Things To Do
in Chota
Chota is a highland town in Peru’s Cajamarca region, perched in the Andean valleys with sweeping mountain views. It serves as a provincial hub and an approachable gateway to surrounding rural communities and terraces. The town blends colonial-influenced architecture with lively markets and warm, welcoming locals.
Visitors come for authentic Andean hospitality, scenic landscapes, and a pace that invites exploration of culture, food, and nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread and coffee. After breakfast, stroll through the cobbled streets of Chota, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant local markets. Visit the Plaza de Armas, where you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
In the afternoon, delve into Chota's history by visiting the local museum, where you can learn about the region's rich cultural heritage. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes like cuy chactado. Spend some time shopping for artisan crafts at the market, where you can find unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to a local eatery for dinner, trying traditional Peruvian dishes made with local ingredients. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture by watching a folk dance performance in the square. End your day with a leisurely walk through the streets, enjoying the peaceful ambiance under the stars.
Rise early for a hearty breakfast and prepare for a day of hiking in the Andean mountains surrounding Chota. Join a guided tour that takes you through breathtaking landscapes, lush valleys, and crystal-clear streams. Your guide will point out unique flora and fauna along the way, enriching your experience in this stunning environment.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the scenic backdrop of the mountains. Continue your hike to reach a stunning viewpoint, where you can take in panoramic views of the Andean peaks. Capture photos and revel in the sense of accomplishment as you connect with nature.
Return to Chota in the evening and relax at your accommodation, perhaps enjoying a warm shower after your hike. For dinner, indulge in a comforting meal with locals, swapping stories over hearty dishes. Reflect on your day's adventure as you unwind under the serene Andean sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥪Street food snack | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming locals and a safe, relaxed atmosphere
- Affordability and authentic Andean experiences
- Limited infrastructure in rural areas
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Chota
Visit one of these nice places.
Centrally located square framed by colonial-era buildings and a lively everyday backdrop; ideal for street photography and golden-hour portraits.
Historic church with architectural details and a quiet interior perfect for interior shots and church exteriors in the early morning light.
High vantage point offering sweeping views of the Andes, terraces, and the town below—great for wide landscape shots.
Scenic overlook along the river with lush riparian scenery and potential wildlife activity.
Colorful stalls and vibrant textures—excellent for candid market photography and close-ups of local produce.
Food in Chota
Chota Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried guinea pig, prepared with spices and served with potatoes or maize; a traditional centerpiece in many highland households.
Must-Try!
Grilled river trout, often seasoned with local herbs and lime, a popular dish given the area’s freshwater resources.
Quinoa soup rich with vegetables and occasionally meat, warming and hearty in cooler evenings.
A comforting cornmeal and potato soup familiar in Andean towns, often served with a slice of bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Buzzing market with fresh produce, grains, cheeses, and occasional prepared foods; great for people-watching and photo opportunities.
Street-side vendors offering tamales de maíz and chicha morada or chicha de jora, best sampled alongside locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hola or buenos días and a handshake; eye contact is valued. In rural areas, informal greetings and a warm tone are appreciated.
Ask before taking photos of people, particularly elders or in private spaces. A polite explanation goes a long way.
Dine modestly and share conversations; avoid loud topics in sacred or quiet spaces. Dress modestly when visiting churches.
Safety
Tipping in Chota
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated if service is not automatically included. Small tips for hotel staff and guides are common but not obligatory.
Cash (Peruvian soles) is widely used in markets and small eateries. Many restaurants in towns accept credit/debit cards, while rural areas may be cash-only. Some places accept USD for larger purchases or accommodations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear days with cooler nights; ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Pack layers and sunscreen; evenings can be chilly.
Frequent showers and lush greenery; some roads can be muddy or temporarily closed after heavy rain. Waterproof gear is recommended.
Milder weather with fewer crowds; moderate rainfall possible; good for sightseeing and negotiating outdoor itineraries.
Chota at Night
Hiking in Chota
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic day hike along the valley rim with panoramic mountain views and terraces.
A higher altitude route offering sweeping views of the Andes and the town below.
Airports
How to reach Chota by plane.
Main regional gateway; about 2–3 hours by road from Chota; offers domestic flights to Lima and other Peruvian cities.
A bit farther away; serves international and domestic flights; often used as an alternate gateway if traveling via the north coast.
Peru’s largest international hub; typically used for international connections; travel from Lima to Cajamarca by domestic flight or overland route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A portion of rural residents maintains Quechua as a primary language and preserves traditional customs.
The majority lives in town and surrounding farms, focused on agriculture and local trades.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The prevailing sport; local teams and school leagues are common in towns and plazas.
A popular sport in schools and community centers, with informal games in parks and halls.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chota.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
There are vegetable-forward options such as soups, potato-based dishes, maize-based snacks, and plant-based stews. When ordering, ask for no meat broth and request plain quinoa or bean dishes when available.