Cerro de Pasco Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Cerro de Pasco, Peru. Plan your next adventure with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Cerro de Pasco

Cerro de Pasco is a picturesque town located in the Central Sierra region of Peru. It is situated in the Andes Mountains and is known for its rich cultural history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant local culture. With its bustling markets, colorful architecture, and delicious cuisine, this high-altitude town is a must-see destination for anyone traveling to Peru.

List of Places to Visit in Cerro de Pasco

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cerro de Pasco has several museums and historical attractions that are worth visiting. One such museum is the Museo Taurino, which showcases the town’s rich history with bullfighting. Another popular museum is the Museo Municipal Vicente Eguiguren, which features exhibits on the town’s mining history and traditional Andean culture. Additionally, the colonial-era Church of San Francisco is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and beautiful artwork.

Natural Attractions of Cerro de Pasco: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Cerro de Pasco is home to several natural attractions, such as the stunning Lake Junin, which is known for its gorgeous blue waters and surrounding mountain range. The area also offers several hiking trails, such as the Huaytapallana Circuit, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. Another popular activity is mountain biking, with several companies offering guided tours of the surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cerro de Pasco

Cerro de Pasco offers several world-class hiking and mountain biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. One popular trail is the Huaytapallana Circuit, which takes hikers through beautiful high-altitude scenery and past several small farming villages. Another popular trail is the San Juan Trail, which winds its way through scenic forests and past several stunning waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Cerro de Pasco: Activities and Tours

In addition to the outdoor adventures mentioned above, Cerro de Pasco also offers several fun activities for visitors. One such activity is horseback riding, with several local companies offering guided tours of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the town’s historic silver mines, which played a crucial role in the town’s economic development.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cerro de Pasco

Day 1: Explore the town’s colonial-era architecture and visit the Church of San Francisco. Day 2: Take a guided tour of the historic silver mines in the area. Day 3: Hike the scenic Huaytapallana Circuit. Day 4: Take a guided mountain biking tour of the surrounding mountains. Day 5: Visit the Museo Taurino and the Museo Municipal Vicente Eguiguren. Day 6: Take a horseback riding tour of the surrounding mountains. Day 7: Relax and enjoy the local cuisine and culture.

Food and Drink Scene of Cerro de Pasco

Must-Try Dishes

Cerro de Pasco is known for its delicious cuisine, which features hearty traditional Andean dishes. One such dish is the classic lomo saltado, a stir-fry dish consisting of beef, onions, tomatoes, and french fries. Another classic dish is the aji de gallina, a creamy chicken stew served over rice.

Local Beverages

Visitors to Cerro de Pasco should try the classic Peruvian drink, pisco sour, which is made with pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg whites. Another popular local drink is the chicha morada, a non-alcoholic drink made with purple corn, cinnamon, cloves, and sugar.

Where to Stay in Cerro de Pasco: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cerro de Pasco offers several options for accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to more luxurious hotels. Some popular options include Hotel Tren Central, San Francisco Lodge and Spa, and Hotel El Bosque.

What to Buy in Cerro de Pasco: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Cerro de Pasco can take home several unique souvenirs, such as locally-crafted ceramics, colorful textiles, and traditional Andean musical instruments. Additionally, visitors can purchase local products, such as locally-produced cheeses, chocolate, and coffee.

Local Culture and Customs of Cerro de Pasco

Cerro de Pasco has a rich cultural history, which visitors can experience through its vibrant local markets, traditional festivals, and colorful architecture. Visitors should be aware that the town has a high-altitude climate, and should take necessary precautions to prevent altitude sickness, such as staying hydrated and taking it easy for the first few days in town.

Best Time to Visit Cerro de Pasco

The best time to visit Cerro de Pasco is during the dry season, which typically runs from May through September. This season offers clear skies and mild temperatures, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cerro de Pasco

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Do take the necessary precautions for the high-altitude climate.
  • Do explore the town’s rich cultural history and architecture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t underestimate the altitude and take necessary precautions.
  • Don’t litter or damage the surrounding natural environment.
  • Don’t disrespect the local culture or customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cerro de Pasco

Cerro de Pasco is a relatively safe town, although visitors should take necessary precautions to prevent theft and be aware of their surroundings, particularly at night.

Health in Cerro de Pasco

Visitors to Cerro de Pasco should be aware of the high-altitude climate, which can cause altitude sickness in some individuals. Visitors should take necessary precautions, such as staying hydrated and taking it easy for the first few days in town.

Getting to Cerro de Pasco: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cerro de Pasco can be reached by several modes of transportation, including air travel and bus travel.

Airports Near Cerro de Pasco

The nearest airport to Cerro de Pasco is the Jauja Francisco Carle Airport, which is located approximately 53 miles away from the town.

Bus Stations Near Cerro de Pasco

Cerro de Pasco has several bus stations, which connect the town to other destinations throughout Peru.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Cerro de Pasco by car or on foot, although these options are more time-consuming and require more planning.

How to Get Around in Cerro de Pasco

Cerro de Pasco is a small town and can easily be explored on foot. Additionally, several local companies offer guided tours of the surrounding mountains and natural attractions.

Where to Go Next from Cerro de Pasco: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Cerro de Pasco can explore several nearby destinations, such as the colonial-era town of Huari, the popular surfing destination of Huanchaco, or the ancient ruins of the Chavín de Huantar archaeological site.

Conclusion

Cerro de Pasco is a charming town located in the heart of the Andes Mountains, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and vibrant local culture. Plan your next adventure to Cerro de Pasco with this comprehensive travel guide, and discover all that this beautiful Peruvian town has to offer.