Mollepata Travel Guide

Looking for a comprehensive Mollepata travel guide? Explore ancient ruins, hike and bike through scenic routes, enjoy local cuisine, and discover cultural practices and customs in Mollepata.


Introduction to Mollepata

Mollepata is a charming and peaceful town that lies in the Sacred Valley of the Incas region in the Southern Sierra region of Peru. It’s located at an altitude of 9,842 feet above sea level, and it’s surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes and stunning mountain ranges. The town is a perfect getaway for nature lovers who want to experience traditional Andean culture and immerse themselves in the rich history and local customs.

List of Places to Visit in Mollepata

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Casa de la Cultura: This museum has traditional Andean artifacts, pottery, and textiles, as well as a large collection of colonial art and paintings.
  • Qillawyawan: It is a pre-Incan archaeological site with an impressive Sun Stone.
  • Santa Barbara Church: A colonial church with a Baroque façade and an earthquake-proof design.

Natural Attractions of Mollepata: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Soraypampa Valley: The valley offers spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and lush green forests.
  • Humantay Lake: A turquoise-colored glacial lake with a breathtaking view of the valley.
  • Mollepata Waterfall: The waterfall is a beautiful site during the rainy season.
  • Nevado Huaytapallana: This mountain is over 17,500 feet high and offers some of the best views of the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mollepata

Mollepata is known for its stunning hiking and biking trails to scenic sites that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Some of the best routes are:

  • Salkantay Trek: This trek is a popular alternative to the Inca trail and takes you through stunning landscapes, snow-capped mountain passes, and remote Andean villages.
  • Humantay Lake Hike: This is a half-day hike to the turquoise Humantay lake, surrounded by the spectacular snow-capped Salkantay Range.
  • Trek to Inca Sites: Trek through the Quechua communities of Pitumarca, Checacupe, and Ocongate and discover ancient Inca sites.

Best Things to Do in Mollepata: Activities and Tours

  • ATV Tours: Explore Mollepata’s beautiful landscapes on an ATV tour.
  • Zip-lining: Discover the breathtaking views of the mountains while zip-lining through the forests of Mollepata.
  • Horseback Riding: Enjoy riding horses through the valley and experience the traditional Andean lifestyle.
  • Mollepata Food Tour: Discover the flavors and ingredients of traditional Andean cuisine on a Mollepata food tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mollepata

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival, relax, and explore the town.
Day 2 Hike to Humantay Lake.
Day 3 Continue trek to Salkantay mountain pass.
Day 4 Explore Soraypampa Valley.
Day 5 Visit pre-Inca Qillawyawan ruins.
Day 6 Zip-lining and horseback riding.
Day 7 Departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Mollepata

Mollepata is known for its traditional Andean cuisine that blends indigenous and Spanish flavors. Some of the must-try dishes are:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cuy: This dish is roasted guinea pig, which is a traditional Andean delicacy.
  • Lomo Saltado: A stir-fry dish with marinated beef, onions, and tomatoes.
  • Chicha: A fermented corn drink that has been part of Andean culture for centuries.

Local Beverages

  • Mollepata Coffee: Locally grown and roasted coffee that has a unique flavor due to the high altitude and cold-climate growing conditions.
  • Mate de Coca: A hot drink made from coca leaves, which is considered a sacred plant by indigenous people.

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

  • Casa Mollepata Hostel: A charming hostel located in the center of Mollepata.
  • Hotel Kokopelli: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and stunning views of the valley.
  • Mollepata Lodge: A traditional Andean-style lodge with a cozy fireplace in each room.

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

  • Textiles: Mollepata is known for its traditional textiles, which are handwoven by indigenous women.
  • Pottery: The town has a long tradition of pottery making, and you can find beautiful pieces that range from traditional to contemporary styles.
  • Mountain Coffee: Mollepata’s high-altitude coffee is a unique and delicious souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Mollepata

  • Festivals: Mollepata celebrates various festivals throughout the year, including the feast of Saint Sebastian and the Qoyllur Rit’i pilgrimage.
  • Textile Weaving: Women in Mollepata make intricate textiles using ancient weaving techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation.
  • Agriculture: Mollepata has a long tradition of agriculture, and the town’s economy relies heavily on small-scale farming.

Best Time to Visit Mollepata

The best time to visit Mollepata is between May and October when the weather is dry and sunny.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mollepata

Do:

  • Respect local customs and culture.
  • Carry cash, as many businesses may not accept credit or debit cards.
  • Hire a local guide for treks and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Touch or remove any artifacts or historical ruins without permission.
  • Enter any sacred sites or buildings without permission.
  • Take photographs of locals without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mollepata

Mollepata is generally a safe place, but it is always advisable to take precautions while traveling, such as keeping your belongings with you at all times and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Mollepata

Mollepata is at a high altitude, and visitors may experience altitude sickness. It is advisable to acclimatize slowly and drink plenty of fluids.

Getting to Mollepata: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mollepata

  • Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport: The closest airport to Mollepata, located about 3 hours away.
  • Jorge Chavez International Airport: Located in Lima, about a 12-hour bus ride away from Mollepata.

Bus Stations Near Mollepata

  • Cusco Bus Station: Located in Cusco, about a 4-hour bus ride away from Mollepata.

Other Options

  • Private Taxi Services: Hop on a private taxi from Cusco to Mollepata.

How to Get Around in Mollepata

The best way to get around Mollepata is on foot, as the town is small and easily walkable. Taxis are also a good option for exploring nearby sites and towns.

Where to Go Next from Mollepata: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cusco: A historic city and the gateway to Machu Picchu.
  • Ocongate: A traditional Andean town known for its colorful festivals and magnificent views of the mountains.
  • Pitumarca: A quaint village known for its spectacular rainbow mountains.

Conclusion

Mollepata is a hidden gem in the Andean Mountains, with stunning natural landscapes, rich culture, and welcoming locals. From hiking trails to traditional cuisine, this town has something for every traveler. So why wait? Plan your visit to Mollepata and discover the land of the Incas.