On November 14, 2024, Maras, a charming town in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, was named “Best Tourism Village in the World” by UN Tourism during a ceremony held in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia. This prestigious award highlights its efforts in promoting stargazing tourism and its strong commitment to sustainability.
Maras shares this honor with other Peruvian villages like Huancaya, Leymebamba, Quinua, and Sibayo, all celebrated for their cultural and natural treasures.
Maras was chosen for its unique attractions, including its ancient salt mines, where salt has been harvested by hand since pre-Inca times, the archaeological site of Moray, and historic temples like San Francisco de Asís and Tiobamba. The village is also known for its clear, star-filled skies, making it a perfect spot for astronomy lovers. Its stunning Andean landscapes and colonial gates add to its charm.
During the ceremony, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Madeleine Burns, and Maras’ mayor, Perci Huamán, accepted the award on behalf of the village. Mayor Huamán called it an international recognition of Peru’s rich culture and beautiful landscapes.
“This is a source of pride for all Peruvians and Maras locals, inspiring us to keep promoting tourism that is inclusive and sustainable,” he said.
This award gives Maras global visibility and allows it to use the “Best Tourism Villages” logo in its communication materials. With this recognition, Peru strengthens its position as a leader in community tourism, now holding 13 awards, second only to China, which has 14.
Source: Cusco en Portada
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