AYACUCHO: COMPLETE MAGIC

Description

DAY 01: HISTORY IN HUAMANGA

At 3:30 PM, we began the tour in the historic center of Huamanga, in the Plaza Mayor, an emblematic place that has witnessed important historical moments. From here, we headed to explore some of the most beautiful colonial houses that adorn the city, such as those of Boza y Solis and/or Castilla y Zamora, whose facades reflect the splendor of the viceregal era. In addition, we had the opportunity to admire the Huamanga Cathedral, whose impressive architectural design remains one of the main attractions of the city.

We continue the tour at the San Agustín temple, a place of great historical and cultural relevance, where we were able to learn more about the religious traditions of the region. Next, we head to an important museum in the city, the Joaquín López Antay Museum or Andrés Avelino Cáceres Museum, depending on the interest of the participants. In these spaces, a rich collection of art and objects is exhibited that connects us with the cultural legacy of the region.

After our visit to the museums, we arrived at the Monastery of Santa Teresa, a place of contemplation and beauty, perfect for enjoying an atmosphere of peace and spirituality. Then, we headed to a picturesque craft neighborhood, where we had the opportunity to admire the famous stone carvings of Huamanga, a tradition that has been passed down through the centuries. We were also amazed by the looms that produce fine and colorful textiles, as well as the altarpieces, which are a sample of popular devotion and religious art in the region.

Finally, we finish our tour with a visit to the Mirador de Acuchimay, from where you can contemplate an impressive panoramic view of the city of Huamanga and its surroundings, a perfect moment to reflect on the history experienced during the tour.

The tour concluded at 07:00 PM, leaving participants with indelible memories of the cultural, historical and artistic richness of Huamanga.

DAY 02: MILLPU NATURAL POOLS

At 8:00 AM, we headed to the Millpu Natural Pools, located in the Huancaraylla district, Ayacucho. Known as The Hidden Jewel of Ayacucho and “Turquoise Waters”, these impressive, naturally formed cascading pools are a true visual spectacle. The 30-minute walk took us along trails surrounded by nature until we reached the Millpu waterfalls and the source of the waters, where we were able to appreciate the purity and beauty of this hidden spot.

Upon arrival, we enjoyed the scenery and had time to take photos in a unique and relaxing setting. The turquoise waters emerging from the mountains, along with the vegetation surrounding the place, make this a perfect destination for contemplation.

At 3:00 PM, we stopped to enjoy a delicious outdoor lunch, where we savored fried trout with potatoes, accompanied by mote and a fresh salad. The natural and peaceful environment made this meal an even more pleasant experience.

Finally, at 4:00 PM, we began our return to Ayacucho, concluding our visit to this incredible place. The tour ended at 7:00 PM, leaving all participants with unforgettable memories of a day full of nature and impressive landscapes.

DAY 03: HUANTA PROVINCE

At 09:30 AM, we begin the day by heading to the Huanta Province, where an exciting 30-minute hike awaits us to the Pikimachay Cave, an important archaeological site dating back to 20,000 BC. Known for its rock formations and historical value, this place offered us a unique insight into the region’s prehistory.

Then, we headed to the Ayahuarcuna Colonial Bridge, a structure of great architectural value that connects with the colonial legacy of the area. Next, we explored the city of Huanta, known as “The Beautiful Emerald of the Andes”, where we toured its Main Square, the main church and the Stone Bishop, a monument that represents a testimony to the local history and culture.

During the tour, we had the opportunity to taste typical drinks made with local products such as coca, lúcuma, muña and algarrobina, which offered us a unique sensory experience representative of the region.

Our next stop was the Oqochaca waterfall, where we enjoyed an impressive natural setting, surrounded by the beauty of the local flora and fauna. The sound of the falling water and the tranquility of the place gave us a perfect break to connect with nature.

Finally, at 5:00 PM, we concluded the tour, having lived an enriching experience, full of history, culture and natural beauty.

DAY 04: EXPLORATION OF THE PUYAS DE RAIMONDI AND THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL COMPLEX OF INTIHUATANA

At 08:00 AM, we began our day with the exploration of the Puyas de Raimondi, a unique species of plant that stands out for its imposing size and its special relationship with Andean biodiversity. After admiring these impressive plants, we headed to the Intihuatana archaeological complex, a site that reflects the greatness of the Inca culture. Here we had the opportunity to observe important structures, such as the Torreón del Inca, the Portada del Sol and Acllayhuasi, which told us about the deep connection of the Incas with nature and their religious beliefs.

As we explored, we also had spectacular views of the Pumaccocha Lagoon, whose peaceful and majestic landscape offered us a unique visual experience, perfect for a pause and reflection. We continued the tour, immersing ourselves even further in history, arriving at Vilcashuamán, where we were impressed by the Temple of the Sun and the Moon and the Plaza Pachacútec, emblematic places of the ancient Inca civilization.

We closed the day with a visit to the Ushno ceremonial pyramid, a monument that demonstrated the advanced engineering of the Incas, used in their religious and astronomical ceremonies.

At 07:00 PM, we finish the tour, enriched by the vestiges of a civilization that continues to leave its mark on the history and culture of Peru.

DAY 05: ARCHAEOLOGICAL COMPLEX OF WARI AND BATTLE OF AYACUCHO

At 09:30 AM, we began our journey to the Wari Archaeological Complex, the capital of the first Andean empire. Upon arrival, we visited the Site Museum, where we discovered valuable artifacts that told us about the life and power of this ancient civilization. Later, we explored the Templo Mayor, an impressive vestige of Wari religious architecture, and the various cultural sectors, which allowed us to delve into the social and political organization of this great empire.

We continued our journey to the picturesque town of Quinua, famous for its traditional pottery, a reflection of the rich culture that persists in this area. There we had the opportunity to appreciate and acquire handcrafted pieces made by the talented local artisans. Afterwards, we headed to the Historical Sanctuary of the Pampa de Ayacucho, a site of great historical importance, as it was the scene where the Battle of Ayacucho was fought, a crucial milestone in the independence of South America.

As an additional option, some brave souls decided to enjoy a horseback ride, touring the beautiful landscapes of the area and connecting even more with the history that permeates the air of the region.

At 3:00 PM, we conclude the tour, commemorating the legacy of Wari and the historic Battle of Ayacucho, taking with us unforgettable memories of this journey through time.

DAY 06: PACHAPUPUMM VOLCANO AND HOT SPRINGS 

At 04:00 AM, we met at the hotel to begin this exciting adventure, leaving for the Pachapupum Volcano and its famous hot springs. During the tour, we enjoyed the landscape until we reached Huancasancos, where we stopped for a delicious breakfast at 09:30 AM.

At 11:00 AM, we finally arrived at the imposing Pachapupum volcano, a place where the stone cone stands out for its majesty. We immersed ourselves in the natural beauty of the place, taking advantage of the thermal mineral waters, ideal for relaxing and enjoying their healing properties. The peaceful atmosphere and energy of the place made this a unique moment of connection with nature.

At 3:00 PM, we had the option to enjoy a snack in the district of Sacsamarca, where we tried some typical dishes, before continuing our journey. At 4:00 PM, we began the return to Huamanga, full of unforgettable experiences lived on this tour full of history, nature and relaxation.

Finally, at 09:00 PM, we concluded the tour, with indelible memories of a day full of natural wonders.

DAY 07: QORIHUILCA CANYONS

At 10:30 AM, we meet at Portal Constitución Nro 9, in the Plaza de Armas de Ayacucho, right in front of the Cathedral, where we begin our exciting adventure. At 09:30 AM, we set off for the impressive Qorihuillca Canyons, a place full of nature and geological beauty.

At 10:00 AM, we started the trek equipped with gloves, helmets, harness and flashlight, since some areas of the canyon lack sunlight, making the use of a flashlight essential to explore the caves and trails. The journey was challenging but exciting, crossing the rock formations and enjoying the serenity offered by this impressive landscape. After approximately 45 minutes, we began the return trip along the upper part of the canyon.

At 1:00 PM, we finished our adventure with unforgettable memories of this unique experience, full of emotion, nature and beautiful landscapes.