Things To Do
in Macusani
Macusani is a high-altitude town in the Peruvian Andes, serving as a gateway to the Cordillera Carabaya and a hub for local culture. Nestled amid rugged peaks, it offers a quiet, authentic Andean experience away from large tourist crowds. The town centers around a lively plaza, a colonial church, and markets where alpaca wool and farm-fresh produce are traded daily.
Expect cool mornings and evenings with bright, crisp days that showcase the dramatic Andean landscape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure with a hearty breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Peruvian dishes like quinoa porridge. After breakfast, take a guided walking tour through the vibrant streets of Macusani, where you can witness the local culture and history. Visit the main plaza to see the stunning architecture and converse with friendly locals.
In the afternoon, join a hike to the nearby Apus, sacred mountains that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. As you trek, keep an eye out for local wildlife and diverse flora, and take plenty of photographs. Engage with your guide, who will share fascinating stories about the region's significance to indigenous communities.
After returning from your hike, enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional restaurant, savoring the flavors of Andean cuisine. Relax and mingle with fellow travelers while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the town. If you’re up for it, end your day with a local music performance, experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Start your day with a visit to a local artisan workshop where you can learn about traditional textile weaving techniques. Participate in a hands-on experience and try your hand at creating your own textile piece, guided by skilled artisans. This intimate encounter not only educates but also deepens your appreciation of the cultural heritage of Macusani.
After your creative morning, explore nearby ruins that hold the secrets of ancient civilizations. The afternoon is perfect for visiting archaeological sites, where guides will narrate the history of these important remnants. Don't forget to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the ancient stones, connecting with the past in a scenic setting.
Return to the town for an evening stroll through the illuminated streets, enjoying the serene atmosphere. Stop by a local bakery to try freshly baked bread and pastries while mingling with friendly locals. As night falls, consider visiting a traditional festival or gathering to experience the community's lively spirit.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🧀Local cheese or dairy product | $2-6 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- High-altitude scenery and clear night skies
- Friendly, rural communities and authentic cultural experiences
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Long travel times to major hubs and limited healthcare options nearby
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "¡Buenos días!" - Good morning!
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Puede recomendar un restaurant?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Macusani
Visit one of these nice places.
The town’s central square framed by the church and colonial facades; ideal for daytime street scenes and golden-hour portraits.
A hilltop overlook offering wide-angle views of Macusani, the valley, and the surrounding mountains.
Colorful market fronts with baskets of potatoes, corn, and cheeses; candid street photography opportunities abound.
Public rooftops and café terraces provide elevated views of the Andes at sunset.
Food in Macusani
Macusani Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried guinea pig, a traditional Andean delicacy often available at local eateries.
Must-Try!
Grilled alpaca steak with herbs; a lean meat option common in highland menus.
Quinoa soup with vegetables and herbs, perfect for warming up after a day outdoors.
Potatoes with a spicy cheese sauce; a locally adapted version may be found in some restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh potatoes, corn, locally produced cheeses, herbs, and dried chuño; street stalls offer roasted corn and snacks.
Skewered meats (anticuchos) and savory pastries near the plaza; great for a quick bite while wandering the town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake and eye contact are common; greet people in Spanish with 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes.'
Address elders with courtesy; show interest in local festivals and ask before taking photos of people.
Dress modestly and remove hats when entering churches or sacred spaces; maintain respectful behavior.
Locals take pride in hosting visitors; accepting a offered tea or small snack is common and appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Macusani
Ensure a smooth experience
10% is customary when service charge is not included; small tips to hotel staff, guides, and taxi drivers are appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash is widely accepted, and some places accept credit/debit cards; carry small bills for markets and vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Wet season with regular afternoon showers; days can be warm but nights remain cool; trails can be slippery after rain.
Transition to drier conditions; comfortable daytime temperatures and cooler nights; fewer crowds.
Dry season with clear skies but cold nights and mornings; good for hiking and photography, but dress warmly.
Warming trend with blooming highland flora; great visibility and pleasant hiking weather.
Macusani at Night
Hiking in Macusani
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, accessible hike from Macusani to a hilltop viewpoint overlooking the town and valley.
A day hike into the foothills of the Carabaya range with panoramic mountains and potential wildlife.
A moderate trek to a highland lake area, ideal for birdwatching and photography.
Airports
How to reach Macusani by plane.
The closest major airport serving southern Peru; connects to Lima and other cities; typically a few hours' drive to Macusani depending on road conditions.
Cusco’s main international airport with various connections; longer overland transfer to Macusani (roughly 6–9 hours by road).
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents are Quechua-speaking, maintaining traditional crafts and farming practices.
Rural workers involved in agriculture and small-scale mining in the surrounding highlands.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played and watched sport in town, with local clubs and weekend matches common in schools and open fields.
Popular outdoor activities leveraging the surrounding highlands and Cordillera Carabaya.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Macusani.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist, such as soups and potato- and quinoa-based dishes; communicate dietary needs clearly to cooks and servers.