Lima

As both of us had already visited southern Peru before, we flew from La Paz straight to Lima to stay with friends of mine before heading further north. We stayed with Ana Maria and Francisco for three nights and we were spoilt with guided tours, delicious meals out, and getting our clothes washed!

We explored the districts of Barranco and Miraflores out near the coast - where we had a really delicious lunch of ceviche, and other fishy delicacies.

We also enjoyed Sunday brunch with the extended family - and got to try Lima's buttifara sandwiches and tamales - cooked corn paste with chicken.

And Francisco took us on an in-depth tour of downtown Lima, now a bit tired but was once a very elegant centre, with palaces and other grand buildings with impressive wooden balconies.

Then it was time to pack up again and head north to Huaraz on the bus...