TheFlyingCamera
Well-known
I'm thinking of taking my next vacation to Peru, and I was wondering if there are any analog photographers from Lima, Cusco, or Arequipa here who could provide some advice on things like getting around within the country, any special sights/activities/galleries/museums, and on a lesser note, availability of 120 film just in case I run out. I speak fluent but rusty Spanish, so getting around and doing things isn't a problem. I'll have roughly 7-10 days in-country, and my dates of travel are flexible. I'm looking to travel sometime between March 2013 and May 2013, so if there are any festivals/events worth attending or that I should plan to skip given the short notice (lack of hotel rooms, etc), I'd also appreciate the feedback.
Jabberwockt
Newbie
Been a few years since i visited, but Lima is supposely a little less safe if you wander away from the Miraflores area. Cusco is a a feast for the eyes, not just the sights, but wandering around the city is great fun it itself. And Arequipa, there is a good trekking/mountaineering guide company in the Lonely planet guide if you plan to go up El Misti or Chichani - can't help you out on the film thing though, but if you go trekking up either mountains, film is probably better since batteries tend to die in the cold.
TheFlyingCamera
Well-known
I'll be happy to just look at those mountains, not climb them. I'm not particularly fit even at sea level, let alone at 15,000+ feet. My main camera will be a Rolleiflex 2.8E, with the original meter in it that doesn't use batteries.
Mablo
Well-known
I would consider skipping Lima and heading straight to Cusco. Do remember that Cusco is at 3000 meters so you do need to take it VERY easy for a day or two to avoid altitude sickness. I wasn't careful enough and did spend two days in my hostel feeling absolutely miserable. From Cusco you can take a scenic train to Aquas Calientes which lies at the bottom of Macchu Picchu.