Abancay Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Abancay, including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, safety tips, and more.


Abancay, located in Southern Sierra, is a beautiful city in Peru that offers a perfect blend of natural and cultural attractions. With its breathtaking scenery, rich history and vibrant culture, Abancay is a popular destination for travelers from around the world. This comprehensive travel guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to Abancay.

Introduction to Abancay

Abancay is a city in the Apurimac region of Peru, located in the southern part of the country. It is nestled in the Andes mountain range, and is surrounded by stunning scenery of snow-capped peaks, deep canyons, and beautiful valleys. The city is rich in history and culture, with a mix of Inca, colonial, and modern architecture.

List of Places to Visit in Abancay

Abancay has a variety of attractions that cater to different interests. Here are some must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of the Culture: This museum provides an insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region, with a collection of artifacts, paintings and other exhibits.

  • Cusco-Raymi Temple: This temple was built by the Incas, and is a well-preserved piece of Inca architecture, with beautifully carved stone walls and impressive masonry.

Natural Attractions of Abancay: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tamburco Hill: This scenic hill offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains, and is a great place for hiking.

  • Capaq Ñan: This is an ancient Inca trail that stretches across the region, and is perfect for trekking and enjoying the landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Abancay

Abancay is a great destination for adventure seekers, with many hiking and biking trails available for tourists. Some popular routes are:

  • Capaq Ñan: This famous Inca trail is a great option for hiking, and offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

  • San Cristobal: This hill offers a challenging but beautiful hike, with views overlooking the city and the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Abancay: Activities and Tours

Abancay has plenty of activities and tours on offer for tourists. Here are a few must-try activities:

  • Visit the local markets and shops: Abancay has a vibrant market scene, with many unique and authentic handcrafted products available, such as textiles, ceramics and jewelry.

  • Take a city tour: A tour of the city will give you a chance to explore the different historical and cultural landmarks of Abancay, and get a deeper understanding of its heritage.

Week-Long Itinerary for Abancay

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Abancay:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Abancay and check-in at your hotel
2 Visit the Museum of the Culture and explore the city’s architecture
3 Hike to Tamburco Hill and enjoy the panoramic views of the city
4 Take a tour of the surrounding Inca ruins and learn about the history of the region
5 Explore the local markets and indulge in some authentic Peruvian cuisine
6 Take a biking tour of the region, and enjoy the scenic landscapes
7 Depart Abancay

Food and Drink Scene of Abancay

Peruvian cuisine is famous for its bold flavors and use of fresh ingredients. Abancay is no exception, and has a vibrant food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cuy: This traditional Peruvian dish is made of guinea pig, and is a delicacy in the region.

  • Aji de Gallina: This chicken stew is made with aji amarillo, a Peruvian chili pepper, and is a popular dish across the country.

Local Beverages

  • Pisco: This is a grape brandy, made in Peru, and is a staple drink across the country.

  • Chicha: This is a sweet, fermented corn drink, and is a favorite in the Andean region.

Where to Stay in Abancay: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Abancay has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budget and comfort levels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel Turismo: This hotel provides comfortable and affordable accommodation, with a central location in the city.

  • Kuntur Wassi Guest House: This guest house is known for its warm hospitality and beautiful views, and is a great option for those who want a homely feel.

What to Buy in Abancay: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Abancay is known for its textiles, ceramics, and jewelry, all crafted by local artisans. Here are some recommended souvenirs to bring back:

  • Alpaca wool products: Alpaca wool is a soft and warm material, and is turned into beautiful scarves, hats, and shawls, among other things.

  • Ceramics and pottery: The region’s history of pottery dates back centuries, and the local artisans create beautiful and intricate pieces.

Local Culture and Customs of Abancay

Abancay has a rich cultural heritage, and its people are warm and welcoming. The people of Abancay are known for their colorful dress and lively music and dance performances. It is important to respect the local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering someone’s home, and greeting people with a handshake or kiss on the cheek.

Best Time to Visit Abancay

The best time to visit Abancay is from May to November, when the weather is dry and sunny. The rainy season runs from December to April, and the trails and roads can be slippery and difficult to navigate.

Do’s and Don’ts of Abancay

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Learn some basic Spanish, as it will make it easier to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Leave your belongings unattended, especially in crowded areas.
  • Wear revealing or provocative clothing, as modest dress is the norm in Abancay.

Safety and Health

Safety in Abancay

Abancay is generally a safe city, but it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Here are some safety tips:

  • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas.
  • Don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you, and keep your belongings close to you.

Health in Abancay

It is important to take some basic health precautions before traveling to Abancay. Here are some tips:

  • Visit your doctor before traveling, and make sure you are up-to-date on all required immunizations.
  • Pack some basic first-aid supplies, such as painkillers and anti-diarrhea medication.

Getting to Abancay: Transportation Options and Logistics

Abancay is easily accessible by air, bus or train, and taxis and buses are readily available in the city. Here are some options:

Airports Near Abancay

  • Andahuaylas Airport is the closest airport, located 50km from Abancay.

  • Cusco Airport is also a good option, and is located around 833 km from Abancay.

Bus Stations Near Abancay

  • Abancay Terminal Terrestre is the main bus station in the city, and is well connected to other major destinations in the region.

Other Options

  • Train: The closest train station is in Cusco, and trains run regularly from there to other parts of Peru.

How to Get Around in Abancay

Abancay is a small city, and it is easy to get around on foot or by public transport. Taxis and buses are available, and are inexpensive and convenient.

Where to Go Next from Abancay: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Abancay is a great base for exploring other parts of the region, with many beautiful destinations within reach. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Cusco: This historic city is located around 3 ½ hours from Abancay, and is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery.

  • Machu Picchu: This ancient Inca city is one of the most famous attractions in Peru, and is located around 4 hours from Abancay.

Conclusion

Abancay is a hidden gem in the heart of the Andes, and its rich cultural heritage, stunning scenery and exciting activities make it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic Peruvian experience. Follow this comprehensive guide to Abancay to ensure you make the most of your trip and come away with a deep appreciation for this unforgettable destination.