Your Peruvian Summer
Top 5
Summer Moments in Peru
Pisco sipped by the Pacific Ocean, colourful parades in Cusco, rainbows over Machu Picchu… There are a million memories to be made in Peru this summer. Here are some of our highlights.
The Cultural Festivals
At the beginning of the year, Peru plays host to a variety of colourful celebrations. The Reyes Magos festival in Ollantaytambo celebrates the arrival of the Three Kings. The rural town comes alive with parades, costumes and live music. Puno hosts the Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria, offering a spectacle to rival Rio’s Carnival. Meanwhile expect fireworks and live music in San Blas, Cusco. Make your base at Belmond Hotel Monasterio or Belmond Palacio Nazarenas.
The Celebrated Cuisine
The third week of January is Chilcano week in Lima, celebrating the classic Pisco-based cocktail. The first Saturday of February is officially Pisco Sour day. For more foodie festivals, Pachamanca Day is held on the first Sunday of February. Celebrating the most important dish of the Peruvian highlands , pachamanca is made up of meat, vegetables and potatoes cooked beneath the earth with the aid of hot stone. It has been around since the Inca Empire, and can be enjoyed today at Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado and Belmond Las Casitas.
The Beaches
December to March marks one of the best seasons to explore the beautiful beaches south of Lima. They’re perfectly positioned for surfing, sailing and a host of other watersports. While the wet season is underway in the Highlands, the northern region is still hot and dry with wonderfully warm waters. Make your base at Belmond Miraflores Park and conquer the waves.
The Rainbows at Machu Picchu
The rainy season means that the wonders of Machu Picchu are less crowded. Arrive in unhurried style, spend more time at the points of interest, and snap some incredible unspoilt and atmospheric photos. This is also a prime time of the year to see rainbows over the ancient citadel—a sight not to be missed. Staying at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge keeps you close to the action, while arriving aboard the Belmond Hiram Bingham train ensures a stylish beginning.
The Birds and Flowers
There’s an abundance of birdlife and flora to be found in the Peruvian summer. Spot the Inca Wren in the more peaceful spots near Machu Picchu, while three species of flamingo can be spotted in the lakes near Arequipa. Orchids are also sensational at this time of year. Journeying aboard Belmond Andean Explorer lets you experience the remarkable diversity of the Peruvian landscape.