Year: 2025

If you’re traveling through southern Peru, one of the most unforgettable routes is the journey from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon. Whether you’re planning to relax at Colca Lodge, go trekking from Cabanaconde, or continue your adventure to Puno and Lake Titicaca, it’s important to know the best travel options to make the most of your trip.

At Perou Voyage, we specialize in comfortable and reliable transport and tours throughout the Colca Valley. Our goal is to help travelers enjoy this amazing region without worrying about complicated logistics or schedules.

The drive from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon is a journey in itself — you’ll pass volcanoes, herds of alpacas, and the breathtaking Patapampa Pass, sitting at nearly 5,000 meters above sea level. From there, the road winds down into the lush Colca Valley, where traditional villages, terraces, and hot springs await.

Here are the main ways to travel from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon, depending on your travel style and plans:

🚐 Option 1: Guided Tour from Arequipa to Colca Canyon

The most popular and hassle-free option is to join a guided tour.
At Perou Voyage, we offer 1-day and 2-day tours that include hotel pickup in Arequipa, comfortable transport, and stops at beautiful viewpoints like Cruz del Cóndor, where you can watch the majestic Andean condors gliding through the canyon.
You’ll also visit traditional Andean villages, enjoy local cuisine, and have the chance to relax in the natural hot springs.
If you choose the two-day tour, you’ll spend the night in Chivay or Yanque and have more time to explore at an easy pace.

🏞️ Option 2: Private Transfer from Arequipa to Colca Lodge

For travelers who prefer privacy and comfort, Perou Voyage offers private transfers directly from Arequipa to Colca Lodge.
This eco-lodge is one of the most beautiful places in the valley — surrounded by mountains, rivers, and natural hot springs.
With a private transfer, you can travel on your own schedule, stop for photos, and go straight to your accommodation without unnecessary detours. It’s perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking for a stress-free start to their stay.

🚌 Option 3: Public Bus or Shuttle Service to Chivay or Cabanaconde

If you’re on a budget or traveling independently, you can take a public bus from Arequipa’s main terminal to Chivay or Cabanaconde.
It’s the cheapest option, though slower and less comfortable, with limited schedules and no sightseeing stops. Expect around 4 hours to Chivay and 6 hours to Cabanaconde.
A more comfortable and convenient alternative is our Colca Canyon shuttle bus from Arequipa — a shared tourist service that connects Arequipa, Chivay, and Cabanaconde with hotel pickup and drop-off. This option combines affordability with comfort, letting you enjoy the views and travel stress-free.

🛣️ Option 4: From Colca Canyon to Puno

After visiting Colca Canyon, you don’t have to return to Arequipa!
Perou Voyage offers a direct tourist transfer from Chivay to Puno, one of the most scenic drives in southern Peru.
The route crosses the high Andean plains, where you can see vicuñas, alpacas, and lagoons filled with flamingos.
The trip takes about six hours and connects two of Peru’s most iconic destinations — Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca — in total comfort.

✨ Our Recommendation:

The best itinerary for most travelers is:
Arequipa → Colca Canyon (2 days) → Puno.
This route lets you enjoy the condors, spend a night in the canyon, and continue to Lake Titicaca at an easy pace — without backtracking.
We can organize all the transport and tours for you, so you can relax and focus on enjoying the incredible views and culture of southern Peru.

At Perou Voyage, we’re a local company based in Arequipa, and we take pride in offering professional service with a personal touch.
Our experienced drivers and friendly guides make sure your journey through the Andes is safe, comfortable, and full of unforgettable moments.
If you’re planning your trip to Colca Canyon, get in touch with us — we’ll be happy to help you choose the best route and organize your transport between Arequipa, Colca Lodge, Cabanaconde, and Puno.

Rocoto Relleno is an Arequipa dish made with rocoto peppers, ground beef inside, and topped with fresh cheese. When baked at the right temperature, it melts in your mouth. How delicious!

The history of the Rocoto Relleno, take us back to the cuisine of the beautiful White City (Arequipa), a dish with the perfect amount of spiciness to captivate anyone who tries it. There’s even a folk tale behind this dish, told by Peruvian Carlos Herrera, who says that this dish was first cooked by the priest Manuel Masias, who, at the beginning of the 19th century, offered it to the devil as an agreement to win back some souls. This dish’s characteristic red and spicy flavor would come from this.

The special ingredient in this delicacy is rocoto peppers, an excellent stomach protector that improves oxygenation of the body and is a powerful antioxidant.

Rocoto Relleno, a Traditional Dish of Arequipa Cuisine

Rocoto relleno is a traditional and emblematic dish of Arequipa, a city located in southern Peru. Rocoto Relleno consists of a rocoto pepper, a spicy variety of pepper (rocoto), stuffed with a mixture of meats, vegetables, and spices, then baked until tender and golden.

Once the filling is prepared, the rocotos are stuffed with this mixture and baked until fully cooked and lightly browned. Rocoto relleno is usually served with a side of golden potatoes and a spicy sauce called ocopa.

Rocoto relleno is a dish that reflects Arequipa’s rich culinary tradition and is highly appreciated by both locals and visitors who want to experience the region’s authentic cuisine.

Rocoto is stuffed with ground meat (which can be beef, pork, or a combination of both), olives, peas, and fresh cheese, all seasoned with cumin and chopped parsley. It is one of the most notable dishes of Peruvian cuisine.

In 2016, the first Stuffed Rocoto Festival was held in the White City of Arequipa, where the world’s largest stuffed rocoto dish was prepared, breaking a Guinness World Record.

Picanterías: Where to Eat the Best Rocoto Relleno in Arequipa

Where to find the best rocoto relleno in Arequipa:

Traditional Picanterías: Picanterías are traditional Arequipa restaurants that specialize in typical dishes from the region. Look for well-known, long-established picanterías in the city, as they often have a reputation for serving authentic, quality food.

Local Recommendations: Ask Arequipa residents for recommendations on the most popular and beloved places to try rocoto relleno. Locals know the best places and can guide you to restaurants that offer an authentic culinary experience.

Online Research: Use online platforms, such as TripAdvisor, Google Maps, and travel blogs, to find reviews and opinions on Arequipa restaurants that serve the best rocoto. Pay attention to the ratings and comments from other visitors to get an idea of ​​the quality and authenticity of the dishes offered.

In Arequipa, there are several traditional picanterias renowned for their authentic Arequipa cuisine. Below, I’ll mention some of the best-known picanterias in the city:

La Nueva Palomino

La Nueva Palomino is one of Arequipa’s most iconic picanterias, with a long history and tradition in preparing Arequipa dishes. Its rocoto is highly praised, as are other dishes such as ocopa, chupe de camarones, and adobo.

Sol de Mayo

This is a traditional picanteria that has received national and international recognition and awards. It specializes in typical Arequipa dishes, including rocoto relleno, adobo, chupe de camarones, and cuy chactado.

La Capitana

Located in the Yanahuara district, La Capitana is known for its authentic Arequipa cuisine and beautiful panoramic views of the city. Here you can enjoy rocoto, as well as other traditional dishes, such as rocoto with cheese, chupe de camarones, and adobo.

LA BENITA’S PICANTERIA by Benita Quicaño Guillén
LA CAPITANA’S PICANTERIA by José Alfonso Díaz Huerta
CASA ALTA’S PICANTERIA by Antonieta Jiménez Barrios
LA CAU CAU’S PICANTERIA 2 by Saida Villanueva Salas
LA CAU CAU’S PICANTERIA: PICANTERIA WITH TRADITION by Roberto Montoya Villanueva
LA CAU CAU’S PICANTERIA COUNTRY RECREATION by Velmy Villanueva Salas
EL CHARACATITO’S PICANTERIA by Ana María Hilari Casas de Rondón
LA CHASKA’S PICANTERIA by Daila Aguilar Paz
EL COGOLLO AREQUIPEÑO’S PICANTERIA by María Teresa Zamudio Cuba de Pinto
DOÑA ANTUQUITA’S PICANTERIA by Gloria Rodríguez Farfán
DOÑA CLARITA’S PICANTERIA by Elizabeth Flores Torres
DOÑA LUCILA’S PICANTERIA by Leonor Ticona Bustamante
DOÑA MATILDE’S PICANTERIA by Matilde Rodríguez, widow From Herrera
PICANTERÍA LA DORITA by Lili Pauca Díaz de Salas
PICANTERÍA LA FIERA by Sandra Zúñiga Carpio
PICANTERÍA LA FINITA by Lindaura Durand Chávez
PICANTERÍA LA FONDA DE DON COCO by Jorge Fierro Paredes
PICANTERÍA LA FONDA DEL LABRIEGO by Yolanda Fierro Paredes
PICANTERÍA LOS GERANIUMS by Luis Alberto Gallegos Aparicio
PICANTERÍA THE AREQUIPEÑO STEWS by Sandra Zúñiga Carpio
PICANTERÍA LA HUAYLLA by Lupe Salas Llerena
PICANTERÍA EL INTER DE DOÑA VILMA by Ismael Samos
PICANTERÍA LAURITA CAU CAU by Beatriz Villanueva Salas
PICANTERÍA AND CHICHARRONERÍA LEDY by Ledy Guillén Pinto
LOS LEÑOS DE YUMINA (YUMINA’S LOGS) by Rafael Del Carpio Fuentes
LA LUCILA (YUMINA’S LOGS) by Ruth Ballón Salas
LA MARUJA (YUMINA’S LOGS) by Maruja Ramos de Aguilar
NIEVES (YUMINA’S LOGS) by Tatiana Villavicencio Villanueva
LA NUEVA PALOMINO (YUMINA’S LOGS) by Mónica Huerta Alpaca
LA PALOMINO (YUMINA’S LOGS) by Buenaventura Arce Alpaca
LAS PASTORS (YUMINA’S LOGS) by Arinda Torres Guillén
FLAVORS OF YESTERDAY (YUMINA’S LOGS) by Juana Gallegos de Herrera
THE SUN OF MAY (YUMINA’S LOGS) by Emma Cuentas
AUNT MERY (YUMINA’S LOGS) by María Rodríguez Linares
EL TINAJANI (YUMINA’S LOGS) by Marlene Mendoza
LA TOMASITA (YUMINA’S LOGS) by Janet Tomasa Carpio Meza
PICANTERÍA TRADICIÓN CHARACATO by Fermina Molina Guillén

These are just a few of the most renowned picanterías in Arequipa, but there are many more options available in the city. It’s advisable to check up-to-date information, such as opening hours and reservations, before visiting any particular picantería.

The quality and culinary experience can vary from place to place, and individual preferences also play a significant role in appreciating a dish. Explore different options, ask the locals, and enjoy your search for the best rocoto.

Traveling to Peru involves considering various financial aspects, such as foreign currency exchange. In this guide, we’ll provide some essential tips for exchanging your money wisely.

Banks and Currency Exchange:

When it comes to exchanging money in Peru, it’s crucial to choose reliable financial institutions. Opt for reputable banks and currency exchange offices that offer competitive rates. Avoid exchanging money on the street, as you could expose yourself to scams.

Avoid Exchanging at Airports:

Exchange rates at airports or bus terminals are low and inconvenient. It’s advisable to wait until you reach less crowded areas or use ATMs to get a better exchange rate.

Alternatives such as ATMs:

ATMs are a convenient and safe option for obtaining local currency in Peru. Before traveling, check if your bank has partnerships with local banks to avoid additional fees for international withdrawals. Also, be sure to use ATMs located in safe areas and avoid making withdrawals at night in poorly lit areas.

Cards Accepted in Peru

The most widely accepted card at ATMs in Peru is Visa, although Cirrus/Mastercard are sometimes also accepted. GlobalNet is one of the ATMs in Peru that accepts almost all cards, including American Express, PLUS, and Diners Club.

Tips for Using ATMs Safely

Although you shouldn’t have any problems using ATMs in Peru, there are some precautions you can take to minimize risks:

• Use ATMs located inside banks or commercial establishments rather than those located on the street.
• Avoid visiting ATMs at night or in isolated areas; if you do, take extra precautions.
  Do not use ATMs that appear to have been tampered with or that have suspicious devices, especially around the card slot.
  Which bank doesn’t charge a fee for cash withdrawals in Peru?

Banco de la Nación offers the option of withdrawing cash through its extensive ATM network without charging a fee (MULTIRED).

Looking to explore the Colca Canyon from Arequipa but unsure which 2-day tour is right for you? Here’s a complete comparison between the Classic Colca Tour 2 Days and the Colca Trek 2 Days, helping you decide the best way to experience one of Peru’s deepest and most beautiful canyons.

Whether you’re after panoramic views and cultural experiences or ready to hike deep into the canyon, both options offer unforgettable adventures.

🚌 What is the Classic Colca Tour 2 Days?

The Classic Colca Canyon Tour 2 Days is perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed travel experience. This option focuses on scenic drives, Andean culture, and wildlife viewing — with minimal physical exertion.

Highlights of the Classic Colca Tour:

• Departing at 7:30 from Arequipa with hotel pick-up included
• Drive through the stunning Altiplano and Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve
• Visit traditional villages such as Chivay and Yanque
• Soak in the La Calera or Chacapi hot springs
• Overnight stay in a cozy hotel or lodge
• Morning visit to Cruz del Cóndor, where you can observe the majestic Andean condors gliding above the canyon

If you’re traveling with family, seniors, or just want a Colca Canyon 2-day itinerary focused on comfort and sightseeing, this is the best option.

🥾 What is the Colca Trek 2 Days?

The Colca Trek 2 Days is designed for adventurers who want to explore the canyon from within. This physically active tour takes you deep into the Colca Canyon, offering a more immersive and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Highlights of the Colca Canyon Trek 2 Days:

• Early morning departure from Arequipa
• Trek down into the canyon to reach the Sangalle oasis
• Stay overnight in a rustic eco-lodge surrounded by nature
• Begin a pre-dawn hike to ascend the canyon
• Visit Cruz del Cóndor on day 1 to see condors in flight

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast wondering about the difference between Classic Colca and Colca Trek, the answer is simple: the trek is all about physical challenge and natural immersion, while the classic tour focuses on cultural exploration and comfort.

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✅ Classic Colca Tour vs. Colca Trek – At a Glance

Feature	Classic Colca Tour 2 Days	Colca Trek 2 Days
Difficulty	Easy and comfortable	Moderate to challenging
Accommodation	Hotel in Chivay or Yanque	Basic lodge in Sangalle Oasis
Activities	Hot springs, local culture, Cruz del Condor	Hiking, overnight in the canyon, condor watching
Best For	Families, casual travelers, older adults	Fit travelers, backpackers, adventure seekers

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🧭 What’s the Best Way to See Colca Canyon?

Choosing between the Classic Colca Tour and the Colca Trek depends on your travel style, fitness level, and what kind of experience you’re looking for. Both offer unforgettable ways to discover the magic of Colca Canyon in 2 days, whether from the rim or the depths.

So, are you ready to choose your adventure? Whether you’re looking for an easy 2-day Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa or a challenging trek through rugged terrain, Colca has something for everyone.

When planning a vacation, the first thing you look for is airfare or a bus ticket to secure transportation, as well as researching the main tourist attractions you’ll want to visit. However, one of the most complex tasks comes days before the trip: what to pack. If you’re about to visit Peru and don’t want to make a mistake when packing your suitcase, here’s a quick guide on what you can’t miss to avoid complications with the weather.

Packing is often considered one of the most complicated activities because you end up packing clothes you won’t use and just take up space, or you forget important items that can ruin the experience or force you to spend more money, putting you over your budget.
That’s why it’s vital to know what to take and what not to take when you arrive at a new destination, even more so if you’re arriving in Peru and want to visit the beaches, Machu Picchu, or head to the jungle.

What Should I Pack in My Travel Suitcase?

Each destination in Peru has its own unique climate and needs, and for that, we must pack well. Before thinking about clothing, shoes, or accessories, it’s vital that you set aside a specific space for essentials like your ID, foreigner’s card, or passport. These should be kept separate, along with tickets, reservations, and travel insurance.

Pack According to the Region

Peru’s diversity can be a challenge when packing, this is the reason why Perou Voyage Tours, recommends doing some research on the climate and packing accordingly.

For coastal cities like Lima, Paracas, or Máncora, cool, light, and versatile clothing, sunglasses, a hat, a swimsuit, and sandals are recommended, not to mention a light sweater for the colder evenings. For mountain destinations like Cusco, Arequipa, or Huaraz, it’s essential to have thermal clothing, a windbreaker, hiking shoes, and gloves, as well as a thermos for hot drinks to help you counteract the cold temperatures.

Finally, if you’re traveling to jungle cities like Iquitos, Tarapoto, or Madre de Dios, you should pack lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to avoid bites, a raincoat, a hat, and water-resistant shoes.

Pack According to the Activity

For trekking and adventure activities, you’ll definitely need an ergonomic backpack or one comfortable enough to hold your thermal clothing, jackets, snacks, canned goods and drinks, as well as your camping gear.

To explore the city, make sure to wear comfortable footwear; hiking boots aren’t necessary, but hiking shoes are, along with a secure bag to store your essential documents and a small backpack. Exploring the jungle requires a little more preparation. The humidity, combined with the high temperatures, will require you to stay hydrated and light, so pack quick-drying clothing, toiletries, sunscreen, a hat, and water bottles in a lightweight bag.

It’s also essential to have toiletries, sunscreen, a good insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle on hand to stay hydrated throughout your trip.

Just a few days before the start of Holy Week 2025, one of the most anticipated celebrations for Christians, commemorating the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. These religious dates are considered holidays, giving Peruvians a perfect opportunity to escape from daily stress, spend more time with their families doing various activities, or simply decide to escape to beautiful tourist destinations in Peru. These places not only offer religious traditions but also offer opportunities to enjoy the local cuisine. In the following article, we’ll tell you all the details.

What are the Destinations to Travel During Holy Week in Peru?

For many Peruvians, Holy Week has become a unique opportunity to reflect, commemorating the Way of the Cross of Jesus of Nazareth from his condemnation to his crucifixion and burial. However, it is also a great opportunity to experience religious and cultural customs in various parts of the country, where imposing churches and rich cuisine predominate, in addition to boosting the economy of these areas.
Find here a list of tourist destinations for families to enjoy during the long holiday of this religious festival:

Arequipa:

The “White City” is the perfect place to celebrate Holy Week. Arequipa, famous for its dazzling architecture, transforms during this time into a place of deep spirituality and tradition. The processions, music, and food provide an unforgettable experience for thousands of tourists.

Holy Week is a great opportunity to experience religious and cultural customs in various parts of the country, where imposing churches and rich cuisine predominate.

Piura:

Holy Week in the northern city is celebrated with great devotion in the district of Catacaos, a holiday that has been recognized as a National Cultural Heritage. This date is one of the most significant for the region, notable for the intense faith of the Cataquense community. Local traditions and customs infuse an air of mysticism into each of the ceremonies that commemorate the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Cusco:

This city is one of those destinations that captivates you from the first moment. During Holy Week, the city becomes an epicenter of religious and cultural celebrations, attracting thousands of tourists, who are amazed by everything the imperial city has to offer.

Huaraz:

If you want a Holy Week filled with mysticism and surrounded by nature, you can’t miss Huaraz. In the heart of the Andes, you will live an experience steeped in faith while enjoying the stunning beauty of the Cordillera Blanca.

La Libertad:

In this region, Holy Week is celebrated with great fervor and history, especially in the district of Moche, just 30 minutes from Trujillo, and in Otuzco, about two hours from the city. Both destinations are ideal for experiencing a Holy Week steeped in tradition and devotion.

When is the Easter Long Holiday 2025?

As part of Holy Week 2025, the first long holiday of the year will take place on April 17 and 18, corresponding to Holy Thursday and Good Friday, respectively. These dates are added to Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 April.

How is Holy Week Celebrated in Peru?

Peru’s cultural diversity is reflected in the diverse ways Holy Week is commemorated in different regions of the country. For example, in Ayacucho, where processions and flower carpets are held in various parts of the city, attracting thousands of tourists every year.

Meanwhile, this religious holiday in Cusco is notable for the procession of the Lord of the Earthquakes or Señor de los Temblores, which, along with its faithful devotees, parades through the main streets. In Lima, citizens traditionally visit churches, celebrate Mass, and other activities. Therefore, we present the meaning of Holy Week:

Palm Sunday or Lent: This is the beginning of Holy Week. It commemorates the entry of Jesus of Nazareth into Jerusalem, according to the Gospel. On this date, Christian and Catholic churches celebrate masses and palm processions.
Holy Monday: This is the second day of Holy Week, which commemorates Jesus’ expulsion of the merchants who occupied the Temple in Jerusalem.
Holy Tuesday: This reflects the biblical passage in which Jesus meets with his apostles and tells them that one of them is going to betray him.
Holy Wednesday: This marks the end of Lent and commemorates the day Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus.
Holy Thursday: This commemorates the celebration of the Last Supper.
Good Friday: This commemorates the passion and crucifixion of Jesus on Mount Calvary or Golgotha ​​in Jerusalem. Some believers observe fasting and abstinence during the day.

Holy Saturday: This is the prelude to the resurrection.
Easter Sunday: This is one of the main Christian holidays, as it celebrates the resurrection of Jesus.

In this article, discover a list of classic Peruvian recipes that include cheese. Whether as a main ingredient or as a special touch, it is a delight in its various forms.
This versatile ingredient is part of some of the most typical (and delicious) recipes in the Peruvian repertoire. From creamy sauces perfect for accompanying any meal to traditional desserts enjoyed today.

Papa a la Huancaína

If there’s one dish that epitomizes Peruvian cuisine at its finest, it’s papa a la huancaína. This simple yet exquisite preparation consists of potato slices covered in a creamy sauce of fresh cheese, yellow chili pepper, milk, and crackers, giving it a velvety texture and a balanced flavor between spiciness and saltiness. It’s usually served with a hard-boiled egg and olives, making it a must-have starter on any table.

Ocopa

Ocopa is a creamy and aromatic sauce from Arequipa, made with fresh cheese, mirasol chili pepper, huacatay, peanuts, and milk. It is traditionally served over slices of boiled potatoes and accompanied by hard-boiled eggs and olives. Its intense flavor, with herbal notes and a touch of spice, makes it one of the most beloved sauces in Arequipa’s cuisine.

Quesillo con Miel

This dessert, typical of the Andean region, features a simple and delicious recipe that combines fresh cheese with chancaca (a honey-like sweetener) or honey. Its firm yet smooth texture and milky flavor are balanced by the deep sweetness of the honey, creating a simple yet unforgettable dessert. In many regions, it is enjoyed as part of breakfast or as a sweet snack after a hearty meal.

Rocoto Relleno

Rocoto Relleno is Arequipa’s signature dish. The main ingredient is stuffed with a stew of meat and spices, topped with a generous layer of cheese that is oven-baked, achieving a delicious golden finish. It is served with a potato cake, creating a perfect balance between richness and creaminess.

Humitas con Queso

Humitas are a classic of Peruvian cuisine, made with a soft, slightly sweet ground corn dough wrapped in their own leaves. In many regions of Peru, they are prepared with a melted cheese core, which blends with the spongy texture of the corn when bitten into.

Qapchi

This is an Ayacucho sauce made with fresh cheese, yellow chili pepper, onion, and milk. It is usually served over boiled potatoes, enhancing their flavor with its creamy texture and spicy kick. It is a simple dish steeped in tradition, an example of how local ingredients are transformed into irresistible combinations.

Chupe de Camarones

This signature dish from Arequipa is a feast of flavors: fresh shrimp, potato, corn, rice, and egg combine in a thick and hearty broth. But the secret to its flavor and texture lies in the addition of grated or crumbled fresh cheese and a touch of milk, which bring a smoothness and balance to the dish’s intensity.

Soltero de Queso

Soltero de queso is a typical salad from Arequipa that combines cubed fresh cheese with corn, fava beans, tomato, onion, olives, and rocoto pepper, all dressed with olive oil and vinegar. It’s a light, colorful, and refreshing dish, ideal for hot days.

Choclo con Queso

There is no simpler and more comforting combination in Peruvian cuisine than tender corn accompanied by a piece of fresh cheese (or another of your choice). This mountain classic highlights the simplicity and perfection of good, large-grain, sweet, and juicy corn and a generous portion of cheese, which provides just the right touch of salt. It is usually served with ocopa sauce, huancaína, or some type of hot pepper to contrast the flavors.

Ranfañote

Ranfañote is a traditional Lima dessert dating back to the colonial era and notable for its combination of sweet and savory flavors. It is made with fried bread in chancaca syrup, nuts, raisins, and, most curiously and deliciously, crumbled fresh cheese, which provides an unexpected but delicious contrast. This gem of Peruvian pastry is a testament to local ingenuity, where simple ingredients have been transformed into an explosion of flavor for generations.

The tourist train from Lima to Huancayo is back, and will provide tourist service during Holy Week and National Holidays, with a journey time of between 12 and 14 hours.

The highest railway in Peru and Latin America is back. The Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC), through the General Directorate of Transport Programs and Projects, announces that ticket sales will begin on March 7 for the tourist passenger train service on the Lima–Huancayo–Lima route.

This initiative will strengthen connectivity between the coast and the central highlands, boost tourism, and stimulate the region’s economy.

Tickets can be purchased exclusively through the Ferrocarril Central Andino S.A. website (https://www.ferrocarrilcentral.com.pe) with any payment method, and fares will be published on the day they go on sale.

Services include breakfast, lunch, and a snack, as well as dances during the journey.

The “Peruvian Tourist Service” will cost S/500 round trip, while the “Peruvian Classic Service” will cost S/400 round trip. Similarly, the “Foreign Tourist Service” will cost S/800 round trip, while the “Foreign Classic Service” will cost S/600 round trip.

The train will operate on two key dates. For Holy Week, the train will depart from Desamparados Station in Lima on April 17 at 7:00 a.m., returning from Huancayo on April 20 at the same time. During the National Holidays, the trip will depart from Lima on July 26 and return from Huancayo on July 29.

The journey will last between 12 and 14 hours and will offer travelers the opportunity to appreciate breathtaking landscapes and experience a unique railway experience on one of the highest routes in the world.

During the journey, the train will pass through 69 tunnels, including the Balta Tunnel, the longest on the route at 1,378 m, and the Galera Tunnel, the highest on the route, located at 4,781 m above sea level. The journey will also include crossing 58 bridges, including the Carrión Bridge, the longest on the route at 218 m.

The reactivation of this service will allow travelers to travel through the Western Cordillera and the Mantaro Valley, reaching Huancayo, capital of the Junín region, and will consolidate the railway as a sustainable and attractive alternative for national tourism.
About the Peruvian State