Abancay - Discovering Peru

Travelling to Abancay

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Abancay, a pretty good destination in Peru (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Abancay and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Abancay, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Peru, here's everything to know about Abancay for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Abancay

Abancay is a city located in the southern region of Peru, specifically in the Apurimac region. It is situated at an altitude of 2,377 meters above sea level and has a population of around 60,000 people. Abancay is known for its beautiful scenery, with mountains and valleys surrounding the city, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The city also has a rich history and culture, with several archaeological sites and traditional festivals throughout the year. Additionally, Abancay is a major transportation hub for the surrounding areas, with frequent buses and taxis connecting the city to other parts of the Apurimac region.

What to visit in Abancay

Here are some popular tourist attractions in Abancay, Peru: 1. Apurimac River Canyon : Abancay is known for its stunning natural beauty, and the Apurimac River Canyon is one of the prime examples of this. The canyon is over 1,000 meters deep, and it offers amazing views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
2. Sayhuite Archaeological Complex: Sayhuite is a unique archeological site in Peru. You will see a giant stone carved with amazing figures like animals, flowers, and geometrical forms.
3. Pacucha Lagoon: The Pacucha Lagoon is a natural wonder in Abancay. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Andes Mountains in the backdrop.
4. Chanka Archaeological Complex: The complex is made up of the remains of an ancient civilization known as Chanka. Visitors can explore different structures like houses, temples, tombs, and fortress ruins.
5. Pachachaca Bridge: The Pachachaca bridge, located near Abancay, is another attraction worth visiting. A tour to this place will let you see the ancient bridge that was built during the colonial era in Peru.
6. Tamburco Archeological Complex: This is another archeological site in Abancay. It is made up of mesmerizing ruins of different structures like temples, canals, and pyramids.
7. Abancay Cathedral: The cathedral is located in the central area of Abancay. It is a 17th-century colonial monument that exhibits a fascinating architectural style and artful designs. Overall, Abancay has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty and archeological sites, and it is a great destination for travelers who want to go off the beaten path.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Peru, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Abancay.

When to go on holiday to Abancay

Abancay has a subtropical highland climate, with two distinct seasons – dry and wet. The best time to visit Abancay is during the dry season, which runs from May to September, as there is less rainfall and temperatures are generally pleasant during this time of the year. The wet season, which runs from October to April, is known for frequent rains and higher temperatures, so it may not be the best time to visit Abancay. However, if you don't mind the rain and want to experience the lush greenery, you can consider visiting during the wet season as well.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Abancay

To get to Abancay from Lima, you can take a bus service. The bus journey takes around 15 to 16 hours, depending on the traffic and the bus company. Some popular bus companies that operate on this route are Cruz del Sur, Civa, and Flores. The ticket prices vary between $20 to $50 USD, depending on the type of bus and before booking make sure to confirm their schedules and availability. It is advisable to book your ticket in advance to avoid any inconvenience. Alternatively, you can also take a domestic flight from Lima to Cusco and then take a bus or taxi to Abancay, which will take approximately 4-5 hours.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Abancay, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Abancay

Abancay is a city located in the heart of the Andes Mountains in Peru and is known for its wide variety of delicious and savory dishes. Here are some of the typical foods of Abancay with a short description for each of them: 1. Chicharron: A popular traditional dish made from deep-fried pork belly served with boiled potatoes, corn, and a spicy sauce.
2. Pachamanca: A typical dish made up of chicken, lamb, pork, and potatoes cooked under hot stones in an oven made of soil and clay.
3. Chupe de camarones: A delicious soup made with shrimp, Andean potatoes, cheese, and chili.
4. Ají de papas: A creamy potato stew prepared with yellow chili, milk, cheese, and spices.
5. Chiriuchu: A cold platter that consists of a variety of Andean meats like beef, pork, and chicken, along with guinea pig, cheese, corn, and potatoes.
6. Humitas: A popular dish made from corn dough, seasoned with salt and filled with cheese and spices.
7. Anticuchos: A kind of skewered meat made with marinated beef heart and served with boiled potatoes and corn.
8. Causa: A potato-based dish prepared with mashed potatoes flavored with chili and lime, filled with tuna or chicken and avocado.
9. Rocoto relleno: A hot dish prepared with chili stuffed with minced beef or pork, onions, raisins, and peanuts, served with potatoes and cheese.
10. Mazamorra: A sweet dessert made with purple corn and cinnamon, served with a scoop of creamy pudding (arroz con leche) on top.
You can find general info about typical foods in Peru here.

Is Abancay an expensive destination for tourists?

Abancay, Peru is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists. Accommodation, meals, and transportation in Abancay are reasonably priced compared to other touristic cities in Peru such as Cusco or Lima.
However, the cost of your trip will ultimately depend on your travel style, activities, and budget. If you plan to participate in adventure activities like trekking or whitewater rafting, then you can expect to pay more. Overall, Abancay can be a great destination for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore the beautiful landscapes and cultures of Peru without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Abancay

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Abancay, Peru are the city center and Huancarama district. In the city center, there are numerous hotels, hostels and guesthouses that offer comfortable accommodations to visitors. The Huancarama district is a great option if you're looking for a more rural setting and a chance to connect with nature while still being close to the city. Many accommodations in this area offer picturesque views of the Andes Mountains and the Apurimac River.
You can check hotel prices at Abancay here:
Booking.com

Is Abancay a safe destination for tourists?

Abancay, just like any other place in the world, has its pros and cons. But overall, Abancay is considered a safe place for tourists as long as they take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
As with any travel destination, it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and not carry large amounts of cash or expensive items. It is also recommended to research the crime statistics of the place you are visiting and to be aware of any potential scams or pickpocketing activities.
Overall, Abancay is a beautiful destination with a friendly community that welcomes tourists warmly. By taking a few basic precautions, tourists should have a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Peru here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Abancay.

What type of travelers will enjoy Abancay the most?

Abancay, Peru is a great destination for travelers who are interested in exploring historic sites, natural beauty, and local Peruvian culture. The city is home to several archaeological sites such as Saywite and Taraccasa, which provide a glimpse into the ancient Incan civilization. Additionally, Abancay is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including valleys, mountains, and rivers. Overall, Abancay is a destination that can be enjoyed by a wide variety of travelers, including families, couples, and young people looking for adventure. Families will appreciate the opportunities for learning and exploring, while couples will enjoy the romantic ambiance and beautiful scenery. Young people can find plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, rafting, and mountain biking.

How to get around Abancay

In Abancay, you can use local buses, taxis, or mototaxis to move around the city. Buses are the cheapest option and cover most parts of the city. Taxis are more comfortable and convenient, but they can be relatively expensive. Mototaxis are also available in Abancay and can be a fun and exciting way to explore the city.

What to see around Abancay

Sure, here are some nice places you could visit on a day trip from Abancay: 1. Chinchero: This charming town is about 2 hours from Abancay and is known for its beautiful colonial church and colorful market.
2. Moray: About 1.5 hours from Abancay, this archaeological site features impressive concentric terraces that were once used by the Incas for agricultural experiments.
3. Tipon: This archaeological site is about an hour from Abancay and features a unique system of aqueducts and terraces.
4. Andahuaylas: About 2 hours from Abancay, this town is surrounded by stunning landscapes and is home to the beautiful Chapel of Santa Ana and the Inca ruins of Sondor.
5. Raqch'i: This archaeological site is about 3 hours from Abancay and features impressive Inca ruins, including a large temple and a palace.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
For every travel information about Peru you can click here.

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