Peru seems to be the country which is becoming the food icon of the world. And what better way than to capture it at Latin America's largest food festival!

Mistura is held each September along Lima’s coast, this year’s celebration lasting from September 5-14 anticipates close to a half million visitors over the 10-day gastronomic extravaganza. Visitors are advised to go early in order to immerse themselves, along with thousands of Limeños and visitors, in a gustatory salute to Peru's gastronomic abundance. Appropriately enough, this year’s theme will focus on biodiversity and nutrition.

Andean Lakeside Pachamanca

A pachamanca is a banquet dating to pre-Incan times that is prepared underground using hot stones.  This festive meal often accompanies weddings or other important celebrations and includes a panoply of regional foods meant to be shared amongst many. A favorite spot for a pachamanca is along the shores of one of the magical lakes in the Sacred Valley, ideally after a kayak session and definitely in the company of good friends.

Virgen del Carmen Celebration

For three days each July, Paucartambo becomes the staging ground for an energy-charged, heart-felt homage to the town's beloved Mamacha Carmen (the Virgen of Carmen). Integral to the festivities are some of the traditional foods served, including slow-roasted pork shared in homes and 'anticuchos de corazón' (marinated, grilled beef hearts served on a stick) eaten in the streets.

Ceviche Dock-to-Dish Adventure

While it’s a given that you should try one of Lima’s excellent cevicherías, it’s recommended to begin by taking a short ride along the coast on a fisherman’s skiff where you’ll see the city from the water and hear about the rich bounty of the cold Humboldt current which runs up Peru's coast. After retuning to land to marvel at the freshly caught seafood at the Chorillos market, Kane suggests that visitors make their way to one of Barranco’s or Miraflores' renowned ceviche dens.

Farmers Market Picnic in Reducto Park

After perusing the mouthwatering organic fare at Lima’s longest-running weekly farmer’s market, visitors can then spread blankets at Parque Reducto and enjoy freshly purchased foods. Here they mingle with Limeño families, couples and friends enjoying one of Lima’s most relaxing green spaces. Children enjoy the vintage train and live music rendered by retired musicians on Saturday mornings.

Too late to attend this year's events? Contact Culture Xplorers...... This company offers handcrafted journeys that deepen understanding and foster connection between travelers and local communities around the world.