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The 84th Skål International World Congress in the heart of the Andes
The 84th Skål International Annual World Congress was held from 25 to 30 September 2025 in the heart of the Andes, hosted for the first time in history by Skål International Cusco, Peru, under the leadership of its President María del Pilar Salas Moreno.
This marked the first-ever Skål World Congress in Peru and the return of the event to South America after 30 years.
With over 300 participants from more than 30 countries, the congress was a vibrant melting pot of cultures, camaraderie, and global tourism business opportunities.
Cusco, located in southeastern Peru, was once the capital of the Inca Empire and today stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its unique blend of Incan and Spanish colonial architecture, the city serves as a cultural and historical gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Get-Together - 25 September 2025
The Congress officially began on 25 September 2025 with the Get-Together at the Hilton Garden Inn’s Andean Charm courtyard, where participants had the opportunity to greet one another and reconnect. The event was supported by PromPerú, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru, and the Cusco Chamber of Tourism (CARTUC), key institutional allies committed to promoting sustainable tourism and strengthening international cooperation.
Opening Ceremony - 26 September 2025
On 26 September, presented by an outstanding Master of Ceremony, Skål International Cusco Vice President Elizabeth Shumaker, the Opening Ceremony took place on the Koricancha Esplanade, marking a premiere as the event was held outdoors in this protected cultural and historical site. The Koricancha Esplanade was the most sacred open-air ceremonial space of the Inca Empire and hosted grand festivals and rituals dedicated to the sun god Inti. The flag parade was a vibrant display of colors, with tourism students dressed in traditional attire carrying the flags of the countries represented at the congress.
Distinguished personalities and senior government officials from Cusco and Peruvian ministries delivered speeches at the event, alongside an engaging presentation by the CEO of LATAM Airlines, highlighting the significance of the gathering and its contribution to tourism, culture, and international collaboration.
The winners of the 2025 Sustainable Tourism Awards were announced in a landmark edition that featured 106 entries from 30 countries, competing across eight categories that showcase the global commitment to responsible, ethical, and innovative tourism. Full information about the winners of the Skål International 2025 Sustainable Tourism Awards:
The Platinum Membership Award was presented to Skål International Ciudad Condal Barcelona (Spain) for its exceptional membership growth, while Skål International Mérida (Mexico) was awarded the prestigious title of Skål International Club of the Year. This year’s congress highlighted the unity and collaboration between Clubs across regions, fostering meaningful business connections and cultural exchange.
The program concluded with a captivating artistic performance featuring an adaptation of the Inti Raymi, the traditional Inca ceremony.
Annual General Assembly - 27 September 2025
During the Annual General Assembly held on 27 September 2025 at the Cusco Convention Centre, delegates heard reports from the Executive Board on their portfolios and were presented with the Shaping Tomorrow Strategy Project (more info in the Message from the President).
The results of the elections for the positions of Vice President/President-Elect, Directors, Auditors, and the distinction of Membre d’Honneur, were announced. Nelson Mandela Bay (South Africa) was reconfirmed as the site of the 2026 World Congress, while Cadiz (Spain) was elected as the host city for the 2027 World Congress.
Panel Discussion - 28 September 2025
The Panel Discussion that took place on 28 September 2025 at the Cusco Convention Centre, moderated by Victoria Wales (HOT Events – Skål International Christchurch, New Zealand) brought together inspiring speakers from around the world to discuss how innovation, sustainability, and technology are shaping the future of Skål International and the travel industry.
Alfred Merse (Harmony Harvest Wellness Sanctuary – Skål International Hobart, Australia) opened the panel with “How will Sustainability Drive Skål’s Membership Growth in the Future?” highlighting the importance of responsible tourism and how sustainable practices can attract new generations of professionals.
Moritz Freise (Travelnet – Skål International Berlin, Germany) followed with “Using a Full Customer Journey Marketing Plan to Attract and Engage Young Professionals in Skål,” offering valuable insights into communication strategies and engagement models tailored to the next generation.
Olukemi Soetan (Skyways Travels and Tours Limited – Skål International Lagos, Nigeria) shared her perspective on “Why Trade Events are one of Skål’s Greatest Member Benefits,” emphasizing the power of networking and business connections that Skål facilitates globally.
Kevin Rautenbach (Miand Asia Co – Skål International Krabi, Thailand) explored “Apps and Evolution: How Digital Tools and AI are Reshaping Tourism – How do we best embrace them?” discussing how emerging technologies are redefining the travel experience and how Skål Internastional can adapt to stay ahead.
To conclude, Gonzalo Novelo Jr. (Octadiseños – Skål International Mérida, Mexico) presented “How Skål International has impacted me as a young professional”, a heartfelt testimony on the opportunities and personal growth that being part of Skål International provides to young leaders in the tourism industry.
As every year, each participating country was offered a table to promote their products at the B2B session.
Sacred Valley of the Incas - 29 September 2025
On 29 September, participants enjoyed a full-day excursion through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting the archaeological site of Moray, known for its impressive circular terraces that demonstrate ancient Incan agricultural innovation, and the stunning Maras Salt Mines, a natural wonder still in use today. The day concluded with a delightful Peruvian buffet lunch at the Sonesta Hotel in Yucay, generously sponsored by Skål International Kvarner (Croatia), whose members also delivered an engaging presentation showcasing their destination and its tourism offerings.
Gala Dinner - 29 September 2025
The final night of the Congress, the President’s Gala Dinner, was held at the Santo Domingo Convent at Koricancha, a colonial-era church and convent famous for its impressive Inca stonework and today a key historical and cultural landmark in Cusco. President Denise Scrafton presented awards to honor members for their exceptional contributions or accomplishments, as follows:
Order of Skål Merit:
Dawn Smith, Skål International Cape Town (South Africa).
Sonny Flynn, Skål International Tampa Bay (U.S.A.).
Skålleague of the Year:
Michael Collins, Skål International Perth (Australia).
Lifetime Achievement:
Antonio Garcia del Valle, Skål International Málaga-Costa del Sol (Spain).
Niel Els, Skål International Garden Route (South Africa, Posthumously).
Skål International Cusco Local Organising Committee, led by President Maria del Pilar Salas, was applauded for their dedication, meticulous organisation, and exceptional efforts in making the event a successful and memorable occasion. The event not only strengthened Skål International’s presence in Latin America but also positioned Cusco, Peru, as a world-class destination for MICE and sustainable tourism. Special recognition was also given to Carlos Zevallos and Mery Calderón, members of the Local Organising Committee, for their valuable contributions and commitment to the success of the Congress.
As per tradition, the chain ceremony took place, with chains presented to the newly elected Vice President and Directors, and the symbolic handover from the outgoing President to the incoming President.
The dinner concluded with the captivating artistic performance “Andean Gods”, which showcased the rich traditions, vibrant costumes, and dynamic rhythms of the Andean culture.
Peru, a land of extraordinary cultural wealth and breathtaking natural beauty, offered participants a selection of unforgettable pre-and post congress tours. Delegates had the opportunity to explore the iconic Machu Picchu, the jewel of Peru and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World — a timeless sanctuary nestled in the Andes that continues to inspire travelers from every corner of the globe.
In addition to discovering this UNESCO World Heritage Site, participants also enjoyed journeys through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with its stunning landscapes and living traditions, and visited other remarkable Peruvian destinations such as Arequipa, Lima, Iquitos, and the Amazon rainforest.
Throughout their adventures, they were enchanted by Peru’s vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and world-renowned gastronomy, indulging in exquisite dishes that celebrate the fusion of ancient heritage and modern creativity — a true reflection of the spirit of Peru.
The 84th Skål International World Congress in Cusco, Peru, was a tremendous success, celebrating friendship, professional growth, and cultural exchange.
We encourage as many members as possible to join us in Nelson Mandela Bay in 2026 to experience the spirit of Skål International and the unity that connects us all. The legacy of this Congress will continue inspiring future events that celebrate the spirit of friendship, professionalism, and sustainability in global tourism.
