Traveling is a pleasure that once tried, it is highly unlikely to leave your life completely. We all travel again at some point in our lives. One can even learn how to travel responsibly, not only preserving the environment and supporting local communities but also experimenting and learning from an alternative culture. Together with the travel experts of Cusco Peru Travel, we believe that one of the country’s greatest attractions isn’t only its Wonder of the World or the countless archaeological ruins to explore. The great appeal of visiting the Andean nation is in its amazing and extensive culture full of different nuances. That is why we have prepared a small article about the most important traditions in Peru that make this country unique.
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE TRADITIONS IN PERU
If you plan to enjoy one of the Luxury Peru tours that go through the Andean country, the chances are that you will start to hear certain words more frequently. Perhaps you can recognize the word Quechua more frequently because it is an ancient language still quite alive outside the coastal regions of Peru. And its speakers are believed to be direct descendants of the Incas. But today, there are several indigenous groups scattered throughout America that were immediate successors of the Incas. In the same way, the Quechua culture still practices traditions of great antiquity that include dances, clothing, and much more. Some of these ancient practices shape the great Andean culture that Peru boasts. The Andean culture is present in many aspects of the traditions in Peru either in its vibrant textiles that are sold in artisan shops or with delicious dishes such as the roast guinea pig. The Andean tradition is present in almost all parts of Peru, ready for you to know it.
One of the great factors of the cultural experience begins when we hit the language barrier. Peru is not an English-speaking country since Spanish is the official language. Despite this, other official indigenous languages can be found depending on the area you are. By moving away from the coastal regions, you can begin to become aware of the many Quechua speakers that exist within Peru. Due to this, many consider it as the second official language of the Andean country. Language is an essential part of the traditions in Peru.
Additional fact: if you are looking to know when is the best time to travel to Peru, you don’t have to worry. Peru is a beautiful destination throughout the year, but if you are looking to explore Machu Picchu, perhaps the dry season is the best for you.
Most religious and spiritual beliefs have deep roots within Inca mythology. Especially for those who are raised in regions far from cities or traditional communities. For this reason, it is very common to see the practice of some ancestral rituals in specific communities. An example is the offerings to the Apus collecting food, drink, coca leaves, and much more. It is in a symbol of gratitude towards the spirits that dwell in the mountains or “Apus.” There are also countless traditions in Peru towards Pachamama or Mother Earth. Some of these rituals take great importance in specific local festivities. Even in several tours of adventure travel in Peru, the possibility of taking part in one of these rituals or ancestral ceremonies is available. It is very common to see some tourists undertake Ayahuasca ceremonies or other very common psychedelics in the Amazonian and Andean regions.
Religion plays a vital role in the different traditions in Peru. In general, Roman Catholicism is the main religion within Peru. As evidence of this, you can find uncountable colonial churches both in the main cities and the smaller towns. The Spanish conquerors brought the Catholic faith during the 16th century, and 80% of Peruvians consider themselves Catholic. Despite this, there are a large number of these who combine their faith with traditional rituals. Within Peru, there is a great syncretism between the Catholic faith and the rituals of Inca mythology. It is normal to see some saints with traditional clothing alluding to the Pachamama or other Andean deities. Many religious places are great Peru tourist places to visit, so you cannot miss a tour of the best colonial churches in Peru.
As for the way people relate, you will find that Peruvians are very warm and willing to help you with everything you need. Like most Latinos, you may notice that Peruvians are very empathetic and respectful. Respect is learned from an early age within Peru and forms a vital part of the traditions in Peru. An excellent way to communicate with the elderly is to address them as sir or madam before their name. Regarding communication, you will notice that a Peruvian will never try to make you feel uncomfortable, so many times they will say what you want to hear and not necessarily what they think. If you wonder about safety in Peru, you don’t have to worry either. You will notice how, in busy centers, security measures are constantly taken. As long as you are cautious and alert, you don’t have to worry.
One of the most important factors within the traditions in Peru is its food and drink. We have said it many times before, food in Peru is not only a cultural aspect; it is an attraction in itself. Only food and drink will suffice to justify your trip. Peru is a country known for its continuous gastronomic revolution in the palates of travelers, so trying the numerous traditional Peruvian food will make your trip unique. After a delicious dish, you can try the incomparable Pisco sour, one of its iconic cocktails. Don’t miss out on one of the best parts of Peru and dare to try new flavors.
Peru is a country rich in culture, where its traditions are materialized in the different cultural and religious celebrations. Within the traditions in Peru, you will find numerous festivities where you can have a good time within the Andean country. These celebrations can be found throughout the year, be it summer or winter. A winter classic is the Inti Raymi festival, celebrated in the emblematic city of Cusco. It is one of the most popular festivals in Peru due to its mystical meaning added to the theatrical representation of one of the most important Inca rituals. Even religious holidays are good excuses to celebrate in Peru.
“A TRAVELER WITHOUT OBSERVATION IS A BIRD WITHOUT WINGS”
We hope together with Cusco Peru Travel to have informed the most important points of the traditions in Peru. Remember that throughout the country you will find enough traditions and cultural aspects that will make your trip a wonderful one. You can find out more about our private trips with our qualified advisers.
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