Tarma

The hidden mountain town known as "The Pearl of the Andes" has grown into a city of 155,000 whose Peruvian roots are held close in its traditions and sights. Long before the Spanish arrived, local tribes built homes and temples in the hills that frame the town, the ruins of which are still being turned up by local farmers who have plowed much of the terrain into flower and potato fields, coffee plantations, and orchards. The town's look is all Spanish, though, with a small Plaza de Armas and several colonial-style churches and mansions.

At an elevation of 3,050 meters (10,004 feet), Tarma has a cool and breezy climate, with crisp nights all year. Get out in these nights, too, as candlelight processions are a major part of the town's many festivals—notably the Fiesta San Sebastián in January, Semana Santa in April, Semana de Tarma in July, and Fiesta El Señor de Los Milagros in October. Tarma is definitely not a tourist town, but a place to visit for true Peruvian traditions.

Sights to visit include the village of Acobamba, a 10-km (6-mi) drive from town, where you can tour the El Señor de Muruhuay sanctuary, where an image of the crucified Christ was said to have appeared. About 15 km (9 mi) northwest is the town of San Pedro de Cajas, well-known for its exquisite weaving and as an excellent place to buy good-quality, locally made wall hangings and rugs. You can also head northwest 28 km (17 mi) to Palcamayo, then continue 4 km (2½ mi) west to explore the Gruta de Guagapo limestone cave system, a National Speleological Area. Guides live in the village near the entrance and can give you a basic short tour, but you'll need full spelunking equipment for deep cavern trips.

Tarma's Oficina de Turismo, on the Plaza de Armas, can help you find qualified local guides for sights in the region.