Pope Leo XIV Likely to Visit Peru in November, Says Bishop

Pope Leo XIV is likely to visit Peru in November or early December, according to the head of the country’s Catholic bishops’ conference, highlighting the pontiff’s long-standing personal and pastoral links to the Andean nation.

Bishop Carlos García Camader said the visit was “very probable,” estimating an 80% likelihood, after Peruvian bishops held meetings at the Vatican this week.

Speaking to reporters in Lima, he said discussions with Vatican officials indicated that Peru was a priority destination on the pope’s upcoming papal travel schedule.

If confirmed, the trip would mark one of the first visits by Pope Leo XIV to Latin America since his election last year. The region remains home to nearly 40% of the world’s Catholics and is considered central to the Catholic Church’s global mission.

• Pope Leo XIV likely to visit Peru in November, bishops say
• Chiclayo expected stop as pope plans Latin America trip
• Peru prepares for possible Pope Leo XIV visit later this year

The visit would carry particular significance for Peru. Before becoming pope, Leo served for years as a missionary bishop and later as bishop in the country, including in the northern coastal city of Chiclayo. He also holds Peruvian citizenship, a rare distinction for a pontiff, reflecting decades of service in local parishes and diocesan leadership.

García said that while the timing of the trip was still being finalised, a stop in Chiclayo was almost certain, given the pope’s close ties to the diocese and its clergy. “For Chiclayo, the probability is practically 100%,” he said.

Peru’s government and Church authorities have begun preliminary preparations, anticipating large public gatherings and pastoral events if the visit goes ahead. Security planning and logistics would involve close coordination between the Vatican, local dioceses and national authorities.

Also Read: US & Iran Set Oman Nuclear Talks as Disputes Persist on Scope

A papal visit is expected to draw tens of thousands of faithful from across Peru, offering a moment of national focus on social issues, poverty and the Church’s role in public life. The Vatican has not yet issued an official confirmation or detailed itinerary.