Chinchero Archaeological Site
A living Andean village with impressive Inca terraces, vibrant textile traditions, and a colonial church atop ancient foundations.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience vibrant cultural traditions
Chinchero Archaeological Site
Best Time
Experience vibrant cultural traditions

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A living Andean village with impressive Inca terraces, vibrant textile traditions, and a colonial church atop ancient foundations.
"Gorgeous highly recommend the all inclusive tours here! The local tour groups and guides make the experience effortless."
Authentic Textiles
Look for the real handmade alpaca goods at the textile cooperative for genuine souvenirs. :shopping_bags:
Festival Immersion
Check local calendars for festivals like Virgen de Natividad for a unique cultural spectacle. :confetti_ball:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Inca Terraces
Overlooking the valley
Expansive agricultural terraces showcasing ancient Incan ingenuity and offering breathtaking valley views.

Textile Cooperative
Village center
Discover authentic, handmade alpaca clothing and witness traditional weaving techniques passed down through generations.

Colonial Church
Main plaza
A beautiful colonial-era church built atop Inca foundations, symbolizing the blend of cultures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Authenticity
Navigating Chinchero Independently
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Authentic Textiles
Look for the real handmade alpaca goods at the textile cooperative for genuine souvenirs. :shopping_bags:
Festival Immersion
Check local calendars for festivals like Virgen de Natividad for a unique cultural spectacle. :confetti_ball:
Independent Travel
Collectivos from Pavitos street in Cusco are an option for budget-friendly travel. :bus:
Guided Tours
All-inclusive tours offer convenience with transport, meals, and knowledgeable guides. :tour_guide:
Tips
from all over the internet
Authentic Textiles
Look for the real handmade alpaca goods at the textile cooperative for genuine souvenirs. :shopping_bags:
Festival Immersion
Check local calendars for festivals like Virgen de Natividad for a unique cultural spectacle. :confetti_ball:
Independent Travel
Collectivos from Pavitos street in Cusco are an option for budget-friendly travel. :bus:
Guided Tours
All-inclusive tours offer convenience with transport, meals, and knowledgeable guides. :tour_guide:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Chinchero for its stunning Inca ruins, breathtaking views, and rich history. The authentic handmade textiles are a major draw, offering a genuine cultural experience. While some find it a bit basic, many appreciate the living village aspect and the opportunity to witness traditional weaving.
"Short walk, great views and lots of history. If you’re into alpaca clothing, this is the place to find the real handmade stuff."
Sebastian Montoya
"Totally gorgeous highly recommend the all inclusive tours here! The local tour groups and guides make the experience effortless, safe and very much. Provide great breakfast and lunch. High quality transport in top maintained Mercedes sprinters with very experienced and safe drivers. Great multilingual guides!"
Ryan Barnes
"Chinchero is an amazing archaeological site where people still live. Photos and videos I’m sharing are from the fiesta of the Virgen de Natividad, the patron saint."
Abby Franquemont
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a collectivo from Pavitos street in Cusco, which is a budget-friendly option. Alternatively, many organized tours depart from Cusco and include Chinchero as part of a Sacred Valley itinerary.
The journey typically takes about an hour.Yes, it's a popular day trip from Cusco. Most tours combine these three sites, offering a comprehensive experience of the Sacred Valley's history and natural beauty.
Chinchero is a small village, and the main archaeological sites and textile cooperative are within walking distance. If you arrive by collectivo, you might need to arrange local transport or walk to the main attractions.
If traveling independently, you can take collectivos between these sites, though schedules might be less frequent. Organized tours provide seamless transport between them.
Taxis might be available, especially if you arrive with a tour group. For independent travelers, it's advisable to confirm transport options in advance or rely on collectivos.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you will likely need a Boleto Turístico (Tourist Ticket) to access the archaeological sites. This ticket can often be purchased in Cusco or at the entrance of the first site you visit.
The site is generally open from around 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, but it's always a good idea to confirm current hours, especially if visiting during local festivals.
The cost is typically covered by the Boleto Turístico. Prices for the tourist ticket vary depending on the duration and number of sites included. Check current prices in Cusco.
Yes, you can usually purchase the Boleto Turístico at the entrance of the Chinchero archaeological site or at other major tourist hubs in Cusco.
Discounts may be available for students with valid ID and for children. It's best to inquire about these at the ticket office when purchasing your Boleto Turístico.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Chinchero features impressive Inca terraces, remnants of Inca structures, a colonial church built on Inca foundations, and a vibrant local market known for textiles.
Absolutely! The stunning Inca terraces, panoramic valley views, and colorful local life make Chinchero a photographer's dream.
Chinchero is renowned for its traditional backstrap loom weaving. The local cooperative showcases these ancient techniques and offers high-quality, handmade textiles.
Yes, Chinchero is a living village. You can interact with locals, especially at the market, and learn about their traditions and crafts.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as there are uneven surfaces and terraces. Layers are recommended due to changing mountain weather. :athletic_shoe:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are local eateries and restaurants in the village offering traditional Peruvian cuisine. Some tours also include meals.
Try local specialties like quinoa soup, cuy (guinea pig), or alpaca dishes. Freshly prepared local produce is also a highlight.
Vegetarian options are usually available, especially dishes featuring corn, potatoes, and other local vegetables. It's always good to ask.
Small shops and market stalls in the village typically sell snacks, water, and local beverages.
Eating at market stalls can be a great way to experience authentic local flavors, but ensure they appear clean and popular.
📸 📸 Photography
The Inca terraces, the panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, the colonial church, and the vibrant market scenes are all excellent photo opportunities.
It's polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially during cultural events.
Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape and architectural photography.
Drone usage may be restricted in archaeological sites and populated areas. Check local regulations before flying.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for landscapes and village life. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive terraces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Living Heritage of Chinchero
The village also boasts a beautiful colonial church, the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Monserrate, which is noteworthy for being built directly on top of Inca foundations. This architectural juxtaposition is a powerful symbol of the cultural fusion that occurred during the Spanish conquest. The local community actively preserves its heritage, making Chinchero a unique destination where history and present-day life intertwine.
Mastering the Art of Andean Textiles
These textiles are not just beautiful souvenirs; they are rich with cultural symbolism, with each pattern and color telling a story. You'll find a wide array of products, from ponchos and blankets to scarves and bags. Purchasing directly from the cooperative supports the local artisans and ensures you are getting genuine, high-quality handmade items. Many visitors find this experience incredibly rewarding and a true connection to the local culture.
Navigating Chinchero: Tours vs. Independent Travel
For the more adventurous or budget-conscious traveler, independent travel is certainly feasible. Collectivos from Cusco's Pavitos street are a common and affordable way to reach Chinchero. However, this requires more planning, including understanding local transport schedules and potentially arranging onward travel within the village or to nearby sites. While it offers more flexibility, it also demands a greater degree of self-reliance and research.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit