Things To Do
in Azángaro

Azángaro is a picturesque town located in the Puno region of Peru, nestled in the Andean highlands. Known for its vibrant indigenous culture and rich history, it serves as a gateway to various archaeological sites and natural wonders. The town features stunning views of surrounding mountains and traditional architecture, making it a charming destination for travelers.

Azángaro is particularly famous for its festivals, colorful textiles, and warm hospitality of its residents.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Azángaro
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de Armas, where you can admire the colonial architecture and vibrant local life. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Explore the Museo Arqueológico de Azángaro to learn about the region's pre-Columbian history, followed by a stroll through the local market to experience the culture firsthand.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Peruvian dishes, and then take a leisurely walk to enjoy the night views of the town.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike up to the nearby hills for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a chance to see local wildlife. Pack a picnic for the hike.

afternoon
:

Visit a local artisan workshop to see traditional textile weaving and purchase unique handicrafts as souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural performance showcasing traditional dances and music, followed by dinner at a restaurant specializing in regional cuisine.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5-10
Coffee$1-2
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🛍️Souvenir or handicraft$5-15
🏨Budget hotel per night$15-30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transport may not be very reliable.
  • Altitude sickness can affect some travelers due to high elevation.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Azángaro

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza de Armas

The heart of Azángaro, this square features beautiful colonial architecture and vibrant local life, perfect for candid shots.

Nearby Hills

Hiking to the hills offers panoramic views of Azángaro and the surrounding landscapes, ideal for landscape photography.

Artisan Workshops

Capture the intricate details of local artisans at work, showcasing traditional weaving and craftsmanship.

Culinary Guide

Food in Azángaro

Azángaro offers a delightful culinary experience, characterized by traditional Andean flavors and ingredients. You will find a variety of local dishes that highlight the region's agricultural bounty.

Azángaro Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sopa de Quinua

A hearty quinoa soup, often made with vegetables and sometimes meat, representing a staple of the Andean diet.

Must-Try!

Pachamanca

A traditional dish where meat and vegetables are cooked underground with hot stones, offering a unique flavor.

Causa Rellena

A layered dish made with mashed potatoes, filled with chicken or tuna, and seasoned with lime.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central de Azángaro

The central market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food options like anticuchos (grilled skewers).

Street Vendors

Look for vendors selling empanadas and tamales for a quick and delicious snack.

Climate Guide

Weather

Azángaro has a highland climate, characterized by sunny days and cool nights. The temperature can vary significantly between day and night, with daytime highs around 20°C (68°F) and nighttime lows dropping to 5°C (41°F). Rain is more common during the summer months, while winter months may bring colder temperatures and clear skies.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake and a friendly smile are common when meeting someone.

Respect for Traditions

Be mindful of local customs and participate in festivals with respect.

Dress Modestly

While casual attire is generally acceptable, dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Azángaro is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard safety precautions such as keeping valuables secure and avoiding isolated areas at night. Be cautious with street food and drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues.

Tipping in Azángaro

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred, especially in smaller establishments; however, some larger restaurants and hotels may accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect warm temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the town.

Fall (March - May)

Mild weather makes this a great time for hiking and enjoying cultural festivities.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures can be expected; pack warm clothing for the chilly nights.

Spring (September - November)

The weather starts to warm up again with blooming flowers, perfect for photography and outdoor events.

Nightlife Guide

Azángaro at Night

Azángaro's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few local bars and cafes offering live music and traditional dance performances. Most social activities revolve around communal gatherings and festivals, where locals come together to celebrate with music, dance, and food.

Hiking in Azángaro

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro Huayna Potosí Trail

A challenging hike offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, suitable for experienced hikers.

Lago de Pomata Trail

A moderate hike leading to the beautiful Lake Pomata, known for its serene landscape and birdwatching opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Azángaro by plane.

Inca Manco Cápac International Airport

Located approximately 80 km from Azángaro in Juliaca, this airport serves as the main gateway for international and domestic flights to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Azángaro is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance of the central plaza. The streets are typically narrow and can be steep, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Sidewalks are available, but may be uneven in some areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Aymara

The Aymara people have a strong presence in the region, contributing to the cultural identity of Azángaro.

Mestizo Population

A mix of indigenous and Spanish ancestry, the mestizo population forms a significant part of the community, influencing local customs and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Azángaro, with local teams and matches drawing community support.

Andean Wrestling

Traditional wrestling, known as 'sikuris', is a cultural sport that showcases strength and skill, often featured during local festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Azángaro is generally light, with most locals walking or using bicycles for transportation. Public transportation options include mini-buses and shared taxis that connect to nearby towns. Be prepared for occasional livestock on the roads.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Azángaro.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian-friendly; however, it's advisable to ask for modifications.

Gluten-Free Options

Quinoa is a common staple that is naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible, so confirm with the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Azángaro is limited, with a few local clinics and a small hospital available for basic medical needs. For more serious conditions, traveling to larger cities like Puno may be necessary. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Peru

Read more in our Peru 2025 Travel Guide.

Peru Travel Guide