Walking Peru The Tourism Industry Tourism is the fastest growth industry in Peru, preceded only by telecommunications. Ministry of Industry estimates put foreign currency earnings from tourism at US$1.3 billion by 2000. At present, foreign visitors spend US$1,209 each in Peru, or higher than the corresponding average amounts spent in Chile, Ecuador and Colombia. Experience has shown tourism is highly sensitive to a country's social and political stability. Recent changes in this respect in Peru have led international tourism industry majors to look for local investment opportunities. New entrants are now providing services in: Lodging: Hilton, Oro Verde, Crillon and Sheraton Hotel operators. Food: International franchises operating in Peru include Tony Roma, McDonalds, Burger King, Pizza Hut, KFC. Car rental: Avis, Budget and Hertz, among others.

Additionally, the legal framework protects and promotes business by granting equal treatment and opportunities to foreign and local investors.

Tourism industry growth in recent years has focused on archeological, historical and adventure tourism. Recreational tourism in recognized tourist sites such as Machu Picchu, the Nazca Lines, the Paracas Reserve, Huaylas Mountain Corridor, the Sipan Valley or the Manu Reserve remains an untapped business opportunity. This market segment is mainly served by independent individual suppliers based in niche locations where they propose specific activities such as kayaking, trekking, mountain climbing or windsurfing. None of them operate as organized companies.