Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site - Image 1
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Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site

4.5
·172 reviews·, Peru

Explore the well-preserved ruins of Uyo Uyo, a historical village with stunning valley views and a charming waterfall.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site - Image 1

Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the well-preserved ruins of Uyo Uyo, a historical village with stunning valley views and a charming waterfall.

4.5
(172 reviews)

"A nice hike with beautiful landscape views and relatively well-preserved ruins."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Good Hiking Shoes

The trail can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential for a comfortable visit .

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Uyo Uyo Ruins

Uyo Uyo Ruins

The main archaeological complex

Explore the remarkably preserved ruins of this ancient village, offering a glimpse into the past.

Scenic Hike

Scenic Hike

Trail from Yanque

Enjoy a beautiful hike with stunning landscape views leading to the site.

Hidden Waterfall

Hidden Waterfall

Near the ruins

Discover a small, precious waterfall offering a refreshing natural spectacle.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Uyo Uyo

Plan your trip to Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site to avoid the midday sun and potential crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photos and a more peaceful experience. Consider visiting on weekdays if possible, as weekends can see more local visitors.

What to Pack for Uyo Uyo

Comfortable hiking shoes are a must for the trails around Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site, as some paths can be uneven.Reddit Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong Andean sun. A light jacket is also advisable, as temperatures can change quickly.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

⚠️ Todo esto lo hice en un fds! Si tienes dudas escríbelas en los comentarios. Tengo más info en mi IG! #arequipa #yanahuara #chacapi #colca #lahosteriadearequipa #aguastermales #monasteriosantacatalina
@pavlogger
160.5K likes • 2.5M views

👟 Wear Good Hiking Shoes

The trail can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential for a comfortable visit.Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities.

#rutas #viajes #vacaciones #chivay #chacapi #arequipa #ciudadblanca #aguastermales #viajando
@alberto_kido
113.3K likes • 1.9M views
#arequipa #tobas #baile #danza #paratiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
@jona_kazumi
85.8K likes • 3.3M views

☀️ Protect Yourself from Sun

Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are highly recommended due to the strong sun at altitude.

🚶 Hike from Yanque

The hike from Yanque offers beautiful views and is a popular starting point.Reddit

#medalithyasmir #arequipa_peru🇵🇪 #chichaperuana
@larayita170
60.7K likes • 879.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Good Hiking Shoes

The trail can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential for a comfortable visit.Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities.

☀️ Protect Yourself from Sun

Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are highly recommended due to the strong sun at altitude.

🚶 Hike from Yanque

The hike from Yanque offers beautiful views and is a popular starting point.Reddit

💰 Affordable Entry

The entrance fee is quite reasonable, making it an accessible historical site.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(172 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site for its well-preserved ruins, scenic hike, and affordable entry fee. The beautiful landscape and the charming nearby waterfall are frequently mentioned as highlights. Some note that the trail can be uneven, emphasizing the need for good hiking shoes.

"Nice hike from Yanque. In total about 2-3 hours. I recommend walking a but upwards toward the waterfall to see the ancient complex from above."

Lenka Kosmatová

"Relativelly well preserved ruins. Some nice landscape views. Easy access from the paved road - less than 30 minutes hike uphill. Adult ticket costed 5 soles (October 2018)"

Muzykanci Muzykanci

"Cool place, but the trail is not perfectly maintained. so make sure to wear good hiking shoes."

Shawn Darmousseh

What People Like

Well-preserved ruins
Scenic hike
Affordable entry

What People Dislike

Uneven trails

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Uyo Uyo is by taking a bus or colectivo from Arequipa towards Chivay, and then disembarking in Yanque. From Yanque, it's a scenic hike of about 2-3 hours to the ruins.Reddit Some travelers opt for organized tours from Arequipa that include transportation and a guide.

Yes, it's definitely possible to visit Uyo Uyo as a day trip. You'll need an early start from Arequipa to allow ample time for travel and exploration. Many visitors combine it with other attractions in the Colca Canyon region.

From Yanque, the best way to reach Uyo Uyo is by hiking. The trail is described as relatively well-preserved and offers nice landscape views.Reddit It's a manageable uphill hike, taking approximately 30 minutes from the paved road.

Public transportation typically gets you to Yanque, which is the closest town. From Yanque, the hike is the primary way to access the site. There aren't direct public transport routes to the archaeological site itself.

While you can drive to Yanque, the final approach to the archaeological site involves a hike. Parking would likely be available in Yanque, and then you would proceed on foot.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site is quite affordable, reported to be around 5 soles as of October 2018.Reddit It's always a good idea to check for any recent price changes upon arrival.

Specific opening hours are not always widely published, but as an archaeological site, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to plan your visit during the day to fully experience the site and its surroundings.

No, advance booking is typically not required for Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site. Tickets can usually be purchased on-site upon arrival.

Information on specific discounts is limited, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket office about potential student or senior rates if applicable.

The hike to Uyo Uyo involves uneven terrain and uphill sections, which may pose challenges for visitors with significant mobility issues. The ruins themselves also have uneven surfaces.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

At Uyo Uyo, you can explore the well-preserved ruins of an ancient village, offering insights into its history. The site also boasts beautiful landscape views and a small, picturesque waterfall nearby.Reddit

Exploring the Uyo Uyo ruins and enjoying the surrounding views typically takes about 1 to 2 hours. This includes the hike to and from the site if you're coming from Yanque.Reddit

While official guided tours might not be consistently available on-site, many visitors opt for tours from Arequipa that include a guide. You can also hire local guides in Yanque, or explore independently using information gathered beforehand.

The landscape around Uyo Uyo is characterized by the scenic beauty of the Colca Valley region, with rolling hills and expansive views. The presence of a waterfall adds to the natural charm.

Absolutely! Uyo Uyo offers fantastic opportunities for photography, with its ancient ruins, panoramic valley views, and the charming waterfall. Early morning or late afternoon light enhances the visual appeal.

🎫 👟 What to Wear & Bring

Comfortable hiking shoes are essential due to the uneven trails.Reddit Wear layers as the weather can change, and bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended.

Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. A small backpack is useful for carrying these items. Consider bringing a light jacket for cooler temperatures.

Facilities at the archaeological site itself are minimal. It's advisable to use restrooms in Yanque before starting your hike and to carry all necessary supplies with you.

The hike is generally considered safe, especially during daylight hours. However, it's always recommended to inform someone of your plans and to be aware of your surroundings. Hiking with a companion or joining a tour can offer added security.

Regulations regarding drone usage at archaeological sites can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or tour operators beforehand to ensure compliance with any restrictions.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site can be a great adventure for families, offering a chance to explore history in an outdoor setting. The hike from Yanque, while uphill, is manageable and provides beautiful views that can keep children engaged. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain.Reddit

Consider making it a treasure hunt for kids, looking for interesting rock formations or imagining what life was like in the ancient village. The nearby waterfall can also be a fun point of interest. While there aren't specific child-focused amenities, the natural setting and the sense of discovery make it an appealing outing for active families.

🚶 Budget Travelers

Uyo Uyo is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. The entrance fee is very affordable,Reddit and the primary cost will be transportation to Yanque from Arequipa. Opting for local colectivos or buses is the most economical way to get there.

The hike itself is free and offers incredible scenery, making it a high-value experience. Packing your own food and water from Arequipa will also save money, as facilities at the site are limited. This destination provides a rich historical and natural experience without breaking the bank.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Uyo Uyo

Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site is a fascinating testament to the region's pre-Hispanic past. The ruins are believed to be the remnants of a village that was tragically burned by the Spanish conquistadors.Reddit This historical context adds a poignant layer to the exploration of the site.

Walking through the relatively well-preserved structures, visitors can imagine life in this ancient settlement. The site offers a tangible connection to the indigenous cultures that once thrived in the Colca Valley, providing valuable insights into their architecture and way of life. The presence of a small waterfall nearby also suggests the importance of natural resources to the community that inhabited this area.

While not as grand as some other Peruvian archaeological sites, Uyo Uyo's charm lies in its intimate scale and its evocative history. It's a place where you can feel a sense of discovery and connect with the past in a serene natural setting. The hike itself, offering beautiful landscape views, further enhances the overall experience.

Experiencing the Hike to Uyo Uyo

The hike to Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site is a highlight for many visitors, offering more than just access to the ruins. Starting from the town of Yanque, the trail is described as a pleasant, albeit uphill, journey with rewarding scenic vistas.Reddit The path is noted as being relatively well-maintained, though some suggest wearing good hiking shoes as parts can be uneven.Reddit

This trek is often cited as being about 2-3 hours in total, allowing ample time to soak in the surroundings. The landscape unfolds with beautiful views of the Colca Valley, making the walk itself an integral part of the experience. The anticipation builds as you approach the ancient complex, with the promise of discovery at the end of the trail.

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure and natural beauty, the hike to Uyo Uyo is highly recommended. It provides a perfect blend of physical activity, stunning scenery, and historical exploration, making it a memorable part of any trip to the Arequipa region.

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