Moving on to Peru

Welcome to Peru

Immigration proceedings to enter Peru were the most efficient of all we encountered in South America to date. Perhaps the efficiency has something to do with the fact that they don't seem a bit interested in what you are carrying or how long you intend to stay. At any rate, they are accustomed to a steady flow of backpackers making the jump from Copacabana to Puno and have developed a well organized operation as a result. 

Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa

After our relaxing stay on the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca, we passed through Puno and headed south to Arequipa. It was a picturesque and snowy journey through the Peruvian highlands. A substantial delay in the sketchy outskirts of the city caused much distress for several frustrated passengers. The frenzy ceased as we got rolling again, eventually arriving at Terminal Terrestre and disembarking behind schedule and in total darkness.    

Plaza de Armas

As poverty stricken and rundown as some zones of Arequipa are, the historical center is quite the opposite. The zone is made up of an attractive blend of architecture and concentrated grouping of interesting sights. Plaza de Armas and the well kept cobblestone streets that surround it are a beehive of activity, day or night.   

Mirador de Carmen Alto

After spending one night under the roof of a decrepit hotel, we relocated down the street to Hostal El Remanso. For the same forty soles per night it was a noticeable upgrade. "Mirador Carmen Alto" gave us a good views of the currently green landscape and of Volcan Misty, the guardian of Arequipa. 

Águila

We made a multitude of other brief stops around the city, stopping at plazas, parks, a farm and a mini zoo. An overly eager tourist took a saliva shower courtesy of a disgruntled llama and I got the typical photo with an eagle. 

             

"En Bolivia, no dicen nada."

According to trip advisor, the number one thing to do in Arequipa is to have a meal at Zig Zag Restaurant. We followed the masses word and made the walk. I went for the trilogy of meat (alpaca, pork, steak) with potatoes and ratatouille, and Cindy chose the steak, delicious quinoa dish and salad. The low light of our meal was a Malbec from Mendoza. For us, probably our best restaurant meal since leaving Mexico.