Each June, La Merced in Junín ripples with excitement as the Festival de la Chicha y la Cultura unfolds. This celebration draws visitors into a spirited blend of tradition, flavors, and landscapes that challenge and captivate in equal measure. Arriving here, you step onto streets alive with the pulse of music, the scent of fermenting chicha, and the laughter of locals proud to share their culture.

Beyond the festive heart of La Merced, the surrounding terrain courts adventure. This town sits at roughly 1,630 meters elevation, framed by the shifting moods of cloud forest and the crest of the Andean foothills. If you choose to explore local trails, prepare for a moderate hike of approximately 8 kilometers round trip, gaining around 450 meters in elevation on uneven, sometimes slippery paths carved into the green walls of the rainforest.

The forest itself acts as a living companion: moss-draped trees lean in, seemingly eager to share stories carried by rivers that dare you to follow their twists and turns. Sounds of unseen wildlife punctuate the hike, encouraging you to stay alert and respect the fierce rhythms of this environment. The trail invites a steady pace that acknowledges the gentle steepness and maintains energy to enjoy moments when the trees part, granting sights that command quiet admiration—sweeping views of valleys where the festival’s vibrant energy seems to pulse even from afar.

As the festival is deeply rooted in celebrating chicha—traditional fermented corn drink—don't miss tasting opportunities at local stalls. The drink is more than refreshment; it’s a cultural artifact, grounded in ancestral methods that transform humble corn into a flavorful experience. Pair these tastes with freshly prepared Andean dishes, another practical reason to sustain yourself well for the day’s activities.

Planning your visit, set your itinerary around the festival dates in early June, but be ready for sudden weather shifts. Footwear with firm grip is essential; the soil, enriched and damp from frequent rains, can transform from welcoming earth to a slick challenge. Carry hydration—local springs are reliable but not always conveniently placed. A lightweight rain jacket and layered clothing will help you adjust quickly to changes in temperature and moisture.

Capturing the festival and surrounding nature through photographs is rewarding. Early mornings reveal soft light filtering through mist, highlighting the chicha stalls and the lush surroundings. Sunset casts a golden hue over La Merced’s rooftops and distant ridges, framing your memories with natural beauty and human vibrancy intertwined.

The Festival de la Chicha y la Cultura is more than a celebration; it's an invitation to engage with a land and people fiercely proud of their roots. Whether dancing with locals, trekking through whispering forests, or savoring a glass of chicha, you’ll find yourself part of a living story that honors the past while celebrating the present.