Southern Sierra Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Southern Sierra in Peru with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Southern Sierra

Located in Peru’s southern highlands, the Southern Sierra region is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and adventurous outdoor activities. This area is home to iconic attractions such as Machu Picchu, but also boasts plenty of hidden gems waiting to be explored. In this travel guide, we will introduce you to Southern Sierra and provide you with everything you need to plan the ultimate Peruvian adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Sierra

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Southern Sierra is home to a plethora of museums and historical sites that offer fascinating insights into Peru’s vibrant culture and history. Some of the must-visit places include:

  • Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites
  • The Inca Trail, a 26-mile hike that takes you through stunning mountain scenery and ancient Incan ruins
  • The Museum of Andean Sanctuaries in Arequipa, which houses the frozen remains of three Inca children sacrificed to the gods
  • The Sillustani burial towers near Lake Titicaca, which offer a glimpse into the traditions of the ancient Colla people

Natural Attractions of Southern Sierra: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Southern Sierra is also known for its spectacular natural beauty, which offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Some of the top natural attractions in the region include:

  • Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons and home to the majestic Andean condor
  • Rainbow Mountain, a stunning natural wonder featuring colorful stripes of rock
  • The Uros floating islands on Lake Titicaca, where you can learn about the unique lifestyle of the Uru people
  • The Cotahuasi Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world and an ideal destination for hiking and trekking

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Sierra

For hiking and biking enthusiasts, Southern Sierra offers a range of options, from the iconic Inca Trail to lesser-known but equally spectacular routes. Some of the best trails include:

  • The Ausangate Trek, a challenging but rewarding hike that takes you through stunning mountain scenery and colorful lakes
  • The Santa Cruz Trek, which offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and traditional villages
  • The Vilcabamba Traverse, a 10-day trek that takes you through remote Andean valleys, high passes, and Inca ruins

Best Things to Do in Southern Sierra: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Southern Sierra offers plenty of other activities and tours to suit all tastes and interests. Some of the top things to do include:

  • Visiting local markets in Cusco and Arequipa to discover traditional crafts, textiles, and foods
  • Taking a guided tour of the Sacred Valley to learn about the Inca Empire and its fascinating history
  • Trying your hand at white-water rafting, paragliding, or rock climbing in the stunning Peruvian countryside
  • Taking a hot air balloon ride over the Nazca Lines, a mysterious collection of ancient geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Sierra

For those who want to maximize their time in Southern Sierra, we recommend this week-long itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Explore Cusco and visit nearby attractions such as Sacsayhuaman, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo
  • Day 3-4: Hike the Inca Trail or take a guided tour to Machu Picchu
  • Day 5-6: Visit the Colca Canyon and witness the majestic Andean condor in flight
  • Day 7: Explore Arequipa and its surrounding attractions, such as the Santa Catalina Convent and the Museum of Andean Sanctuaries

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Sierra

Peruvian cuisine is world-renowned for its diversity, flavors, and use of fresh, local ingredients. Southern Sierra is no exception, and offers a wide range of delicious dishes and drinks to try. Some of the must-taste items include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ceviche, a refreshing dish made with fresh fish, lime juice, chili peppers, and onion
  • Rocoto Relleno, a spicy picante pepper filled with seasoned beef, vegetables, and cheese
  • Lomo Saltado, a stir-fry dish made with beef, tomatoes, onions, and french fries
  • Aji de Gallina, a creamy chicken stew seasoned with chili peppers, garlic, and nuts

Local Beverages

  • Pisco Sour, a classic Peruvian cocktail made with pisco brandy, lime juice, sugar, egg white, and bitters
  • Chicha Morada, a refreshing and sweet non-alcoholic drink made from purple corn, spices, and pineapple
  • Inca Kola, a fizzy and sweet soda that is a favorite of Peruvians

Where to Stay in Southern Sierra: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southern Sierra offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses include:

  • Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, a luxurious eco-friendly hotel nestled in a cloud forest
  • Hostal Le Foyer, a cozy and affordable hostel in the heart of Cusco
  • Casa Andina Premium Arequipa, a stylish hotel with a beautiful colonial courtyard and stunning views of the surrounding mountains

What to Buy in Southern Sierra: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to shopping, Southern Sierra offers plenty of options to discover local crafts and products. Some of the best items to buy include:

  • Alpaca wool sweaters, hats, and scarves, which are soft, warm, and come in a rainbow of colors
  • Pottery and ceramics, which are made by local artisans using traditional techniques
  • Silver jewelry, which is famous for its intricate designs and high quality

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Sierra

Peruvian culture is rich and diverse, with influences from indigenous cultures, European colonialism, and contemporary trends. Some of the key cultural customs and traditions to be aware of include:

  • Quechua, an indigenous language spoken by many people in Southern Sierra
  • The Inca Empire, which dominated much of Peru before being conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century
  • Catholicism, which is the dominant religion in Peru and has been since the colonial era
  • Food and drink, which are central to Peruvian culture and are often shared and enjoyed with family and friends

Best Time to Visit Southern Sierra

The best time to visit Southern Sierra depends on your preferences and activities. The dry season, which runs from May to October, is generally the most popular time to visit and offers clear skies and mild temperatures. The rainy season, which runs from November to April, can be a good time for hiking and exploring, as the landscape turns lush and green.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Sierra

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases and try to communicate with locals
  • Take precautionary measures to protect your health and safety
  • Try local food and drinks

Don’t:

  • Engage in illegal activities such as drug use or trafficking
  • Disrespect sacred sites or religious traditions
  • Leave valuables unattended or walk alone late at night

Safety and Health

Safety in Southern Sierra

Southern Sierra is generally a safe place to visit, but as with any travel destination, it’s important to take common-sense precautions. Some of the key safety tips include:

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas or at night
  • Avoid flashing valuables such as cameras or jewelry in public
  • Take a reputable taxi or use public transportation instead of hitchhiking
  • Stay up-to-date on local news and travel advisories

Health in Southern Sierra

Before traveling to Southern Sierra, it’s important to consult with your doctor about any necessary vaccinations or medications. While in Peru, it’s important to take precautions to protect your health, such as:

  • Drinking bottled or purified water
  • Wearing sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Staying well-rested and hydrated
  • Eating at reputable establishments and avoiding street food

Getting to Southern Sierra: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Southern Sierra

The main airport serving Southern Sierra is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. Other nearby airports include Rodriguez Ballon International Airport in Arequipa and Inca Manco Capac International Airport in Juliaca.

Bus Stations Near Southern Sierra

Southern Sierra is well-connected by bus to other parts of Peru and neighboring countries. Some of the top bus companies serving the region include Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Civa.

Other Options

Train travel is also possible in Southern Sierra, with the famous PeruRail and Inca Rail routes connecting Cusco and Machu Picchu. Taxis and private drivers can also be hired for transport.

How to Get Around in Southern Sierra

The most common modes of transportation in Southern Sierra include private cars, taxis, and buses. Hiking and trekking are also popular options for exploring the stunning natural scenery. Biking and horseback riding are also available in some areas.

Where to Go Next from Southern Sierra: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore after visiting Southern Sierra, some of the nearby destinations and excursions to consider include:

  • The Amazon rainforest, which can be accessed via Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos
  • The Nazca Lines, a mysterious collection of geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert
  • Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world and home to fascinating indigenous cultures

Conclusion

Southern Sierra is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and adventure. With its incredible natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and endless opportunities for exploration and fun, this region of Peru is sure to captivate and inspire. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your best Peruvian adventure yet.



    Abancay
    Andagua
    Andahuaylas
    Andahuaylillas
    Cachora
    Colca Canyon
    Cotahuasi Canyon
    Huancavelica
    Huancayo
    Jauja
    Paucartambo
    Pichanaki
    Quillabamba
    Sacred Valley of the Incas