Paucartambo Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Paucartambo, Peru, with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore its rich culture, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures.


Introduction to Paucartambo

Paucartambo is a small, picturesque town located in the Southern Sierra of Peru, South America. It is a charming destination that draws tourists with its vibrant festivals, rich culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled in the Andes Mountains, Paucartambo offers a unique blend of historic architecture, quaint streets, and stunning landscapes that will leave you captivated.

List of Places to Visit in Paucartambo

Paucartambo has many attractions to offer to its visitors. Whether you are interested in cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, or scenic views, there is something for everyone. Here is a list of the best places to visit in Paucartambo:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Plaza de Armas: Paucartambo’s main square is surrounded by captivating colonial buildings that have been restored to their original beauty. The square is considered the heart of the town and is the perfect place to relax and soak in the local culture.
  • Casa de las Tradiciones: This cultural center showcases the town’s culture and traditions through exhibitions of traditional clothing, music, and dance.
  • Iglesia de San Francisco: This 18th-century church is one of the most stunning examples of colonial architecture in the town. Its intricate facade and decorated interior make it a must-visit attraction.

Natural Attractions of Paucartambo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tres Cruces Viewpoint: This viewpoint offers a stunning panoramic view of the Andes mountains and is one of the most popular attractions near Paucartambo. Visitors can enjoy a view of the town nestled in the valley below, surrounded by rugged peaks.
  • Lechupuco River: This river runs through the town and is a popular spot for trout fishing and rafting.
  • Pachatusan Mountain: This towering mountain offers a challenging but rewarding trek that provides incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paucartambo

Paucartambo has many hiking and biking options for adventure seekers. From easy treks to challenging mountain climbs, there is something for every skill level. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Paucartambo:

  • Camino del Inca: This ancient trail connects Paucartambo to the nearby town of Tastayoc and offers a stunning view of the Andes mountains.
  • Pachatusan Mountain: This towering mountain offers a challenging but rewarding trek that provides incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Biking Route to Tres Cruces: This biking route takes you to the stunning viewpoint of Tres Cruces, offering unmatched views of the Andes mountains. It is a relatively easy route that is suitable for beginners.

Best Things to Do in Paucartambo: Activities and Tours

Paucartambo offers a multitude of activities and tours that allow visitors to experience the town’s rich culture and natural beauty. Here are some of the best things to do in Paucartambo:

  • Paucartambo Festival: This annual festival is held in July and is a vibrant celebration of the town’s culture and traditions. Visitors can enjoy colorful parades, traditional music and dance performances, and delicious food.
  • Cultural Tour of the Town: This guided tour takes you through the town’s historic streets and introduces you to the fascinating culture and traditions of the locals.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Visitors can enjoy fishing, rafting, mountain biking, and trekking in the stunning Andes mountains that surround Paucartambo.

Week-Long Itinerary for Paucartambo

Paucartambo offers a diverse range of activities and attractions, making it a great place to spend a week exploring. Here is a suggested itinerary for spending a week in Paucartambo:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Paucartambo and explore the town
2 Take a guided tour of the town’s cultural attractions
3 Visit the Casa de las Tradiciones and Iglesia de San Francisco
4 Hike or bike the Camino del Inca trail
5 Enjoy an outdoor adventure such as fishing or rafting
6 Trek the Pachatusan Mountain
7 Soak in the stunning views from Tres Cruces Viewpoint

Food and Drink Scene of Paucartambo

Paucartambo’s food and drink scene is rich with traditional Andean flavors. Visitors can enjoy delicious local dishes and beverages that offer a unique taste of the town’s culture and history. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages in Paucartambo:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chuño: This traditional dish made from freeze-dried potatoes is a staple in the Andean diet.
  • Cuy: This traditional Peruvian dish made from roasted guinea pig is a delicacy in Paucartambo.
  • Pachamanca: This dish is made by slow-cooking meat, potatoes, and vegetables in an underground stone oven.

Local Beverages

  • Chicha: This fermented corn drink is a staple in the Andean diet and is often served during celebrations and festivals.
  • Anisado: This anise-flavored alcoholic beverage is a popular after-dinner drink in Peru.
  • Pisco: This grape-based brandy is the national drink of Peru and is often used in cocktails such as Pisco Sour.

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

Paucartambo offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Paucartambo:

  • Hotel San Francisco: This historic hotel is located in the heart of the town and offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Casa Hospedaje La Soledad: This budget-friendly hostel offers clean and comfortable rooms and is located just a few blocks from the main square.
  • Posada Mama Coca: This charming guesthouse offers cozy rooms and a beautiful garden where visitors can relax and enjoy the views.

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

Paucartambo offers many unique products that visitors can buy as souvenirs or gifts. From traditional clothing to handicrafts, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best local products to bring home from Paucartambo:

  • Alpaca Wool Clothing: Paucartambo is famous for its traditional alpaca wool clothing, including sweaters, ponchos, and hats.
  • Handicrafts: Visitors can buy unique handicrafts such as woven textiles, pottery, and wood carvings from local artisans.
  • Peruvian Coffee: Paucartambo’s coffee is famous for its rich flavor and high quality, making it a great gift for coffee lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of Paucartambo

Paucartambo’s culture and customs are deeply rooted in the Andean traditions of the local people. Visitors can experience this unique culture by attending festivals, visiting cultural attractions, and exploring the town’s streets. Here are some local customs and traditions to keep in mind when visiting Paucartambo:

  • Respect for Pachamama: The local people have a deep reverence for Mother Nature and believe in the importance of living in harmony with the environment.
  • Celebration of Festivals: Paucartambo is famous for its vibrant festivals, which are a celebration of the town’s culture and traditions.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language of Peru, but many locals in Paucartambo speak Quechua, the indigenous language of the Andes.

Best Time to Visit Paucartambo

The best time to visit Paucartambo depends on your interests. The town’s festivals, such as the Paucartambo Festival in July, are a great time to experience the town’s culture and traditions. The dry season, from May to September, is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and biking because the weather is mild and dry.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paucartambo

When visiting Paucartambo, it’s important to respect the local culture and customs. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the environment and leave no trace when hiking or camping.
  • Attend festivals and cultural events to experience the town’s culture and traditions.
  • Try the local food and beverages to get a taste of the town’s unique flavors.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Disrespect the environment by littering or damaging the natural landscape.
  • Use drugs or consume excessive amounts of alcohol.

Safety and Health

When visiting Paucartambo, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety and health. Here are some tips:

Safety in Paucartambo

  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep your valuables safe and secure.
  • Follow the advice of local authorities and use caution when engaging in outdoor activities.

Health in Paucartambo

  • Be prepared for the high altitude by drinking lots of water and taking it easy for the first few days.
  • Take precautions to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Make sure you are up to date on your vaccinations before traveling to Peru.

Getting to Paucartambo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Paucartambo is accessible by road from the cities of Cusco and Lima. Visitors can also take buses or taxis to the town from nearby villages and towns. Here are some transportation options for getting to Paucartambo:

Airports Near Paucartambo

  • Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport: Located in Cusco, this airport is the closest major airport to Paucartambo.

Bus Stations Near Paucartambo

  • Cusco Bus Station: Visitors can take a bus from the Cusco Bus Station to Paucartambo.
  • Lima Bus Station: Visitors can take a bus from the Lima Bus Station to Paucartambo.

Other Options

  • Taxis and Private Cars: Visitors can hire taxis or private cars to travel to Paucartambo from nearby towns and villages.

How to Get Around in Paucartambo

Paucartambo is a small town that can be easily navigated on foot. Visitors can also take taxis or hire private cars to explore the nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Paucartambo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Paucartambo is a great base from which to explore the Andes Mountains and nearby attractions. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Manu National Park: This stunning national park is located southeast of Paucartambo and offers incredible biodiversity and natural beauty.
  • Sacred Valley of the Incas: This valley is home to many ancient ruins and historical sites, including the famous Machu Picchu.
  • Tambopata National Reserve: This reserve is located south of Paucartambo and offers incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.

Conclusion

Paucartambo is a charming and unique destination that offers a diverse range of attractions and activities. From its rich culture and traditions to its stunning natural beauty, there is something for everyone in this hidden gem of the Andes Mountains. Plan your trip today and discover all that Paucartambo has to offer.