This deeply historical, and richly cultural country truly stole our hearts, proving Peru to be our most favourite country on our South American visit.

On the road to Arequipa On the road to Arequipa

Our first stop in Peru would be to the charming city of Arequipa. Not knowing what to expect from Peru, we were quite surprised when we arrived in this town. With an ancient volcano as its backdrop and a harmonic mix of modern and ancient Incan history, Arequipa proved to be an unexpectedly enjoyable city.

I remember the first day we spent walking around the town square, sitting by the fountain and watching the local women and children feed pigeons as the sun set over the white cathedral that that guarded the square. I also remember visiting the frantic local mercado; strange smells wafted from the butchers and fishmongers, mounds of fruit and cheese wheels in every aisle, sounds of the local pan flute group echoing through the building.

Peru is the gateway to ancient history in South America; it was the mecca of Incan civilization for hundreds of years before the Spanish conquest in the 1500’s. In almost every part of this country you will find Incan ruins, temples and relics, each shedding it’s own light on this ancient civilization. One such example is a frozen part of Incan history and ritual, and she is known as the Incan Ice Maiden. Her well-preserved frozen body was discovered at the top of a volcano crater where she was given as a sacrificial offering to the gods some 500 years ago. As you walk around her body encased in glass in the centre of a cold and dimly lit room, you cannot help but sympathise for this child that gave up her life for the gods, and at the same time, awe at her well preserved body that makes her appear as if she is simply sleeping.

Spanish colonisation of Peru has given Arequipa some beautiful architectural examples; one being the Santa Catalina Monastery which looks as pristine today as when it was built around 400 years ago. The Monastery was cut off from the outside world for centuries, and only recently has it been opened to the public. Walking in to the Monastery, you feel an instant sense of calm as the high walls block out any noise from the busy Arequipan streets. The maze of brightly painted rooms, corridors and courtyards allows you to get lost in its tranquillity. The beautifully intricate religious paintings and relics from centuries ago make for a reverend and special space.

Here are a few images from inside the monastery:

Arequipa was a great introduction to our time in Peru, and we couldn’t wait to see more of this wonderful country.

Cuy is a traditional delicacy in Peru. Essentially it is a guinea pig that is either roasted or crispy deep fried. Needless to say we had to give it a taste… and it will forever remain in the “only try once” basket. Cuy is a traditional delicacy in Peru. Essentially it is a guinea pig that is either roasted or crispy deep fried. Needless to say we had to give it a taste… and it will forever remain in the “only try once” basket.