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Top 7 Things to See and Do in Ayacucho, Peru

Ayacucho, Peru

The highland city of Ayacucho in Peru has a very complex and dark history, which makes it a very interesting place to visit. Ayacucho is one of Peru’s most beautiful highland towns, with resplendent churches and a charming plaza de armas , all of which betray its dark past. It’s only a decade since the atrocities committed by the Shining Path; this town was once the stronghold of Peru’s most notorious terrorist group, a scar not apparent when visiting the city. Here is our guide to what to see and do while in Ayacucho.

Tour the city of churches.

If there is any town worthy of the title “the city of churches,” it’s Ayacucho. The city is home to an astounding 33 churches, and you can spend at least one day walking around the town trying to find all of them. Take a church day and admire the town’s religious presence and beautiful churches; it doesn’t even have to be on a Sunday.

A church in Ayacucho, Peru

Visit the Plaza

Learn about the shining path.

You may not be able to tell, but this charming highland city was the once the stronghold of the terrorist organization called the Shining Path. They terrorized Peru, especially the major cities and the countryside where they would recruit, for decades. Professor Abimael Guzman, the leader and philosophical architect of the group, came to the city to attract its mainly poor population to arms against the establishment. If you want to learn about this terrorist group and its history, Museo de la Memoria is dedicated to retelling the story of the group’s dark history.

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Ayacucho, Peru

Discover the Local Art

The city has a rich art history and boasts many talented artists. Because of this, there is a very popular Museo de Arte Popular . The museum holds classical works from the town’s past, including silver work, stone and wood carvings, tapestries, and ceramics. There is also a photography section where you can see how the town has changed over time.

Check out the Mirador de Carmen Alto

Take a taxi or a bus to the top of the mirador (lookout), from where you will get a stunning view of the entire city. It is especially beautiful at sunset, when you can see the sun’s last light touching the tops of the buildings. There are also restaurants at the top, which makes it a good place for a date and a relaxing evening.

Join in the Semana Santa Celebrations

If you’re in Peru for Semana Santa , you should fly to Ayacucho, because it is a party you don’t want to miss. It is held the week before Easter and it shouldn’t be understated how big a party it is – it’s an everyone in the street sort of party. You must make sure to book your accommodations early, because everyone else in Peru will be coming here, looking for a good time.

Ayacucho, Peru

Visit the Santa Ana Neighborhood

Ayacucho is the proud home to some of Peru’s best handicrafts and the neighborhood of Santa Ana is the place to go to find them. If you want some souvenirs to bring home, look no further than Santa Ana. Spend some time strolling the area and shopping for trinkets and knickknacks.

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How To Peru

Ayacucho Ultimate Travel Guide

Located in Southern Peru, Ayacucho is often hailed as a one of a kind destination, effortlessly combining the colors, the history and the adventure that so many travelers revel in on their journey through Peru. Whether you choose to travel with your friends, your family or spend a little me-time getting to know these streets, you will fall in love with the city that locals know as Huamanga.

About Ayacucho

Originally founded as San Juan de la Frontera de Huamanga (hence the name from the locals), Ayacucho is the capital of the province Huamanga. It is located along the eastern slope of the Andes mountain range at an altitude of 2761 meters. The city has a dry climate, even when you consider the rainy season (from December to March) the sun remains shining all year round.

ayacucho-main-plaza-church

One of the most important artistic and architectural complexes in Southern Peru, Ayacucho can also be known as the City of Churches (Ciudad de las Iglesias), thanks to its number of churches: it has more than 30 Renaissance and Baroque style churches, each adorned with beautiful paintings and intricate wood carvings. If architecture is your thing, you can also check out the many colonial-style mansions and Inca remains that are dotted around the city.

It’s not just the churches that are attracting more and more visitors each year, Ayacucho is home to some truly beautiful and unique traditional handicrafts, even being recognized as the “Capital of Popular Art and Peruvian Handicraft” in 2017. The most famous of these crafts are the alabaster carvings. (Alabaster is known as the stone of the region.) There is also pottery and fine wire jewelry called filigree, which is made in the Santa Ana neighborhood. The most sort after trinket from Ayacucho however, is the retablos, which is a painting devoted to a folk-law, traditionally in a Roman-Catholic style of art, and presented in small portable boxes.

A huge part of Ayacucho’s culture is based in its traditional activities, previously the Carnivals and the Holy Week have been declared as “National Cultural Heritage in Perú” in 2003 and 2018 respectively. This sanctuary deserves to be explored with enthusiasm and a willingness to discover the pleasure of Ayacuchan music and culture.

Why is it Called Huamanga?

Guaman qaqa is a Quechua word that refers to the place where the Spanish arrived. According to local people, during one of his trips through the zone, Viracocha Inca (one of the leaders of the Inca Empire) decided to have a break from traveling when a falcon rested on his shoulder. Legend says he told the animal: “Guaman Ka” meaning “eat, falcon”.

Why Visit Ayacucho?

The name Huamanga was changed to Ayacucho by decree of the liberator, Simón Bolívar, on the 15th of February 1825. This was done as a homage to the victory of the army in the Ayacucho Battle.

Ayacucho is a combination of two Quechua words: “aya” meaning soul and “k’uchu” meaning dwelling. In this sense, Ayacucho means “souls’ dwelling”. This is referring to a place where many human bones were found from the different battles that took place in the area.

Food in Ayacucho

  • Cuy Chactado (flattened guinea pig): Fried guinea pig with ground corn, served with golden potatoes and salad. A must try for every traveler!
  • Pachamanca: A variety of meats, potatoes, corn, sweetcorn, and broad beans, cooked in a hole in the gound, covered with earth and hot rocks. This is similar to the pre-Hispanic style of cooking.

ayacucho-food-typical-traditional

  • Ayacucho marinade: Stew made from pork, onions and potatoes, dressed with red chillies and spices.
  • Qapchi: A starter, made with “cachipa”- crumbled fresh cheese mixed with chillies, “rocoto” (hot chili), milk, oil and chopped onions, served over floury potatoes.
  • Teqtes: Stew made from peas, squash, quinoa, broad beans and chuño, dressed with chillies, garlic, fresh cheese, milk and eggs.
  • Puchero: A dish made from cabbage, fruits, chickpeas, sweet potatoes and yucca, usually prepared during carnivals.
  • Puca Picante: A main dish with potatoes, peanuts and red chilli peppers, served with fried pork and white rice.
  • Ponche: A drink made of peanuts, sesame seeds and various spices.
  • Traditional desserts: Ayacucho is known for its wide variety of breads, including the “wawas”, the “balay sweet bread” (maicillos, suspiros or meringues, oquendos).

Things to See in Ayacucho

  • Basilica Cathedral: Located in the Plaza Mayor of Ayacucho, and built in the 17th century by King Philip III of Spain, it was dedicated to the Virgen de las Nieves (Virgin of the Snow). The construction combines Renaissance and Baroque style of architecture. Its facade complements the wealth within, where ten altarpieces, all covered in gold-leaf surround the hall. Some of these are dedicated to Nuestra Señora de Socos (Our Lady of Socos), Señor de Burgos (Lord of Burgos) and Niño Llorón (Crying Child).
  • Plaza Mayor: Characterized by stones archways on the first level, pillars with balustrades on the second level and roofs of red clay in the third level, the surrounding buildings of the plaza date back to the 16th and 17th century. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a relaxing walk.
  • Temple and Convent of Saint Francis of Assisi: The public opening hours of this historic place are from Monday to Saturday in two-time slots: 7:00 am – 8:00 am and 6:00 pm – 6:30 pm . Sunday opening times of the convent are 9:00 am – 10:00 am . The building was an attempt to recreate the Greco-Roman Peninsular style, which is typical of the Andes. The most important structure inside the church is the high altar, which is formed of four carved and gilded wooden figures. If you’re on the hunt for culture and history, this is the perfect place for you. It has the largest bell in the city, and houses a beautiful collection of colonial-era paintings of the Cusco and Ayacucho areas.

santa-domingo-temple-ayacucho

  • Temple of Santo Domingo: Built in dedication to the Virgin of the Rosary, the temple was constructed at the end of the 16th century. Its facade is notable for its triple-arched bell-gable on the left-hand side. It’s a very important place for Ayacucho’s people as the figures of El Señor del Santo Sepulcro (Lord of the Holy Sepulchre) and La Virgen Dolorosa (Virgin of Sorrows) are carried from the temple in a procession during the celebration in Easter Week.
  • Museo de la Memoria (Museum of Memory): This is one of the most haunting museums in Ayacucho, as it remembers the impact of Sendero Luminoso (Shining Path – an infamous terrorist group of the 1980s) in Peru and how the city was deeply affected by the conflict. The paintings are eyewitness accounts of the horrors that occurred and a particular poignant montage of photos by mothers and children killed during the fighting.
  • The Forgotten Ruins: Ayacucho was the capital of the Wari Empire, a pre-Inca culture that was developed through military conquest. The Wari site is located 30 minutes from the city at an altitude of 9,000 meters above sea level. There is also a small museum where some archeological remains show how they protected themselves behind huge walls of stone and mud. The opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30 am to 5:30 pm .

Ayacucho’s Folk Arts and Handicrafts

ayacucho-retable

Ayacucho is also known as “Peru’s Capital of Folk Arts and Handicrafts”, and much of the artisan work produced by Ayacuchanos is exported to Europe, North America and Asia.

Retablos are the most famous artisan offering- they were originally made from portable altars boxes, but have developed into outrageous collections of tiny hand-carved wooden or clay figurines and other beautiful objects, crammed into several layers inside the box. These are beautiful expressions of the Ayacucho people and culture, they all have plenty of colors and are sometimes very funny. If you’re looking to see the master craftsmen at work, it’s highly recommended to visit the Shosaku Nagase Handicraft Market, located just 5 blocks from the central plaza. The best workshops are in the barrios of Santa Ana, Puca Cruz, Belén and La Libertad.

Holy Week in Ayacucho

Originally celebrated in Spain, this is the most famous religious feast in Peru, and it represents sacrifice and death of Jesus in the cavalry. All the citizens participate in this celebration, and people from surrounding cities arrive in caravans to Ayacucho, ready to take part in the religious devotion. This is one of the many religious festivals in Peru.

The celebration begins on Sunday, or “Domingo de Ramos” (Palms) and ends the next Sunday with the “Domingo de Pascua” (Easter). One of the most important events during Holy Week is the processions and religious manifestations that are accompanied by folkloric dances. Alongside these celebrations, artisan and cattle fairs take place throughout the whole week.

Very early in the morning on the first Sunday of the festival donkeys and llamas are adorned with herbs from the local area before entering the city. This is representative of the triumphant entrance of Jesus to Jerusalem. On the Thursday of the holy week, it is traditional for citizens to visit all of the 33 churches in the city. Saturday is the day in which “morochucos” (cowboys of the Andes), ride their horses up the Acuchimay Mountain alongside the people from Ayacucho.

On the last Sunday of the festival, all of the churches in Ayacucho ring their bells, waking up the citizens. It is then traditional to go to the Cathedral, carrying a very big depiction of Jesus brought back to life. This brings a close to this special Holy Week.

ayacucho-semana-santa

How to Get Ayacucho

Regular flights leave from Lima to Ayacucho and take 45 minutes.

Lima – Ayacucho (via Livertadores) : 7 hours by car/bus

Huancayo – Ayacucho (via Colcabamba): 6 hours by car/bus

Huancavelica – Ayacucho (via Rumichaca): 5 hours by car/ bus

Don’t Miss Out!

There is plenty of tradition, folklore, and handicrafts to soak up and enjoy here. Ayacucho is a must-see destination during your visit to Peru. Enjoy the city, people, the food and handicrafts that make Ayacucho a spot that you can not miss on your Peruvian adventure! What are you waiting for? Plan your trip!

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The beautiful and unique Turquoise Waters of Millpu in Ayacucho Peru

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Travelers are only just rediscovering Ayacucho's treasures. Richly decorated churches dominate the vivid cityscape alongside peach- and pastel-colored colonial buildings hung with wooden balconies. Among numerous festivities, Ayacucho boasts Peru’s premier Semana Santa celebrations, while in the surrounding mountains lie some of the country’s most significant archaeological attractions.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Cathedral

This spectacular 17th-century cathedral on the Plaza de Armas has a religious-art museum inside. The moody facade doesn’t quite prepare you for the…

Museo de la Memoria

Museo de la Memoria

Ayacucho’s most haunting museum, remembers the impact the Sendero Luminoso (Shining Path) had on Peru in the city that was most deeply affected by the…

Museo de Arte Popular

Museo de Arte Popular

Displays popular art covering the ayacucheño (natives of Ayacucho) spectrum – silverwork, rug- and tapestry-weaving, stone and woodcarvings, ceramics …

Wari Ruins

Sprawling for several kilometers along a cactus-forested roadside are the extensive ruins of Wari, the capital of the eponymous empire, which predated the…

Casa Museo Joaquín López Antay

Casa Museo Joaquín López Antay

This captivating little museum is really part art gallery and part an explanation of the process of retablo making. Retablos, ornamental, originally…

Otto Malena

Otto Malena

Officially a restaurant, this surreal Aladdin's Cave is more a museum of curios than anything else, for the owner is primarily a collector of magical…

Iglesia de San Francisco de Asis

Iglesia de San Francisco de Asis

Visually striking stone church containing retablos (ornamental religious dioramas) and an attractive adjoining convent dating to the 17th century. Located…

Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas

One of the prettiest plazas in the Central Andes, flanked by many gorgeous mansions, including the Prefectura. Ask at the tourist office for details on…

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Ayacucho, Peru: The Top 20 Must-See Places

  •  Cathedral of Ayacucho
  •  Plaza de Armas
  •  San Agustin Church
  •  San Antonio de Abad Church
  •  San Blas Church
  •  San Cristobal Church
  •  San Cristobal Museum
  •  San Francisco Church
  •  San Francisco de Asis Church
  •  San Francisco de Asis Hospital
  •  San Francisco de Asis Museum
  •  San Francisco de Paula Church
  •  San Juan Bautista Church
  •  San Juan de Dios Church
  •  San Juan de Dios Hospital
  •  San Juan de Dios Museum
  •  San Juan de la Cruz Church
  •  San Nicolas de Tolentino Church
  •  San Pedro Church
  •  San Sebastian Church

  •  Bahuaja-Sonene National Park
  •  Calipuy National Park
  •  Cerros de Amotape National Park
  •  Cerros de Tabaconas National Park
  •  Cordillera Azul National Park
  •  Cordillera Huayhuash National Reserve
  •  Cordillera de Colan National Reserve
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  •  Cutervo National Park
  •  Huacarpay National Park
  •  Huascarán National Park
  •  Lachay National Reserve
  •  Manu National Park
  •  Megantoni National Park
  •  Pampas del Heath National Park
  •  Paracas National Park
  •  Puquio Los Frailones National Sanctuary
  •  Purús Communal Reserve
  •  Río Abiseo National Park
  •  Yanachaga-Chemillén National Park
  •  Ayacucho
  •  Chiclayo
  •  Chimbote
  •  Chincha Alta
  •  Cusco
  •  Huancayo
  •  Huánuco
  •  Iquitos
  •  Juliaca
  •  Moquegua
  •  Piura
  •  Pucallpa
  •  Sullana
  •  Tacna
  •  Trujillo
  •  Arequipa
  •  Chachapoyas
  •  Chan Chan
  •  Colca Canyon
  •  Gocta Waterfall
  •  Huacachina
  •  Huaraz
  •  Kuelap
  •  Lake Titicaca
  •  Machu Picchu
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  •  Nazca Lines
  •  Ollantaytambo
  •  Sacred Valley
  •  Sillustani
  •  Tambopata National Reserve

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Ayacucho: Complete Travel Guide

The Ayacucho Plaza de Armas, with a monument to Mariscal Sucre, an important independence leader.

Situated off the beaten tourist track,  Ayacucho  lies nestled in the Andes Mountains, ready and waiting to be discovered as the latest little-known Peru travel destination. Despite its rocky history, Ayacucho is safe and welcoming to foreigners, offering a slice of genuinely authentic Andean culture.

Ayacucho Cathedral at Night, Peru For Less

Ayachucho Cathedral at night

Shining light on Ayacucho

The Plaza de Armas of Ayacucho is beautifully developed, with a stunning cathedral on the east side and lush green grasses surrounding a central fountain. Take a visit to the central market and you’ll find you’re probably the only person in there that doesn’t speak Quechua. Rows of Señora’s stand in front of huge sacks of ‘ wawa’ , fresh-baked sweet bread, in the shape of a baby after its Quechua name.

When your face appears at the juice bars, the women lean over their counters smiling and waving you over, competing for your business. Walking down the aisle of smelly cheeses, you’ll pop out onto the back street where against the wall, you’ll find huge sacks of coca leaves, and men and women, young and old coming to buy coca.

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Overlooking the Incan citadel Machu Picchu surrounded by mountains with clouds in the sky

This difficult history has left Ayacucho struggling to develop as a tourist destination despite its stunning location and friendly inhabitants. The city offers visitors a balance between modern comforts and traditional culture. In the center you’ll find quality hotels with hot water, restaurants with English menus serving a wide variety of dishes beyond the locally popular pollo a la brasa and puca picante . There’s an artisan market that makes souvenir buying easy and offers  among the cheapest prices on Peruvian handicrafts you’ll find anywhere in the country.

I was in Ayacucho long enough to become a regular at the juice counter, trying to spread my custom around though it’s difficult when these sweet ladies smile in recognition of my face and call up my usual without a moment’s thought, ‘ platano con leche. ’ They always had plenty of customers anyway, no matter when I showed up.

The downtown is a far cry from what you’ll find in the outer districts of the city, where people live very simply without many of the comforts of modern life. Taking the bus up the hill to the orphanage where I was a volunteer , I’d sit next to a tired old woman, with a sun-dried face under a brown, flat-brimmed hat, huge bundles of vegetables filled a rice-sack at her feet and a young baby wrapped around her back in a brightly colored wool shawl. Soon, I’d stand up to give up my seat to another woman, looking the same.

Central Ayacucho

Central Ayacucho

Climbing down from the bus to the dusty, rubble streets of Carmen Alto, children are playing soccer in sandals made of tire, and an old toothless man is standing on the corner selling cheese. Listening to the playful banter of the children however, you wouldn’t know they had a problem in the world.

Looking across the city tucked down in the valley to the 10,000 ft mountains on the other side, you can see the large white obelisk at Quinua. Just an hour away, this is the site of the Battle of Ayacucho, winning Peru the War of Independence in 1824. Nowadays, you can explore the quaint little town, famous for beautiful handcrafted pottery, horseback riding and its short hike to a beautiful waterfall.

The well-preserved Wari ruins are located just below Quinua on your way back to Ayacucho. The hiking is beautiful, and the rich history of the ancient Wari culture is evident in administrative and ceremonial sites. Exploring off the path a little bit and you’ll find broken shards of pottery and arrowheads scattered on the ground. Quinua and Wari are just two of the easy excursions from Ayacucho. Another popular day trip is the beautiful natural turquoise pools of Millpu in Ayacucho’s countryside.

Ayacucho can be reached daily from Lima in just over an hour flight with LC Busre or Star Peru. In fact, there are rumors of a regular Ayacucho – Cusco flight being added to the agenda in the next couple years, which will quickly boost the tourism industry in Ayacucho, linking it as an easy stop-over on a Machu Picchu tour . The city is certainly ready for it.

So, check your Peru itineraries, because maybe now is the best time to go before the city loses some of that undiscovered quality.

Emily was a volunteer for the Casa Hogar Los Gorriones in Ayacucho, Peru. If you would like to learn more about volunteering at Los Gorriones or how you can help, please visit their website.

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Emily is a contributing writer to our travel blog.

Tags: Ayacucho , Peru

Comments (2):

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Michael Philips

July 26, 2010 at 6:05 am

Emily, thank you for the excellent review. I visited Ayacucho before moving on to the normal tourist destinations and I’m so glad I did. What an unspoiled gem of a city. The market, the fine textiles, the Wari ruins, and just the sites wandering around the city were all wonderful. I have mixed feelings about it becoming a more visited city. The tourism will help the economy but I can’t stand the thought of all the tourist trinket shops and Western fast food places that inevitably come with the tourist mobs. Don’t let Lonely Planet recommend this place! -Michael P

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  • Basilica Catedral de Ayacucho
  • Mirador turistico de Acuchimay
  • Reserva Nacional Pampa Galeras Barbara D'Achille
  • Cueva de Pikimachay
  • La Totorilla Centro Ecologico Recreacional
  • Catarata Batan
  • Zoologico de Ayacucho
  • Millpu Lagoons day tour (English & Private tour)

I Challenge you to Discover the World 

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7 Essential Places to visit in Ayacucho, Peru

Ayacucho is a city in Peru located in the central highlands of the country. Few are the foreign tourists who come here to see its towns and its natural wonders, especially if it is their first time in Peru. Yes a real pity. In this post I tell you about the 7 essential places to visit in Ayacucho, how to get there and some travel tips.

Ayacucho, Peru

HOW TO GET TO AYACUCHO, PERU

To get to Ayacucho from Lima you can do it with a rental car, the journey is about 6 hours. The good thing about going with the rental car is that the whole journey is very beautiful, with beautiful landscapes and you can stop at your own pace.

Once in Ayacucho, you will need transportation to explore the surroundings, so it is the best option.

Car rental offers in Peru

You can get there by bus, the journey takes about 10 hours. He is making a couple of stops to go to the toilet and rest.

The cost is about 13 euros, and there are two companies that manage this route. Red bus and Cruz del Sol.

Ayacucho has an airport, but no matter how much I searched for flights from Lima to Ayacucho I couldn't find any. In case you have more luck:

Cheap flights between cities in Peru

7 ESSENTIAL PLACES TO VISIT IN AYACUCHO

1. walk the streets of ayacucho.

At times it reminded me a lot of Cusco. In a much smaller size, but with cobbled streets, with a beautiful parade ground where its buildings have the similarities of sand-colored stone, garden areas and surrounded by mountains.

Its Baroque-style cathedral is located in the same square, look for the colonial-style houses of Baza and Solís, you should not forget to stop at the monastery of Santa Teresa de las Carmelitas Descalzas, go to the neighborhood of Santa Ana to get to know local crafts and while you're at it you can do some souvenir shopping and if you want to see beautiful views of the city and watch the sunset you can do it from the Acuchimay viewpoint. The triumphal arch in the city is very beautiful and if you have time there are several museums, I especially liked a small museum "museo de la memoria" it is very interesting.

If you prefer to tour the city with a guide, you can do so with this guided tour for less than 12 euros.

Guided tour of Ayacucho

Ayacucho, Peru

2. Vilcashuaman and Pumacocha

Take an excursion to visit Inca archaeological sites in the area.

The archaeological complex of Pumacocha you will be able to see the architectural remains of what was a resting place for the highest classes of the Inca culture. In the enclosure, the tower, the remains of the palace and the sundial or Intihuatana stand out.

The archaeological complex of Vilcashuamán was a city that in the 15th century had a lot of political importance. What stands out the most is the trapezoidal square, of a large size, which can gather 20,000 people. You will also be able to visit the ancient Temple of the Sun. Right above the temple they built a Catholic church, which contrasts very strikingly with the Inca ruins, although it seems that they have fitted in perfectly.

Excursion to the archaeological sites Pimacocha and Vilcashuaman

Ayacucho, Peru

3. La Picota Viewpoint

This viewpoint is located on the outskirts of the city, almost 5 kilometers from the main square and it will take you about an hour and a half to get there on foot. From here the views are spectacular!

From here there is a zip line, but we found it closed for maintenance. I really liked it! If you visit the city and go for it, send me a photo.

ayacucho peru places to visit

The walk is beautiful, but if you don't feel like walking or you're short on time, you can always get there by taxi for a few soles.

4. Canyons of Qorihuilca

Knowing the Qorihuilca Canyons is one of the most fun activities. Although I believe that the excursion is for all ages, I do require a bit of good physical condition. Once you reach the rock formations and cracks of the Canyons, you will start a route of about two hours. Where you will enter the cracks, between huge rocks, you will climb over them and sometimes you will even need the help of a rope and harness to pass some accesses.

I leave you all the information of the excursion:

Excursion to the Canyons of Qorihuilca

5. Visit the town of Quinua

Just 25 kilometers from Ayacucho is the town of Quinua. The population itself does not have much, there are 4 cobbled streets with a very authentic air and it stands out mainly for its crafts, especially pottery. But just a few minutes outside of town is the Pampa de Ayacucho Historic Sanctuary.

6. Wari Archaeological Site

Here are the remains of the first Andean civilization that developed between the 7th and 13th centuries. There are the remains of the main palace, the tombs and the underground passageways. And you can also visit the museum, where there are many pieces that were found during the excavation. There are remains of crafts where you can appreciate their origin from the Wari culture.

If you feel like taking a tour, there is an option that includes this site, a visit to Quinua and the Pampa de Ayacucho Historic Sanctuary.

Wari and Quinoa culture excursion

7. The Turquoise Waters of Millpu

The turquoise waters of the Millpun river are quite far from Ayacucho, about 120 kilometers. But it is absolutely worth getting here.

The turquoise waters of Millpu are a total of 20 pools in turquoise and green (depending on the time of year).

Ayacucho, Peru

The color of its waters is produced due to sunlight and the minerals carried by the river.

The best time to visit the Turquoise Waters is between May and September, when it is the dry season and there is less chance of rain. With the rains the color of the waters becomes more turbulent and green. In the dry season is when you can appreciate the intense turquoise waters.

You can visit with an excursion:

Excursion to the turquoise waters of Millpu

Ayacucho, Peru

WHERE TO STAY IN AYACUCHO, PERU

In Ayacucho there is not a great variety of hotels of different categories. You have hostels, 2 and 3 star hotels. The best option is to stay close to the Plaza de Armas.

Our lodging option was ViaVia Cafe Ayacucho.

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Best 6 Things to Do in Ayacucho, Peru’s Hidden Gem

Ayacucho, also known as the “City of Churches”, is a beautiful and often overlooked destination in the Andes mountains of Peru. Read below to find the best things to do in Ayacucho, the main attractions, and why find out why it’s so special during Easter.

Are you planning a trip to Ayacucho? Check out the best tours and accommodations in Ayacucho. Best tours and experiences in Ayacucho: Vilcashuaman Inca ruins Millpu Turquoise Waters Visit Pampa de Ayacucho and the Wari ruins Best hotels in Ayacucho: ViaVia Cafe (Mid-range. In a colonial house at the main square) Astromelia Hotel (Mid-range) Un Sueño Valle de Huajes (Budget)

Ayacucho has some great attractions for pristine turquoise pools, important archaeological sites, beautiful churches, small villages , and much more.

Despite its many treasures, Ayacucho is often overlooked by foreign tourists due to the internal conflict that took place in the region during the 1980s and 1990s.

However, I highly recommend visiting Ayacucho if you are looking for a less touristy destinatination that still offers so much to see and do. I have visited twice and would like going again.

Here are my recommendations for the best things to do in Ayacucho.

A parade in sthe streets of Ayacucho

1. Walk through the streets of Ayacucho

Ayacucho streets

Ayacucho is a city in the Peruvian Andes where the colonial-era architecture meets the vibrant indigenous culture.

You can walk around the narrow streets of the city center, where you can admire its architecture, wooden balconies and brightly painted walls.

Walk around the main square, Plaza de Armas, which is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, including the Cathedral of Ayacucho and the Archbishop’s Palace. Make sure to visit one of its many churches. As it’s mentioned below, Ayacucho is known as the City of Churches .

Ayacucho main square

A couple of blocks away from the main square is the local market, Mercado Centenario. You will not find just fruits and vegetables, but also traditional textiles and other handicrafts. You will see women selling fresh baked sweet bread, fresh juice stalls, traditional cheese from the Andes and sacks of coca leaves , among other local products. The atmosphere is lively and friendly.

For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Acuchimay viewpoint, accessible by bus or taxi.

And as the day comes to an end, make sure to visit ViaVia Cafe, a cafe and restaurant located in a hotel. Enjoy a cup of coffee in its nice balcony, overlooking the main square as you watch the life of the locals go by.

2. Visit the Incan ruins of Vilcashuaman

Vilcashuaman ruins in Ayacucho

Vilcashuaman is one of the best things to do in Ayacucho.

Actually, this quiet town, two hours away from the city, is my favorite place in the Ayacucho region.

When I visited Vilcashuaman with a friend some time ago, we stayed there for a night. We spent the day walking around the ruins, the town, and also around the cemetery, which is right next to the small town.

From around the area of the cemetery you have an amazing view overlooking the valley . It felt so quiet and serene. I have traveled a lot around Peru (and I am Peruvian), but that particular place felt extremely remote.

Its main attraction is a well preserved Incan archaeological site, which is actually right in the middle of the town.

When we were there, there was a program that taught local children how to do a guided visit of the ruins for visitors. So in their free time they could do this and earn some money. A lovely girl showed us the ruins, with very good explanations and even taught us some words in quechua , the native language.

If you like archaeology, the visit to Vilcashuamán is a must. It is an opportunity to visit Incan ruins almost just by yourself. You can still appreciate its two temples, made of massive stones carved to fit perfectly well into one another. You will also see a church built on top of part of the ruins during colonial times.

The complex could house around 40,000 people, making it ideal to house the large army that accompanied the Inca on his travels. Additionally, the Incas also made animal sacrifices here, on a sacrificial stone that is still that you appreciate at the site.

How to get to Vilcashuaman

To get there, you can book a tour to Vilcashuaman from Ayacucho , which also includes a visit to the Intiwatana Incan ruins.

Otherwise, you can go by public transport. Take a combi (van) at the “Terminal Sur” (it will take 3-4 hours each way). If you want to spend the night there like I did, you should have no problem finding simple accomodation when you get there.

3. Check out Millpu’s turquoise waters

A visit to Millpu waters is one of the best things to do in Ayacucho

Millpu is a beautiful is a set of 20 stunning turquoise and green pools (depending on the time of year), that look really turquoise, like in the pictures. It’s located 3 hours away from Huamanga. It is a bit far but well worth the trip.

The pools are adorned by the typical vegetation of the Peruvian highlands, forming a landscape worthy of a paradisiacal postcard. Many people consider a trip to Millpu the best thing to do in Ayacucho.

The visit includes a walk along the edge of the canyon to get a panoramic view of the natural pools , as well as going down to them to observe them up close. You will also visit a waterfall that marks the beginning of the pools, and the Millpu, a pool that originates deep in the mountain and from where the river waters are born.

The best time to visit is between May and September, which is the dry season in Ayacucho. Visiting during the rainy season will not be worth it , since the pools will look muddy.

Also, note that as of 2023, it’s forbidden to bathe in the pools (the waters are very cold anyhow!).

How to get to Millpu

You can either book a tour to Millpu , or go by public transport. Otherwise, take a “mototaxi” (tuktuk) to the minivan terminal (Vilcas terminal). Take a van that goes to Circamarca. From there, it’s a 30 minute walk to Millpu.

4. Visit Quinua and Pampa de Ayacucho

ayacucho peru places to visit

Pampa de Ayacucho is an important historical site and worth a visit from Huamanga. This plain (pampa=plain) is where the Battle of Ayacucho was fought in 1824, which was the decisive battle in the fight for Peru’s independence from the Spanish.

You will arrive in Quinua, a small and traditional town that preserves its cobbled streets and tiled houses , making it a great destination for those who want to see how the life is in a small village in the Andes.

Quinua is also famous for its ceramic crafts , which are created in traditional workshops. Visitors can take a stroll through the town and visit some of the workshops. From there, you can also do a short hike to a waterfall .

Something very picturesque about Quinua, are the roofs of their houses. You will notice that the houses in Quinua have a small clay church figure on their roofs. They put the figures as a symbol of protection against evil spirits.

Church on top of a roof in Quinua, Ayacucho

From the town, you can take a taxi or walk to the pampa or plains, which is located just outside the town. There you will see the Obelisk, which is a monument dedicated to the soldiers who died in the battle. You can also enter the Obelisk for just a couple of soles.

How to get to Pampa de Ayacucho

The easiest way to visit the sites, would be to book a tour to Pampa de Ayacucho (or a private tour ).

Otherwise, take a colectivo (minivan) to Quinua at the street José Santos Chocano.

The trip takes around 1 hour and is a great way to see the beautiful Andean landscapes. If you take the tour, you will also be able to visit the Wari ruins, which are on the way.

5. Visit the Wari ruins

Wari ruins in Ayacucho, one of the best places to visit in Ayacucho

The Wari (also known as Huari) ruins are a must-see if you are interested in history or archaology. The Wari civilization existed from 600-1000 AD. It predates the Incas and was one of the most powerful empires in the Andean region. These ruins were once the capital of the Wari empire.

As soon as you arrive at the ruins, you’ll notice the abundance of cacti that cover the area surrounding the site. Some of the cacti bear tuna (prickly pears), a delicious fruit commonly found in Peru. Be careful with the thorns if you want to eat one!

Visiting the ruins, you will be able to explore the remnants of the city, including plazas, temples, and residential areas. The intricate stonework and the grand scale of the palace are impressive.

The Wari civilization is known for their elaborate burial rituals, as you can see in the underground tombs found at the site. The Wari buried their elite there, along with their families, attendants, and personal possessions.

When I visited, a big part of the site was still under study and excavation, like so many other archaeological sites in Peru, and it probably still is. Explore off the path a little bit and you will find pieces of broken pottery scattered on the ground.

How to get to the Wari ruins

The Wari ruins are about 45 minutes from the city center. To get there, you can take a tour , which generally includes a visit to the town of Quinua and Pampa de Ayacucho (or a private tour for more comfort ).

Otherwise, you could also go by your own. Take a combi (minivan) to Quinua (read above) and step off at Wari, which is in the middle of the highway. To get back, just flag down one of the colectivos on their way back to the city. Alternatively, take another colectivo and continue your visit towards Quinua.

6. Visit its 33 Churches

Visit 7 churches, the best things to do in Ayacucho if you go during Easter

Visiting the churches in Ayacucho is a must-do for any traveler interested in architecture and history. Known as the city of the churches , Ayacucho is home to 33 colonial-era churches, each one unique and worth visiting. Each one of the 33 churches represents one of the years of Christ .

But what sets Ayacucho apart from other cities in Peru are the Easter celebrations, which are the biggest and most important in the country, and the second biggest Easter celebrations in the world (after the ones in Sevilla, Spain). It’s absolutely one of the most important religious celebrations taking place in Peru .

Not only the locals fill the streets in breathtaking processions, but people from all over the country travel to Ayacucho during those days as well. It’s a great time to visit the city, with beautiful flower carpets covering the streets.

One of the best things to do in Ayacucho during Easter, is to visit 7 churches on Holy Thursday, to follow the local tradition. The churches all around the city will be alive with most locals doing the same.

The Cathedral

Ayacucho Cathedral

Visiting Ayacucho during Easter is an experience that you will not forget. But even if you don’t get to visit Ayacucho during Easter, I recommend visiting at least some of these churches to understand more of the local culture.

At least, make a visit to the Cathedral, at the main square, and appreciate its altar covered in gold. I would recommend taking the museum and crypt tour (only offered in Spanish when I visited) for 10 soles (~$3).

The museum features a collection of paintings in Ayacuchan style. One of its most interesting pieces is Peruvian painting of the last supper but with a guinea pig on the table instead of a lamb , and with other local food items like potatoes and chillis. You will also discover that artists did not sign their paintings during colonial times. Instead, sometimes they painted sometimes one of their children inside the painting, or some other recognizable sign.

At the crypt, you will be able to see the tombs of the previous bishops of the church. As a part of the tour, you can also access one of the bell towers, and observe the view of the city’s main square from above.

Where to stay in Ayacucho?

Mid-range :

ViaVia Cafe : Located in a colonial house with a big patio, right at the main square. It has a good restaurant overlooking the square.

Astromelia Hotel : Located just 2 blocks away from the main square. It’s located in a quiet building with a nice patio.

Altipacha Hotel : Nice hotel 5 blocks away from the main square. Some rooms have terraces and some rooms also have a jacuzzi. Good breakfast buffet.

La Villa de Roel : Simple and well rated B&B, very close to the main square.

Is Visiting Ayacucho, Peru, Worth It?

Ayacucho is a hidden gem in Peru that is worth visiting for many reasons.

For one, it offers a unique travel experience off the-beaten-path . Unlike the more popular tourist destinations like Cusco or Machu Picchu, Ayacucho remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. This means that you can enjoy a more authentic and less crowded experience of Peruvian culture and heritage.

Another reason to visit Ayacucho is its affordability . As compared to other tourist hotspots in Peru, Ayacucho is a budget-friendly destination, where you can stretch your travel budget further without sacrificing comfort or quality. You can find plenty of affordable accommodation, food, and activities without compromising on the experience.

Moreover, Ayacucho is easy to get to from Lima by plane , with daily flights to and from the city.

This means that you can easily add Ayacucho to your itinerary and explore more of Peru beyond the capital.

These are in my opinion the best things to do in Ayacucho, but the region has a lot more to often. I think it’s absolutely worth to visit Ayacucho, and the best moment would be now, while there’s still very little foreign tourism.

Take a look here if you want to find out about other off-the-beaten path destinations in Peru besides Ayacucho.

Sharon Liao Avatar

I’m from Peru and share travel tips and experiences based on my trips around my country.

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The classical view of Machu Picchu ruins in Cusco, Peru.

vilcashuaman

Vilcashuamán: the great Inca complex of Ayacucho

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Vilcashuamán is an authentic Inca citadel, an important stopover and administrative and ceremonial center of the empire. The arrival of the Spanish conquest and the fall of the Tahuantinsuyo caused the recycling of some buildings, building a Catholic temple over the ancient and superb Temple of the Sun.

The town that was formed around the buildings and the Inca wall is preserved and inhabited to this day. The small town is located at 3,490 meters, on a terrace of the Andes Mountains. Its visibility over the nearby territory gives an idea of the strategic importance it had at the time of the empire’s splendor.

While traveling and discovering a new great inca complex in Peru you may need to use one of our mobile phone plans for tourists to have a tourist SIM card . In order to understand and find new adventures, here in PeruSIM

History of Vilcashuamán

vilcashuaman

Vilcashuamán was founded in its present form by Pachacútec, the ninth ruler of the Inca empire who gave it the largest extension by crushing the Chancas and the Pocras. Its name means sacred falcon in Quechua, the ancestral language of the inhabitants of the Peruvian highlands.

A large central square, with a stone for sacrifices, occupies the central precinct of the town. To one side is the great Temple of the Sun, on whose foundations was built, with the Spanish arrival, the Temple of San Juan Bautista, surviving both until today.

Another building that stands out in Vilcahuasmán is the Ushnu, a large ceremonial truncated pyramid that can be accessed. At the top is a large stone, called the Seat of the Inca, which is believed to have been covered with gold. It is considered to be the largest throne in the empire.

How to get to Vilcashuamán?

how to get to vilcashuaman

From Ayacucho, you have to head south on highway 32A, a narrow mountain road that goes into the Andes. From the main square in Ayacucho, you can buy a tour to get to the town. The trip takes between three and four hours.

You can also go on your own by taking public transportation in Ayacucho. The units take a little longer because they stop in nearby towns. They return early from Vilcashuamán.

What to see and do in Vilcashuasmán ?

what to visit in vilcashuaman

It is worth a trip to the village to see, first hand, the monumental dimension of the Inca empire. The ancient constructions were part of the birth of a mixed-race town, which is still inhabited today.

 Marvel at the church of San Juan Bautista. 

Built in stone, it is located on the foundations of the ancient Temple of the Sun. A long stairway leads the parishioners from the ceremonial plaza of Vilcahuasmán.

 Walk through the ceremonial plaza. 

Built with the traditional trapezoidal designs of Inca plazas, it can accommodate 20,000 people.

Visit the sacrificial stone. 

Rectangular in shape, its surface is carved with the figures of two snakes. There, human and animal sacrifices were made.

Climb the Ushnu. 

Pyramid of five levels, with double jamb doors, symbol of the importance of the building, it is considered as the biggest throne of the Tahuantinsuyo.

Sit on the throne of the Inca. 

Carved in stone, the Inca’s seats face the sunrise. From them you have a panoramic view of the ceremonial plaza and the entire town.

Observe the Inca construction method. 

Without mortar, the Incas built their buildings by assembling large carved stones at different angles. They have been maintained until today, taking into account the high seismicity of the area.

Important Recommendations to follow:

vilcashuaman recomendations

– The best way to get to Vilcashuamán is to purchase a tour in the main square of Ayacucho. It includes round trip transportation and the company of a specialized guide.

– Visit all the monuments. Vilcashuamán is a small town around Inca foundations and buildings. Admire the traditional Inca construction method.

– Go up to the church of San Juan Bautista. Located above the temple of the Sun and the Moon, it is the main Catholic temple of the town. From the top, there is a beautiful view of Vilcashuamán.

– Sit on the throne of the Inca, at the top of the Ushnu. From there you can have a panoramic view of the entire domain.

– Wear a hat and long sleeves. It is ideal to protect yourself from the sun.

– Do not run. It is almost 4,000 meters above sea level, where the oxygen level is lower.

– Bring water for hydration. You will also find in the village some stores where you can buy what you want.

– Follow the recommendations of the guide or the villagers if you suffer from altitude sickness. The best remedy for this temporary discomfort is to rest sitting down and drink a fortifying coca tea.

– Do not scratch or damage the buildings.

Finally, we know that you have to keep communication with your relatives and friends, that you need to be able to orient yourself in new cities, that you might need help with translation and that you might need to search for restaurants or hotels. That’s why with PeruSIM you can buy a SIM card including the data plan of your need without having to worry about high roaming costs .

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Ayacucho

Things to do in ayacucho, explore popular experiences, ways to tour ayacucho.

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  • Obelisco de la Pampa de la Quinua
  • Complejo Arqueologico Wari
  • Plaza Mayor de Ayacucho
  • Basilica Catedral de Ayacucho
  • Mirador turistico de Acuchimay
  • Reserva Nacional Pampa Galeras Barbara D'Achille
  • Cueva de Pikimachay
  • La Totorilla Centro Ecologico Recreacional
  • Catarata Batan
  • Zoologico de Ayacucho
  • Millpu Lagoons day tour (English & Private tour)

Top Things to Do in Ayacucho, Peru - Ayacucho Must-See Attractions

Things to do in ayacucho, explore popular experiences, ways to tour ayacucho.

ayacucho peru places to visit

  • Full Day Turquoise Waters Millpu

ayacucho peru places to visit

  • Rainbow Mountain - Adventure all included

ayacucho peru places to visit

Private Tour to Wari and Quinua

ayacucho peru places to visit

Millpu Lagoons day tour (English & Private tour)

ayacucho peru places to visit

  • ATV Tour: Quad Biking Sacred Valley

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ayacucho peru places to visit

Canopy / ATVs / Xtremo swing

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  • Obelisco de la Pampa de la Quinua
  • Complejo Arqueologico Wari
  • Plaza Mayor de Ayacucho
  • Basilica Catedral de Ayacucho
  • Mirador turistico de Acuchimay
  • Reserva Nacional Pampa Galeras Barbara D'Achille
  • Cueva de Pikimachay
  • La Totorilla Centro Ecologico Recreacional
  • Catarata Batan
  • Zoologico de Ayacucho
  • Millpu Lagoons day tour (English & Private tour)

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9 Reasons to Visit Ayacucho in Peru – Now

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Ayacucho (formerly called Huamanga) doesn’t have the beauty of the sillar stone in Arequipa ; it doesn’t have the hordes of tourists who make pilgrimage to Cusco, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley ; and it doesn’t have the pull of Peru’s capital, Lima. But Ayacucho, nestled in the central highlands of Peru, has a lot going for it.

Here are 9 reasons to visit Ayacucho NOW:

What you will find in this article:

One of the roof ornaments created in Quinua, protects a house in Ayacucho.

One of the roof ornaments created in Quinua, protects a house in Ayacucho.

Ayacucho Really Wants You to Come

The Shining Path occupied the city and region, for the best part of 2 decades in the 80s and 90s, successfully isolating it from the rest of Peru. This would have been the time when tourism to South America was growing, and more people were heading to the wonders of this continent. Ayacucho missed out and now wants to catch up.

The Ayacucho Municipalidad is one of the eye-catching buildings on Plaza de Armas. It is enhanced by its current Carnival decorations.

The Ayacucho Municipalidad is one of the eye-catching buildings on Plaza de Armas. It is enhanced by its current Carnival decorations.

The Colonial Architecture of Ayacucho

Ayacucho has a lot of Spanish architecture and the majority of it is intact – some claim, more so than in any other city in Peru.

Plaza de Armas (or Plaza Mayor de Huamanga ) is surrounded by mansions and the Cathedral . The mansions, from the 16th to 18th centuries, have tiled roofs and arched sidewalks. They were formerly homes of the wealthy, and today house government offices, museums and shops.

Plaza de Armas in Ayacucho is surrounded by colonial mansions with arched porticos.

If you are a colonial church enthusiast, the City of Churches (another name for Ayacucho) has a total of 33. All are easily accessible, within a few blocks of Plaza Mayor. Churches are not open to visitors every day as you will find in other places, but we did find that some of them were open in the late afternoon – and they are always open when mass is being celebrated.

Ayacucho’s Folk Arts and Handicrafts

According to the information leaflet from iPerú , Ayacucho is also known as “Peru’s Capital of Folk Arts and Handicrafts” . Much of the artisanal work found in more touristed destinations of Peru, such as Cusco, probably originated in this area. It is also exported to Europe, North America and Asia.

The Shosaku Nagase Handicraft Market in Ayacucho is the place to look for local Folk Arts and Handicrafts, like these colourful Retablos.

The Shosaku Nagase Handicraft Market in Ayacucho is the place to look for local Folk Arts and Handicrafts, like these colourful Retablos.

Retablos are the most famous of these artisanal offerings. They were originally portable altars in a box, but have developed into outrageous collections of tiny, hand-carved wooden or hand-formed clay figurines and objects, crammed into several layers inside the box. They are extremely colourful and sometimes very funny.

Besides these, the area is famous for stone carvings, weaving, embroidery, silver filigree jewellery, and pottery.

The Shosaku Nagase Handicraft Market , just 5 blocks from the central plaza, has it all under one roof. If you’re interested in seeing the master craftsmen at work, their workshops are in the barrios of Santa Ana, Puca Cruz, Belén and La Libertad , also all close to the centre.

The Handicraft Town of Quinua is Within Easy Reach

Less than 40Km from Ayacucho you will find Quinua . It is a small village full of artisanal potters, but is also interesting because of its authentic and original feel. Just walking streets gives you a real experience of the way of life in this area.

Quinua is a village of potters producing all kinds of detailed ceramic work, but are most famous for the churches.

Quinua is a village of potters producing all kinds of detailed ceramic work, but are most famous for the churches.

The potters produce a variety of ceramic objects, but the most famous are the ceramic churches. Although they may have begun as serious representations, today many of them appear as caricatures of the originals. They are placed as roof ornaments, on the ridgeline, as a protection against evil spirits (similar to the bulls we saw in the Cusco region). Every house in Quinua has at least one, including the church, which has many. You also see them frequently on the rooftops of Ayacucho. Some are so large they can be displayed indoors as a feature.

In Quinua you will find artisan shops like this and you can also visit workshops and buy direct from the artist.

The Ancient Wari Ruins

The former capital of the Wari civilization ( Huari in Spanish) is on the way to Quinua. This archaeological complex gives an insight into a culture which dominated Peru from around 500-1000AD . It stretched from Cajamarca in the north to Cusco in the south. They were the most dominant culture in this region until the rise of the Inca.

A view of a large section of the Wari Archaeological Site, including a ceremonial circle. All vulnerable buildings are under cover at this site.

A view of a large section of the Wari Archaeological Site, including a ceremonial circle. All vulnerable buildings are under cover at this site.

Wari Archaeological Site – this is a huge slab of rock used for sacrifice

We recently visited Pikillaqta , another Wari site, when we left Cusco on our way to Puno.

The Colours of Ayacucho

Ayacucho leaves an impression with me of being very colourful. This may be because the buildings are painted in a variety of colours; unlike Arequipa, which is predominantly white, and Cusco, which has a lot of stonework or white-painted buildings with colourful trims.

There are plenty of parks with colourful gardens. Locals still go about in traditional clothing. The markets are colourful, with stalls offering colourful things for sale.

This colourfully dressed woman sells artisanal ice cream in one of the Ayacucho pedestrian zones.

It may also be that we were there just before Carnival, and there were decorations on buildings and people dressed up for events.

Ayacucho’s Climate & Altitude

The climate is very pleasant. We were there during the rainy season, but most days produced a lot of sunshine, with the rain arriving later in the afternoon – sometimes not until night.

Ayacucho: walking down the pedestrian zone Jiròn 28 de Julio towards the Arch of Triumph is pleasant and interesting.

Ayacucho: walking down the pedestrian zone Jiròn 28 de Julio towards the Arch of Triumph is pleasant and interesting.

At 2700m, the altitude of Ayacucho is very comfortable. While a reaction to this altitude, in our experience, is unlikely, it’s necessary to take the normal precautions when visiting any place in the Andes.

Ayacucho is Still Waiting to be Discovered

It feels more like a city for locals, with shops catering to locals, instead of a tourist city. We didn’t see very many foreign tourists and it’s less expensive than other tourist destinations. The locals are friendly but generally leave you alone. You are not being constantly harassed to buy something, eat something, or take a tour.

Templo de Santo Domingo is another of Ayacucho’s many churches. Colonial church enthusiasts will love this city.

Ayacucho is a place you can discover in a relaxed way.

The Stunning Location in the Andean Mountains

To reach Ayacucho by road, you have the opportunity to travel through some stunning parts of the Andes . Whether you come from Pisco , Lima (via Huancayo), or Cusco, it will certainly be scenic…

One of the amazing views waiting for you if you drive from Pisco on the coast to Ayacucho nestled in the Andes.

One of the amazing views waiting for you if you drive from Pisco on the coast to Ayacucho nestled in the Andes.

If you are in Peru and you have had enough of the bustle of Lima, or the tourist hordes of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, or the windy and sometimes dusty coastline (like us), we recommend a visit to the city of Ayacucho and its surrounding sights. We also recommend getting there by road – and don’t take a night bus!

Additional Information for Overlanders

To enforce the ban for trucks most of the main roads into the centre are blocked off by a combination of huge concrete blocks and iron bars – leaving just enough width for small Japanese buses to get through!

Nevertheless we managed to get in, after a number of tries. This was on a Sunday and it would have been impossible on a weekday. To get past parked cars I had to drive several times onto the footpath (which only works if there’s no power pole or street sign in the way).

We overnighted at ‘Casa del Maestro’, a private school marked on iOverlander . This is a convenient location only 1½ blocks from the main square. It’s only suitable for self-contained rigs, although there’s a toilet where you could empty a portable waste tank in the mornings. The gate is locked overnight and the location is quiet enough.

Again: you won’t get in here with a big rig on weekdays; there are usually cars parked opposite the gate, yet you need to turn wide to fit through the gate. We left at 7:30 in the morning to beat traffic and parking vehicles.

Our PINTEREST image, which shows a typical hand made clay roof ornament on the top, and the main plaza of the Ayacucho at the bottom - with text overlay

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Our PINTEREST image, which shows one of the typical large hand-made clay churches, which are produced near Ayacucho and sold all over Peru - with text overlay

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Ayacucho in the Peruvian Andes is not - yet - high on the 'tourist radar'. This colonial town has so much to offer to visitors: well preserved historical buildings, the most picturesque main square of Peru, and a pleasant climate. It's also "Peru’s Capital of Folk Arts and Handicrafts"; here you find them cheaper than in other shops throughout Peru and the world. See our post for more reasons to add Ayacucho to your Peru itinerary.

Ayacucho in the Peruvian Andes is not – yet – high on the ‘tourist radar’. This colonial town has so much to offer to visitors: well preserved historical buildings, the most picturesque main square of Peru, and a pleasant climate. It’s also “Peru’s Capital of Folk Arts and Handicrafts”; here you find them cheaper than in other shops throughout Peru and the world. See our post for more reasons to add Ayacucho to your Peru itinerary.

Tags: Andes colonial historic market Mountains pre-Columbian

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dare2go's human navigator ( we're not lost because there's nowhere particular we have to be ) alongside our Nexus 7 tablet, writer and editor of our blog, first cook and loving wife. Teaching English as a second language when possible.

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Excellent article Yasha! I like how you explain the attractions of Ayacucho. And it is true, this place is very special and interesting because it has important cultural and historic value. I loved the architecture of the colonial houses and also the churches, I visited like 5 there and there were more! And the food is also amazing.

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Thanks Rachael. It’s lovely to be reminded of our time in Ayacucho by your comment. It seems so long ago, but it’s great to relive our experience through your words. We think it is one of the most special places we visited in Peru – and there are many special places in Peru.

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This is really a dream destination for me. Love the pictures.

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Hi Yasha and Jürgen, sounds really cool and yet unspoiled place. When I was reading about how you marvel about its inviolacy by tourism and then read about you ignoring the street blocks by driving into the blocked area, I was wondering: isn’t his kind of behavior by tourists actually spoiling these kind of yet still innocent places for the future? I am saying, with recommending such behavior to other travellers, places like Ayacucho will be soon having the same troubles with tourists like other destinations. Or did I get it all wrong?

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Marie, there was – at the time of our visit – only one known place to park securely in Ayacucho. I believe I didn’t really encourage others to follow our example. At the time we drove in, we weren’t even aware how far-reaching these road blocks were. Once we got to the school yard we thought we might as well stay. I only realised when we walked around the city the next few days, how many roads are blocked or too narrow to drive, so I described the situation as best and clearly as I could – for others to make up their own minds.

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Ahhhh! I shouldn’t read these things. Too much of the world to see! 😯

*adds another place to the list*

The more you read, the more you can make informed choices about where you want to go. But then, I want to go almost anywhere I can! But Ayacucho was a pretty special place to visit, considering its history.

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Thanks for the colorful and informative post. Hope to visit a lot of places in Peru, including Ayacucho.

That’s why we publish posts like this: to encourage people to go further than just Cusco and the Sacred Valley , to explore other sights Peru has to offer.

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So many good reasons to visit this place in Peru… Looks so inviting… thanks for making me aware of this place.. :)

Yes, we’re currently working on 2 more blog posts, which will highlight other attractions of the north of Peru!

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I love your ‘off the main tourist trail’ posts on South America. We love the continent and your posts are such a source of inspiration.

Thanks Lyn, it’s such a pleasure to hear that we inspire others. We love what we do, and when others are inspired to follow in our footsteps it’s just lovely.

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These are all good reasons to visit Ayacucho. I love the colours and the folk arts. And it would be great to see the Wari ruins.

Donna, Ayacucho is a great place. And I never get tired of pre-Hispanic ruin sites – ever since I visited my first ones in Mexico in 2007. Peru has such a lot to offer.

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No trucks, that alone is a reason to visit. We are headed to South America later in the year and still have no idea where we are going to visit. We will have to consider Ayacucho.

Well Rhonda, we have such a lot of recommendations – but it is difficult to decide. Better to visit several places and see them intensively, than many and just touch upon them – in my opinion. If you do choose to visit Ayacucho, make sure you travel by road in the daytime – don’t want to miss the gorgeous mountains along the way.

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Looks to be quite the undiscovered town. The beautiful colonial architecture, colorful folk art and history will surely attract the tourism crowd they are trying to catch up on for growth in Ayacucho. Just may take a little time to be discovered. Thanks for sharing this new city. Looks like a great place to walk around with the local and discover a new place. We visited Peru a couple years ago, but didn’t know about this town. Hopefully we will be back soon and can check it out.

Ayacucho certainly seems to be off the main tourist tracks, and that is part of its charm. It has excellent examples of all the things you mention. I hope you get to visit before it’s ‘discovered’.

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I missed Ayacucho during my Peru trip, and it looks like I really missed out on some fascinating ruins. I loved how throughout Peru you can see such a mix of ancient ruins and colonial Spanish architecture. Plus, the Andes are pretty breathtaking. Looks like I’ll have to go back to Peru again! #WeekendWanderlust

It seems there is always something new to discover. We were in Peru in 2008 and didn’t know about Ayacucho – but we’re glad someone told us about it this time.

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What a fantastic post and a fantastic town. Love the retablos and the roof ornaments. Was fascinated by the bulls on the roofs of Ollantaytambo. You folks are making a great case for another visit to South America by self. But could I restrain myself from excessive shopping?

Thanks Pete. We’d love to see you in South America again – and you just have to bring an extra empty suitcase…

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Top Things to Do in Ayacucho

Things to do in ayacucho, explore popular experiences, ways to tour ayacucho.

ayacucho peru places to visit

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Willie011

  • Obelisco de la Pampa de la Quinua
  • Complejo Arqueologico Wari
  • Plaza Mayor de Ayacucho
  • Basilica Catedral de Ayacucho
  • Mirador turistico de Acuchimay
  • Reserva Nacional Pampa Galeras Barbara D'Achille
  • Cueva de Pikimachay
  • La Totorilla Centro Ecologico Recreacional
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  • Zoologico de Ayacucho
  • Millpu Lagoons day tour (English & Private tour)

Top Things to Do in Ayacucho

Things to do in ayacucho, explore popular experiences, ways to tour ayacucho.

ayacucho peru places to visit

  • Full Day Turquoise Waters Millpu

ayacucho peru places to visit

  • Rainbow Mountain - Adventure all included

ayacucho peru places to visit

Private Tour to Wari and Quinua

ayacucho peru places to visit

Millpu Lagoons day tour (English & Private tour)

ayacucho peru places to visit

  • ATV Tour: Quad Biking Sacred Valley

ayacucho peru places to visit

Millpu and Ayacucho Experience 3-Day

ayacucho peru places to visit

Canopy / ATVs / Xtremo swing

ayacucho peru places to visit

HEY! Turquoise Waters + Millpu Waterfalls + Professional Guide and more

ayacucho peru places to visit

  • Aguas Turquesas Ayacucho

ayacucho peru places to visit

4-Day Guided Cultural Tour of Ayacucho and Vilcashuaman

ayacucho peru places to visit

Top Attractions in Ayacucho

ayacucho peru places to visit

Other Top Attractions around Ayacucho

ayacucho peru places to visit

Private Sightseeing Tours

Private and luxury, audio guides, full-day tours, what travellers are saying.

Willie011

  • Obelisco de la Pampa de la Quinua
  • Complejo Arqueologico Wari
  • Plaza Mayor de Ayacucho
  • Basilica Catedral de Ayacucho
  • Mirador turistico de Acuchimay
  • Reserva Nacional Pampa Galeras Barbara D'Achille
  • Cueva de Pikimachay
  • La Totorilla Centro Ecologico Recreacional
  • Catarata Batan
  • Zoologico de Ayacucho
  • Millpu Lagoons day tour (English & Private tour)

IMAGES

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  1. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Ayacucho

    By Viajes-13-6. The girls teens and younger) enjoyed riding horses all the way to the "pampa". It was fun and educational. See ways to experience (3) 4. Casa Museo Joaquin Lopez Antay. 26. Art Galleries. In this place, Joaquin Lopez Antay, the creator of the "Retablo Ayacuchano", was born and lived.

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    The highland city of Ayacucho in Peru has a very complex and dark history, which makes it a very interesting place to visit. Ayacucho is one of Peru's most beautiful highland towns, with resplendent churches and a charming plaza de armas, all of which betray its dark past.It's only a decade since the atrocities committed by the Shining Path; this town was once the stronghold of Peru's ...

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    The name Huamanga was changed to Ayacucho by decree of the liberator, Simón Bolívar, on the 15th of February 1825. This was done as a homage to the victory of the army in the Ayacucho Battle. Ayacucho is a combination of two Quechua words: "aya" meaning soul and "k'uchu" meaning dwelling. In this sense, Ayacucho means "souls ...

  4. Ayacucho travel

    South America. Travelers are only just rediscovering Ayacucho's treasures. Richly decorated churches dominate the vivid cityscape alongside peach- and pastel-colored colonial buildings hung with wooden balconies. Among numerous festivities, Ayacucho boasts Peru's premier Semana Santa celebrations, while in the surrounding mountains lie some ...

  5. Ayacucho, Peru: The Top 20 Must-See Places

    To help you out, we've compiled a list of the top 20 must-see places in Ayacucho, Peru. From ancient ruins to modern-day attractions, this list has it all. So, without further ado, let's get started! 1. Wari Archaeological Site: The Wari site is a must-see for anyone visiting Ayacucho.

  6. Ayacucho: Complete Travel Guide

    Just an hour away, this is the site of the Battle of Ayacucho, winning Peru the War of Independence in 1824. Nowadays, you can explore the quaint little town, famous for beautiful handcrafted pottery, horseback riding and its short hike to a beautiful waterfall. The well-preserved Wari ruins are located just below Quinua on your way back to ...

  7. 30 BEST Places to Visit in Ayacucho (UPDATED 2024)

    123. Points of Interest & Landmarks. By waltw234. Eight soles should get you there in a taxi from Ayacucho's Main Plaza. I think it is best to visit in the afternoon... 10. Museo Andres Avelino Caceres. 37. Speciality Museums.

  8. 7 Essential Places to visit in Ayacucho, Peru

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  9. Best 6 Things to Do in Ayacucho, Peru's Hidden Gem

    A visit to Millpu waters, one of the best things to do in Ayacucho. Millpu is a beautiful is a set of 20 stunning turquoise and green pools (depending on the time of year), that look really turquoise, like in the pictures. It's located 3 hours away from Huamanga. It is a bit far but well worth the trip.

  10. Fun Things to Do in Ayacucho

    Things To Do In Ayacucho. Ayacucho offers a variety of things to do that showcase its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Here are some main activities you can enjoy in Ayacucho: . 1. Explore the Historic Center: Start your journey by exploring Ayacucho's historic center, which is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture.. Visit the Plaza de Armas, the main ...

  11. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Ayacucho

    37. Asociación Artesanos Shosaku Nagase. Speciality & Gift Shops. 38. Huancaraylla Tours Peru. 15. City Tours • Cultural Tours. By 966luzmarinal. I got in touch with Huancaraylla Tours Peru before travelling to Ayacucho and it was a great decision as they...

  12. 7 must-see places to visit in Ayacucho

    5. Visit the town of Quinua. Just 25 kilometers from Ayacucho is the town of Quinua. In itself the population does not have much, are 4 cobbled streets with a very authentic air and mainly noted for its crafts, especially pottery. But a few minutes outside the town is the historic sanctuary Pampa de Ayacucho. 6.

  13. Vilcashuamán: Ayacucho Inca complex

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  14. Travel Guide to Ayacucho and the Central Highlands

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  15. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Ayacucho (Updated 2024)

    The most popular things to do in Ayacucho with children according to Tripadvisor travellers are: Plaza Mayor de Ayacucho; Obelisco de la Pampa de la Quinua; Basilica Catedral de Ayacucho; Complejo Arqueologico Wari; Mirador turistico de Acuchimay; See all kid friendly things to do in Ayacucho on Tripadvisor

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    Top Things to Do in Ayacucho, Peru - Ayacucho Must-See Attractions. Things to Do in Ayacucho. Explore popular experiences. See what other travellers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings. See All. Bus Tours (12) Archaeology Tours (3) Points of Interest & Landmarks (10)

  18. 9 Reasons to Visit Ayacucho in Peru

    Here are 9 reasons why you should visit Ayacucho now - before it becomes the "next Cusco". Ayacucho in the Peruvian Andes is not yet on the tourist radar. Here are 9 reasons why you should visit Ayacucho now - before it becomes the "next Cusco". ... Hope to visit a lot of places in Peru, including Ayacucho. Reply. Juergen says: 13/05/2017 at 14:43.

  19. Top Things to Do in Ayacucho

    To see the city of Ayacucho this is the place. Eight soles should get you there in a taxi from Ayacucho's Main Plaza. I think it is best to visit in the afternoon like at around 4:00 because the temps are cooling off. The views are amazing. Bring a camera and binoculars if you have them. Plenty of places to eat, but nothing fancy or expensive.

  20. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Ayacucho

    123. Points of Interest & Landmarks. By waltw234. Eight soles should get you there in a taxi from Ayacucho's Main Plaza. I think it is best to visit in the afternoon... 10. Museo de Sitio Wari. 73. Speciality Museums.