Rock formations, lagoons and a living tradition give Apurímac its varied character. The Bosque de Piedras de Pampachiri draws attention to a geological history, while the shores and wildlife of Laguna de Pacucha bring nature into focus. Carnaval o Pukllay adds a cultural experience, with agricultural, livestock-raising, musical and ritual practices firmly rooted in the region.
Rock Formations and Habitats by the Water
The Bosque de Piedras de Pampachiri, also known as Pankula Pampa de Pabellones, covers about 60 hectares. Its rock formations are attributed to eruptions of the Qarwarasu and Sotaya volcanoes more than four million years ago. This timescale makes the formations a distinctive focal point: the landscape can be viewed not only through its shapes but also through its geological origins.
A different natural environment takes center stage at Laguna de Pacucha. Its sandy, reed-lined shores provide a habitat for various wild birds; the lagoon is also home to pejerrey and farmed trout. Ecological conditions and the species present can vary seasonally. Here, the focus is on a body of water and its shorelines, while Pampachiri is defined by its rock formations.
At Laguna de Pacucha, you can also rent bicycles and quad bikes or take a pedal boat or rowboat ride. Rental availability may change; check in advance if these activities are important to your plans.
Routes, Viewpoints and Nature Watching
In the Santuario Nacional de Ampay, the Ruta de bosques y lagunas passes two lagoons at elevations of about 3,200 and 3,800 meters, as well as through Intimpa and dwarf forests. Along the way, you can rest, take photographs and watch birds. These elevations and landscape features give the route its distinctive character; views of lagoons and forest sections combine with opportunities to observe nature.
There are several viewpoints at Cañón del Apurímac, including Cóndor Huachana, San Cristóbal, Capitán Rumi, Taramocco and Capulíoc. Visitors can watch condors from these locations. If birdwatching is of particular interest to you, this offers a clear contrast with the landscape and forest scenery along the route in the Santuario Nacional de Ampay.
The Camino Inca Huanipaca-Choqekiraw-Cachora is also listed as a cultural route in the district of Huanipaca, in Abancay Province, in the Department of Apurímac. Route conditions and access infrastructure may change; check conditions before making plans.
Tradition and Community-Led Experiences
Carnaval o Pukllay takes place in the area of the farming community of Pomacocha, in Pomacocha District, Andahuaylas Province, Department of Apurímac. On June 10, 2026, it was declared National Cultural Heritage by Vice-Ministerial Resolution No. 167-2026-VMPCIC/MC. The tradition preserves agricultural, livestock-raising, musical and ritual practices and is a representative expression of Apurímac’s intangible cultural heritage. It is a living tradition; individual activities and dates vary.
At Bosques de Pampachiri – Sector Pabellones, the Pampachiri community offers typical Andean breakfasts and lunches, as well as horseback rides. This community-led offering complements nature and cultural experiences with local food and horse riding. Check locally for current operating details.
Discover more destinations: Chincheros, Andahuaylas Province, Aymaraes, Santo Tomás, Cachora, Abancay, Pampachiri, Pampahuasi, Chalhuanca District.
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