Ayacucho, known locally as Huamanga, is an often-overlooked destination in the Andes. Most visitors to Peru will stop in Lima, Arequipa, Cusco and other places along the so-called “Gringo trail,” but very few tourists make a stop in Ayacucho. That’s a shame, because this city in Peru’s highlands has much to offer visitors. Its relatively-low altitude and pleasant climate also make it an excellent stop-off point when traveling to Cusco and other high-altitude cities from the coast. Keep reading below to find out our top choices for what to do in Ayacucho.
Explore Historic Architecture
Ayacucho is also known as the “City of Churches” and is home to more than 30 churches and temples. Make sure to spend some time exploring the city and visiting some of the beautiful colonial buildings found here.
Swim in the Millpu Lagoons
Only opened to the public a couple of years ago, the turquoise-blue Millpu lagoons are among the Ayacucho region’s most beautiful natural wonders. Take a tour to see them for yourself and even take a dip in the water if you’d like (though be forewarned that these high-altitude glacial waters are ice-cold).
Visit the Ruins of Vilcashuamán
This small town was once one of the Inca Empire’s most important administrative centers, established after the defeat of the fierce Chanca people who inhabited the area. After the Spanish conquest, colonial buildings were placed on top of the complex, but you can still clearly see the walls of the Sun Temple as well as the enormous nearby Usnu (pyramid).
Explore the Cave of Pikimachay
The archaeological artifacts found in this cave located in the Ayacucho Valley are among the oldest manmade artifacts ever found in South America, with radiocarbon dates going back as far as 22,000 years ago. Those with an interest in human history and archaeology shouldn’t miss this special site which lies between the city of Ayacucho and the nearby town of Huanta.
Visit the Pampas de Quinua
The Pampas de Ayacucho Historic Sanctuary located near the town of Quinua just outside of Ayacucho was the location of the Battle of Ayacucho during the Peruvian War of Independence. Nowadays it is home to an enormous obelisk which commemorates those who fought and died in order to secure freedom for the Peruvian nation. This historic monument is well worth a visit while in Ayacucho.
Tour the Ruins of Huari
Ayacucho was once the center of the massive Wari Empire, one of the most important predecessors of the Incas. Visit the sprawling ruins of their capital city located near the town of Quinua and appreciate the historical importance of this impressive place.
Buy Unique Art From Craft Workshops
Ayacucho is well-known for its artisan crafts, including unique local products such as retablos (decorative folk art in the form of portable boxes) and sculptures made from piedra de Huamanga (a special type of white alabaster stone common to the region). Make sure to visit one of the many craft workshops in Ayacucho and buy something to take home as a souvenir.
Visit the Santa Ana Mirador
The Mirador de Santa Ana lookout point (pictured on this page’s header) gives visitors a panoramic view of the entire city from a hilltop vantage point. Make sure to pay a visit here while in Ayacucho and take in the view for yourself.
These are just some of our favorite things to do in Ayacucho. While not as famous as Lima or Cusco, the city of Ayacucho has many wonderful things to offer tourists and is work a consideration when planning any trip to Peru. Don’t count this underrated destination out!
Header Image: Modified from Flickr / Santiago Stucchi Portocarrero
2nd Image: Modified from Flickr / Natalia31588
3rd Image: Modified from Flickr / Siabala, Luis
