Tuesday’s Worker Day holiday will give Peruvians a chance to take much-deserved vacations to some day-trip destinations highlighted by Peru’s Tourism Ministry.
In a Monday news item from the state-owned Andina agency that the ministry published through its National Plan for Rural Community Tourism, the tourism ministry provided details of some lesser-known spots where people can enjoy their mid-week holiday:
Palestine Caves
Sitting 45 minutes outside of the town of Rioja in the province of the same name, the Palestine Caves are some of the deepest caves in all of Peru. Beautiful stalactites and rock formations abound in the caves where rare species like oilbirds are also present.
There are a variety of tours that provide visitors lantern-equipped helmets and boots to tour through the caves that are relatively easy to navigate. These tours usually take an hour and a half and are filled with some otherworldly sights.
The Tourism Ministry outlines a tour that costs 60 soles that includes a visit to a butterfly museum and a jaunt inside the caves.
Porcón Farm in Cajamarca
This farm is an hour from the main city of Cajamarca in Peru’s northern highlands. Travelers rave about the sustainable tourism opportunities where visitors can go horseback riding, visit the on-site zoo and textile shop, and taste regional foods.
On its website, Porcón offers various packages that include camping options and day-trips, as well as options to stay for a full week in the expansive area.
The farm gives visitors an immersive experience by allowing them to plant and harvest different crops and do extensive hikes around the property.
Lúcumo Hills in Lima
Those looking for a day-trip Tuesday from Lima can’t go wrong with hiking the Lúcumo Hills near Peru’s capital.
Though it’s usually best to go between August and November when the area is in full bloom, a trip to open up May won’t disappoint. There will still be opportunities to spot wildlife on a number of the walking trails carved into the beautiful green hills. The long route that measures about five kilometers will take the average hiker 4 hours, with a shorter route taking just 2 hours.
There are also options for guided walks and camping if hikers bring their own gear.
Pómac Forest in Lambayeque
The Pómac Forest is known as the most important dry forest in all of Peru and it offers a ton of chances for activities like hiking, biking, and wildlife sightings.
The organization that oversees the forest just unveiled new routes in March that visitors can take advantage of.