Apurímac: Rock Landscapes, Lagoons and Living Culture

In Apurímac, geological landscapes, lagoons, birdwatching and living culture shape a range of travel experiences. These include the rock formations of Pampachiri, activities at Laguna de Pacucha and viewpoints at Cañón del Apurímac. In Santuario Nacional de Ampay, a route passes through lagoons and forest. Carnaval o Pukllay complements these natural attractions with a tradition whose agricultural, musical and ritual elements are preserved.

Rock Landscapes and Lagoons

In the Pampachiri area, in Andahuaylas Province, Apurímac Department, lies Bosque de Piedras de Pampachiri, also known as Pankula Pampa de Pabellones. The area covers about 60 hectares. Its rock formations are attributed to eruptions of the Qarwarasu and Sotaya volcanoes more than four million years ago. Those interested in geology will find a tangible link here between the landscape and its volcanic origins.

At Laguna de Pacucha, both the habitats in the water and the shore are noteworthy: the lagoon provides a habitat for pejerrey and farmed trout, while its sandy, reed-lined shores provide a habitat for various wild birds. Species presence and ecological conditions may vary seasonally.

Visitors can rent bicycles and ATVs at Laguna de Pacucha or take a ride in a pedal boat or rowboat. As rental availability may change, it is advisable to check what is currently on offer in advance. This provides a choice of activities on the water and on land, as well as observing habitats.

Viewpoints and High-Altitude Trails

At Cañón del Apurímac, in the area around Curahuasi, Abancay Province, Apurímac Department, there are several viewpoints where visitors can watch condors. These include Cóndor Huachana, San Cristóbal, Capitán Rumi, Taramocco and Capulíoc. These named locations provide specific places for condor watching.

In Santuario Nacional de Ampay, the Ruta de bosques y lagunas passes two lagoons at elevations of about 3,200 and 3,800 meters, as well as through an Intimpa forest and a dwarf forest. Along the way, visitors can rest, take photographs and watch birds. While specific viewpoints are central to condor watching at the canyon, the Ampay route features lagoons, forest sections and several ways to experience the surroundings. The elevation figures provide a guide to the route’s different sections.

Living Tradition and Cultural Route

Carnaval o Pukllay, in the area of the farming community of Pomacocha, Pomacocha District, Andahuaylas Province, Apurímac Department, was declared National Cultural Heritage on June 10, 2026, by Vice-Ministerial Resolution No. 167-2026-VMPCIC/MC. This living tradition preserves agricultural and livestock-raising practices, as well as music and rituals. It is also considered a representative expression of Apurímac’s intangible cultural heritage. Specific programs and dates vary; if you plan to time your trip around Carnaval o Pukllay, check the relevant event dates.

Camino Inca Huanipaca-Choqekiraw-Cachora is listed as a cultural route in Huanipaca District, Abancay Province, Apurímac Department. It offers a different cultural perspective from Carnaval o Pukllay: here, the focus is on its classification as a route, while there it is a living tradition. Route conditions and access infrastructure may change; check both before making plans.

Community Experiences in Pampachiri

At Bosques de Pampachiri – Sector Pabellones, the Pampachiri community offers traditional Andean breakfasts and lunches, as well as horseback rides. These community offerings complement the rock landscape with a culinary and active perspective. Check locally whether they are currently available.

The featured experiences differ considerably: Pacucha combines shore habitats with rental activities, Ampay takes visitors through lagoons and forest, and viewpoints for condor watching are the focus at the canyon. Cultural options range from a living tradition to a route listed as a cultural route. This lets you plan your trip around the nature and cultural themes that interest you most.

Discover more destinations: Chincheros, Andahuaylas Province, Aymaraes, Santo Tomás, Cachora, Abancay, Pampachiri, Pampahuasi, Chalhuanca District.

For the main travel overview: Peru.