Community-Based Sustainability Perceptions in Rural Destinations: The “Pueblos con Encanto” Program in Cruz Pampa–Yapatera, Peru

The cultural valorization-based territorial recognition program has established itself as an effective strategy for fostering sustainability in rural tourism destinations. However, there is limited evidence of their influence from the community’s perspective. This study analyzes the relationship between the conditions of territorial recognition promoted by the “Pueblos con Encanto” (Charming Villages) program and the sustainability of the Cruz Pampa–Yapatera tourist destination. A mixed-methods approach was employed, utilizing a non-experimental, cross-sectional, and correlational design. For the quantitative part, a structured questionnaire was administered to a sample of 336 residents from the area, using simple random sampling. Data analysis included statistics and Pearson’s correlation. For the qualitative part, 13 interviews were conducted with representative members. These people have influence over the governance of the area. The results of the triangulation showed that, according to the residents’ perception, Cruz Pampa–Yapatera meets the requirements for the “Pueblos con Encanto” program. It is evidenced in its historical heritage and Afro-Peruvian cultural heritage, such as its cumananas, local cuisine, and religious festivities. However, it has deficiencies in infrastructure and tourist facilities that require improvements to strengthen the tourist experience and preserve its cultural identity. Furthermore, the “Pueblos con Encanto” recognition program is positively and significantly related to the current sustainability of the destination. The research demonstrates, through empirical assessment, a positive perception among the local population of sustainability in their community based on the “Pueblos con Encanto” program criteria. A process that should be incorporated into the evaluation framework for the granting of such recognition.