Things To Do
in Andahuaylas
Andahuaylas sits in the Andean highlands of southern Peru, perched above fertile valleys and framed by rugged mountains. The city serves as a gateway to rural Andean culture, weaving traditional crafts, markets, and warm hospitality into a compact urban core. Its altitude of roughly 2,700–3,000 meters brings crisp days and cool nights, ideal for exploring on foot.
From lively plazas to panoramic viewpoints, Andahuaylas offers authentic immersion for travelers seeking mountain scenery and indigenous heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Plaza de Armas, where the vibrant atmosphere is alive with local vendors and townspeople. Enjoy a breakfast of traditional Peruvian bread and coffee at a nearby café while admiring the colonial architecture surrounding you. Don't forget to take photos of the iconic Church of Santa María de Andahuaylas, which showcases beautiful baroque designs.
After lunch, immerse yourself in the rich history of the region at the Andahuaylas Museum, where you can explore artifacts from pre-Columbian cultures. Stroll through the streets to discover local art galleries and shops that sell handmade crafts, perfect for souvenirs. As you wander, engage with friendly locals who may share stories about their heritage and traditions.
As night falls, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local eatery specializing in Andean cuisine, where you can try dishes like pachamanca and cuy chactado. After dinner, find a cozy spot in the plaza to enjoy live music or cultural performances that often take place in the evenings. Conclude your day by sipping on a refreshing pisco sour under the stars.
Begin your day early by visiting the bustling Andahuaylas Market, where you can experience the vibrant colors and smells of local produce and handicrafts. Interact with the friendly vendors who sell everything from fresh fruits to handmade textiles, and try sampling traditional breakfast items like tamales or empanadas. Take your time to appreciate the intricate designs of the artisanal goods and perhaps purchase a few unique items.
Continue your market exploration by joining a cooking class that utilizes the fresh ingredients you just purchased. Learn to prepare traditional dishes under the guidance of a skilled local chef, and enjoy the fruits of your labor with fellow cooking enthusiasts. This immersive experience not only tantalizes your taste buds but also deepens your understanding of Andean culinary traditions.
After a day filled with flavors, unwind at a local café with a warm drink and reflect on the experiences you've had. Consider visiting a nearby cultural center for an evening of storytelling or folk music that showcases local traditions. This intimate setting will give you a deeper appreciation for Andahuaylas' rich cultural tapestry.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🫖Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-40 |
| 🚌Local transport (bus/taxi) per ride | $1-3 |
| 🏛️Museum or attraction entry | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Genuine Andean culture and warm hospitality
- Stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities
- Relatively affordable travel with good value
- Limited nightlife and some services outside the city center
- Rural areas may have variable infrastructure
- Altitude can affect visitors not acclimated
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Habla más despacio" - Speak more slowly
- "¿Puedo tomar fotos?" - Can I take photos?
Places to Visit in Andahuaylas
Visit one of these nice places.
The heart of the city with colonial buildings, fountains, and daily activity—great for street photography at sunrise or sunset.
A high viewpoint on the outskirts offering sweeping valley and mountain vistas.
Colorful market scenes, stalls with textiles, produce, and locals engaged in daily tasks.
Scenic riverside viewpoints where you can capture dramatic river bends and Andean landscapes.
Food in Andahuaylas
Andahuaylas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish often served with potatoes and corn.
Must-Try!
Meat (often pork, lamb, or goat) and tubers slow-cooked in a clay oven with herbs.
Grilled trout, usually from local rivers, served with corn and potatoes.
Boiled potatoes with a creamy, spicy cheese sauce from the highlands.
Quinoa soup with vegetables and herbs, a nourishing regional staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market where you can taste fresh produce, cheeses, grains, and prepared foods.
Grilled corn, tamales, and small sizzling dishes commonly found along the market lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or brief kiss on the cheek for closer acquaintances; use polite, respectful language.
Always ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; show appreciation when offered a photo opportunity.
Dress modestly in religious sites and villages; avoid loud behavior in public; be respectful of local customs and elders.
Safety
Tipping in Andahuaylas
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave around 5–10% if service is not included. For guides and drivers, small tips are appreciated.
Cash (Peruvian soles) is widely used in markets and small shops; many larger restaurants accept cards; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov–Mar brings warm days with frequent afternoon showers and occasional storms; carry a light rain layer and protect gear.
May–Sep offer sunny days and cool to cold nights; layers are essential, especially at higher elevations.
Andahuaylas at Night
Hiking in Andahuaylas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic ridgeline walk with panoramic views of the Andean valley and surrounding peaks.
Several short, well-marked trails offer sun and shade, with sunrise and sunset photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Andahuaylas by plane.
Small domestic airport serving Andahuaylas and nearby communities; flights mainly connect to Lima and Cusco as weather and schedules allow.
Regional airport offering connections to Lima and Cusco; longer road journeys may be required from Andahuaylas.
Major nearby international gateway in the region; 4–6 hours by road depending on conditions.
Main international gateway to Peru; many travelers fly here to begin or end their trip, with connections to Cusco and other cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A substantial portion of the surrounding rural population speaks Quechua and maintains traditional practices.
A mixed urban population that participates in commerce, education, and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and informal games are common in plazas and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Andahuaylas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for potato and corn dishes, quinoa soups, salads, and veggie-friendly sauces; communicate clearly with staff about avoiding meat stock.