December is a significant month for Peruvians, as it marks the beginning of summer and Christmas and New Year's Day. Although the weather can be unpredictable, there are many festivities, such as:
- Walking the streets of different cities
- Visiting Chavín
- Discovering Huascarán National Park
- Machu Picchu Citadel
- Cha Chan Mud Citadel
December is probably one of the best months of the year for its wonderful special dates, such as Christmas and New Year's Day. Peru, one of the top South American destinations, is no exception, offering many exciting experiences. Furthermore, visiting the Andean country during this time is a truly vibrant experience, full of rich traditions and customs.
Places to Travel to in December in Peru
December is a good month to travel to Peru, as it allows you to enjoy summer on the coast and the cool climate in the Andes, with places like Lima and Paracas offering beaches and landscapes ideal for relaxing.
Machu Picchu - Cusco
This destination amazes with its imposing structures and the additional attractions that enrich the visit. In addition to the citadel, the surrounding area boasts stunning landscapes and a fascinating history to explore.
Without a doubt, Machu Picchu is a place that captivates with its beauty and cultural legacy.
Exploring the city of Cusco
In Cusco, you can see important buildings such as Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, and Tambomachay, which showcase the grandeur of Inca architecture and its history.
During December, residents prepare for Christmas by setting up a Nativity scene in the Plaza de Armas with figures of the Mendivil family, while the streets and markets are decorated with festive motifs.
A notable tradition is the Santurantikuy, where artisans sell saints and herbs for the Nativity scenes, reflecting local art and customs, while churches compete for the most beautiful Nativity scene.
Áncash - Chavín Archaeological Site
This ceremonial and religious center, declared a World Heritage Site in 1985, provides an insight into its history and the hidden messages within its buildings, making it a key place for worshiping the gods.
The temples and galleries of Chavín include the Old Temple and the New Temple, surrounded by round and square plazas. These structures display the central pyramidal architecture, allowing one to understand the organization of the complex.
The Monolithic Lanzón is the most important sculpture of the Chavín culture. A 5-meter-high stone carved in the shape of a spear representing the Smiling God, it symbolizes the seasons and the fertility of the earth and has been venerated by the ancient inhabitants for centuries.
The Raimondi Stele, found at the site, depicts an anthropomorphic figure with two staffs, claws on its hands and feet, and a serpent headdress. This 2-meter-high monolith, which bears similarities to the Bolivian god Wiracocha, is an important find from the Chavín culture.
The nail heads, located outside the castle, are believed to have been used to protect the sacred site. Although some were lost due to looting and the passage of time, an original nail head can still be seen in its original location.
Huascarán National Park - Áncash
This site, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to glaciers that rise to over 6,000 meters above sea level and more than 650 glaciers, making it one of the largest and most spectacular glacial systems on the planet.
It's also home to a wide variety of species, including birds, spectacled bears, pumas, and Andean foxes, making it an exceptional destination for nature lovers. Five stunning locations stand out for their turquoise waters, making this a truly unforgettable destination.
Laguna Parón, the largest in the Cordillera Blanca, is surrounded by impressive snow-capped mountains that rise to over 5,000 meters above sea level, offering spectacular views.
Laguna 69 is famous for its turquoise waters, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers.
Laguna Churup is another beautiful destination in the Cordillera Blanca, known for its turquoise and green waters.
Nevado Pastoruri, located 5,000 meters above sea level, is ideal for extreme adventure lovers, as you can see snow and even experience snowfall.
The Puyas de Raimondi, which grow in Huascarán National Park, are a unique natural wonder, with a lifespan ranging from 40 to 120 years, blooming only once.
The Chinancocha Lagoon also stands out for its vibrant turquoise color, surrounded by mountains and shrubs that create a stunning landscape.
Chan Chan Archaeological Complex
Chan Chan, the largest mud city in the Americas, is located in Trujillo and is recognized as a National and World Cultural Heritage Site. Its name, "Sun-Sun," refers to its great historical and cultural significance in northern Peru.
This ancient city stretches between 200 and 400 meters long, notable for its trapezoidal walls that reach up to 12 meters high. Touring its structures allows one to delve into the history of pre-Incan civilizations, revealing the level of development of its inhabitants.
Visiting Chan Chan is not only a unique experience but also an opportunity to learn about the engineering and organization of its people. The city showcases the cultural richness of the region and how its inhabitants left their mark on the history of Peru.
By exploring Chan Chan, visitors can appreciate the magnitude of a civilization that thrived in ancient times, offering a profound insight into pre-Incan history and the impressive architectural skill of its creators.
Manu National Park - Madre de Dios and Cusco
This natural area, with the greatest biological diversity in the world, is home to hundreds of species of fauna and flora, extending across the departments of Cusco and Madre de Dios, creating a unique ecosystem.
This place has several natural sites worth visiting, such as:
The Cloud Forest, known for being the place with the greatest biodiversity in the world, is located between the departments of Cusco and Madre de Dios, home to a wide variety of fauna and flora species.
The Parrot Clay Licks, natural formations containing salty soil, are essential to the diet of various birds and mammals that visit the area.
Cocha Machuhuasi, a lagoon with mysterious waters, offers an impressive but somewhat terrifying sight, as it is home to crocodiles, monkeys, giant otters, sachavacas, and many other species.
When you visit the cultural zone, you'll have the opportunity to meet the residents of Atalaya, taste traditional chicken broth, and travel to Salvación, where you can interact with the locals and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Cocha Machuwasi, surrounded by birds, immersing yourself in the authenticity of this Amazonian region full of life and tradition.
Lima's Historic Center
Lima, known as the City of Kings, houses some of the finest examples of Spanish colonial architecture in South America. As the capital of Peru, it is a place steeped in history and culture, offering a wide range of sites to explore, from museums to historic areas that reflect its diversity and richness.
The Plaza de Armas, in the heart of Lima, is an iconic location that not only serves as the city's historic center but is also surrounded by some of the most important buildings, such as the Lima Cathedral, the Government Palace, and several typical Peruvian food stalls, where you can sample the best of the local cuisine while enjoying the colonial atmosphere.
Chinatown is a must-visit destination for foodies, especially if you're a fan of chifa, the fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cuisine.
The colonial catacombs, located beneath the San Francisco Church, are one of Lima's most fascinating sites, steeped in history and mystery.
The Parque de la Muralla, originally designed to protect Lima from potential attacks, is now a public park offering a blend of history and recreation.
Nazca Lines and Hieroglyphs - Ica
From above, you can observe the impressive geometric, zoomorphic, and anthropomorphic figures created by the Paracas and Nazca cultures, which were likely ancient paths connecting different ceremonial sites.
Flying over the Nazca Lines is a unique and breathtaking experience, as a small plane flight is required to fully appreciate the magnitude of these enigmatic figures.
If you are uncomfortable with heights, the Nazca Lines Observatory Tower offers an excellent alternative.
The María Reiche Planetarium is the ideal place for astronomy enthusiasts, as you can observe stars and constellations through a high-quality telescope.
Visit Lake Titicaca - Puno.
The highest navigable lake in the world, located at 3,812 meters above sea level, is also the largest freshwater lake in South America, offering several unique sites where you can enjoy its stunning natural beauty.
On Uros Island, the inhabitants will invite you to discover their unique way of life, showing you how they use totora reeds, an aquatic plant, to build both their homes and other floating structures.
Community tourism, especially in places like Taquile Island and Amantaní, offers you the opportunity to live a unique experience by sharing local customs and participating in various activities with the locals.
Explore the Colca Canyon, Arequipa
Considered one of the deepest and most fascinating natural treasures in the world, this impressive site ranks fourth in the world, with a depth of 4,160 meters.
From here, you can enjoy a unique panorama while observing the majestic flight of condors, one of the largest birds in the world. It is recommended to arrive early to take advantage of the opportunity to see these imposing animals in their daily activity, as well as spot other local species that inhabit the area, making the visit an unforgettable experience.
Visiting Iquitos, the Peruvian Jungle
Iquitos offers numerous tourist destinations, exotic cuisine, and unique attractions to explore.
Plaza 28 de Julio is an excellent meeting point for families to enjoy and relax in the fresh air. With various recreational activities such as biking, skating, and playing, it is the perfect place to spend a pleasant time in a relaxed atmosphere, surrounded by nature and wide open spaces where everyone can enjoy moments of relaxation and fun.
Monkey Island, located just 29 km from Iquitos, is a refuge for various species of monkeys that have been rescued and rehabilitated to be released back into their natural habitat. This sanctuary not only allows visitors to get up close and personal with these fascinating animals, but also offers a unique and educational experience to learn about the local wildlife and the importance of conservation in the Amazon region.
The Pacaya Samiria National Reserve is a stunning place where the biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest can be explored in all its splendor. Trekking through the jungle, especially at night, offers a unique experience that allows you to experience the region's flora and fauna from a completely different perspective, immersing you in a fascinating and vibrant environment.
The Belén neighborhood, known for its floating houses, offers an authentic glimpse into the lives of Iquitos residents. This unique neighborhood reflects how people have adapted their homes to the aquatic environment of the Amazon River, creating a unique way of life that attracts both tourists and curious visitors who want to experience the reality of living in a riparian area of the Peruvian rainforest.
The Museum of Indigenous Amazonian Cultures and the Amazon Library in Iquitos are essential spaces for understanding the rich cultural diversity of the Amazon region, not only in Peru but also in Colombia and Brazil.
Tarma - Junín
Located in the central highlands, this city is known as "The Pearl of the Andes" thanks to its spring-like climate, which remains pleasant and temperate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy a moderate climate and natural landscapes.
The Huagapo Cave, one of the deepest routes in South America, is ideal for adventure lovers, where you can explore its stalactite and stalagmite formations and see red cave paintings that tell the history of the region.
Tarmatambo is an important Inca archaeological site that served as an administrative center. The Inca structures are still preserved, offering visitors a firsthand look at the organization and architecture of the ancient Incas.
The Pacchacoto Waterfall, located just 10 minutes from San Pedro de Cajas, is a perfect natural site, with a waterfall 10 meters high and 5 meters wide, ideal for enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings.
The Pampa Hermosa National Sanctuary is a biodiversity refuge, home to species such as cock-of-the-rocks, spectacled bears, toucans, and ocelots, offering a unique experience for nature lovers to see animals in their natural habitat.
Peru in December
Peru's geographical and climatic diversity makes December a challenging month for travel, as conditions vary significantly from region to region.
The Coast in December
Summer in Peru begins in December, with the coast being the ideal place to enjoy warmer temperatures and lively beaches, as well as historical sites like Chan Chan and Nazca.
December is also a good time to visit Lima, where the weather is milder, with temperatures between 18 and 25°C (65 and 77°F), before the arrival of winter and humidity, while the city bustles with social activity.
In the north, Máncora maintains its charm year-round with temperatures of 30°C (86°F), and Trujillo has a climate similar to Lima's, with temperatures between 17 and 24°C (63 and 75°F). Paracas, with its 26°C (78°F) climate, is an attractive destination for those seeking sunshine and stunning scenery.
The Highlands and Jungle in December
In December, Peru's coast warms up and clears, as the mountains and jungle begin to receive rainfall, which is essential for the Amazon rainforest ecosystem due to the protection of the Andes.
Although the rains make activities like trekking difficult, prices in the jungle tend to drop, attracting those who are comfortable with the precipitation, even though the roads become impassable due to mud.
In the mountains, rain and hail in Cusco reduce tourism, lowering prices, but views are limited due to the overcast skies. In Ancash, the Cordillera Blanca receives snowfall that makes trekking difficult.
Plan your trip in December!
Many avoid traveling to Peru in December because of the rain, especially in places like Cusco and Manú National Park, but at Tierras de los Andes, we believe that every season has its own charm.
