The high plain territory where is located the current Juliaca -also known as the “city of winds”- is rich in history and traditions. It was settled more than 4000 years B.C. by tribes mostly dedicated to agriculture and Andean stockbreeding (llama shepherding and guinea pig breeding).Between the years 200 B.C. and 200 A.D. the Pukara culture dominated the high plain region, leaving traces of its presence in Juliaca on the founded archaeologic remains. In the following centuries, the Tiahuanaco, Colla and Inka cultures fought for the hegemony of the high plain. The incas were the ones who prevailed over the other ones in the fight for the Andean supremacy, under the leadership of Pachacutec.With the Spanish arrival, there was a high plain lands distribution, that culminated with the Spanish foundation of the town of Santa Catalina de Juliaca. During the colonial period the city was scenary of indigenous uprisings against the Spanish domination.In the Republic period, after obtained the Independence of Peru, Juliaca was a rural city until the construction of the railway station (1873) that allowed a greater communication and exchange with the most important cities of the Andean south as Cusco or Arequipa, besides making easier the access of Peruvian and foreign visitors.In 1926 was created, by a supreme order, the province of San Roman, what allowed for the ascent of Juliaca to capital.
Weather in Juliaca:
• Summer (December to March): Temperatures range between a minimum of 7°C and a maximum of 18°C. It is a rainy season, with moderate rainfall mainly in the afternoon.
• Winter (June to September): Temperatures can drop to -5°C at night, while during the day, they usually reach an average of 15°C. This season is characterized by dry weather and clear skies.
• Precipitation: Juliaca experiences rainfall mainly between November and March, with an annual average of 800 mm, and January and February being the rainiest months.
• Humidity: Due to the city's high altitude, the weather remains cold throughout the year with intense sunlight during the day and significantly lower temperatures at night.
Hotels in Juliaca:
Royal Inn Hotel
Location: Near the Plaza de Armas.
Services: Restaurant, bar, gym, rooms with heating.
Cost: From $80 per night.
Suites Don Carlos Hotel
Location: A few minutes from the airport.
Services: Restaurant, breakfast included, shuttle service.
Cost: From $50 per night.
Restaurants and Bars in Juliaca:
La Picantería
Location: Av. Circunvalación, Juliaca.
Specialties: Traditional Peruvian dishes such as rocoto relleno and pachamanca.
Price Range: $$ - $$$
Sabor Andino
Location: Downtown Juliaca.
Specialties: Andean cuisine, including dishes based on quinoa, trout, and lamb.
Price Range: $$
Tourist Attractions in Juliaca:
Puno and Lake Titicaca
Location: About 45 minutes by bus from Juliaca.
Description: The highest lake in the world, home to the floating islands of the Uros and the islands of Taquile and Amantaní. It is one of the main tourist attractions in the region.
Juliaca Market
Location: In the city center.
Description: A traditional market where you can find local products, textiles, crafts, and typical foods from the region.
Important Dates in Juliaca:
Virgin of Candelaria Festival (February):
Juliaca Carnival (February):
A celebration full of music, dances, parades, and local traditions that attract thousands of tourists.
How to Get Around Juliaca:
- Taxis: A comfortable option for getting around the city, but it is also advisable to use mobile apps for greater safety.
- Buses and combis: Several public transport routes connect different parts of Juliaca.
- Mototaxis: Very common and useful for shorter trips.
Typical Dishes and Drinks from Juliaca:
• Quinoa Soup: A traditional dish, especially served in winter. It is made with quinoa, vegetables, and often chicken or beef.
• Lamb's Trotter: Slow-cooked and served with rice, this is a popular dish in the region.
• Chicha de Jora: A fermented corn drink, very common throughout the Andean highlands, especially during festivities.
Things to Buy in Juliaca:
• Alpaca Textiles: Sweaters, scarves, ponchos, and blankets made from alpaca wool, very representative of the region.
• Sillar Stone Crafts: Carved figures and other decorative items made from this stone, typical of the Andean region.
• Woolen Blankets: Often handwoven, these blankets are highly valued for their quality and design.
How to Get to Juliaca from Arequipa by Bus
The Arequipa-Juliaca route covers approximately 280 km, with a travel time of 5 to 6 hours, depending on the bus operator and traffic conditions.
Bus Operators for the Arequipa-Juliaca Route
Transzela
Turismo Zolorzano
Destinos
San Martin Nobleza
Real del Sur
Sur Oriente
Boarding Terminal in Arequipa:
Arrival Terminal in Juliaca: