Huaro Church San Juan Bautista - a church with a steeple and two towers
1 / 10

Huaro Church San Juan Bautista

4.6
·242 reviews·Huaro, Peru

Discover 16th-century murals by local artists and a historic Italian pipe organ in this serene Sacred Valley church.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer visitors, more serene

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Huaro Church San Juan Bautista - a church with a steeple and two towers

Huaro Church San Juan Bautista

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer visitors, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover 16th-century murals by local artists and a historic Italian pipe organ in this serene Sacred Valley church.

4.6
(242 reviews)

"Incredible boroc style church with murals, a must visit place if you ever drive by San Juan Bautista!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 No Photos Inside!

Strictly no photos allowed inside the church. Respect the rules to protect the art.

💰 Admission Fee

Expect a small entrance fee, around 18 soles ($4.50 USD), for entry.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unique Wall Murals

Unique Wall Murals

Interior

Discover vibrant, 16th-century murals painted directly onto the church walls by local artists.

Historic Pipe Organ

Historic Pipe Organ

Interior

Marvel at an original pipe organ imported from Italy, complete with manual bellows.

Intricate Stone Walkways

Intricate Stone Walkways

Exterior

Stroll along beautifully crafted stone pathways surrounding the church.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds. The church is small, so a quick visit is possible, but allow extra time if you want to truly appreciate the unique murals. Check for local festivals or events that might impact access or add to the atmosphere.

Photography Policy

Be aware that photography is strictly prohibited inside the church. Respect this rule to preserve the delicate murals. Focus on capturing the exterior architecture and the surrounding serene environment.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer visitors, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Good for appreciating art
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🙏🏻Si San Juan Bautista ang patron ng Simbahan ng Quiapo bilang parokya! Ang Nazareno naman bilang Basilika at Dambana #quiapochurch #nazareno #sanjuanbautista #fiesta
@eronrashidanao
9.1K likes • 187.1K views

🤫 No Photos Inside!

Strictly no photos allowed inside the church. Respect the rules to protect the art. Reddit

💰 Admission Fee

Expect a small entrance fee, around 18 soles ($4.50 USD), for entry. Reddit

📯💃🏻Karakol sa Fiesta ni San Juan Bautista, patron ng Simbahan ng Quiapo #karakol #sayawansaprobensya #QuiapoChurch #SanJuanBautista #nazareno
@eronrashidanao
3.4K likes • 60.2K views
some hangeul (but koreatown is three neighbourhoods away north) on a gothic-postmodern brick catholic church named in spanish (iglesia catolica san juan bautista) – perhaps one of many ways how mixed toronto could get? / 18082017
carlbalais
59 likes • 0 views

⏱️ Quick Visit Possible

The church is small; a visit can be 5-30 minutes depending on your interest in the art. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Courtyard

The garden courtyard is beautiful and offers a peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

reddit.com

Have you been to SJB Mission?

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 No Photos Inside!

Strictly no photos allowed inside the church. Respect the rules to protect the art. Reddit

💰 Admission Fee

Expect a small entrance fee, around 18 soles ($4.50 USD), for entry. Reddit

⏱️ Quick Visit Possible

The church is small; a visit can be 5-30 minutes depending on your interest in the art. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Courtyard

The garden courtyard is beautiful and offers a peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(242 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Huaro Church is praised for its unique 16th-century murals by local artists and its historic pipe organ. Visitors appreciate the serene atmosphere and intricate exterior walkways. However, the strict 'no photos allowed' policy inside is a common point of frustration, and the quality of tour guides can be inconsistent.

"Interesting 16th century church of murals on walls. And pipe organ imported from Italy that has manual bellows. Intricate stone walkways outside the church."

RH House

"Incredible boroc style church with murals. It cost 18 soles per person, about $4.50. It's a small church that can be viewed in 5 to 30 minutes, depending on how much you want to spend observing the art. No photos allowed inside."

Angelica

"The paintings on the walls were amazing. Interesting that they were from local artists and not colonial ones."

sheetal sudigala

What People Like

Unique local murals
Historic pipe organ
Serene atmosphere

What People Dislike

No photos inside
Variable tour guides

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Huaro Church is located in the Sacred Valley of Peru. It's often visited as part of a tour or by private transport from Cusco. Many travelers drive by and find it a worthwhile stop. Reddit

While not as common as private tours, local buses might pass through Huaro. It's advisable to check local schedules or consider a taxi or organized tour for easier access. Reddit

Many visitors opt for a private car or a guided tour from Cusco, which allows for flexibility and often includes stops at other Sacred Valley attractions. Reddit

Yes, there are typically parking areas available for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Huaro is situated within the Sacred Valley, making it relatively accessible to other popular destinations like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, often visited on the same day trip. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The admission fee is approximately 18 soles per person, which is about $4.50 USD. Reddit

Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth inquiring at the entrance. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's best to confirm locally or with your tour operator. Reddit

Advance booking is usually not necessary for Huaro Church, as it's a smaller site. Tickets can typically be purchased upon arrival. Reddit

Yes, the church still operates and is a functioning place of worship. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the church to protect the delicate murals. Reddit

The exterior architecture, the intricate stone walkways, and the surrounding garden courtyard offer excellent photo opportunities. Reddit

Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone. Reddit

While interior photography is not allowed, for exterior shots, a camera with good low-light capabilities and a versatile lens would be beneficial. Reddit

No, the murals are located inside the church and cannot be photographed from the exterior. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find unique 16th-century murals painted by local artists, and a historic pipe organ imported from Italy. Reddit

A visit can be quite brief, ranging from 5 to 30 minutes, depending on how much time you dedicate to observing the art and the historical elements. Reddit

Guided tours may be available, though the quality can vary. Some visitors have found tour guides to be knowledgeable, while others have had less positive experiences. Reddit

Built in the 16th century, the church is notable for its indigenous art style and the preservation of its original murals and features. Reddit

The area is generally considered safe, and the church itself is a well-maintained historical landmark. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Huaro is a small town, and dining options directly at the church are limited. You'll find more extensive food choices in nearby towns like Pisac or in Cusco. Reddit

It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the church premises to maintain the sanctity of the place. Reddit

In the Sacred Valley, you can expect traditional Peruvian dishes, often featuring corn, potatoes, quinoa, and various meats like alpaca or cuy (guinea pig). Reddit

The garden courtyard might offer a pleasant spot for a quiet moment, but dedicated picnic areas are not a prominent feature. Reddit

Try Lomo Saltado, Aji de Gallina, or a hearty quinoa soup for authentic Peruvian flavors. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Huaro Church offers a unique visual experience that can engage children, especially the vibrant murals. However, the strict 'no photos allowed' policy inside might be challenging for younger ones who love to capture memories. Ensure you explain the rule beforehand. The garden courtyard provides a safe and pleasant space for kids to stretch their legs. Consider it a brief, enriching stop on a larger Sacred Valley tour rather than a primary destination for a full day of family entertainment. Reddit

Pack snacks and water, as dining options directly at the church are limited. The intricate stone walkways outside can be fun to explore, but supervise younger children closely. The historical aspect might be more appreciated by older children who can grasp the significance of the ancient art. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Art Lovers

For those fascinated by history and art, Huaro Church is a gem. The 16th-century murals, painted by local artists, offer a rare insight into indigenous artistic traditions and their integration with religious themes. The 'boroc' style and the unique subject matter are points of significant interest. Don't miss the historic pipe organ with its manual bellows, a testament to the era's craftsmanship. Reddit

Take your time to absorb the details of the murals, even without photography. The stone walkways and the overall architecture also speak to the historical period. Consider hiring a knowledgeable local guide if available, though be prepared for varying quality. The church's small size allows for focused appreciation of its artistic and historical elements. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

While interior photography is strictly forbidden, Huaro Church still offers compelling subjects for photographers. Focus on the exterior architecture, the detailed stone walkways, and the serene garden courtyard. The play of light and shadow on the stone can create dramatic shots. The surrounding landscape of the Sacred Valley also provides a beautiful backdrop. Reddit

Be mindful of the 'no photos allowed' rule inside; respect it to avoid issues. Instead, use your time inside to mentally capture the details and atmosphere of the murals and the pipe organ. The exterior offers ample opportunities to capture the essence of this historic site. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Huaro Church

Huaro Church, officially known as San Juan Bautista, is a treasure trove of 16th-century art, particularly its unique wall murals. Unlike many colonial churches that feature European-inspired religious art, the murals here were created by local artists, giving them a distinct indigenous flavor. These vibrant paintings adorn the interior walls, depicting religious scenes with a unique cultural interpretation. The style is often described as 'boroc', a term that hints at its local and perhaps less formal artistic origins compared to European standards. The preservation of these murals is remarkable, offering a rare glimpse into the artistic expressions of the time. Reddit

Beyond the murals, the church houses an original pipe organ imported from Italy, a testament to the historical connections and resources available during its construction. The organ is notable for its manual bellows, requiring a person to operate them to produce sound. This intricate piece of craftsmanship adds another layer to the church's historical and artistic significance. The exterior is equally charming, with intricate stone walkways that invite visitors to explore the grounds and appreciate the architecture. Reddit

While the church is small and can be viewed relatively quickly, the depth of its artistic and historical value warrants a closer look. The 'no photos allowed' policy inside underscores the fragility and importance of these artworks, encouraging visitors to experience them directly rather than through a lens. Reddit

Visiting Huaro Church: Traveler Experiences

Travelers often describe Huaro Church as an amazing historical landmark offering a sense of serenity and natural beauty. The church's unique murals are consistently highlighted as a major draw, with visitors appreciating their local artistry and vibrant colors. The 'no photos allowed' policy inside is a point of contention for some, but many understand its necessity for preservation. Reddit

Some reviews mention mixed experiences with tour guides, with one traveler finding their guide to be a 'dork' who 'tried to sound knowledgeable.' This suggests that while guides are often present, their quality can vary. Despite this, the overall sentiment leans towards the church being a must-visit place for those driving through the San Juan Bautista area or exploring the Sacred Valley. The garden courtyard is frequently praised for its beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

Despite some criticisms of Peru overall from one reviewer, the Huaro Church itself is often cited as a positive and unique stop. The small size of the church means a visit is usually brief, making it an easy addition to a day trip itinerary. The 18 soles entrance fee is considered reasonable for the historical and artistic experience offered. Reddit

You may also like