Peru - Lonely Planet Publications [99]
Hotel Residencial San Jorge (Map; 53-2885; www.hotelsanjorgeresidencial.com; Barrio Nuevo 133; r incl breakfast US$15-48; ) This recently renovated hotel has a breezy, modern entryway, bright cafe, and back garden with lounge chairs and tables for picnicking. Rooms are spotless, with a splash of tropical color and style, though those in the older wing can be dark and cramped.
Hostal Tambo Colorado (Map; 53-1379; www.hostaltambocolorado.com; Bolognesi 159; s/d/tr S50/60/90; ) This hostel is run by a delightful couple who will instill you with true pride for Pisco – both the town and the beverage! Breakfast from S6 is offered in a sunny outdoor sitting area where guests can also use the communal kitchen.
Hostal Villa Manuelita (Map; 53-5218; www.villamanuelitahostal.com; San Francisco 227; s/d/tr incl breakfast S70/95/125; ) Heavily renovated postearthquake, this hotel still achieves the grandeur of its colonial foundations. Plus, it’s conveniently located half a block from the plaza.
PARACAS
If arriving directly to Paracas, most hotels and hostels will pick you up from the bus terminal upon request.
Muca House (Map; 54-5141; mucahouse@hotmail.com; Plaza de Armas; dm per person incl breakfast S15) Digs truly built for backpackers, Muca House offers rooms of four or six beds each. The grounds are dusty and bathrooms not always kept clean, but guests are allowed kitchen privileges.
Hostal Refugio del Pirata (Map; 54-5054; refugiodelpirata@hotmail.com; Av Paracas 6; s/d/tr incl breakfast S60/70/90; ) Rooms are bland but get the job done, and some have ocean views. The upstairs terrace provides a pleasant setting to sip a pisco sour while watching the sunset. Ask to borrow kitchen facilities.
Hostal Santa Maria (Map; 54-5045; www.santamariahostal.com; Av Paracas s/n; s/d/tr incl breakfast S80/100/120; ) Rooms here are functional and squeaky clean, all with cable TV. Staff are knowledgeable and can help arrange tours, though are sometimes preoccupied with looking after the restaurant next door.
Hotel El Mirador (Map; 54-5086; hotel@elmiradorhotel.com; Km 20 Carr Paracas; s/d/tr incl breakfast S102/138/178; ) Hidden in the sand dunes before the entrance to Paracas, El Mirador is a peaceful oasis. With a privileged spot above the bay, many rooms afford ocean views, while others look upon the pool and inner courtyard, and out to the dunes beyond.
Posada del Emancipador (Map; 95-667-2163; www.posadadelemancipador.com; Av Paracas 25; s/d/tr/ste incl breakfast US$50/60/70/130; ) Perfect for families and large groups, this modern complex has a number of well-maintained rooms as well as bungalows with kitchenettes and balconies that overlook the pool, all with charming decoration and some with ocean views.
Hotel El Cóndor (Map; 53-2818; elcondor@hotelcondor.com; Lote 4, Santo Domingo; s/d/tr incl breakfast US$50/80/90; ) A tranquil spot to lounge right on the bay. Rooms are a bit generic and look out to either the bay or the garden. It also boasts a full-service restaurant with a fireplace and a cozy common room.
Hotel Libertador Paracas (Map; in Lima 01-518-6500; www.libertador.com.pe; Av Paracas 178; r from US$230; ) Formerly the Hotel Paracas, after the 2007 earthquake this hotel was gutted and reopened as part of the opulent Libertador chain. This exclusive resort hotel borders the bay and boasts beautiful grounds, an infinity pool, and fast-boat tours of the Islas Ballestas from its private dock.
Eating & Drinking
PISCO
Only a few cafes in Pisco open early enough for breakfast before an Islas Ballestas tour, so many hotels include breakfast in their rates.
El Dorado (Map; 53-4367; Progreso 171; menús from S9, mains S8-35; 6:30am-11pm) For breakfasts as well as tasty menús (set meals) this restaurant is a hit, and it’s located smack dab on the Plaza de Armas.
As de Oro’s (off Map; 53-2010; San Martín 472; mains from S15; noon-midnight Tue-Sun) A few blocks west of the Plaza de Armas, this is another popular option for heaping