Regarding the national month —202 years of the independence of Peru will be commemorated on July 28—, PROMPERÚ wanted to recommend five destinations in the country, since no traveler should miss out; In addition, they are perfect for discovering the different facets of one of the most diverse territories in South America.
From Machupicchu, which commemorates its historic designation as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, to Lima, the gastronomic capital of the region that houses the best restaurant in the world this 2023 and will be the center of the celebrations of the National Holidays, passing through Ica , Puno and Arequipa. These five destinations in Peru are perfect to visit this summer.
Machupicchu, the sacred Inca citadel
On July 24, 1911, the American explorer Hiram Bingham rediscovered, with the help of local families, the ruins of the Inca citadel. At the top of the mountain, large and impressive blocks of stone joined together without any amalgamation make up one of the most important religious, political and cultural centers of the Inca empire: Machupicchu. Located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, its intense green terraces and the imposing mountain range that surround it make up a beautiful landscape that exceeds any expectation. In this historic sanctuary, which commemorates 16 years as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, you can discover the fabulous Inca trail, climb Huayna Picchu or find around 30 species of orchids.
Arequipa, the enchanting volcanic land
History, adventure, fabulous landscapes, wildlife, gastronomy and much more are hidden in Arequipa, a city guarded by the imposing Misti volcano and perfect for getting out of the routine and breathing a bit of nature. First, you will have to see it from the Yanahuara, Sachaca or Carmen Alto viewpoints and take its pulse in its historic center, with more than 500 colonial mansions of European-Andean style and adorned by vaults and white arches made of ashlar. To close with a bit of adventure in the Colca Valley, where you can go hiking, rafting or mountain biking. Not without first appreciating the majestic Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world and home of the imposing Andean condor. Arequipa is also known for its exquisite gastronomy, in which dishes such as stuffed rocoto or fried guinea pig,
Puno, home of the impressive Lake Titicaca
Puno is a destination full of mysticism and ancient history; a territory in which everything is related to the history of ancient Peru and where ancestral customs are still practiced that end up being one of its greatest attractions. You should not miss a visit to Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake on the planet, Natural Heritage of Peru and especially known for its floating islands created from reeds, a material with which the rafts in which they move are also built. their habitants. In Puno, you must also visit the Cutimbo Archaeological Complex, the most important funeral center in southern Peru, and the Sillustani Archaeological Complex, an ancient cemetery linked to funeral rituals of the Inca, Colla and Tiahuanaco cultures.
Ica, from Paracas to Huacachina
In Ica, the dunes of its enormous deserts protect the cultural and historical legacy of ancient civilizations; while its beautiful beaches of fine sand and refreshing waters are home to sea lions and penguins. Ica is also a place where time flies because there is always something to do. From visiting the Paracas National Reserve and embarking to the magical Ballestas Islands in search of sea lions to flying over the impressive Nasca lines, one of the greatest mysteries in human history; Nearly 800 designs of up to 270 meters in length, among which animal figures stand out: a hummingbird, a condor, a spider or a monkey. Undoubtedly one of the most fun visits to Ica is to go to the Huacachina lagoon, an authentic oasis in the middle of the desert whose most precious activity is sandboarding; a vertiginous descent through the dunes, standing or lying on a board.
Lima, where tradition is trend
In addition to hosting the best restaurant in the world this 2023, the Central gastronomic temple, Lima will be the epicenter of the celebrations of the National Holidays. 202 years ago, on July 28, 1821, the declaration of independence of Peru took place in the Plaza Mayor of Lima. For this reason, every year a protocol parade of the country's Military Forces takes place, as well as a mass offered by the archbishop in the Cathedral of Lima. In addition to these festive dates —July 28 and 29—, perfect to commemorate national sovereignty, the Peruvian capital offers unique attractions for any traveler. From strolling through the historic center in search of vestiges of the past to riding a bicycle through the streets of Miraflores or daring to fly over the Costa Verde in a paraglider; without forgetting all its gastronomic splendor and its wide cultural offer.