Tourism in Peru: The Missing Strategy for Economic and Social Development

In this thesis, the possibilities of tourism as a strategy for economic and social development in Peru are presented. Through the examination of previous governments, beginning with the Belaunde administration in 1963, the obstacles that Peru has faced in route to development are identified. Identification of the predominant issues at hand, unemployment, poverty and inequality, allows for further analysis of the policies implemented to stabilize the economy as well as provide immediate solutions for the above mentioned points of concern. It becomes clear that while the country is rich in resources, beyond natural resources such as crude oil and minerals, the promotion and enhancement of the tourism industry has rarely been used as a means of earning revenue. While there are a number of options to consider with regard to developmental strategies, the tourism industry presents definite opportunities for growth. These benefits are closely examined in this thesis, demonstrating how much Peru has to offer, not only to tourists who seek to broaden their cultural knowledge but most importantly to the Peruvian people, by way of a robust tourism sector.