Pope Leo XIV visits Peruvian Andes to address poverty and depopulation

Pope Leo XIV visited the village of Santa Cruz de Succhabamba in the Cajamarca region of Peru on November 14, 2026. During the visit, the Pope addressed the critical issues of poverty, migration, and low birth rates affecting the Andean community. This visit is part of a 12-day tour that includes travel to Uruguay and Argentina.

The mass took place at an altitude of 2,000 meters. While the Vatican reported that 20,000 people attended the event, Cronica Viva reported that 100,000 faithful were present. The esplanade used for the service was identified by Cronica Viva as the Pampa de Aviación León XIV. The population of Santa Cruz de Succhabamba is estimated to be between 5,000 and 6,000 inhabitants.

Regional economic and social challenges

The Cajamarca region faces significant economic hardship, with a poverty rate of over 41%. This figure represents the highest poverty rate in Peru. The economic situation has contributed to significant demographic shifts in the region. Approximately 729,000 people born in the Cajamarca region have migrated to other parts of Peru to seek better opportunities.

Pope Leo XIV expressed concern for those forced to leave their homeland to seek a better future in coastal cities. The migration patterns highlight the difficulty of maintaining stable populations in rural Andean areas. The Pope's presence in the region highlights the social challenges faced by these remote communities.

Papal background and health

Pope Leo XIV has a long history with the country, having lived in Peru from 1985 to 2023. He previously served as the Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023. This visit to Peru is his first tour of Latin America since his election in May 2025.

The Pope traveled to the region following a medical procedure. Globo reported that the Pope underwent lung cancer surgery one month before his arrival in Peru. Despite this recent surgery, the Pope proceeded with the scheduled tour of the continent.

Community response to the visit

The visit generated significant emotion among the local residents. Priest Kevin Noriega noted that the visit brought great emotion and hope to the community. Resident Irma Villalobos, 61, stated that the Pope represents something deep and significant and that living as brothers is needed in Peruvian society.

Glossary

• Cajamarca — Cajamarca is an administrative center of the Tawantinsuyu located in the current territories of Peru. It is situated along the main Inca road known as the Qhapaq Ñan.
• Andean — The Andean region contains vegetation consisting of tropical alpine herbs and dwarf shrubs. It is characterized by harsh terrain with conditions such as salinity, low temperatures, and scarcity of nutrients.
• Vatican — The Vatican is an entity associated with the Church. It has interests in the advancement of religious teaching and the formation of Catholic-based political parties.