Going to Chinchero? A practical guide to make the most of your visit.

Did you know there’s a place where the past and present blend together at every turn? Chinchero isn’t as famous as other destinations, but it holds secrets few know. In this blog, I’ll tell you why this small town might surprise you more than you imagine.

History and cultural heritage

What is the historical origin of Chinchero?

Chinchero has pre-Incan origins and was initially inhabited by ethnic groups such as the Ayamarca. Later, during the expansion of the Inca Empire, the site was incorporated by Inca Túpac Yupanqui, who chose it as his royal residence. Terraces, roads, and buildings were built and can still be seen, integrating the architecture into the natural Andean environment.

With the arrival of the Spanish, many of the Inca temples were destroyed or transformed. In Chinchero, for example, a Catholic church was built on an Inca foundation, reflecting the cultural overlapping characteristic of the colonial era. This process marked the beginning of a period of syncretism that is still felt in the daily life of the people.

What does “Chinchero” mean in Quechua?

The name “Chinchero” comes from Quechua and has several possible interpretations. One of the most accepted is that it derives from the word “chinchay,” which refers to a feline animal from the northern region, associated with power and respect, and which was also used to name a cultural region of ancient Peru. Another interpretation suggests that it could be related to “ch’inchi,” meaning mist or fog, which coincides with the typical climate of the area.

Both interpretations make sense considering the geographical and cultural context. Chinchero is located in a high area of ​​the Sacred Valley, where fog is common in the mornings, and was an important place for the Incas. The name reflects both the Andean worldview and the natural characteristics of the place.

What importance did Chinchero have in the Inca era?

During the Inca period, Chinchero was a center for agriculture, ceremony, and recreation for the nobility. Inca Túpac Yupanqui ordered his residence to be built here due to its strategic location and favorable climate. From here, routes to other parts of the Empire, such as the Sacred Valley and the high jungle, were controlled, making it a key connection point.

Furthermore, Chinchero was noted for its advanced terrace systems, which enabled efficient agricultural production. Water management techniques were also developed through canals and aqueducts. Today, the preserved Inca structures remain a testament to the technical knowledge and importance of this site during the Tahuantinsuyu period.

Places of Interest

What archaeological and cultural sites can I visit in Chinchero?

In Chinchero, you can visit an archaeological complex that includes terraces, Inca walls, and remains of buildings that were part of the residence of Inca Túpac Yupanqui.

It’s also highly recommended to explore the artisan market, where ancestral weaving and dyeing techniques using natural dyes are preserved. You can also visit textile workshops where the entire spinning process is demonstrated and the value of living culture is promoted.

What is special about the colonial church of Chinchero?

The colonial church of Chinchero, built in the late 16th century, stands on the remains of an Inca temple, giving it special historical significance. This church is known for its typical Andean architecture and its interior murals, which combine European religious motifs with Andean elements.

Another highlight is that the church is considered one of the most beautiful in rural Cusco. Its main altar is carved in gilded wood and houses colonial images of great artistic value. Although small, the church is a tangible testament to how two cultures merged in a single physical and spiritual space.

What can I see at the Chinchero Site Museum?

The Chinchero Site Museum, also known as the Community Museum, exhibits artifacts found in the area and materials that reflect local history. Its exhibits include agricultural tools, ceramics, archaeological remains, and textiles, many of which date back to the Inca and pre-Inca periods. Photographs, information panels, and items used in traditional rituals are also on display.

Where is the Racchi viewpoint located and what views does it offer?

The Racchi viewpoint is located just a few minutes from the center of Chinchero, heading toward Urubamba. Its high elevation affords stunning views of the Sacred Valley, including landscapes of farmland, snow-capped mountains, and nearby villages. It’s an ideal place to pause and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

From this viewpoint, you can also take excellent panoramic photos, especially at sunrise or sunset. It’s popular with travelers and photographers, but it’s also a starting point for activities such as paragliding. It’s easily accessible and can be combined with a visit to the historic center or nearby hiking trails.

Where can you go paragliding in Chinchero?

Paragliding in Chinchero is practiced in an area known as the Raqchi Lookout or also in areas near the district’s high plains , where wind and altitude conditions favor this activity.

The activity is carried out with all safety measures and on tandem flights, meaning you are accompanied by a professional pilot. No previous experience is required, making it an excellent option for those looking for an adrenaline-pumping trip. It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, and to take weather conditions into account, as the wind must be in optimal conditions for flying.

What activities can be done at Laguna Piuray?

Piuray Lagoon, located just minutes from Chinchero, offers several outdoor activities in a tranquil natural setting. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and traditional fishing are always available through a travel agency. These activities allow you to enjoy the Andean landscape while sailing through calm waters surrounded by mountains.

Additionally, hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking are available around the lagoon. Some agencies also organize experiential activities with nearby communities, where you can participate in traditional farming workshops or sample traditional dishes.

Textile tradition and craftsmanship

Where can I learn about Chinchero’s textile tradition?

In the town of Chinchero, there are several artisan centers where you can learn , step by step, how textiles are made. They explain in detail how the local natural resources are used in their production, how they obtain wool, how they dye it, and how they weave it.

Something you should keep in mind is that many travelers often book a tour through a travel agency to the Sacred Valley. This tour typically includes a visit to one of these textile centers, which could be a good option for you. You could also take advantage of the day to explore other interesting places.

What handicrafts are typical of Chinchero?

At the Chinchero market, you’ll find mainly clothing items such as ponchos, t-shirts, scarves, blankets, caps, shawls, slippers, and purses. All of these products are made with alpaca wool and, in some cases, sheep wool, worked by the women of Chinchero itself.

On the other hand, they also usually sell ceramics with Andean themes , which are very interesting due to their shapes inspired by animals from the region.

For you, traveler! If you’re interested in the traditional clothing of the women of Chinchero, you’ll also find traditional outfits for sale that are very striking and affordable. And before I forget! Many products will indicate the type of wool used, which also influences the price of the item you’re interested in.

What ancestral techniques are used in textile centers?

To obtain wool, whether from alpacas or llamas, specially designed knives are used. The wool is then washed with yucca roots, which act as a very effective natural detergent.

Once cleaned, the wool is transformed into yarn using the traditional puska, an ancestral tool. When the yarns are ready, they are dyed using natural elements. For example, cochineal, a small insect that grows on prickly pears and provides a deep reddish color, is used. Various flowers are also used to obtain other shades.

Finally, with the threads dyed, weaving begins on looms made from logs, handcrafted by the villagers themselves. With these tools, they create various garments, both for personal use and for sale to the public.

Market and local experience

What days does the traditional Chinchero market take place?

The traditional market in Chinchero takes place mainly on Sundays, when the local population comes out to offer their products to the general public. On this day, you can find a wide variety of items handcrafted by local men and women, using ancestral methods that are still maintained.

There are also small sales on Tuesdays and Thursdays, although they are less crowded, as these are considered weekdays and only a few people are out selling their wares. Take note! If you’re interested in any item, it’s important to bring cash (in soles), as other forms of payment aren’t always accepted.

What can I find at the Chinchero market?

The Chinchero market comes alive especially on Sundays. On that day, local families arrive with produce they’ve grown themselves, offering vegetables, fruits, and other fresh foods to the general public. It’s an excellent opportunity to see local agriculture and traditions up close.

It’s also common to find handmade garments made from sheep or alpaca wool, woven by the local women themselves. If you visit Chinchero on a Sunday, you’re in luck: you’ll find unique details you might not have planned to see, but that will make your visit that much more special.

How does the barter system work in Chinchero?

This is a very ancient custom that was practiced in the Inca Empire as part of their economy. This tradition is still maintained today, especially in the Chinchero area, on Sundays, when the market is active.

How does it work? To participate in bartering, you must bring a product or item in good condition that you can exchange for another. Before the exchange begins, both parties must agree. Local people generally barter food items.

Caution! If the item or product is not in good condition or is unusable, the exchange will not be carried out and may be considered offensive. Therefore, if you wish to participate, it is essential to bring something of good quality and in good condition.

Festivities and living culture

What festivities are celebrated in Chinchero?

Chinchero celebrates several traditional festivals throughout the year, many of them with both Andean and Christian roots. Among the best known are the Feast of the Virgin of the Nativity and Holy Week, which includes processions and religious activities. These celebrations combine music, traditional dances, and traditional foods, bringing together both locals and visitors.

Another notable festival is Papa Raymi, an agricultural celebration that pays tribute to the potato, a staple food in Andean culture. Throughout the year, you can also find craft fairs and cultural festivals featuring traditional dances, local products sold, and community activities. These festivities offer an opportunity to learn about the customs and daily life of the people of Chinchero.

What is Papa Raymi and how is it celebrated?

Papa Raymi is an agricultural celebration that honors the importance of the potato in the life of Andean communities. In Chinchero, this festivity is celebrated with traditional rituals such as offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth), traditional dances, and symbolic activities related to the harvest and planting of this tuber. It is a time when the community expresses gratitude to the earth for its fruits.

During Papa Raymi, different varieties of potatoes are also displayed, food fairs are held, and traditional dishes are shared among attendees. This celebration highlights the ancestral knowledge of potato cultivation and preservation, as well as the cultural value this food holds for the people of the mountains.

Can I participate in local festivities?

Of course, you can participate in Chinchero’s local festivities, as long as you respect the customs and community nature of these celebrations. Some activities are open to the general public, such as parades, food fairs, and artistic performances. Travelers are generally welcomed if they show genuine interest in the local culture and integrate respectfully.

However, certain rituals or ceremonies may be intimate or reserved for community members, so it is advisable to inquire beforehand or consult with local residents or authorities.

Accommodation and experiential tourism

What accommodation options are available in Chinchero?

Chinchero is a town known for showcasing its culture and way of life. What does this mean? If you, a traveler, want to stay here, you can find some accommodation options outside the town, which tend to be quite basic. However, the highlight is within Chinchero itself, where accommodations reflect the local culture, with Andean themes that are very attractive to any visitor compared to conventional cheap lodging.

Take note! It’s important to make your reservation in advance. Why? These accommodations tend to be in high demand, so it’s difficult to find availability overnight. You can also leave this detail to a travel agency.

What does experiential tourism in Chinchero include?

Curious traveler! If this is your plan, you should keep in mind that you’ll definitely need to hire a travel agency to provide you with a package for experiential tourism in Chinchero. Why? Because locals typically don’t have the advanced marketing skills to offer their services directly. Therefore, they often leave that work to travel agencies, who are happy to help them.

Now, about what’s included: you’ll usually be welcomed with a traditional ceremony. From that moment on, you’ll begin to learn about their daily lives: their food, their customs, their clothing, their way of working the land, and, above all, their textile art.

Keep in mind that you’ll be an active part of all these activities; for those days, you’ll be like a local resident of Chinchero. So take advantage of it, as not everyone has that privilege. Take note! Don’t forget to bring your camera: there will be truly interesting moments and landscapes you shouldn’t miss.

Practical information for travelers

How to get to Chinchero from Cusco?

Getting to Chinchero from Cusco is very simple. To explain how to do it, we’ll keep it clear and practical. If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can head to Av. Grau, located near Cusco’s historic center, or to Plaza Santiago. Private and public buses depart from these locations to Chinchero (approximately an hour’s drive).

The usual route is via the Cusco–Abancay highway, taking the detour to Cachimayo. For greater precision, you can click here to view the exact route on Google Maps. Also, keep in mind that Chinchero is also one of the destinations visited on the Sacred Valley tour, which is offered by authorized travel agencies.

What is the best time to visit Chinchero?

Luckily for you, traveler, the best time to visit Chinchero is anytime of the year. Weather conditions won’t significantly affect your trip; you just need to be prepared for them. For example, if you visit during the dry season (April to September), it’s advisable to bring sun protection. However, if you decide to go during the rainy season (November to March), you’ll need waterproof clothing or a rain poncho.

Traveler, this is very important for you to know: if you’re also planning to visit Machu Picchu, you should keep in mind that most people prefer to do so during the dry season. This is because the weather is more favorable and the fog caused by the rains, which often obscures the panoramic views, is avoided.

Is it necessary to purchase a ticket to enter the archaeological sites?

Of course. To enter this archaeological site, you’ll need a Tourist Ticket, either the Full Ticket or the Partial Ticket III. You can purchase it at 103 El Sol Avenue, which is quite close to Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Don’t forget to bring your ID or passport to purchase it.

Now, traveler, if you forget it, don’t worry! You can also purchase it at the Chinchero entrance and enter without any problems. Also, keep in mind that this ticket also allows you access to other archaeological sites in Cusco that are normally visited during the Sacred Valley tour.