Quillabamba Travel Guide

Plan your ideal trip to Quillabamba with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring all the top attractions, activities, accommodations, dining options, and more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Quillabamba, Peru

Nestled in the Southern Sierra region of Peru, Quillabamba is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone, from adventure seekers and history buffs to foodies and culture aficionados. Known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and fantastic outdoor adventures, Quillabamba is a must-visit destination that can be explored all year round. In this travel guide, we will take you through everything you need to know to plan your ideal Quillabamba trip, from the top attractions and activities to the best places to dine, stay, and shop. So pack your bags, and let’s explore Quillabamba together!

Introduction to Quillabamba

Quillabamba is a small town in the La Convención Province of the Cusco Region, situated at an altitude of about 3,000 feet above sea level. It is known as Peru’s coffee capital and is surrounded by the beautiful Andes Mountains. The town’s name comes from the Quechua words “killawampu” which means golden bridge, and “pampa” which means plain.

Now that you know a bit about the town let’s explore some of the top attractions and activities to enjoy in Quillabamba.

List of Places to Visit in Quillabamba

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Antonio Lorena: If you are a history buff, then Museo Antonio Lorena is a must-visit destination in Quillabamba. It is a small museum that showcases the region’s history through various exhibits.
  • Santuario del Señor de Torrechayoc: This beautiful religious destination attracts a lot of devotees and tourists alike. Located about an hour from Quillabamba, this sanctuary is known for its stunning architecture and picturesque location.
  • Petroglyphs of Pusharo: The petroglyphs of Pusharo are a series of ancient rock carvings that date back to the pre-Inca era. Located in a remote area of Quillabamba, a visit to Pusharo is a challenging adventure and requires a local guide.

Natural Attractions of Quillabamba: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Machu Picchu: No visit to Peru is complete without witnessing the grandeur of Machu Picchu. Located a few hours away from Quillabamba, experience the beautiful ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage site and enjoy the scenic view offered.
  • Amarakaeri Communal Reserve: This stunning nature reserve is home to a significant variety of flora and fauna. It has some great hiking trails perfect for nature lovers, and the reserve is home to indigenous communities with rich cultural heritage.
  • Jardin Botanico Vida y Esperanza: This beautiful botanical garden is a perfect place for nature lovers, located in the middle of the town. The garden offers a diverse variety of flora and fauna, including indigenous plants, orchids, and medicinal plants.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Quillabamba

  • Choquequirao: This beautiful hiking trail provides stunning views of the Andes Mountains and is known as one of the toughest treks in Peru.
  • Camino del Inca Jungle Trek: This trek covers the scenic view, famous coffee plantations, and indigenous communities of the region. It is suited for those seeking both adventure and cultural immersion.

Best Things to Do in Quillabamba: Activities and Tours

  • Coffee Tours: Quillabamba is famous for its coffee production. Take a tour of one of the many coffee plantations to witness the whole process of coffee production from planting the seed to roasting the beans, tasting the final product.
  • River Rafting: Take a thrilling spin down the Urubamba River - a perfect way to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Andes. Experienced guides are available to make the activity safe and enjoyable for all!.
  • Paragliding: Explore the beautiful town from a bird’s eye view through a paragliding adventure. Experience the thrill of flying while enjoying the stunning views of the Andes mountains and the Urubamba River.

Week-Long Itinerary for Quillabamba

Day 1: Arrival in Quillabamba, Visit Museo Antonio Lorena

Day 2: Hiking Choquequirao Trek

Day 3: River Rafting

Day 4: Visit Santuario del Señor de Torrechayoc

Day 5: Paragliding Over Quillabamba

Day 6: Coffee Tour, Jardin Botanico Vida y Esperanza

Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Quillabamba

Quillabamba offers some of the best cuisine in Peru. With a variety of dishes to choose from, you are sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds!

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ceviche De Trucha: Made with fresh trout, marinated in lime juice, and served with sweet potatoes, red onions, and corn.
  • Tamales: This traditional dish consists of seasoned meat (chicken, beef, or pork), tomatoes, and olives wrapped in a corn husk and steamed to perfection.
  • Pachamanca: A traditional Andean dish cooked by layering meats, potatoes, and vegetables over hot stones and cooked over slowly over time.

Local Beverages

  • Peruvian Coffee: Quillabamba is renowned for its coffee plantations, and you can find excellent coffee everywhere in town.
  • Chicha Morada: This traditional non-alcoholic Peruvian drink is a refreshing blend of purple corn, pineapple, and cinnamon.
  • Pisco Sour: A classic Peruvian cocktail made with Pisco (brandy), lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white.

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

Quillabamba offers a broad range of accommodations suitable for travelers of all kinds and budgets. From guest houses to five-star hotels, options are plenty.

  • Hotel La Posada: Known for its colonial charm, Hotel La Posada offers cozy rooms with beautiful garden views.
  • Tambo Lilac: A vibrant and colorful hostel conveniently located in the center of town.
  • El Imperio Hotel: A great choice if looking for a luxury hotel in Quillabamba. The hotel is a perfect blend of modern and traditional design incorporating Peruvian artistry, which results in beautifully designed up-to-date rooms.

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

Quillabamba has some unique and authentic products to take back home as souvenirs. Some of the best options include:

  • Peruvian Coffee: Take home a bag or two of some of the best coffee that Peru has to offer.
  • Hats and Ponchos: Usual attire for local people is Ponchos and Big Hats, making it a good souvenir for friends or family.
  • Local Handicrafts: Beautiful hand-made souvenirs with unique designs popular with tourists.

Local Culture and Customs of Quillabamba

Quillabamba has its unique culture and customs that visitors should respect and follow during their visit. Some of the customs and cultural practices to keep in mind include:

  • The custom of the Chaccu: By being part of this traditional practice, locals express their gratitude to Mother Nature for the wool they use for their clothing. The practice involves trimming the wool of the llamas.
  • Respect for the Environment: Quillabambina people consider their environment and natural resources to be very sacred and are cautious in taking care of it and being environmentally responsible is a norm.

Best Time to Visit Quillabamba

Quillabamba can be visited all year round, however, the best time to visit is from June to September when there is less precipitation and the weather is pleasantly warm.

Do’s and Don’ts of Quillabamba

Do:

  • Learn a few basic Spanish words.
  • Respect local customs and culture.
  • Try the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing outside beach areas.
  • Leave valuables unattended.
  • Disrespect nature.

Safety and Health

Safety in Quillabamba

While Quillabamba is generally a safe place, it is always best to take precautions such as carrying minimal cash and keeping belongings safe.

Health in Quillabamba

Quillabamba is a high-altitude destination, and altitude sickness can be a problem. It’s essential to acclimatize to the altitude slowly, drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, and avoid overexertion.

Getting to Quillabamba: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Quillabamba

  • Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ): This airport is about a four-hour drive from Quillabamba.

Bus Stations Near Quillabamba

  • Cusco Terminal Terrestre: Buses leave from here daily to Quillabamba.

Other Options

  • Taxis and private cars are also available for hire, but these are relatively expensive options.

How to Get Around in Quillabamba

Quillabamba is a small town with most attractions within walking distance, but there are also taxis and tuk-tuks or 3-wheeler carts to hire.

Where to Go Next from Quillabamba: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Machu Picchu: Peru’s most famous tourist attraction is a few hours’ drive from Quillabamba.
  • Cusco City: This famous city with a rich history and culture is also a few hours’ drive from Quillabamba.
  • The Sacred Valley: Located in the Andean highlands, a few hours from Quillabamba, this beautiful valley hosts many spectacular sites.

Conclusion

Quillabamba is a small, enchanting town packed with adventure, natural beauty, and cultural authenticity. From adrenaline-inducing outdoor adventures to engaging cultural experiences, Quillabamba has something for every type of traveler. Plan your trip to this hidden gem and discover why it’s worth visiting!