Deemed as one of Peru’s most-visited attractions among local and foreign nature lovers, Paracas National Reserve in Ica region estimates arrivals at 320,000 by the end of the year, National Reserve Head Carlos Heaton.
Visitors flow to the protected area has posted significant growth every year, the official highlighted.
“We have welcomed over 300,000 visitors and we expect to reach 320,000 by the end of 2016, a 38% increase over 2015. These figures are highly important, since they reflect visitors’ preference for these natural areas,” he told Andina news agency.
This situation poses major challenges for the Reserve, as the population will have to be informed and aware of these natural protected areas.
“I firmly believe this data reflects the growth of outdoor and nature tourism, a paramount market segment. This is particularly true in natural areas with high-conservation conditions, which lure foreign tourists,” he pointed out.
Heaton also highlighted the reserve’s tourism development policy, explaining low-impact touristic activities are allowed in the protected zone. These, he said, also serve as a tool for its conservation.
In this sense, given natural conditions such as wind, Paracas Reserve currently works on granting permits and authorizations to develop marine activities on sailing boats.
To satisfy the increasing demand for this kind of activities, the offer also includes walks, camping and biking around specific circuits.
Paracas Natural Reserve also promotes visits to beaches Lagunillas, La Mina and Raspon, as well as southern beaches Mendieta and Carhuaz.
(END) JCR/MAO/DHT/RMB
Published: 12/5/2016