Abancay
Abancay is located between deep Andean valleys and high mountains in southern Peru. The capital of Apurímac combines city life, colonial traces, the Ampay National Sanctuary, and impressive excursions into a region that many travelers overlook on their way between Lima and Cusco.
Abancay: Andean City with a Surprisingly Mild Character
Abancay is the capital of the Apurímac region and is located at an altitude of approximately 2,350 meters. The city is nestled in a sheltered Andean valley, making it appear greener and milder than many other highland towns in Peru.
The center is compact. Important buildings, restaurants, shops, and the daily life of the city revolve around the Plaza de Armas. Behind the houses, the mountains rise steeply. It is precisely this contrast that defines Abancay.
For travelers, however, the greatest appeal lies just outside the center. Ampay, Pachachaca, and Saywite make Abancay a good base for exploring nature, history, and short Andean tours.
Abancay is more than just a stop on the way to Cusco.
Lagoons, mountain forests, colonial history, and Inca traces are so close together that several very different day trips can be planned from the city.
What makes Abancay special
Abancay connects the southern Andes with an unusually diverse environment.
The protected area begins just a few kilometers from the city and leads to mountain forests, lagoons, and high Andean landscapes.
The sheltered location gives it a milder feel than its altitude might initially suggest.
The Plaza de Armas, old haciendas, and the Pachachaca Bridge tell stories from several eras of the region.
Saywite, one of the most unusual carved stone sites in the region, is located on an easily combinable route.
Places and experiences around Abancay
The main destinations are spread across the city, Tamburco, and the surrounding valleys and highlands.
Santuario Nacional de Ampay: Nature right outside the city
The Santuario Nacional de Ampay protects 3,635.5 hectares of Andean landscape in the province of Abancay. According to SERNANP, it is about nine kilometers from the city to the protected area.
Hiking trails lead through characteristic mountain forests to lagoons and further towards the higher areas of Ampay. If you only have one day, you can experience a stark contrast to the city center on a shorter route.
The rainy season roughly runs from December to March. For tours, sturdy shoes, water, sun and rain protection are essential basic equipment.
Puente Pachachaca: History over the River
The historic Pachachaca Bridge is located about 20 minutes from Abancay. It spans the river of the same name and is one of the striking historical structures in the area.
The bridge was built during the colonial era and is now protected as a cultural heritage site. The excursion can be easily combined with other destinations southwest of the city.
Saywite: enigmatic stone between Abancay and Cusco
The archaeological complex of Saywite is located near Curahuasi on the route between Abancay and Cusco. The large granite block with numerous carved figures and shapes is particularly well-known.
The site is often associated with water, rituals, and fertility. In addition to the monolith, the complex includes other archaeological structures, stairs, and water features.
Why Abancay deserves a longer stop
Practical travel tips for Abancay
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Open WhatsApp ChannelFAQ about Abancay
What is Abancay known for?
Abancay is the capital of Apurímac. It is particularly known for the Santuario Nacional de Ampay, the Plaza de Armas, the Pachachaca Bridge, and its proximity to the archaeological complex of Saywite.
Is Abancay worth visiting?
Yes. The city is particularly interesting for travelers who want to experience nature and regional Andean culture off the beaten path.
How many days should one plan?
Two to three days is a good timeframe, allowing time for the city center, Ampay, and an additional excursion.
How high is Abancay?
The center is approximately 2,350 meters above sea level.
What is the most important nature excursion?
The Santuario Nacional de Ampay is the most important natural destination. It is located just a few kilometers from the city and offers mountain forests, lagoons, and hiking trails.
Related PeruMagazin pages
A comprehensive introduction to the country, travel planning, culture, and important topics.
Coast, Andes, Amazon, and the country's diverse landscapes.
Seasons, Andean weather, and regional differences.
Buses, flights, taxis, rental cars, and traffic in the country.
Tips for daily travel, traffic, and local conduct.
Sources and image credits
- SERNANP: Santuario Nacional de Ampay – Protected area, access, climate, and visitor information.
- Municipalidad Provincial de Abancay: Tourism information for Plaza de Armas, Taraccasa, Pachachaca, Ampay, and other destinations.
- MINCETUR: Inventario de Recursos Turísticos – Plaza de Armas de Abancay.
- Municipalidad Provincial de Abancay: Information on the Conjunto Arqueológico de Saywite.
- Wikimedia Commons: Plaza de Armas Abancay, Apurimac – Luz.illapaninamanta, free license according to file page.
- Wikimedia Commons: Laguna Angascocha and Ave en el Bosque – Ibrehaut, free license according to file page.
- Wikimedia Commons: Pachachaca Colonial Bridge – Carloshg333, free license according to file page.
- Wikimedia Commons: Piedradesaywite.JPG – christcont, Public Domain / free license according to file page.
