When summer arrives, Peruvians seek destinations where sun, sand, and culture come together in a single experience. Two of the most iconic places to enjoy this season are Mollendo , in the Arequipa region, and Huanchaco , in La Libertad. Both celebrate their Tourism Week with activities that combine local traditions, seafood, sports, and festivals, attracting visitors from all over the country.
Every January, thousands of families travel to these resorts to enjoy not only their beaches, but also their coastal identity and joy.
👉 Recommended: Calendar of summer fairs and festivals in Peru
Mollendo Tourism Week: Tradition and Sun in Arequipa
A destination with history and flavor
Mollendo's Tourism Week is celebrated every year during the first days of January , marking the official start of the summer season in southern Peru. This coastal city, known as "the pearl of the south," welcomes visitors from Arequipa, Puno, Moquegua, and Tacna, drawn by its expansive beaches and festive atmosphere.
The main activities include:
Opening parade with bands, floats and typical dances from the south.
Sandcastle competition and surf festivals.
"Flavors of Mollendo" Gastronomic Fair , featuring dishes such as ceviche, fried fish, garlic seafood, and artisanal ice cream.
Beauty festival and election of the Summer Queen .
Nighttime cultural events featuring performances of Creole music and local rock.
Mollendo also offers natural attractions such as Catarindo beach , the Enchanted Cave and the Mariscal Castilla Avenue viewpoint, perfect for family tourism.
👉 You can complement this with the article Recommended tourist destinations by month in Peru
Huanchaco Tourism Week: tradition and surfing in the north
Where the Moche culture meets the sea
Huanchaco, in the province of Trujillo, celebrates its Tourism Week between mid-January and February. This event combines the historical legacy of the Moche civilization with the customs of the artisanal fishermen, renowned for their reed boats , a symbol of the seaside resort and a Cultural Heritage of Peru.
During this festival, activities such as the following take place:
Maritime procession with reed boats , an ancestral tradition.
Surfing and Hawaiian board competitions , with the participation of national and international athletes.
Mochica craft exhibition , showcasing traditional ceramics and textiles.
Gastronomic fair of the north chico , highlighting dishes such as Trujillo ceviche, shámbar and theologian soup.
Parade and serenade in the main square of Huanchaco .
In addition, Huanchaco is part of the Moche Route , so its Tourist Week is complemented by cultural tours to the Temples of the Sun and Moon and the Chan Chan archaeological complex.
👉 You can also read: Cultural tourist routes of northern Peru
Comparison: Mollendo vs. Huanchaco
| Aspect | Mollendo | Huanchaco |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Arequipa (South) | La Libertad (North) |
| Climate | Dry and sunny, ideal for the beach | Temperate tropical, with sea breeze |
| Main activities | Parades, food fairs, sand contests | Surfing, Mochica culture, artisanal fishing |
| Typical dish | Fish cracklings | Trujillo-style ceviche |
| Special attraction | Wide beaches and viewpoints | Reed boats and archaeology |
| Date of celebration | First week of January | Mid-January to February |
Tips for enjoying Tourist Weeks
Plan your accommodation in advance , especially in Huanchaco, where hotel demand is high.
Support local tourism by buying artisanal products and participating in food fairs.
Respect the natural and cultural environment , especially in protected areas or archaeological sites.
Take the opportunity to visit nearby destinations , such as the Majes Valley (from Mollendo) or Chan Chan and the Las Delicias resort (from Huanchaco).
The importance of these weeks for national tourism
The Tourism Weeks in Mollendo and Huanchaco are examples of how domestic tourism strengthens regional economies and fosters pride in local traditions. These celebrations not only boost the hotel and restaurant industries but also revitalize the art, music, and history of each region.
The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) has stated on several occasions that these activities are fundamental for sustainable and decentralized tourism , a trend that is gaining strength among Peruvian travelers.