Things To Do
in Sicuani
Sicuani sits high in the southern Peru Andes at about 3,100 meters, serving as the regional capital of Canchis Province. The city acts as a gateway to the Vilcanota range and a network of highland lagoons and archaeological sites. Its streets blend Quechua heritage with growing local commerce, giving it a welcoming small-town vibe set against dramatic mountain backdrops.
With expansive Andean landscapes surrounding it, Sicuani makes a calm base for day trips into the southern Cusco highlands.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure in Sicuani by visiting the vibrant local market where you can immerse yourself in the culture and sample traditional Peruvian food. Stroll through the stalls filled with colorful textiles, fresh produce, and handmade crafts. Engage with friendly locals to learn about their way of life and the significance of the products they sell.
After a delightful lunch at a local eatery, set off to explore the stunning archaeological site of Rumi Pampa, known for its impressive stone formations and scenic views. Dedicate your afternoon to hiking the surrounding trails that offer a glimpse of the breathtaking Andean landscape. Take your time to appreciate the flora and fauna unique to this region.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant in Sicuani to savor traditional dishes like alpaca steak or quinoa soup, paired with locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy the evening ambiance as local musicians may perform traditional tunes, creating a festive atmosphere. Wind down your day by sipping on a warm cup of mate de coca, a local herbal tea, while reflecting on your experiences.
Head out to the nearby Indigenous communities that surround Sicuani, such as the Quechua people, to experience their traditions and way of life first-hand. Participate in a traditional weaving workshop, guided by talented artisans who will teach you the intricacies of their craft. As you learn, you'll gain deeper insights into the cultural significance of each design and color used in their textiles.
Join in on a communal lunch prepared by the locals, where you can taste authentic Peruvian dishes made from ingredients grown in their gardens. Afterward, engage in a traditional dance session, where locals will show you the steps of their folkloric dances, making for a fun and energetic experience. This afternoon is a perfect blend of cultural education and bonding with the community.
Return to Sicuani to rest and reflect on a day full of new experiences. Visit a local bar or pub where you can enjoy live music, immersing yourself in the sounds of Andean instruments. Cap off the evening with an air of satisfaction, knowing you’ve embraced the local culture through genuine experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🌮Street food/snack | $1-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride (within town) | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Andean culture and welcoming locals
- Stunning mountain scenery and easy access to southern Cusco highlands
- Limited nightlife and some infrastructure outside major towns
- High altitude can affect first-time visitors and travel times can be long
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Disculpe" - Excuse me
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in Sicuani
Visit one of these nice places.
Central square framed by colonial architecture and the town church, ideal for morning or sunset photography with local life unfolding around you.
High-altitude vantage point along the Cusco-Puno route, offering dramatic mountain views and sweeping skies, especially at dawn or dusk.
Riverside shots with the Andes as a backdrop; early morning light can illuminate the water and surrounding fields.
Colorful textiles, woven patterns, and traditional dress provide vibrant street photography opportunities and candid portraits (with permission).
Food in Sicuani
Sicuani Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cuy (guinea pig) fried flat and crisp, typically served with potatoes and dried potato (chuño) or corn.
Must-Try!
Quinoa-based soup with vegetables, herbs, and sometimes cheese or potato pieces.
Lamb or mutton stew with potatoes and local corn, slow-cooked for rich flavor.
Potatoes with a creamy, spicy cheese sauce, a comforting staple found in many highland eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market where locals buy fresh produce, herbs, bread, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for people-watching and photographic opportunities.
Street-side skewers and corn-based snacks common in town markets; ideal for a quick, flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; address elders with señor/señora and use formal greetings. If speaking Quechua, a polite greeting in Spanish is appreciated; ask permission before photographing people.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural communities; avoid loud or disruptive behavior in religious or cultural sites.
Small gestures of appreciation for hosts or workshop instructors are appreciated, such as a local craft or a simple token of gratitude.
Safety
Tipping in Sicuani
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10% tip is customary if a service charge is not included. For guides and drivers on day trips, consider 5–10% of the tour cost depending on service quality. In markets and smaller shops, tipping is appreciated but not required.
Cash (Peruvian soles) is widely used in markets and smaller eateries; some places in town accept US dollars. Bank cards are commonly accepted in larger hotels and mid-range restaurants, but carry cash for street vendors and rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
November to March brings the wet season with frequent afternoon showers and warm daytime temperatures; landscapes are lush and skies dramatic, with cooler evenings requiring a layer or light jacket.
April to June often features drier conditions and mild days; nights begin to turn chilly, making layers essential for outdoor activities.
June to August are cool to cold, with possible frost and clear, bright days; pack warm layers, hat, gloves, and a strong jacket.
September to October sees warming temperatures and occasional rain showers; great for hiking as trails thaw and wildflowers bloom.
Sicuani at Night
Hiking in Sicuani
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A high-altitude circuit around the Ausangate massif with dramatic lagoons, glacier views, and traditional communities; requires multi-day commitment and acclimatization.
Short to day-long hikes along the Vilcanota valley offering panoramic views of the Andes and opportunities to observe local wildlife and flora.
Airports
How to reach Sicuani by plane.
Cusco, Peru — the closest major gateway to the region; connections to Lima and international destinations; typically a 3–5 hour drive from Sicuani depending on route and weather.
Juliaca, Peru — serves the Puno region; larger flight network and more frequent connections, though farther from Sicuani by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the rural population preserves traditional language and customs, contributing to the region’s strong textile and agricultural culture.
A mix of indigenous and mestizo residents in the city center engaged in commerce, services, and tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs, school teams, and informal matches throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sicuani.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetarian-friendly options exist with potatoes, corn, quinoa, vegetables, and cheese-based sauces. Ask for dishes without meat or lard and confirm broth ingredients; soups such as sopa de quinua or quinoa-based stews are good bets.