Best time to visit Peru

During Corpus Christi processions of icons of fifteen saints and virgins are carried from local churches to main cathedrals to 'greet' the body of Christ, sixty days after Easter. The festival is celebrated throughout the country but particularly impressive in Cusco.

Dating back to the Inca period, Inti Raymi marks the winter solstice and honours the Sun God with music, colourful costumes and the sharing of food. Since 1944 a reconstruction of the Inca festival is held at the ancient ruins of the Sacsayhuamán citadel outside of Cusco with replica chariots, speeches delivered in the Incan language of Queachua and processions.

Held in the first week of November each year, Puno Week celebrates the founding of the Inca Empire and specifically Manco Cápac who is believed to have risen from the waters of Lake Titicaca and established the Inca civilization. A large procession journeys from the shores of the lake to the city's stadium with lively dances and music and the city enjoying plenty of alcoholic beverages.

On the 28th July 1824 Peru won its independence from Spain and every year the date is celebrated with national patriotism, official parades, folk and indigenous music and the flag displayed on buildings throughout the country. Some of the best celebrations can be found in the capital of Lima.