Things To Do
in Carás
Carás sits high in the Peruvian Andes, framed by green terraces and rugged mountains. Life centers on farming, markets, and close-knit communities with strong Andean traditions. The town offers a gateway to scenic hikes, cultural encounters, and warm hospitality.
In town you'll find simple eateries, handmade crafts, and slow-paced days ideal for slow travel.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Carás and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Peruvian dishes. Take some time to explore the charming streets and appreciate the stunning mountain scenery.
Visit the local market to experience the culture and try fresh produce and artisan products. Engage with locals and learn about their daily lives and customs. Discover historical sites in the area that provide insight into the region's rich heritage.
Dine at a family-owned restaurant, enjoying authentic Peruvian cuisine. After dinner, take a stroll around the main square to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps listen to some live music. End the night with a warm beverage, reflecting on your first day in this tranquil town.
Embark on a guided tour to the ancient Chavin ruins, an archaeological site known for its intricate stone carvings and significant historical value. Marvel at the impressive architecture as you learn about the significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take photos and soak in the stunning views of the surrounding Andes.
After the tour, enjoy a picnic lunch in the beautiful hills nearby, surrounded by nature. Spend some time hiking in the area, exploring the lush landscapes and possibly spotting local wildlife. Visit nearby artisan workshops to see traditional crafts being made.
Return to Carás and freshen up before dinner. Savor the flavors of local cuisine at a traditional taberna, where the ambiance is warm and welcoming. Reflect on the day’s adventures with fellow travelers over a hearty meal.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚎Local bus ride | $0.50-1 |
| 🛏️Budget guesthouse dorm bed | $15-25 |
| 🍺Beer in a local bar | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming local communities and a rich Andean culture
- Stunning mountain scenery and accessible hiking from town
- Affordable, traditional cuisine and direct access to markets
- Limited infrastructure and occasional language barriers for non-Spanish speakers
- Rural roads can be challenging and some services are basic
- Smaller selection of nightlife and international dining options
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Carás
Visit one of these nice places.
A panoramic overlook above green terraced fields with sweeping valley views, especially striking at sunrise.
Colonial church with adobe walls, carved wood, and a sense of timelessness that makes for evocative portraits.
Colorful market stalls filled with textiles, vegetables, and flowers—great for candid street photography.
Viewpoint along the river valley offering distant mountain silhouettes and pastoral scenes.
Food in Carás
Carás Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried guinea pig, a traditional celebratory dish often found at local eateries on market days.
Must-Try!
Meats, potatoes, and herbs cooked in an earth oven for a smoky, rustic flavor.
Quinoa soup with vegetables and herbs, a comforting staple in cooler evenings.
Grilled trout from nearby rivers, typically served with potatoes and fresh herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant morning market with fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and locally made textiles.
Empanadas, tamales, roasted corn, and simple snacks ideal for a quick bite while wandering the lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' and a handshake. Dress modestly, especially in rural or sacred spaces, and ask before taking photos of people or families.
Show reverence at churches and ritual sites; remove hats and speak softly in these spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Carás
Ensure a smooth experience
In Peru, tipping is customary for good service. In restaurants, about 10% is common if service is not included; small tips to guides or drivers are appreciated. In informal settings, rounding up the bill is a kind gesture.
Cash is widely used for everyday purchases; many small shops and markets prefer soles. Some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, but carry local currency for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
November through March brings warm days and frequent afternoon showers; carry a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof footwear; trails can be muddy but landscapes glow after rain.
April to October features cooler, drier days with crisp mornings and chilly nights; excellent for clear skies, dramatic sunsets, and comfortable hiking in layered clothing.
Carás at Night
Hiking in Carás
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate loop that climbs through ancient terraces with panoramic valley views and photo opportunities.
A riverside trail with lush greenery and opportunities to spot local birds; suitable for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Carás by plane.
Main international gateway to Peru; serves as a hub for regional connections and onward flights to higher-altitude towns like Carás.
Regional airport serving the Apurímac and neighboring regions; provides domestic flights and access to the Andean corridor.
Regional airport in Junín region offering domestic flights; commonly used for access to central Andean towns and scenic routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A substantial portion of residents maintain indigenous language, dress, and farming practices, contributing to a strong cultural identity.
A mix of indigenous and mixed heritage families who participate in regional markets and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Undoubtedly the most popular sport, with local matches and community leagues shaping weekend activities.
Common in schools and community centers, especially in the dry season when evenings are cooler.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Carás.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most restaurants; look for dishes with potatoes, beans, corn, rice, and quinoa. Ask for vegetables and grains without meat broth, and consider sharing a local vegetarian sampler to taste a range of preparations.