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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer visitors, more serene
Huaro Church San Juan Bautista
Best Time
Fewer visitors, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover 16th-century murals by local artists and a historic Italian pipe organ in this serene Sacred Valley church.
"Incredible boroc style church with murals, a must visit place if you ever drive by San Juan Bautista!"
🤫 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Historic Pipe Organ
Interior
Marvel at an original pipe organ imported from Italy, complete with manual bellows.

Intricate Stone Walkways
Exterior
Stroll along beautifully crafted stone pathways surrounding the church.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Photography Policy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 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.
⏱️ Quick Visit Possible
The church is small; a visit can be 5-30 minutes depending on your interest in the art.
🚶♀️ Explore the Courtyard
The garden courtyard is beautiful and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
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.
💰 Admission Fee
Expect a small entrance fee, around 18 soles ($4.50 USD), for entry.
⏱️ Quick Visit Possible
The church is small; a visit can be 5-30 minutes depending on your interest in the art.
🚶♀️ Explore the Courtyard
The garden courtyard is beautiful and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
Yes, there are typically parking areas available for visitors arriving by car.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is approximately 18 soles per person, which is about $4.50 USD.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth inquiring at the entrance.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's best to confirm locally or with your tour operator.
Advance booking is usually not necessary for Huaro Church, as it's a smaller site. Tickets can typically be purchased upon arrival.
Yes, the church still operates and is a functioning place of worship.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the church to protect the delicate murals.
The exterior architecture, the intricate stone walkways, and the surrounding garden courtyard offer excellent photo opportunities.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
While interior photography is not allowed, for exterior shots, a camera with good low-light capabilities and a versatile lens would be beneficial.
No, the murals are located inside the church and cannot be photographed from the exterior.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find unique 16th-century murals painted by local artists, and a historic pipe organ imported from Italy.
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.
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.
Built in the 16th century, the church is notable for its indigenous art style and the preservation of its original murals and features.
The area is generally considered safe, and the church itself is a well-maintained historical landmark.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the church premises to maintain the sanctity of the place.
In the Sacred Valley, you can expect traditional Peruvian dishes, often featuring corn, potatoes, quinoa, and various meats like alpaca or cuy (guinea pig).
The garden courtyard might offer a pleasant spot for a quiet moment, but dedicated picnic areas are not a prominent feature.
Try Lomo Saltado, Aji de Gallina, or a hearty quinoa soup for authentic Peruvian flavors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🏛️ History Buffs & Art Lovers
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Huaro Church
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.
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.
Visiting Huaro Church: Traveler Experiences
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.
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.
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