Things To Do
in Cutervo
Cutervo is a small Andean city in northern Peru, serving as the capital of Cutervo Province in the Cajamarca region. It sits amid rolling hills, cloud forests, and fertile valleys that invite easy day trips and scenic overlooks. The town blends colonial architecture with lively markets and warm, welcoming locals.
As a gateway to the Cutervo National Park and surrounding nature reserves, it offers a relaxed base for wildlife lovers and hikers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Cutervo, a charming town nestled in the Andes. Take some time to settle into your accommodation, soak in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Don't forget to sample some of the region's traditional pastries to start your journey on a sweet note.
Spend your afternoon exploring the vibrant local markets, where you can find handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce. Engage with the friendly locals, who are often eager to share stories about Cutervo's culture and traditions. Consider picking up a few souvenirs to remember your visit.
As night falls, take a stroll through the illuminated streets of Cutervo. Find a cozy restaurant to enjoy a hearty Peruvian meal, featuring local specialties such as cuy or alpaca. Wrap up your evening by relaxing in a local plaza, watching the world go by.
Begin your day early with a delicious breakfast before heading to Cutervo National Park. Hike through the park's lush trails, where you'll encounter unique flora and fauna, including native bird species. Take plenty of photos to capture the stunning landscapes that surround you.
Continue your exploration by visiting the impressive caves within the national park, known for their stunning rock formations and endemic wildlife. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature, listening to the sounds of the forest. Don’t miss the chance to spot some of the park’s rare birds and other wildlife.
Return to Cutervo in the late afternoon and unwind from your adventurous day. Savor dinner at a local eatery and share stories with other travelers about your experiences in the park. Spend the evening reflecting on the natural beauty you've witnessed.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Hostel dorm bed | $8-15 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $1-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to rich Andean landscapes and wildlife
- Affordability and friendly local culture
- Relatively compact and walkable town center
- Gateway to Cutervo National Park and cloud forests
- Limited nightlife and fewer English-speaking services
- Fewer international flight connections directly to Cutervo
- Rugged roads in rural areas can be slow
- Altitude-related exertion for some visitors
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in Cutervo
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlook offering sweeping views of Cutervo’s valley and surrounding hills, especially striking at sunrise.
Colorful colonial architecture and lively street life provide dynamic urban photography opportunities.
Vibrant market scenes with produce, textiles, and daily activity—great for candid and detail shots.
Historic streets with ochre walls and wooden balconies, ideal for architectural photography and textures.
Forest trails and lookout points where misty cloud forest landscapes and wildlife can be captured.
Food in Cutervo
Cutervo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked with duck and local spices, widely available in city eateries.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried guinea pig, a regional specialty often served with potatoes and a simple salad.
A hearty mote (corn) soup, typically prepared with pork or chicken and herbs.
Slow-cooked goat stew with cilantro and beer or chicha; a staple in highland peruvian cooking.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, tubers, herbs, and prepared snacks; great for observing local flavors and grabbing quick bites.
Smaller local markets where you can try daily street foods and chat with vendors about ingredients and recipes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días/tardes' and a handshake; address elders with 'Señor/Señora' and use polite phrases.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; dress modestly in rural areas and respect local customs during religious or community events.
Arrive on time for meetings but be patient; conversations often include small talk about family and community before business.
Safety
Tipping in Cutervo
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is customary if a service charge is not included. Small tips for tour guides and drivers are appreciated but not always expected.
Peruvian sol (PEN) is the local currency. Cash is widely accepted in markets and smaller shops; many urban establishments also accept cards (Visa/Mastercard). ATMs are common in towns, but carry cash for remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December to February bring warm daytime temperatures with cooler nights. It is part of the wet season, so brief afternoon showers are common and humidity can be high in the mornings.
March to May is a transitional period with decreasing rainfall and comfortable daytime temperatures; showers may still occur early in the season.
June to August features a dry season with clear skies, cooler nights, and pleasant days for outdoor activities. Pack layers for chilly evenings.
September to November sees warming temperatures and increasing rain as the season progresses; landscapes become lush and photogenic.
Cutervo at Night
Hiking in Cutervo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Network of forest trails through cloud forest and montane habitats with varying difficulty and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Short to moderate hikes offering misty scenery, panoramic views, and chances to spot endemic birds.
Accessible day hikes along the foothills with viewpoints over agricultural valleys and distant peaks.
Airports
How to reach Cutervo by plane.
Main regional airport with domestic flights; a several-hour drive or bus ride to Cutervo.
Larger hub farther away; provides more flight options but requires a longer overland trip to Cutervo.
Major international gateway; used for longer trips and onward connections to northern Peru.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly mestizo with strong Andean cultural influences; mix of students, families, and small business owners.
Vast agricultural communities in the surrounding hills; often tight-knit and culturally traditional.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and informal games are common in town squares and fields.
Played in schools, clubs, and community centers; often part of social gatherings.
Popular among visitors and locals who enjoy exploring the surrounding hills and forests.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cutervo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places can accommodate vegetarian diets with veggie stews, potatoes, corn, beans, and fresh vegetables; it’s best to ask for dishes without meat stock and opt for plant-based options or side dishes.