Cachora: Hiking, Views and Inca Heritage

In Cachora, you’ll find cultural heritage in the town center, viewpoints within the district, and archaeological sites nearby. Each place offers something different, from views of the Apurímac Canyon and possible condor sightings to Inca architecture and the archaeological complex of Choquequirao.

Cultural Heritage in the Center of Cachora

The Capilla de San Pedro de Cachora is located on the Plaza de Armas of San Pedro de Cachora and has been considered cultural heritage since 1980. A Pisonay tree stands in the same square and is estimated to be more than 200 years old. If you’d like to visit the tree, check its condition locally.

Viewpoints and Trails in the District

From the Mirador de Capuliyoc, you can see the Apurímac Canyon, the Vilcabamba Cordillera and Nevado Padreyoc. The canyon extends across the districts of Curahuasi, San Pedro de Cachora and Huanipaca; Capuliyoc is one of its viewpoints where you may be able to spot condors. The viewpoint is also a place for hiking and observing flora and fauna. Outdoor activities are considered more pleasant during the dry season, from May to November.

Capuliyoc is a traditional starting point for the trail to Choquequirao. There is visitor parking and a restroom at the viewpoint. At the foot of the viewpoint is a tourist rest stop, which serves as a junction and connection point on the access trail to Choquequirao.

From the main square of San Pedro de Cachora, you can reach Capuliyoc by taxi via an approximately 12-kilometer unpaved road in about 30 minutes. An approximately 12-kilometer mule trail also leads there; the walk takes about two hours, depending on conditions and your pace.

The Mirador de Huayhuacalle also offers views of the Apurímac Canyon and Nevado Padreyoc, as well as the area around Choquequirao. From the town of Cachora, the access road leads to places where you can view the canyon and watch for condors. From the main square, the viewpoint can be reached by taxi via about 12 kilometers of road in around 40 minutes. Facilities there include parking, a checkpoint and information point, restrooms, internal paths and rest areas.

Archaeology and Nature Around Cachora

Incaraccay is a destination for those interested in archaeology and history, with good opportunities for photography. The site comprises three enclosures made of dressed stone from the Inca period, a temple-like room and a trapezoidal niche. From the Plaza de Armas of Cachora, take a taxi for about 15 kilometers to the end of the road accessible by vehicle; then continue on foot for approximately one kilometer along a mule trail. Road conditions can change, so check them locally before setting out.

The archaeological complex of Choquequirao is nearby. It is divided into nine zones, with small settlements surrounding a main square. The complex includes terraces, ceremonial platforms and priests’ residences. On 15 terraces, 22 carved stone representations are arranged, known as the “Llamas of the Sun.” The monumental area is not accessible to people with disabilities because of the distance and trail conditions. A mule trail also runs through the district of Cachora, descending into the Apurímac Canyon and continuing to the complex; trail conditions can vary.

The Cuevas Naturales are about 1.5 kilometers from the Plaza de Armas of Cachora and provide shelter for bats. Their condition and accessibility can change; check locally before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Chalhuanca District, Pampahuasi, Pampahuasi, Abancay, Pampahuasi.

Go to the regional travel overview: Apurímac.