Things To Do
in Calca
Calca is a highland town in the Sacred Valley of the Andes, just north of Cusco. It sits at roughly 2,980 meters, offering striking mountain scenery and a gateway to nearby archaeological sites and terraces. The town blends Quechua traditions with growing tourist amenities, markets, and welcoming local communities.
It serves as a convenient base for exploring Moray, Maras, and the surrounding valleys while remaining less crowded than Cusco proper.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arriving in Calca, take a moment to enjoy the beautiful mountainous scenery surrounding the town. Settle into your accommodation and take in the fresh air as you acclimatize to the elevation. A leisurely stroll through the local markets introduces you to Peruvian culture and local handicrafts.
Visit the nearby ruins of Pisaq, renowned for its panoramic views and agricultural terraces. Explore the vibrant artisanal market, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and sample local delicacies. Enjoy a picnic lunch with fresh selections from the market while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to savor traditional Peruvian cuisine. Engage with locals and enjoy the warm hospitality that Calca offers. Wrap up the evening with a peaceful walk under the stars, taking in the tranquility of the Andean night.
Embark on a guided tour of the Sacred Valley, starting with a visit to Ollantaytambo, an ancient Incan town. Learn about its fascinating history while walking through the intricate stone pathways and towering ruins. After touring, enjoy breakfast at a local café with stunning views of the valley.
Continue the journey to Chinchero, famous for its weaving traditions and vibrant textiles. Participate in a hands-on workshop, where you can try your hand at traditional weaving techniques. Afterward, feast on a hearty lunch prepared by a local family, featuring authentic Andean flavors.
Return to Calca for an evening of relaxation and reflection on the day's adventures. Visit a local café for some authentic Peruvian coffee or hot chocolate. Enjoy a quiet dinner while planning for the next day’s exploration.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transportation (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🧭Market souvenirs or small crafts | $3-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic valley setting in the Sacred Valley
- Gateway to Moray, Maras, and surrounding hikes
- Friendly locals and authentic highland culture
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure compared to Cusco
- Higher altitude can cause discomfort for some travelers
- Smaller selection of restaurants and services in town
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Calca
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic highland townscape with colonial architecture and mountains in the background, especially striking at sunrise.
Riverside lanes and bridges provide reflective water shots and dramatic canyon light.
Ancient agricultural terraces on hillside slopes offer sweeping valley views and lines for landscape photography.
Scenic overlooks along hillside roads provide panoramic backdrops of snow-capped peaks and green terraces.
Food in Calca
Calca Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional highland delicacy often shared; available at some valley restaurants and markets.
Must-Try!
Potatoes with a spicy cheese sauce; a common starter in Calca.
Quinoa soups or bowls made with local herbs; a staple in the region.
Stuffed spicy pepper dish found in some regional eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh produce, herbs, grains, and ready-to-eat snacks; look for anticuchos and tamales.
Try empanadas, tamales, and fresh fruit from street vendors; mornings are especially busy with market activity.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'; a handshake is common; in Quechua communities, show respect and courtesy.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural villages; ask permission before photos of people; always say gracias.
Safety
Tipping in Calca
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 5-10% is appreciated if not included; guide and driver tips are common—round up and say gracias.
Cash (Peruvian soles) is widely used; many places accept cards in town; ATMs are available in Calca and nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear days with cool mornings and crisp evenings; ideal for hiking and outdoor exploration; nights can be cold.
Afternoon rain and higher humidity; some roads may become muddy; pack rain gear and plan for shorter visibility.
Calca at Night
Hiking in Calca
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate day hike east of Calca with panoramic valley views and agricultural terraces.
Easy riverside trail with views of the canyon and the Andean mountains.
Short hikes around the salt mines with photo opportunities and terraced slopes.
Airports
How to reach Calca by plane.
Closest major airport to Calca; roughly 1.5–2 hours by road depending on traffic and weather.
Proposed or recently inaugurated airport serving the Cusco region; check current status before planning connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence in rural areas; traditional agriculture and crafts are important aspects of daily life.
A mix of Indigenous and European heritage; many residents work in agriculture, markets, and tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in Peru; community fields abound and matches are common on weekends.
Popular activity in the Sacred Valley surrounding Calca; many trails and scenic viewpoints.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calca.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted; ask for 'sin carne' and opt for papa a la huancaina, quinoa bowls, soups, and vegetable stews. Nearby markets offer fresh produce to assemble simple meals.