With its vast collection of indigenous cultures and long history of immigration, Peru is well known for its ethnic diversity, but there is one Peruvian community that most visitors do not expect to find: the Germanic people of Oxapampa and Pozuzo.

Here, in the high jungle on the edge of the Amazon rainforest itself, blond haired and blue eyed children play in the fields, Alpine-style buildings line the streets and during fiestas, the lederhosen comes out for a good old German knees up.

Lederhosen and German dancing in Oxapampa. Photograph, Your Peru Guide 2009

Part of the European exodus of the 19th century, these folks found themselves in this isolated region of Peru almost entirely by accident, having trekked for two years across the coastal desert followed by the Andes mountains before eventually reaching this habitable land, ideal for dairy farming and cattle ranching.

Once they arrived, they established farms and created a largely self-sufficient, thriving community.

Oxapampa's Alpine-style church. Photograph, Your Peru Guide 2009

Oxapampa and the older town of Pozuzo are quiet, friendly settlements in the heart of the rolling, green hills that represent the end of the Andes and the beginnings of the Amazon. Both towns have several decent hostels, services and restaurants, including all sorts of central European food, and more than a couple of beer-cellar inspired bars (although only Peruvian lager is available).

Getting to the region from Lima is relatively easy. Transporte Junin runs frequent services from Lima to the town of La Merced (go overnight and you’ll wake up in La Merced by 7am), from where you can catch a bus or collectivo taxi to Oxapampa (2-3 hours) or onwards to Pozuzo (another couple of hours).

Aside from the cultural experience of seeing German life in the Peruvian jungle (especially in Pozuzo where the Germanic traditions remain especially strong) the area is also fine for day hikes through the pleasant landscapes, and a great place to stock up on the locally made cheeses and coffee. Ask around and locals will be happy to point you towards a decent footpath.

One last personal recommendation: the juice bar on the corner of Oxapampa’s main square opposite the wooden Alpine church serves up the best fresh juice imaginable. If you’ve got the stomach for it go for a surtido especial atomico, and she’ll add a beer and raw egg to your juice – a perfect hangover drink.