Yauyos Province can be explored through a wide range of interests: pre-Inca terraces, a dance tradition recognised as national cultural heritage, archaeological sites and nature watching, as well as walking tours and activities on the water. When planning your trip, it helps to start by choosing the places and themes that matter most to you. Attractions are spread across places such as Yauyos, Laraos, Huancaya and Vilca. This lets you shape your stay around your interests.

Culture and History in Yauyos and Laraos

One notable cultural tradition is the Danza de las pastoras yauyinas. It originates in Yauyos Province, in the Department of Lima, and was declared part of Peru’s National Cultural Heritage by a resolution of the Ministry of Culture dated 14 December 2023. In Laraos, the Andenerías offer a glimpse into a different era: visitors admire the millennia-old pre-Inca terraces. Those interested in archaeological history can also explore Ñaupahuasi: the archaeological site was the ancient capital of “JATTUM YAUYOS”.

Huancaya also offers a specific cultural event: Negrería is celebrated there on 1 January. If you would like to plan your trip around it, check the latest details of the celebration in advance.

Landscape and Nature Watching

The Cañon de Shutco is a destination in its own right for nature watching. Visitors can observe various bird species in the canyon and its surroundings, including Andean condors, Andean cock-of-the-rocks, buzzards, Guácharos and various hummingbird species. This makes it particularly interesting for travellers who want to focus their outing on birds; however, individual sightings are not guaranteed.

The Huangua viewpoint is in the town of Yauyos, at an altitude of 2,922 metres and about 500 metres from the main square. As trail conditions can vary, it is worth checking the latest conditions before visiting.

Bosque del Amor de Vilca is a 16-hectare forest near the town of Vilca, in the district of Huancaya. It forms part of the Puente Centenario–Bosque del Amor–Laguna Papacocha tourist route. Nevado de Llongote, together with Nevado de Pariacaca, forms part of the Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos Cochas landscape reserve. There are unmarked trails at Nevado de Llongote; check the latest route information and trail conditions before setting out.

Walking Tours and Local Activities

Tourist walking tours are offered in the town of Yauyos, showcasing ancient history and traditions as well as agricultural production, crafts and typical dishes. These tours therefore connect the town to several aspects of everyday life and culture. As programme details may change, check what is currently on offer before your visit.

The Andenerías of Laraos include a tourist walking tour whose descent from the entrance to the Huachucho area takes about 15 minutes on foot. This estimated time helps you account for the section described when planning your day; you should plan the rest of the tour separately.

Visitors can go out on paddleboards, kayaks or boats at Laguna Huallhua de Huancaya. If you are planning one of these activities, check local availability.

The Museo Municipal and Casa de la Cultura de Huancaya are located around Huancaya’s central square. For both venues, it is advisable to check their current opening arrangements locally.

Discover more destinations: Chunguy, Canta Province, Huaral, Cusco, Barranca Province, Cañete, Nieve Nieve, Huaral Province

For the main travel overview: Lima.