this
event was presenting the variety of tourism offers in Peru and stimulating
the German market's interest concerning these offers.
5th "Oktoberfest" in Lima The "Oktoberfest", organized the first time
in 1810 in Munich on the "Theresienwiese", in the meantime
developed to the biggest traditional party in the world. Therefore
it is not astonishing that in more than 200 other cities all over
the world "Wiesn" followers can be found. This year, according
to traditions in Munich, the fifth "Oktoberfest" of Lima
takes place in the court of the "Museo de la Nación",
in the district of San Borja, from the 20th until the 22nd of October.
A typical German atmosphere will await the guests: table and chair
furniture from Germany, copious meals from South Germany and a lot
of bear - the brewery Cusqueña is producing special beer
according to the German purity law for this event. Besides games
and competitions additionally the music band "Zugspitzmusik"
will provide entertainment.
PromPeru promotes new tourist destination in the department of Ica This week, PromPeru, the governmental tourist promotion
institution, promulgated the future commercialization of the archaeological
site of Cahuachi, 22km from the town of Nasca, as a new tourist
destination in the department of Nasca. Cahuachi, supposed to be
the biggest ceremonial centre built in adobe in the world, was once
the domicile and the ritual centre of the Nasca culture (200-600
A.D.). The area of 34 pyramid shaped temples is with an extension
of 24km even larger than the archeological site of Chan Chan, opus
of the Chimú culture located near Trujillo in Northern Peru.
The Nasca lines are said to have their seeds in this city of artists.
Since 23 years the site, lying in the Pampas of Nasca, is excavated
by archeologists under the leadership of the Italian archeologist
Guiseppe Orefici.
German-Peruvian art exhibition in Lima from September 26th to October 13th, 2006 Starting with September 26th paintings, sculptures and pictures of eleven Peruvian and German artists will be exhibited at the institution Centro Cultural de Bellas Artes in Lima. Both the plastic works of the professional Peruvian artists and the exhibits of German people, living in Peru, demonstrate the individual impressions of the hectic everyday life of Lima which is rich in contrast. The common exhibition of the artists, originating from different working areas, shall act as role model: by the unification of different artistic styles, which characterize passion and creativity of each member, the artists want to bring together the German-Peruvian community and finally strengthen the relation in the long term. The exhibition will be inaugurated by the director of the Escuela
Nacional Superior Autónoma de Bellas Artes del Perú
and the German ambassador in the institution Centro Cultural
de Bellas Artes on September 26th at 7:30 p.m.. The work pieces
can be contemplated until October 13th, 2006.
Mochica crown returns to its home country soon The British police made a sensational discovery last week: In an
English gallery a unique golden crown dated to the Mochica culture
(ca. 200-800 a.D.) was found. In the end of the 80s this precious
find was stolen during a spectacular robbery at the archeological
site "Cerro la Mina", in the valley of the river Jequetepeque
in the department of Libertad, between Trujillo and Chiclayo. The
crown is said to be the most beautiful adorn-ment object of the
early Mochica period. The headdress is showing an anthropoid divinity
in the middle, eight octopus arms around ending in heads of cat
fishes. This fish is associated with fertility rites so that the
adornment is uniting the elements of the river, the sea and the
earth. After the handing over to the Peruvian government the crown
can be seen in the museum "Tumbas Reales" in Lambayeque.
Increased security measures at the airport of Lima The just-in-time avoided attacks on airlines in Great Britain also cause stricter security controls at the airport of Lima. Due to this fact numerous flights are late or even canceled. The new rules forbid the entrainment of liquids in the hand luggage on every flight to or via the United States except baby nutrition and important medicine with prescription. The execution of accurate security controls with tracker dogs on the airport of Lima delays the departure of many tourists. Until now it is not clear how long this state of emergency will be kept.
New cabinet with surprises After the change of the Peruvian government (we reported in past News) the inauguration of the new secretaries took place. Some surprises occurred: The new president Alan García revealed the 15 new secretaries; among those are six women. It is remarkable that Pilar Mazzetti was announced to be secretary of the Interior and therefore is the first woman in charge of the Peruvian police. The new secretary of trade and tourism, Mercedes Araoz, is going to emphasis on the customer service in the tourism sector to make Peru more attractive as a destination worldwide. She annunciated that she wants to emphasis on the development of exportable goods and services and is going to eclipse the free trade agreement with the USA for the first instance.
At Fiestas Patrias whole Peru is going crazy Already for weeks Peru has been preparing for the most important yearly national holidays: On the 28th and 29th of July Fiestas Patrias, Peru's Independence, is celebrated. On July 28, 1821 Peru became independent thanks to Don José de San Martín. The festivities can begin three days ahead with the feast of St. James on July 25. On the following days until the 29th whole Peru is starting to commemorate by celebrating church services and parades; "La Gran Parada Militar", one of the biggest, takes place on the 29th in Lima. This year the -perhaps- biggest national holiday is special: The inauguration of the newly elected president Alan Gracia occurs. Important personalities including the prince of Astoria, Felipe de Borbón, are expected to attend the activities.
Relief: Machu Picchu is not put on List of World Heritage in Danger As mentioned in the news on Friday, the UNESCO was considering putting Machu Picchu on the List of World Heritage in Danger (please see News 07.07.2006). Today, relief: The UNESCO decided not to put the archeological park of Machu Picchu on the List of World Heritage in Danger. But the Commission leaves it open and is going to follow the actions of the Peruvian state carefully awaiting a solution in this case and actions in order to protect the monument of the Inca. However, all has not been said and done: the mayors of the small town Santa Teresa and of the province still keep building the bridge; even tough a juridical resolution ordered to stop the construction. However, it is clear hat the national law of protection of sheltered areas and the world cultural heritage-law prohibit the finalization of this construction.
Bridge constructions threatens World Cultural Heritage status of Machu Picchu The UNESCO could put the archeological park of Machu Picchu on
the List of World Heritage in Danger because a bridge is supposed
to be constructed inside of the park. The representatives of the
international organization meet these days in Lithuania to discuss
this issue.
Street blockades in provinces: Tourists had to walk Since the beginning of this week, every day new announcements about
strikes in Peru appear on the news: In the province of El Callao-llave,
near the local boarder to Yunguyo, hundreds of tourists were stranded
for two days. The tourists arrived in the area of Kayani, Bolivia,
by public bus and wanted to go on to Puno, Peru. But at this point,
the journey for them was over for 48 hours.
Sacred Valley is declared National Cultural Heritage Now it is certain: the Sacred Valley of the Inca is going to be declared national cultural heritage! In the past, a team of anthropologists, historic experts, archeologists, architects and specialists has been working closely with the municipality of Valle Sagrado in order to set up the required plan. On the one hand, the declaration will be the basis for the solicitation for UNESCO's World Heritage Site. On the other hand, the it will permit to focus increasingly on the protection and conservation of the historic site which extends to the provinces Urubamba and Calca and which is amongst Peru's most visited tourist destinations.
Peru has got a new president On Sunday, June 4, 2006, the Peruvians were asked once again to the voting box after the first ballot which took place in April, to elect Peru's new president for the term of office between 2006 to 2011. The first, official results confirm what have already been forecasted by former surveys: Alan Garcia, the candidate of the left winged, democratic party APRA, crowed over his rival Ollanta Humala, ex-militarist and representative of the nationalistic party UPP, and is about to be the successor of the actual head of state Alejandro Toledo. Garcia already was Peru's president between 1985 and 1990, his term was characterized by high inflation rates and great dispersion of the terror organization Sendero Luminoso. Alan Garcia will take office on July 28, and will be confronted with the challenging task to handle the social, regional and economic problems of this country.
Spectacular mummy find: woman of Cao riddles scientists Investigators have found a spectacular tomb in the arceological complex El Brujo near Trujillo, in the North of Peru. A woman laid there for 1700 years, burried at the pyramid Cao, wrapped up in meterlong cotton sheets, richly gerned with gold and semi-precious stones, and tattooed with extensive mystic symbols on arms and legs. The woman was found accompanied by another mummy - a sacrificed teenage girl. After first insights, the woman's history goes back to the year 250 a.C. - the time when the Mochica culture was settled in the region of Trujillo and Chiclayo. The discoverer Regulo Franco is convinced that the woman which died at the age of 25, had had to take a very special position in her society. "Next to other things, we found 18 artful necklaces in the tomb. Concerning the variety of emblems and ornaments, they coincide with those typical for the Mochica culture and their rituals and temple ceremonies. The precious jewelry made of gold and silver reflects the magic-religious skills of the young woman and her narrow connection to day and night and her powerful position within the theocratic state. Maybe she was even considered and revered as a demigod", the archeologist concludes. The mummy has been remarkably well-conserved over the last 1500 years. On the one hand, Franco and his colleagues relate its extraordinary, good conditions to the medium profoundness of the tomb. The mummy was found in the pyramid Cao burried deeply enough beneath the surface to protect it from sun and heavy rain falls like El Nino, but at the same time highly enough above the pyramid's basis to avoid floodings. On the other hand, the use of the mineral cinabrio could have contributed to the body's conservation. This sulfate avoids the infestation by bacteries; its traces were found beyond various metals excavated in the tomb. Beside other methods, the scientist have already been able to collect essential data by applicating the radiocarbo-method, but the woman of Cao still remains a mystery: unusual for example are her numerous tattoes on arms, hands and feet. Snakes and spiders are their principal motive. "Within the Andean mythology, these animals stand for the fruitfulness of the earth", Franco explains. At least for him, the tattoes found beyond the woman's skin prove her role as a shaman or a priest. Besides, it is still unrevealed why there were spear throwers added in the mummy's grave. For the first time, there have been found weapons in a female tomb - science still remains in the dark. And finally: why did the woman have to die in her prime? Maybe, because she was carrying a child? Maybe as a consequence of a crisis of the Mochica culture? Was it suicide? Or had she been a sacrifice which should becalm the gods? We do not know. We just know that she has had to be an outstanding personality in due time.
May 18, International Day of Museums On May 18, the International Day of Museums takes place! In Lima, too, everybody interested in culture has the opportunity at the whim - and free of admission - to get in touch with the Peruvian history and culture. For this occasion, the most important and interesting museums have got their gates open from 9am until 9pm. Beside the two most famous museums situated in the heart of Lima, the Museo Nacional de Arqueología, Antropología e Historia del Perú and the national museum, there can be visited numerous archeological sites this day. A special occasion to get to know more about Peru and its treasuries!
Glacier Pastoruri has been disused The glacier Pastoruri - figurehead for adventure holidays and andinismo in Áncash - has been disused as tourist attraction of this region: because of the heavy glacier's melting in the recent years, it will not be able to receive further visitors who until now came here for iceclimbing, hiking, snowbiking or skiing. The 5,300 m high snow covered mountain will be replaced by an alternative glacier to guarantee the practice of winter and adventure sports in the future. The Pastoruri will be substituted by a glacier that disposes of better security as well as access conditions. Investigations detected clefts which could provoke accidents and endanger visitors. However, the designation of the new tourist glacier does not mean the complete closure of the Pastoruri, but future visitors' restrictions.
90 percent less fish in Lake Titicaca Scientists assume that since 1985 the quantity of fish in Lake
Titicaca has decreased about 90 percent. The unimpeded over fishing
by the local fishermen is considered as reason for this dramatic
diminution.
Possible volcanic eruption: The volcano Ubinas, about 270 kilometers from Arequipa, has shown
increased activity since the end of March. Some of the region's
inhabitants already had to take flight from the sporadic explosions
and sulfurous fumes and had to be evacuated. The situation is alarming:
Either the active volcano expires or it erupts - nobody knows what
will happen next. The government has sent food, tents, blankets
and pharmaceuticals for poisoned animals. Further evacuations might
be necessary.
A Boing called Machu Picchu The Dutch airline KLM promotes Peru as a traveler`s destination at the world`s airports. It baptized its new Boing 777ER Machu Picchu. On April 12 the new plane had its first flight, which was from Seattle (USA), Boing´s domicile, to Schiphol, Amsterdam. Together with this plane others were baptized names of UNESCO sites of Cultural Heritages, too. Currently, KLM disposes of 12 Boing 777-200ER but plans to ad six further planes until 2009.
Presidential elections: The nationalist Humala will be one of the candidates in the second ballot, but who else? After the presidential elections in Peru on April 9, the results of the last polls were confirmed quite fast. The nationalistic militarist Ollanta Humala (UPP) managed getting into the second ballot easily. Who will be the second candidate still has to be verified. The conservative candidate of the Unidad Nacional Lourdes Flores and the socialistic ex-president (APRA) during the count of votes recently are fighting against each other in an neck-and-neck race, but Tuesday García passed Flores. Now, Humala has got 30,96 percent, García 24,44 percent and Flores 23,37 percent of the valid votes. Until now 87,66 percent of votes are counted. Flores and her supporters are still hoping that the owing 87.000 votes from abroad will turn the situation.
Volcano Ubinas is about to erupt Since a few days, the volcano Ubinas, situated in the district of same denominator in the province Moquegua in Sánchez de Cerro - shows increased seismic activity: the discharging water vapor has now turned into ashes which can be interpreted as a sign for an upcoming eruption. As scientists announced, the volcano Ubinas which is located 70 km from Arequipa, will not have any dangerous impact on the volcano Misti.
Recent access to the Pisco route in Montegua Having been impossible the last five years because of bad road conditions, tourists are now getting the opportunity to visit the 15 wine bodegas and Pisco distilleries situated at the so-called "Ruta del Pisco". This was enabled by the recently completed construction work on the route which is 32 km of total length. From now on, this easy access will attract a lot of tourists visiting this region which is not only known for its culture and custom rather than for the production of the traditional Peruvian liqueur.
Hotel chain Costa del Sol accepted the bid for first hotel at the airport of Lima Having been one out of four candidates in the tendering procedure concerning the first hotel at the international airport Jorge Chávez, our partner Hoteles Costa del Sol was accepted as operator. It was granted the concession until 2031. Construction works start in August, and the building is supposed to be finished in June 2007. The new Hotel Costa del Sol is going to have four stories covering together 3385m², additionally 1,600m² are provided for office space and 300m² for event rooms. Without any doubt, this project means a big step forward for the Hoteles Costa del Sol, the leading hotel chain in the North of Peru. Congratulations!
International Tourism Fair Berlin: Peru gets Best Exhibitor Award 2006 At the International Tourism Fair Berlin (ITB, 8 - 12 March) Peru has won the award for the best stand in the category Latin America and Caribbean. Although the Brazilean competitors presented a bigger stand, Peru was the one to be finally awarded. "Peru convinced the jury with a better infrastructure, a better service and the variety of culinary appetizers spoiling the guests", said Elizabeth Barthelmess, director of Promperú, the national institute for tourism promotion. And of course, the Peruvians performed many traditional dances of the different regions, with their colorful clothes and authentic music. The Peruvian area consisted in 44 exhibitors, such as tour operators, national and regional organizations. With about 10.000 exhibitors from 180 countries the ITB is the most important tourism fair of the world.
Jurassic Park in the department of Arequipa On March 21, the adventure is going to begin: there will be inaugurated a dinosaurs' park in Arequipa! Four years ago, 3 young men found some animal traces which where later identified as 150 million year old dinosaurs'. Right there, in Querullpa, province of Castilla, about 200 km from Arequipa, the last preparations for the Jurassic Park's inauguration are in progress. The end of March, tourists can visit up to 68 traces, 50 to 90 cm of size, of the urterrestrials weighing up to 10 tons. Besides, you will get the oppurtinity of gazing the dinosaurs, constructed life-sized!
PeruRail reopens railroad Arequipa - Puno PeruRail is reopening the railroad from Arequipa to Puno. Initially, four trips will be offered in order to check it´s rentability. The railroad company has great expectations and trust in being politically and socially supported by the authorities and citizens of Arequipa. By reviving this railway track, PeruRail provides amplificated railroad connections between the most important tourist destination in the south of Peru, such as Arequipa, Puno, Cusco and Machu Picchu.
Wooden warriors in Chan Chan Researchers of the National Institute of Culture made further important
discoveries in the citadel of Chan Chan in the north of Peru. Working
on restoration and conservation of the ceremonial center, they found
18 graven warriors made out of wood. The sculptures are about 80
cm tall and 26 cm wide. Their faces are coverd by red masks and
their hands are entwined in front of the chest. Lances mark them
as warriors.
Today Incatrail opens again The National Institute of Cultur, like every year, had closed the Incatrail during February in order to guarantee the vegetation`s natural recuperation and to evaluate the tourists` impact on the path. Workers worked on maintaining the block paved route and the balustrade, too. The route was closed from kilometer 77, from where most trekkers start their way to Machu Picchu. In 2005 aproximately 54,000 Peruvians and tourists from abroad walked along the famous Camino Inca.
Cusco announces further strikes About 2000 people went out on strike on Wednesday. The regional workers` union and the regional plenum of Cusco had called out on this 24-hour work stoppage in order to express their discontent with the recently signed free trade agreement. Consequently, tourists´ activities were almost completely paralyzed. In the meantime, people are working again and the public isn´t concerned anymore. But in case the government doesn´t conform to the laborers` requirements, Carlos Cuaresma, the president of the regional plenum Cusco, announced further work stoppages. He was accused for impeding touristic activities and commerce by Carlos Canales, the president of the National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR).
South Peru: Strike against Free Trade Agreement Today, the south of Peru is on strike. In order to guarantee the tourists` integrity, the train service to Machu Picchu is suspended as well. The population is on strike against the Free Trade Agreement with the US which was signed by President Toledo at the end of last year. Especially the Andean people and farmers are concerned, because the products of their traditional cultivation will now have to compete with cheaper products from the US. The work stoppage is going to last 24 hours. This morning, the airport and the streets of Cusco were empty. However, the public authorities of Cusco and Arequipa assured extra units protecting the tourists´ activities.
Authority is considering further time restrictions at the airport of Iquitos Due to the permanent danger of collisions with raptors
living around the airport of Iquitos, the authority of aviation
is considering further time restrictions. The president of the Association
of Peruvian Airlines (APEA), Carlos Palacín, doesn't even
rule out opening hours only during the night. Last week, he confirmed
the consolidation of these plans. As a consequence, the airlines
operating in this region will have to adapt to the new conditions
and adjust their flight times. And of course, travel agencies, tour
operators, and tourists could be forced to change their programs,
too. Recently, there are no arrivals and departures between 9 a.m.
4 p.m in Iquitos.
In 2005 less tourists went the Inkatrail leading to Machu Picchu Last year 53.000 tourists came to Machu Micchu not by train or
bus, but on their own feet and using the old trail of the Inka.
In 2004, 6000 tourists more walked the Inkatrail, said the local
director of tourism, Javier Elorrieta. Opened 310 days in 2005,
the 38 kilometer distance was walked by 170 tourists a day, most
of them from the US and Europe. When planning to do this famous
trek, tourists are obligated to consult special touroperators. Only
170 out of 340 operating agencies have got the license to offer
the Inkatrail trek. In most cases the trek is about three days and
costs, depending on the agencies, at least 200 USD and up to 500
USD. For maintenance work, the Inkatrail will be closed till the
1st of March.
Pacaya Samiria Nature Reservation could be cultural and natural heritage of humanity Because of its extraordinary biodiversity as well as for its strategic importance the nature reservation Pacaya Samira could be announced cultural and natural heritage by the UNESCO. In order to support this matter the National Culture Institute of Loreto (INC Loreto) has formed a committee and is negotiating with the UNESCO. The announcement to be heritage of humanity would not only diminish the fluctuation of international support but also give the possibility to protect intensively the biodiversity of the Pacaya Samiria Nature Reservation and to improve the tours through the reservation. Many local institutions as well as communities are supporting this important matter.
TANS and FERSIMAC rereceive their operating authorization DGAC withdraws the suspension published at the beginning of the year for the airline TANS as they did not cope with the required security standards. TANS will probably resume its services before midfebruary. Also the train operator FERSIMAC (Ferrocarril Santuario Inca de Machu Picchu SAC) had been given the operating permission that has not been extended since the operater had never utilized the license. Due to several blokades that caused enormous losses in the tourism sector the decision now finally was repealed.
Lima celebrates its birthday Today the capital of Peru is celebrating the 471st anniversary of its foundation by the Spaniard Francesco Pizarro on 18 January 1535. At midnight the festivities started and continued until 7 am when the Natioanl Guard with salvos. As in the previous years many museums, churches and community buildings were open to the public without entrance fee as for instance the Monestary Santo Domingo or the Cathedral of Lima.
New airline over the Nazca-Lines The airline Nazca Airlines S.A.C. recently received their operating permission. Its fleet consists of six Cessnas, a new Beechcraft and a Poper Chevenne. The operating zones will be the lines of Nazca and Palpa as well as the Colca Canyon. To finally start operating the enterprise still has to receive its operating license.
Star Peru launches new flight connections to Chiclayo The airline Star Peru is making efforts to increase. Today it opens up the second frequency for the connection Lima-Trujillo-Chiclayo and from tomorrow, 14 January the route Lima-Iquitos-Tarapoto will be offered by Star Peru. According to media reports there are plans to launch further connections to Arequipa and Juliaca in the second half of February whereas the routes from Lima to Cusco and from Lima-Iquitos shall be flown more frequently.
From today on Aerocondor operates to Tumbes According to media reports the airline Aerocondor now offers flights from Lima to Tumbes via Chiclayo and Piura. Every monday, wednesday, friday and sunday a plane will leave Lima at 5.30pm and reach its destination at 8 pm. News that Aerocondor only wants to support the airline TANS until it will take up operations again are demented.
TANS suspended from flight operations The recent loss of two turbines, one on 15 December in Cusco and
the other one on 6 January at the airport in Tarapoto made the decision
easy for the DGAC (Direccion General de Aeronautica Civil, General
Office for Civil Flight Operations) to suspend TANS from operating.
The director of the DGAC also stated that there won't be given any
partial licence for TANS as they are not able to provide the required
security standard.
New citadell of the Paracas culture discovered in the valley of Palpa During investigations at the excavation site of Pernil Alto, 10 km northwest of the city of Palpa (near the Paracas peninsula) archaeologists discovered a adobe construction.. The special construction is assumed to have formed the citadell of the ruins that had been discovered 2 years ago. The building dates back to 1200 to 800 BC and therefore is one of the oldest excavated sites on Peru's coast. Further findings such as textiles, bones and muscles let think of a high developed culture with trade relations. That the culture populating the Palpa valley has been part of the Paracas culture seems to be prooved by the various ceramics that show the typical antropomorphal style. The project - supported by the Switzerland- Lichtenstein Foundation for Archaeological Investigations Abroad, the Commission for Noneuropean Cultures of the Archaological Institute of Germany as well as the Ministry of Culture in Germany - is planned to continue till 2008.
Machu Picchu nominated as one of the new seven world wonders Only the pyramids of Giseh remain of the ancient seven world wonders. Therefore the author and film producent Bernhard Weber initiated a campaign in order to elect new seven world wonders (n7w). For five years people could appoint a monument and vote for it via the internet. 77 candidates were put on the socalled longlist which was presented to a jury of experts who announced 21 candidates for the final ellection. The complex of Machu Picchu had been built by the Inca in the 15th century and is now one of the main tourist attractions in Peru. For the whole year 2006 people can vote by calling an international phone number. The rate gains are forwarded to a foundation created to preserve the monuments. Find out more about Machu Picchu on our website www.peruline.com
Toledo supports extending roads in Ollantaytambo Media reports that Toledo is willing to initiate the construction of a 42 km long way from Ollantaytambo to Abra Málaga (Sacred Valley). 98 Mio Soles shall be invested in order to extend connections and garantee transportation service. Furthermore risks of high losses due to blockades ought to be minimized. Earlier this month these had affected the toursim emensly and caused a loss of several million dollars. Eventually legal investigations against the "revolutionists"
of the blockades initiated by FERSIMAC are in course. They are accused
to have violated against the public connections, violated the peace
and to have insulted the state.
Airporttaxes rise in January 2006 According to Lima Airport Partners, company in-charge of the administration of the International Airport Jorge Chavez in Lima, airporttaxes will rise in the beginning of January. Travellers will than be paying USD 6,05 in spite of the previous USD 5,00 for domestic flights and instead of the now charged USD 30,00 flight guests will be asked to pay USD 30,25 for international flights. The Peruvian Association for Travel Agencies and Toursim (APAVIT)
though claims the raise to be unjustified. This years low inflation
rate (1,3 %) and the stable Dollar exchange course make it unnecessary
to burden the toursit with increasing costs. Moreover airlines are
now planning on founding an initiative against the state as the
main profitor of the raise.
Northern beaches fully booked for New Year's Eve Media states that the hotels in the north of Peru on the beaches Tortugas (Áncash), Huanchaco (La Libertad), Pimentel (Lambayeque), Máncora and Órganos (Piura), Punta Sal and Zorritos (Tumbes) registered a 100% occupancy for the last day of the year. Carlos Canales, president of the national chamber of toursim in Peru (CANATUR) states that this is the result of the efforts put in increasing and improving the infrastructure this year and gives promising perspectives for the summer season in 2006.
Track to Machu Picchu object of blockades again The negotiations about the concession for the trail to Machu Picchu
continues. According to media reports there will be new interfering
in Cusco. FERSIMAC manager Dante Quispe claims this to be necessary
in order to force their postulation but he also claims that the
tourist activities as well as their security will not be affected.
This though is contradictive to the last strike's figures counting
about 340,000 USD loss.
Connection to the Sanctuary safe again After having been blockaded by FERSIMSAC for 24 hours Perurail
announced to continue its service. They though reserve the right
to stop as soon as circumstances occur that might affect the security
of its employees or the tourists.
Further indefinite blockade of trains to Aguas Calientes Around 1700 tourists per day will be affected by the most recent
blockade of the rails between Cusco and Aguas Calientes. Daily losses
are estimated to amount up to 600,000 US Dollars and the damage
done to the image of Cusco and Peru will be inreparable.
Trains to Machu Picchu started operating again After 700 tourists being isolated in Aguas Calientes now the recently anounced 48 hour strike has ended, the trains between Aguas Calientes and Cusco are operating on normal schedule again. According to news reports the track though remains object to further strikes.
48 hours strike in Cusco affecting trains to Machu Picchu As recently announced, no trains will be operating
between Cusco and Machu Picchu for the next 48 hours due to the
current strike in Cusco. Travel agencies and tour operators are
now trying to rebook upcoming tours and find solutions for the 2500
tourists that are currently traveling between Cusco and Aguas Calientes.
Textile artwork of Taquile proclaimed Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Human Heritage Besides 42 other masterpieces, also the famous knitting men of
the Taquile Island on Lake Titicaca and their textile artwork were
proclaimed Masterpiece of the oral and intangible Human Heritage
by the UNESCO recently.
Aerocondor plans to resume overflights of Colca Canyon Already in the 1980ies overflights of the Colca Canyon had been offered and now the Peruvian airline Aerocondor is planning to resume touristic flights over the canyon as well as the Valley of the Volcanos. With airplanes of the type Cessna 208 Grand Caravan tourists will soon have the opportunitiy to enjoy spektacular views of the canyon and the near-by volcanos Misti, Ampato and Coropuna, departing from Arequipa. Flight service will cost approximately US$ 100 but so far Aerocondor did not confirm any specific starting date.
Traveling exhibition of Gold Museum touring German cities All those that have always wanted to see the incredible gold treasures
of pre-Columbian cultures of Peru but so far have not had the possibility
to visit the famous Gold Museum in Lima will now have the unique
opportunity to admire the wealth of various Peruvian cultures in
Germany.
Jaguar statue at the excavation site of Huaca Partida discovered The group of archaeologists under the Japanese archaeologist Koíchiro Shíbata recently proclaimed their progress in excavating the historical site of Huaca Partida situated close to the village Nepeña on the Northern coast of Peru. The archaeologists discovered a stonecarved figure measuring one meter in broadth which is simultaneous to those of the ceremonial center of Chavin de Huantar. The excellent conservation state of the relief - which is said to have been constructed between 800 and 700 BC - gives further material for researches on the Cupisniquean Culture (1800 BC to 500 AD) who once settled there as well as further comparison to the Chavín Culture (800-400 BC). Since the excavation started two years ago, 10 % of the in three steps constructed ceremonial center has been researched.
Former president Fujimori arrested in Chile In the morning of 7 November Peru's ex-president Alberto Fujimori who is wanted by the Peruvian government for curruption and violation of human rights has now been arrested in the Chilean capital. Previously he had lived in Japanese exile for 5 years but still nominated for presidential elections which will take place on 9 April 2006. The Peruvian Government last 60 days to formally request his extradition.
No to the regionalization in Peru - Clear results in referendum On Sunday 30 October 2005 citizens of 16 of Peru´s 25 departments
were asked to decide via referendum on the matter of the country´s
devolution and formation into macroregions. The participation was
sizable and the results clear. In 15 departments the citizens voted
with NO and only in the department Arequipa the majority voted in
favor for a macroregion including Arequipa - Puno - Tacna. Nevertheless
such a region will not be founded as the people of Puno and Tacna
voted against.
Peru celebrates day of " Musica Criolla" On 31 October Peru traditionally celebrates the Day of the Creole
Music. This celebration dates back to 1944 when former president
Manuel Prado declared the 31 October is to be honored to the Creole
culture, typical for the Peruvian coast, with interpretes such as
the contemporary percussionist Maria del Carmen Dongo and her group
Mano Madera or Susana Baca who won the Grammy Latino with her album
"Lamento negro" in 2002.
High airfairs due to rising price of crude oil Rising prices of oil and the resulting increase in prices of flight tickets made the demand for air travel in Peru drop by 30 % in the last days. Most of the Peruvian airlines had to adapt their airfairs to the international trend and increase prices by an average of US$ 10. According to APEA, the Peruvian Association of Air Carriers, the share of costs for fuel already amounts up to 60 % of the total costs of operating a flight. IATA, the International Air Transport Association calculated, that for every 1-Dollar-rise in raw oil, the world wide air travel industry has to assume additional costs of 1 billion US Dollars.
Mummy discovered in Huaca Pucllana It is nine years ago that scientists had found the skeletons of nine women when excavating the pyramid of Pucllana in Miraflores, Lima. Archaeologists now discovered the mummified leftovers of a person that probably belonged to the Wari culture. Furthermore three children's corpses of about two years of age were brought to daylight. They are assumed to have served as sacrifices. The headless object was wrapped up in six cotton tunicas and thus is thought to have been an important personality of high rank. Moreover the tomb contained corn, seeds, bags as well as pharmaceutical herbs. Scientists agree that the mummy has been decapitated after it had been burried. It is assumed that the inhabitants of the Ichma culture, descendants of the Limenian culture had opened the tomb in order to destroy all traces of the Wari culture.
Trains to Aguas Calientes operating again Already on Sunday morning the trains between Cusco and Aguas Calientes
continued operation after the landslide that blocked parts of the
tracks early last Thursday.
Visitors of Machu Picchu safe again after landslide A landslide caused by melting on Mount Veronica destroyed around 400 m of the rail tracks as well as a bridge between Cusco and Aguas Calientes and flooded the river Runtumayu in the night from Wednesday to Thursday. As a result Aguas Calientes and other communities around Machu Picchu were cut off from the outside world. Around 3000 tourists visiting Machu Picchu were caught in this area on Thursday before evacuation began. During the day, already 1500 people were brought in safety and also now the cleanup and evacuation efforts are going strong. Tourists can take the train from Aguas Calientes until kilometer 82, then get off the train and continue their journey to Cusco in busses. According to unconfirmed information, also the circulation in the other direction, from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, will be resumed in the same way already tomorrow. So, tourists can take the train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley until kilometer 82 and then go by train to Aguas Calientes. It is estimated that it will take at least 5 more days until the train is up and running as usually again. Here you will find an article (in Spanish) of the daily newspaper El Comercio also providing a map of the affected area.
New Inca site opens its doors The countdown approaches its end: Starting shot für the "recently" discovered Inca town Kusicancha. For three years digging down one meter scientists have been excavating the ruins in order to free another basis for research of the Inca culture. Kusicancha is situated in the heart of the historical center of Cusco and covers an area of 6110 sqm. Consisting of seven seperate fields, it is assumed to either have been large houses or a fortrage hosting about five to twenty families. According to historical records, this archaeological site once belonged to the emperor family Pachacútec. Last coordinations and preparations have been made so that David Ugarte Vega Centeno, director of the Instituto Nacional de Cultura of Cusco can contently be looking forward to open the doors to the public supposedly in mid October.
No spring in the Andes yet Already at the beginning of September nontypical snowfalls and
a cold snap had caused problems in the Southern Peruvian Andes.
This weekend, it seems, winter is coming back with frost again.
World Tourism Day on September 27 - Peru presents Tourism Satellite Account On the occasion of the World Tourism Day on September 27, the Peruvian
Ministry for Foreign Economy and Tourism, MINCETUR, will for the
first time present a Tourism Satellite Account for Peru. This account
facilitates measuring tourism and its significance in a country's
overall economy by comparing it with other sectors. Have a nice World Tourism Day!
On the traces of Maria Reiche- strong winds reveal twelve new figures It has not been for long that the Nazca lines that had been researched by Maria Reiche are part of the world cultural heritage. The region around Nazca reaches over 450 qm². That's not it though! Not very far away in the valley El Inginio very strong winds with 50 km/h speed contributed in discovering further lines. Eduardo Herrán Gómez, director of Investigaciones Aeroarquelógicas recognized them first and declared them to be part of the Paracas culture. In addition to human and zoological figures such as a huge serpentine there was a mummy with a skull. The finest amongst the twelve stone carvings measuring between 20 and 45 m probably is a creature that has the appearance of Siamese twins. These findings prove that the Paracas culture has settled further south than previously assumed. Nevertheless the discovery does not only bear possibilities of further research but according to the historian Josué Lancho Rojas also a challenge how to preserve the cultural heritage. Of course the lines shall be included as a tourist site and therefore again preservation, research and the curiosity of tourists compete. Despite all joy many questions are left open. What meaning did
these new discovered lines? Have these giant lines really been used
as a calendar? How are they releted to the well-known Nazca lines?
And are there more hidden lines yet to be discovered?
PromPerú investing in tourism promotion in Germany PromPerú, Peru's national tourism organisation will invest
US$ 320,000 into promoting Peru as a tourism destination on the
German market. With 43,077 visitors in 2004, Germany is the third
most important European country of origin of Peru travellers. German
guests stay an average of 20 days and spend US$ 892 within Peru.
New cabinet has to show its colors - political agenda for the next 11 months Alrady one week ago, Peruvian head of state Alejandro Toledo introduced
his new cabinet. New prime minister is Pedro Pable Kuczynski, former
treasury secretary and investment banker. New head of foreign ministry
is Oscar Martua. The nomination of his antecessor Fernando Olivera
caused the political crises that led to this political changes.
All in all, the Peruvian government now counts with 6 new faces.
Plane crashed near Pucallpa Tuesday the 23th of August a plane of the Peruvian airline Tans
crashed near the city of Pucallpa. Only 58 out of 98 passengers
survived this tragical catastrophe.
After prime mInister Ferreros resignation Peruvian President Toledo had to declare the government's resignation Thursday, the 11th of August, Peruvian prime minister Ferrero declared his resignation as a consequence of President Toledos appointment of Fernando Olivera as foerign minister. In general, Olivera is seen as few diplomatic and critizied for supporting three departments in which coca- plantation is legal, though the plant can be used as base of cocaine as well. Peruvian Housing and Constuction Minister Bruce also declared his resignation. In case of resignation of the prime minister, Peruvian constitution demands the cabinets resignation. "In a few days", Toledo now spoke out, "a completly new " cabinet will be named. Still in doubt is wether his party PP (Peru Posible) will keep its coalition with Oliveras Partz FIM (Frente Independiente Moralizador - Independent moralists front).
Peruvian Airline Aerocondor now also flies to Cusco and Cajamrca At a press conference the Peruvian Airlines Aerocóndor now
announced that it is going to amplify its program with the two new
destinations Cusco and Cajamrca. With its standard destinations
such as Arequipa, Iquitos, Tacna, Ayacucho and Andahuaylas it will
now be offering 7 destinations, aimed to rise from 8 % of the Peruvian
market up to 15 %. Thus, the airline does not want to disturb market
regulations with extremely cheap prices. Instead of lowering prices
it wants to establish a stable price level and a long-term position
on the market.
Speleologists investigation beneath Machu Picchu Since 2002 the caves beneath Machu Picchu have been investigated by the "Ukhupacha project". Ukhupacha is a Quechua word and belongs to the mystical religion of the Andean people and stands for the nether regions or the "world under the ground", which together with Kaipacha, the earth´s surface and Hanaqpacha, the sphere of the Gods formed the harmony of this old mystical universe. With a name that indicates lots of tradition then in 2002 the investigation of the caves started to explore functions and architecture of the caves and tunnels under Machu Picchu. Thereby since first findings, the speleologists were impressed by the high level of knowledge shown by the Inca and their great mastery of dominating these huge mountains.They also explained that there was a connection between nearly all logistical accesses to the Citadel, including the Inca trail and Qhapaq Ñan.
Cervantes' "Don Quijote" finally available translated into Quechua One if the masterpeices of European history of literature and by many seen as one of the most imprtant books of the seventeenth century now finally got translated into Quechua. On the initiative of Miguel de la Quadra, Spanish journalist and with financial support of Castrovierreyna minery, the adventures of Don Quijote and Sancho Pansa are to be read by over 5 000 000 Quechua -speakers in Peru and over 20 000 000 in all the Andean area. Certain expressions could not be translated though, due to logical aspects, windmill, for example is kept as the spanish term "molinos de viento". The edition of the first part of "Don Quijote", originally edited in 1605, will be introduced to the market in the international trade fair of books in Guadalajara in this years November.
Incatrail to Machu Picchu is already booked out until September 05 The famous trail of the old Inca culture and still impressioning hiking tour to Machu Picchu this year already is sold out until the end of September.Only few remaining places are still available on specified dates. Not long ago, Peruvian government decided to restrict the yearly number of visitors on a certain level, so that by now you have to book your trail at least one month before arriving. Now tour operators confirmed that, thus, they offer an alternative trek: This trail starts from Cusco and leads to Ollantaytamba, passing the Lares Valley. After a four day hike you then finally reach Machu Picchu by train. See the detailed program of Lares Valley Hike
On 24 of June every year`s celebration of Inti Raymi in Cusco starts The streets are already getting crowded in the city of Cusco and
something magical is floating in the air: Friday the 24 of june
every year´s celebration of Inti Raymi starts and a huge amount
of people is going to welcome it one day before on Plaza de Armas
in Cusco.
On June 2nd 2005, the Peruvian government presented
detailed plans to protect Perus most important tourist attraction
Machu Picchu. Already in 1998 discussion started how to protect
this impressing testimonial of the Inca culture from negative consequences
of tourism. Main points of critics were the pollution of the environment,
the partial unability of surrounding cities to deal with crowds
of visitors, the decline of the Inca trail and the bad economical
situation of the population in this area.
Soon AEROLINEAS DEL PERU Spanish flight company Grupo Mansans, which also Aerolíneas
Argentinas belongs to, invited to a press conference the 24th of
May in Buenos Aires.
Jorge Chavez Airport was named the Best of South America According to Passengers Survey undertook by Skytrax Research for World Airport Awards 2005, the International Airport Jorge Chavez has been named the Best South American Airport. In the ranking of the regional best airports the Guarulhos Airport, São Paulo came second and the Ezeiza Airport, Buenos Aires, came third.
Peruvians celebrate Corpus Christi 26 of may, 60 days after easter sunday Corpus Christi is celebrated
in Peru. The evening before the most important day 12 typical dishes are
prepared, for example:
Peru protects rainforest, WWF-award for the Peruvian president For the creation of a huge nature protection area near to the river “Rio Purús” at the south-east of the Amazonas-lowland the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) honoured the Peruvian president Alejandro Toledo with the award “gift of the earth”. The new nature reserve “Alto Purús” was already
in november 2005 related by law, but it was not noticed by the public. |
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