Tarma

A charming town known as the flower city of Peru, featuring a pleasant climate, colonial plaza, and proximity to the spectacular Caverna de Tutishcainyo cave system. The surrounding region offers opportunities for hiking, cave exploration, and experiencing authentic Andean life.

Things to do

• Caverna de Tutishcainyo — Explore this spectacular cave system featuring underground rivers, stalactites, and stalagmites located about 9 km from town.
• Plaza de Armas — Stroll through Tarma's charming colonial square surrounded by flowering gardens, the cathedral, and local shops.
• Hiking to Cascada Velo de Novia — Trek to this beautiful waterfall (Bridal Veil) through cloud forest and alpine meadows near the town.
• Tarma Flower Market — Visit the vibrant flower market where local vendors sell fresh carnations, roses, and regional blooms that earned Tarma its 'flower city' reputation.
• Palcamayo Archaeological Sites — Explore pre-Incan ruins and ancient stone structures in the surrounding hills offering insights into local history.
• Cloud Forest Walks — Hike through misty montane forests rich in orchids, bromeliads, and endemic bird species around the Tarma region.

Food to try

• Papa a la Huancaína — Boiled potatoes covered in a creamy yellow sauce made from aji amarillo peppers, cheese, and evaporated milk, served cold as a traditional Andean appetizer.
• Trucha a la Tarmeña — Fresh local trout prepared with local herbs and served with potatoes and corn, showcasing the region's high-altitude fish.
• Cuy al Horno — Guinea pig roasted until crispy and served with corn, potatoes, and spicy sauce, a traditional Peruvian highland delicacy.
• Humita — A savory corn cake steamed in corn husks, often filled with cheese and olives, representing authentic Andean cuisine.
• Tarmeña Fresh Honey and Fruit Jams — Local artisanal honey and fruit preserves made from regional berries and flowers, perfect as gifts or breakfast accompaniments.

Local customs & good to know

• Greet with respect in Spanish — While some English is spoken in tourist areas, Tarma residents speak Spanish and appreciate attempts to greet them in their language and use formal 'usted' with strangers.
• Visit early mornings for markets — Local markets and flower vendors are most vibrant before 9 AM when Tarmeños conduct their daily shopping; this is the best time to experience authentic activity.
• Respect local customs during Easter Week — Tarma celebrates Holy Week intensely with religious processions and festive activities; visitors should be respectful of religious ceremonies and dress modestly.
• Acclimatize to the altitude — Tarma sits at 3,050 meters (10,007 feet); arrive a day early, drink coca tea, and avoid strenuous activity to adjust to the thin mountain air.