An informative blog about travel and gastronomy
Discovering Juliaca: The Windy City in the Heart of the Peruvian Andes
Introduction
Juliaca, known as the "City of the Winds", is a vibrant city located in the Puno region, in the Peruvian highlands. Despite being primarily a commercial and transportation hub, Juliaca is home to a rich history and fascinating culture that make it an interesting tourist destination.
History and Culture
Juliaca is a city with a long history that dates back to pre-Inca times. It was an important center of the Pucará culture and later of the Tiahuanaco culture. The city is famous for its traditional festivities, such as the Candelaria Festival, which has been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Tourist Attractions
One of the main attractions of Juliaca is the Iglesia Matriz de Santa Catalina, a beautiful neoclassical style church built in the 19th century. Another place of interest is the Central Market, where visitors can buy a variety of local products, from textiles to fresh foods.
In the surroundings of Juliaca, tourists can visit Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world and home to the Floating Islands of the Uros. They can also explore the ruins of Sillustani, an ancient pre-Inca cemetery with impressive chullpas or funerary towers.
Gastronomy
The gastronomy of Juliaca is another of its attractions. Typical dishes include Lake Titicaca trout, baked guinea pig and llunca con gallina, a soup made with corn and chicken. Additionally, visitors can try chicha de jora, a fermented drink made from corn.
ConsEyes for Visitors
Due to its altitude (3824 meters above sea level), some visitors may experience soroche or altitude sickness. It is recommended to acclimatize slowly and stay hydrated. Despite being a city with a fairly cold climate, Juliaca can have intense sun during the day, so it is advisable to use sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing.
Juliaca gastronomic products
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Chairo Juliaca
Chairo Juliaca is a traditional soup from the Puno region, in Peru. This dish is a mixture of lamb, potatoes, corn, beans, carrots and other vegetables, all cooked over low heat. It is a very nutritious dish and is served mainly in the winter months.
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Trout thimpu
Trout Thimpu is another typical Juliaca dish. It consists of fresh trout cooked with onion, tomato, parsley and other seasonings. It is served with potatoes and rice, and is a delight for fish lovers.
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Frozen cheese
Despite its name, frozen cheese does not contain cheese. It is a traditional dessert from Juliaca that is made with milk, sugar, cinnamon and coconut. It is served cold and is a refreshing treat, especially in the summer months.
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Alpaca pork rinds
Alpaca chicharrón is a very popular dish in Juliaca. Alpaca meat is fried until crispy and served with potatoes and a spicy sauce. It is a tasty and full of flavor dish that is highly appreciated by locals and tourists.
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Ceviche
Originally from Peru but popular in many coastal South American countries, ceviche is a refreshing dish made with raw fish marinated in citrus juice, usually lemon or lime, and seasoned with onion, cilantro and chili. It is known for its freshness and vibrant flavor.
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Empanadas
These are filled pastas that can be found in almost all South American countries, although their fillings and shapes can vary significantly from place to place. Empanadas can be filled with meat, chicken, cheese, ham, or combinations of ingredients such as meat with olives and eggs. They can be baked or fried, and are popular as snacks or quick meals.
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Pisco
Pisco is a grape spirit that is very popular in Peru and Chile, where each country has its own designation of origin and unique production traditions. It is the ingredient pmain ingredient of the famous Pisco Sour cocktail, which combines pisco with lemon juice, egg white, sugar and Angostura bitters. This liquor is a distinctive drink of the region and is celebrated with festivals and competitions in both countries.
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Featured gastronomic places in Juliaca
From traditional restaurants to modern fusion cuisine establishments, Juliaca offers a wide variety of places to enjoy its delicious cuisine. Below we present some of the most notable ones:
El Batán del Inca Restaurant
Located in the center of Juliaca, El Batán del Inca is known for its excellent Peruvian cuisine. Here you can taste traditional dishes such as grilled trout, baked guinea pig and the area's famous ceviche. In addition, the cozy atmosphere and friendly service make this place a perfect option to enjoy an unforgettable meal.
Picantería La Lucila Restaurant
If you are looking for a place with charm and good prices, Picantería La Lucila is an excellent option. This cozy establishment offers a wide variety of typical dishes from the region, such as chicharrón de alpaca, patatascaand the stuffed rocoto. In addition, its extensive drinks menu will allow you to pair your favorite dishes with the best selection of Peruvian beers and wines.
El Fogón Restaurant
El Fogón is a restaurant that stands out for its signature cuisine with Andean influences. Their dishes, made with fresh and local ingredients, are a true delight for the palate. Among its specialties are lomo saltado, pachamanca and anticucho de corazón. Without a doubt, a visit to El Fogón is a gastronomic experience that you cannot miss in Juliaca.
Tavern El Rinconcito
For those looking for a more casual experience, El Rinconcito is a tavern that offers delicious tapas and small plates. Its relaxed atmosphere and excellent service make this place an ideal option to enjoy an informal lunch or dinner. Don't miss their famous empanadas and their exquisite craft beer.
Sports Activities in Juliaca, Peru
Hiking and Trekking
Juliaca is located near the Andes Mountains, making it an ideal place for hiking and trekking. You can explore impressive routes such as Lake Titicaca and the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is another popular activity in Juliaca. Mountain routes offer impressive viewss of the city and its surroundings. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the landscape.
Fishing
Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, is located near Juliaca. Here you can rent a boat and spend the day fishing in its calm waters.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Peru and Juliaca is no exception. You can join a local match or simply enjoy a game at one of the city's many stadiums.
Places near Juliaca
If you are in Juliaca and want to explore a little more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:
JourneyGourmet
June 24, 2024
Peru
