After my days in Iquitos, I fly to Lima, Peru’s capital. It’s an absolutely huge city and I enjoy exploring it. Below some impressions.
Lima is essentially located in the desert. It’s one of the driest cities in the world! What a change from the tropical rainforest in Iquitos.
I spend a few days in Lima, enjoying the delicious food, relaxing at the beach, and strolling through the boulevards. I definitely like this city.
After those days, I head south to Paracas, a quiet little town on the beach. Its main attraction (besides the chill beach vibes) are the Ballestas islands. They offer a spectacular amount of wildlife.
I find the time in Paracas super relaxing. I enjoy just sitting on the beach and reading as well as the incredible sea food at the local restaurants.
After Paracas I make another drastic switch. From the sunny and warm beach south of Lima to the cold mountains in the North of Lima. In particular, I am headed to Huaraz, a city 3000 meters above sea level in one of the most spectacular mountain ranges of the world.
Even though it is tropical climate, the altitude means it’s very cool at night but during the day the sun often burns down relentlessly.
Huaraz cannot be described as a beautiful city. It has its charms nonetheless and plenty of good restaurants and cafes. The true reason to come here is clearly hiking.
I begin my first day with a “relaxed” acclimatization hike. It’s good to take it slow to get used to the altitude. And I definitely notice the altitude. Even though the hike is not too difficult, every time there is a slight elevation I am completely out of breath. Fortunately, I am rewarded with absolutely spectacular views of the mountain scenery surrounding Huaraz.
I am breathless. From the altitude maybe but also, from seeing snow covered peaks of the mountains that are higher than 6000 meters. And this while being almost on the equator. The places of this earth…