Peru has launched a new national tourism initiative that blends faith, heritage, and regional identity. Titled “The Paths of Pope Leo XIV”, this project honors the life and mission of the first Pope naturalized as Peruvian: Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV. On July 21, 2025, four regions across the country will simultaneously inaugurate the route, marking the beginning of a new kind of spiritual and cultural journey.
A Tribute That Transcends Faith
Announced by Peru’s Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur), the new circuit is designed to highlight key locations connected to the pastoral and personal history of Pope Leo XIV. It not only includes churches and religious centers, but also archaeological sites, natural landscapes, and coastal towns that formed the backdrop to the Pope’s journey through Peru.
The initiative aims to go beyond religious pilgrimage. It offers visitors a chance to engage with the cultural and spiritual legacy of the Pope while discovering lesser-known destinations across the northern coast and Andean highlands.
Simultaneous Launch in Four Regions
The official opening will take place on July 21 at 5:00 p.m., simultaneously in four strategic locations:
- Santa María Cathedral in Chiclayo
- Main Square of Chulucanas, Piura
- Casa de la Identidad Regional in Trujillo
- Catedral Matriz Parish in Callao
This joint event symbolizes the collaboration between the national government, regional authorities, local municipalities, the Catholic Church, and private stakeholders. It’s a coordinated effort to promote sustainable, inclusive tourism while honoring the spiritual significance of these places.
More Than a Pilgrimage: A Development Strategy
According to Tourism Minister Desilú León, the project is part of a broader national strategy to diversify Peru’s tourism offerings and highlight its intangible cultural heritage. The first phase of the route is backed by an investment of over 540 million soles in public funds.
Beyond creating new touristic circuits, the plan also includes major investments in infrastructure: street cleaning, urban furniture renovations, lighting, signage, and public safety upgrades. In many areas, including Chiclayo and La Libertad, additional improvements in electrification and transportation are also underway.
Chiclayo: The Heart of the Route
At the center of this new experience lies Chiclayo, the capital of the Lambayeque region. The city was deeply connected to Pope Leo XIV during his time as bishop. Lambayeque itself features 22 tourist sites grouped into four curated circuits, including:
- The Cruz de Motupe, a major religious pilgrimage site
- Bosque de Pómac, a protected dry forest with archaeological remains
- The popular beach resort of Pimentel
- The Huaca Rajada–Sipán archaeological complex, already undergoing upgrades
The region has already received more than S/7.6 million in tourism infrastructure improvements, with a second phase of S/4 million now approved.
Chulucanas and Piura: Tracing Family Roots
The route also emphasizes Chulucanas, a town in Piura where Pope Leo XIV has familial and emotional ties. Visitors can explore cultural sites and spiritual landmarks that reflect his early connections to the Peruvian people.
The regional route will incorporate local crafts, such as Chulucanas ceramics, and develop ecotourism components in nearby valleys and rural parishes.
Trujillo and Callao: History and Beginnings
In Trujillo, the route highlights historic and cultural landmarks linked to Pope Leo XIV’s religious path. Meanwhile, Callao represents the beginning of his journey with the Peruvian Catholic Church. The port city is where he first became involved in local ministry, setting the stage for his decades-long pastoral work.
A Collaborative Framework
More than 20 municipalities and five ecclesiastical jurisdictions are actively involved in the route’s development. Local tourism guilds and entrepreneurs are also participating to ensure economic sustainability and community ownership.
Efforts are underway to prepare local infrastructure, train service providers, and implement security protocols that make the route safe and accessible for all visitors.
National and Global Promotion
The route’s promotional plan is led by PromPerú, which will roll out a multi-channel campaign both in Peru and internationally. The strategy includes:
- Digital activations
- Immersive experiences
- Uniform signage across all route stops
- Storytelling-based narratives to emotionally connect visitors with each site
This unified approach ensures that visitors receive a coherent, meaningful experience regardless of which segment of the route they explore.
Stay Connected While Exploring Peru
As this route will take visitors across various towns and rural areas, staying connected with PeruSIM is essential. Whether you’re navigating between Chiclayo and Chulucanas or sharing your experiences online, having mobile internet access enhances the journey. For this reason, many travelers choose to purchase a prepaid eSIM peru to avoid high roaming fees and ensure uninterrupted service throughout the trip.
With a eSIM card for peru, you can activate mobile data instantly upon arrival—no physical SIM card needed. It’s the most practical option for tourists visiting multiple regions in one trip.
Even in remote areas, a reliable eSIM peru allows travelers to use GPS, access translation apps, book accommodations, and stay in touch with loved ones. It’s a simple, cost-effective solution that supports a smooth and connected travel experience.
Religious Tourism in Peru: A Rising Trend
Peru has long been home to religious festivals and spiritual sites, but this is the first time the country officially launches a route dedicated to a Pope. According to Minister León, this initiative will not only generate jobs and revitalize local economies, but also strengthen regional identity and respect for religious traditions.
By blending faith with culture, nature, and history, “The Paths of Pope Leo XIV” open new doors for spiritual tourism in South America.
Peru as a Pioneer
With this initiative, Peru becomes the first country in South America to design an official tourism route centered around a Pope. The route doesn’t just celebrate the religious figure—it weaves his legacy into a journey of discovery that highlights Peru’s diverse spiritual, cultural, and natural landscapes.
Whether you’re visiting for reflection, culture, or community connection, the Paths of Pope Leo XIV promise to guide travelers through the soul of a nation.