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Apurímac
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Explore Apurímac in Peru for deep Andean canyons, Chanka archaeology, highland lagoons, Quechua culture and mountain landscapes around Abancay.

Apurímac occupies a rugged section of southern Peru where deep river canyons divide high puna, cultivated valleys and mountain communities. Its name, commonly translated from Quechua as “speaker of the gods”, reflects the force of the Apurímac River, which cuts through dramatic terrain before continuing towards the Amazon basin. Abancay, the regional capital, lies in a relatively mild inter-Andean valley beneath the slopes of the Ampay massif, while Andahuaylas provides a second important urban centre on a broad highland plateau to the north-east.
Read more about Apurímac
The region rewards travellers interested in landscapes and archaeology rather than conventional resort tourism. Around Abancay, the Santuario Nacional de Ampay protects high-altitude ecosystems, glacial lakes and polylepis woodland, with walking routes that require acclimatisation and careful weather planning. The Saywite Archaeological Complex, near Curahuasi, is known for its carved stone monument and ceremonial remains, while the Apurímac canyon offers vast Andean views along roads and trails linking the valleys. In the Andahuaylas area, Laguna Pacucha and the archaeological complex of Sóndor combine open mountain scenery with traces of the pre-Inca Chanka world.
Apurímac has a strongly Quechua cultural character. Rural life remains connected to communal agriculture, livestock raising, religious festivals and local markets, although the towns also reflect Peru’s wider national culture. Traditional music, dance and dress are particularly visible during patronal celebrations and agricultural festivities, with local expressions varying between the warmer valleys and colder uplands. Spanish is widely used in administration and tourism, while Quechua remains an important everyday language in many communities.
The region’s food reflects altitude and ecological variety. Potatoes, native grains, maize, broad beans, trout, alpaca and guinea pig appear in different local preparations, alongside hearty soups and stews suited to the cool climate. Abancay and Andahuaylas have the broadest choice of restaurants and cafés; elsewhere, visitors should expect simple dining and should plan provisions for remote excursions. Coca tea is widely available as a customary refreshment, but it should not be treated as a substitute for gradual acclimatisation.
Travel in Apurímac is rewarding but demands time. Roads cross high passes and canyon country, and journeys that look short on a map can take much longer than expected. The region is well suited to travellers who want to explore Peru beyond the principal southern circuit, combining archaeological sites, highland wetlands, mountain walks and living Andean communities while keeping expectations realistic about infrastructure and changing weather.

When is the best time to visit Apurímac?

Best: June–August · 12–13°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January15100
February1590
March1580
April1560
May1440
June (best)1320
July (best)1220
August (best)1320
September1340
October1460
November1480
December1590

Getting to and around Apurímac

How to get there

Abancay is reached mainly by road from Cusco, Andahuaylas, Ayacucho or the coast, with journeys shaped by mountain terrain. The nearest practical air connections are generally through airports outside Apurímac, especially Cusco or Ayacucho, while Andahuaylas has an airport whose commercial services may vary and should be checked before travel. Long-distance buses connect the principal towns, but routes, comfort and journey times are changeable. Visitors planning remote excursions should arrange transport locally rather than assuming that a regular public service reaches every archaeological or natural site.

Transportation

Road travel is the backbone of movement within Apurímac. Intercity buses and colectivos link Abancay, Andahuaylas and provincial towns, while taxis and hired vehicles are useful for shorter connections and site visits. A private car or driver offers greater flexibility in rural districts, but mountain driving requires caution because of bends, steep gradients, livestock, roadworks and occasional weather disruption. Walking is practical within towns and on selected trails, but highland routes may be unmarked; organised transport and a local guide are advisable for Ampay, remote canyon areas and dispersed archaeological sites.

Top city travel guides in Apurímac

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Best attractions in Apurímac

Apurímac’s attractions are spread across high plateaux, warm inter-Andean valleys and deep river country. Around Abancay, the Santuario Nacional de Ampay offers mountain walking, native woodland and high-altitude lakes, with routes that demand acclimatisation and suitable weather. Near Curahuasi, the Saywite Archaeological Complex is noted for its carved stone monument and ceremonial remains, while the surrounding roads provide wide views across the Apurímac landscape. Andahuaylas is a useful base for visiting Laguna Pacucha, a highland lake associated with recreation and local rural life, and the Sóndor archaeological complex, whose open ceremonial setting reflects the region’s pre-Inca heritage. Further south and east, canyon viewpoints, agricultural valleys and remote provincial towns reveal a less formal but deeply compelling side of the region. Outdoor activities include walking, birdwatching, scenic road journeys and visits to community landscapes, although facilities can be sparse. Choquequirao is sometimes approached from the Apurímac side through Cachora, but the archaeological site itself lies in the Cusco Region and should not be presented as an Apurímac attraction.

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Best landmarks in Apurímac

The Apurímac River and its canyon country form the region’s defining natural landmark, with roads and viewpoints revealing the sharp relief between high plateau and warmer valley. Above Abancay, the Ampay massif gives the capital a distinctive mountain backdrop and protects a nationally recognised sanctuary of high-altitude habitats. The Saywite stone monument near Curahuasi is one of the region’s most recognisable archaeological features, its carved surface associated with the ceremonial and cosmological worlds of the Andes. Near Andahuaylas, the Sóndor complex occupies an open highland setting that makes its terraces and ceremonial spaces particularly legible in the landscape, while Laguna Pacucha provides a contrasting watery landmark on the surrounding plateau. Colonial bridges and older town churches in the valleys also reflect the routes and settlements established after the Spanish conquest, though many have undergone rebuilding. These places matter not simply for their appearance, but because they connect Apurímac’s geology, pre-Hispanic history, colonial transformation and continuing Quechua cultural life.

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Best restaurants in Apurímac

Dining in Apurímac is rooted in Andean agriculture and varies with altitude. Potatoes in many native forms, maize, quinoa, broad beans, trout, alpaca and guinea pig appear in markets and traditional restaurants, often alongside filling soups, stews and dishes designed for cool mountain weather. Abancay and Andahuaylas offer the widest selection, including everyday menú restaurants, bakeries, cafés and more contemporary interpretations of regional ingredients. In smaller towns, food is more likely to be served in simple family-run establishments or market stalls, with choice depending on the day and local supply. Chicha and other maize-based drinks belong to the wider Andean food culture, while coca tea is commonly offered to visitors at altitude. Travellers with dietary restrictions should explain them clearly in Spanish and plan ahead when heading into rural districts, where menus may be limited and opening arrangements informal.

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Best bars in Apurímac

Apurímac’s evening life is concentrated in Abancay and Andahuaylas rather than spread across the rural region. In the principal towns, visitors will find casual bars, cafés, karaoke venues, restaurants and establishments serving beer, wine and familiar Peruvian spirits. Social life often becomes particularly active around municipal celebrations, patronal festivals and other local events, although dates and programmes change. Outside the regional centres, evenings generally revolve around family gatherings, modest restaurants, neighbourhood shops and traditional or contemporary music rather than a dedicated club scene. Some venues stay open later at weekends, but travellers should rely on local advice rather than assume fixed hours. Drink-riding and remote late-night travel are poor choices on mountain roads; use a trusted taxi and keep personal belongings secure.

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Best nightclubs in Apurímac

Apurímac’s evening life is concentrated in Abancay and Andahuaylas rather than spread across the rural region. In the principal towns, visitors will find casual bars, cafés, karaoke venues, restaurants and establishments serving beer, wine and familiar Peruvian spirits. Social life often becomes particularly active around municipal celebrations, patronal festivals and other local events, although dates and programmes change. Outside the regional centres, evenings generally revolve around family gatherings, modest restaurants, neighbourhood shops and traditional or contemporary music rather than a dedicated club scene. Some venues stay open later at weekends, but travellers should rely on local advice rather than assume fixed hours. Drink-riding and remote late-night travel are poor choices on mountain roads; use a trusted taxi and keep personal belongings secure.

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Best shops in Apurímac

Shopping in Apurímac is centred on the markets and high streets of Abancay, Andahuaylas and provincial towns rather than large retail complexes. Weekly markets are useful for seeing the region’s agricultural diversity, with potatoes, maize, grains, herbs, fruit from warmer valleys and prepared foods varying by locality and season. Travellers may also find woven goods, knitted garments, hats, blankets, carved items and small craft products, although quality and provenance differ, so buying directly from recognised artisans or community organisations is preferable where possible. Regional food products make practical purchases: native potatoes, grains, maize products, herbal infusions and locally produced preserves may be available when transport and packaging permit. Independent shops and market stalls generally favour cash, particularly outside the main towns. Bargaining should be restrained and courteous, and archaeological objects or unverified antiques should never be bought.

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Apurímac essentials

Currency and Payment
Apurímac uses Peru’s national currency, the sol (PEN). Cards and contactless payments are most dependable in established hotels, larger shops and some restaurants in Abancay and Andahuaylas, while smaller towns and rural areas are predominantly cash-based. Carry small-denomination notes for buses, taxis, markets, entrance charges and refreshments, and use ATMs in the main towns before travelling into remote districts. Exchange facilities and reliable internet connections are more limited away from the regional centres.
Safety
Normal precautions apply in towns and on buses: keep valuables discreet, use established taxis and avoid displaying large amounts of cash. Outdoor risks are more significant than urban ones in many parts of Apurímac. High altitude, intense sun, cold nights, rain, loose ground and rapid weather changes can affect walkers, while road journeys involve steep and winding terrain. Check local conditions before travelling, allow time to acclimatise and do not enter rivers or canyon areas without appropriate guidance. Respect community property, agricultural land and local restrictions around archaeological or protected sites.
Emergency Situations
Peru’s national emergency arrangements apply in Apurímac: call 105 for the police and 116 for the fire service. Medical emergency coverage and ambulance access can vary by locality; 106 is used for emergency medical assistance in parts of Peru, but travellers should also ask accommodation staff or local authorities for the nearest functioning service. In remote mountain areas, rescue may take time, so carry identification, medication, water and a charged telephone. Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is prudent for trekking and journeys far from the main towns.
Do's and Don'ts
Dress for changeable mountain weather and wear suitable footwear on uneven archaeological paths. Ask before photographing residents, religious ceremonies or community activities, and do not climb, touch or remove material from archaeological structures. Queue courteously and keep valuables secure on public transport. Tipping is discretionary rather than a fixed regional obligation, but small thanks for attentive service are welcomed. When walking outside towns, stay on established routes, close gates and avoid entering fields or taking photographs of people without consent. Spanish is useful, while a few respectful Quechua greetings can be appreciated when used appropriately.
Local Tips
Treat Abancay and Andahuaylas as different bases rather than trying to cover the whole region in a single day. Visit markets early for the broadest choice of local produce, and ask locally about transport to Pacucha, Sóndor, Saywite and Ampay because departures may be infrequent. Dry-season days are often clearer for mountain views, but temperatures remain cold at altitude; the wet season can make roads and trails slower. If visiting a community-managed attraction, follow its entrance arrangements and support local guides, food vendors and transport providers where available.
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From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHola[Ola]
GoodbyeAdiós[Adios]
YesSí[Si]
NoNo[No]
Please/You're welcomePor favor[Por favor]
Thank youGracias[Grasias]
Excuse me/SorryDisculpe[Disculpe]
How are you?¿Cómo estás?[Como estas]
Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?[Bien. I tu]
Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?[Hablas ingles]
I don't understandNo entiendo[No entiendo]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor[Me gustaria ver el menu, por favor]
I don't eat meatNo como carne[No como carne]
Cheers!¡Salud![Salud]
I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor[Me gustaria pagar, por favor]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!¡Ayuda![Ayuda]
Go away!¡Vete![Vete]
Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía![Llama a la policia]
Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico![Llama a un medico]
I'm lostEstoy perdido[Estoy perdido]
I'm illEstoy enfermo[Estoy enfermo]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...[Me gustaria comprar]
I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando[Solo estoy mirando]
How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?[Cuanto cuesta]
That's too expensiveEso es muy caro[Eso es muy caro]
Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?[Puedes bajar el precio]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?¿Qué hora es?[Que hora es]
It's one o'clockEs la una[Es la una]
Half past (10)Y media (10)[Y media]
MorningMañana[Mañana]
AfternoonTarde[Tarde]
EveningNoche[Noche]
YesterdayAyer[Ayer]
TodayHoy[Hoy]
TomorrowMañana[Mañana]
1Uno[Uno]
2Dos[Dos]
3Tres[Tres]
4Cuatro[Cuatro]
5Cinco[Cinco]
6Seis[Seis]
7Siete[Siete]
8Ocho[Ocho]
9Nueve[Nueve]
10Diez[Diez]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está un/el...?[Donde esta un/el]
What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?[Cual es la direccion]
Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?[Puedes mostrarme en el mapa]
When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?[Cuando es el proximo autobus]
A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a....)[Un boleto a]

History of Apurímac

Early Highland Communities and Chanka Power

Long before the Inca expansion, the valleys and plateaux of present-day Apurímac supported farming communities that developed terraces, irrigation systems and regional exchange networks. The Chanka, whose political and cultural influence was centred in the southern-central Andes, became the most important pre-Inca power associated with the region. Later Inca narratives portrayed the Chanka as formidable rivals in a conflict that helped shape the rise of Inca authority. Archaeological places such as Sóndor, near Andahuaylas, preserve evidence of ceremonial and settlement traditions connected with this pre-Hispanic landscape, although the region’s history was never limited to a single unified culture.

Inca Incorporation and Imperial Roads

During the expansion of the Inca state, Apurímac was incorporated into an imperial system that linked highland settlements, agricultural zones and routes towards Cusco and the southern Andes. Inca administration built upon existing communities while imposing new political structures, labour obligations and ceremonial practices. Roads, bridges, storehouses and agricultural terraces made it possible to move people, food and information across difficult terrain. The valleys around the Apurímac River also formed an important transition between colder highlands and warmer eastern slopes, making the region valuable for access to varied crops and ecological zones.

Conquest and the Battle of Abancay, 1537

The Spanish conquest disrupted existing political and economic systems, bringing disease, forced labour and a new colonial hierarchy to the Apurímac area. In 1537, during the civil wars between rival Spanish factions, forces loyal to Hernando Pizarro defeated Diego de Almagro’s army at the Battle of Abancay. The conflict demonstrated the strategic importance of the valleys and routes around the emerging settlement. Colonial rule subsequently developed through towns, estates, religious institutions and administrative centres, while Indigenous communities retained important elements of language, agriculture and local organisation.

Colonial Agriculture, Mining and Regional Trade

Under Spanish rule, Apurímac’s economy combined Indigenous agriculture with estates, livestock raising, mining and the movement of goods between the highlands and larger colonial centres. Land, labour and taxation were reorganised to serve colonial interests, often placing heavy pressure on Indigenous communities. Churches, bridges and town layouts from the colonial period remain part of the region’s built heritage, although many structures have been altered by earthquakes and later rebuilding. The difficult terrain kept communities relatively dispersed, while market routes connected valley produce with high-altitude centres.

Independence and the Formation of the Region

The coming of Peruvian independence in the early nineteenth century did not immediately remove older inequalities in landholding, labour and political representation. Apurímac was formally established as a department in 1873, with Abancay becoming its capital. Through the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries, regional life continued to depend on agriculture, livestock, small-scale commerce and transport routes across the Andes. The growth of roads and public institutions gradually strengthened links between Abancay, Andahuaylas, the coast and neighbouring departments, while Quechua-speaking rural communities remained central to the region’s social identity.

Agrarian Reform and Social Change

Twentieth-century landholding patterns in Apurímac were transformed by Peru’s agrarian reform, particularly from the late 1960s onwards. Large estates were broken up or reorganised, altering relations between landowners, agricultural workers and communities. The changes were uneven and did not resolve every question of land, water or market access, but they reshaped rural society and local politics. Expanded education, migration and road connections also encouraged movement between villages, regional towns and cities elsewhere in Peru. These developments help explain the contrast between enduring communal practices and contemporary patterns of mobility.

Contemporary Mining and Regional Development

In the twenty-first century, large-scale mining has become increasingly important to Apurímac’s economy and public debate, especially in Cotabambas province, where the Las Bambas copper operation is located. Mining has brought investment, employment and infrastructure ambitions, but it has also generated disputes concerning land, environmental management, road transport, consultation and the distribution of benefits. The issue illustrates a wider tension in the Andes between mineral development and the priorities of agricultural and pastoral communities. Alongside mining, tourism, farming, public services and migration continue to shape Apurímac’s changing regional economy.

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Apurímac, Peru

Discover the best of Apurímac with Evendo, the 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease!

  • Detailed guides on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences
  • Rich information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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Plan your perfect trip to Apurímac, Peru with Evendo. Explore detailed guides on attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more. Book hotels, tours, and experiences effortlessly. Download now for free!

  • History of Apurímac and travel essentials
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near me' feature to find nearby points of interest
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs

Planning a trip to Apurímac, Peru? Look no further than Evendo, the ultimate travel guide app that ensures you make the most of your visit. From majestic landmarks like the Saywite Archaeological Complex to natural wonders such as the Apurímac River Canyon, Evendo provides comprehensive information to help you explore the region's top attractions.

Delve into the rich history of Apurímac with detailed guides on must-see sites and hidden gems. Enjoy authentic Peruvian cuisine at renowned restaurants like La Casona and Puka Rumi, all recommended by locals. With Evendo, you can easily navigate the city, find nearby points of interest, and even book hotels, tours, and tickets directly through the app.

Don't miss out on vibrant nightlife spots, charming shops, and unique experiences that make Apurímac special. Evendo offers curated local tips, maps, contact details, and images for each location, ensuring you have all the information you need at your fingertips. Download Evendo for free today and start your Apurímac adventure with confidence!

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