Peru Earthquake Damage

Earthquake Damage circumscribed only the regions of Ica ( Chincha, Paracas, part of Ica )

Cusco, Puno, Arequipa, Nazca , North and Jungle of Peru located more than 800 km from the affected area, maintain normal tourist operations

The Peruvian nation was in deep shock following the earthquake that occurred on Wednesday in Peru, centred in the region of Ica (300 km south of Lima), but now they are focusing on sending aid to those most affected by this natural disaster.

According to reports issued by The Tourism Office 'Iperú' of PromPerú, the hotel infrastructure located in the areas of Pisco, Cañete and Paracas has suffered considerable damage that has caused the closure of many establishments.

However, the tourists lodged in the area haven't been injured and were evacuated promptly to Lima. The Libertador Paracas hotel, which has a pier and which was taking passengers to the local Natural Reserve was rerouted to Lima. Meanwhile, other groups are travelling to the south of Peru where tourist operations are continuing as normal.

Tourist activities in Machupicchu, Puno, Arequipa, Trujillo, the northern Peruvian jungle, and destinations located 800 km away from the affected zone, are all operating as normal.

According to reports provided by the media and Department of Civil Defence, the damage is localised in the rural region of Ica, which is located close to the epicentre of the earthquake which occurred 60 km from the coast of Pisco.

Recently, the president of Perú, Alan García Pérez and cabinet ministers alongside government authorities and aid teams, have established operations in the region of Ica in order to speed up the aid and recovery effort.

Mercedes Araoz, Minister for External Commerce and Tourism, is currently inspecting the damaged areas as well as the tourist infrastructure, and ensuring aid and support is provided to tourists in the area.

The National Institute of Culture (INC) in Perú, has reported that the famous Nasca Lines, one of the biggest tourist attractions in the region of Ica, have been affected by the earthquake. However, flights over the Nazca lines are operating regularly.

The Tourism office – Iperú of PromPerú, would like to advise you of a 24 hour hotline 574-8000 which provides support to tourists that may have found themselves involved in the natural disaster.

Lima, 16th of August 2007