Urcos
,Urcos is a small town located in the Andean highlands of Peru, situated at an elevation of around 3,400 meters above sea level. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, including views of snow-capped mountains and tranquil lakes such as Laguna de Urcos. The town is surrounded by lush agricultural fields where locals grow crops like potatoes, quinoa, and corn.
Urcos also has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional festivals and dances that celebrate the region's history and traditions.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Urcos Nature Exploration
morning
:Start your day with a scenic stroll around Lake Urcos. Enjoy the fresh air while observing local wildlife.
afternoon
:Visit the nearby archaeological site of Tipón to explore Inca ruins and irrigation systems. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
evening
:Wrap up your day with a traditional Peruvian dinner in a local restaurant. Savor the regional flavors and relax after a day of exploration.
Cultural Immersion in Urcos
morning
:Begin with a visit to the local market to experience authentic Peruvian culture. Sample fresh fruits and artisanal goods from local vendors.
afternoon
:Take part in a weaving workshop with local artisans. Learn the traditional techniques and create your own piece of art.
evening
:Enjoy a cultural dance performance at a community center. Immerse yourself in the vibrant music and dance of the region.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and customs
- Stunning natural landscapes, including mountains and rivers
- Opportunities for adventure tourism, such as hiking and trekking
- A growing community that welcomes tourists and promotes local crafts
- Access to traditional Peruvian cuisine and local markets
Bad
- Limited infrastructure and public transportation options
- Challenges with access to healthcare services
- Potential language barrier as Spanish is predominantly spoken
- Economic limitations affecting local development and job opportunities
- Occasional issues with safety and security in certain areas
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Andes
Explore the stunning trails around Urcos that offer breathtaking views of the Andes mountains, suitable for all skill levels.
Lake Urcos Tour
Take a scenic tour of Lake Urcos, where you can enjoy birdwatching, kayaking, and picnicking by the tranquil waters.
Cultural Tours
Engage with local communities to learn about traditional lifestyles, agriculture, and crafts in the surrounding rural areas.
Mountain Biking
Ride through the diverse terrain around Urcos, including challenging hills and beautiful valleys, suitable for both beginners and experienced bikers.
Camping
Set up camp in designated areas around Urcos for a night under the stars, with opportunities for stargazing and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Urcos with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Lake Urcos
A stunning lake surrounded by mountains that offers picturesque views, especially at sunrise and sunset, perfect for reflective photography.
Urcos Plaza
The central square of Urcos provides a vibrant atmosphere with beautiful colonial architecture and a backdrop of the surrounding hills.
Sierra de Urcos
The nearby mountain range offers hiking trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the town and the lush landscape, ideal for nature photography.
Valle Sagrado (Sacred Valley)
A short drive from Urcos, this valley is famous for its breathtaking views of mountains and Incan ruins, providing endless photo opportunities.
Chinchero Ruins
Located close to Urcos, these archaeological sites offer stunning vistas of the Sacred Valley and the Andes, rich in history and scenic beauty.
Mirador de Urcos
A dedicated viewpoint that gives you a stunning outlook over Urcos and Lake Urcos, ideal for capturing the full beauty of the area.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cuy (Guinea Pig)
A traditional Peruvian delicacy, cuy is often roasted whole and served with potatoes and aji salsa. It can be found at local restaurants and food stalls throughout Urcos, with particularly popular spots along Plaza de Armas.
Must-Try!
Rocoto Relleno
A spicy dish featuring stuffed rocoto peppers, minced meat, onions, eggs, and cheese. Look for this dish at eateries specializing in traditional Peruvian cuisine such as Restaurante K'antu.
Pachamanca
A hearty dish cooked in an underground pit with meats (often lamb or pork), potatoes, and Andean herbs. Many traditional restaurants in Urcos, like El Fogon del Chato, offer this traditional feast.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Urcos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercado Central de Urcos
The central market in Urcos is a vibrant hub of local food culture. Visitors can sample an array of street food including tamales, humitas, and freshly squeezed fruit juices.
Plaza de Armas Street Vendors
The Plaza de Armas hosts an array of street food vendors offering local treats such as empanadas, anticuchos (marinated grilled skewers), and picarones (sweet potato and pumpkin doughnuts).
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
When meeting someone in Urcos, it is common to greet with a handshake, and friends may exchange a kiss on the cheek. Always greet the eldest person first as a sign of respect.
Dress Code
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local community gatherings. Traditional clothing is appreciated, and wearing bright colors is often seen as a sign of respect for the local culture.
Politeness and Formality
Use polite forms of address and be respectful when speaking to others. It’s customary to say 'por favor' (please) and 'gracias' (thank you) frequently, as it reflects good manners and respect in interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Urcos with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Urcos, Peru, tipping practices may not be as customary or formalized as in some other countries. However, it is appreciated in the service industry, particularly in restaurants, cafes, and for guides in tourism. A tip of around 10% is a common practice if the service is satisfactory. It is advisable to check if the service charge is included in the bill.
Payment
Payment methods in Urcos typically include cash, which is widely used, particularly in small businesses and markets. The local currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it’s recommended to carry cash for smaller transactions. Mobile payment options may be available but are less common.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Urcos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (May to October)
The dry season is considered the best time to visit Urcos. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, exploring the surrounding landscape, and visiting nearby archaeological sites. Temperatures are mild and comfortable, although nights can be chilly.
Wet Season (November to April)
The wet season features frequent rain showers and higher humidity. December to March tends to have the most rainfall. While the landscape becomes lush and green, outdoor activities may be more challenging due to muddy trails. It’s also a great time to experience local festivals and cultural events, as the region celebrates various traditions.
Shoulder Season (Late April and Early May, Late October)
These transitional periods between dry and wet seasons can also be good times to visit. Expect fewer crowds and decent weather, although there may be occasional rain. It's a good time for travelers looking for a quieter experience and the chance to see local flora and fauna emerging in the lush landscape.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cerro Salkantay
A prominent peak in the Andes, offering challenging hikes with stunning views of glaciers and surrounding mountains.
Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain)
A famous mountain known for its colorful stripes, providing a unique trekking experience and breathtaking scenery.
Lares Trek
A traditional route that connects Urcos to the Lares Valley, featuring beautiful landscapes, hot springs, and local culture.
Inca Trail
An iconic trek leading to Machu Picchu, traversing through diverse ecosystems and ancient Incan ruins, though access requires permits.
Q'ehchua Trail
A lesser-known hiking path near Urcos which allows hikers to explore local communities and enjoy the serene natural environment.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Urcos through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Urcos by plane.
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
The main international airport serving Cusco, about 30 kilometers from Urcos.
Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)
The largest and busiest airport in Peru, located in Lima, approximately 600 kilometers from Urcos.
Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP)
An international airport serving Arequipa, located around 150 kilometers to the south of Urcos.
Capitán FAP Guillermo Concha Iberico International Airport (CIQ)
An international airport in Cusco region located in the city of Juliaca, approximately 200 kilometers from Urcos.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous Peoples
The Indigenous population in Urcos includes various groups, primarily the Quechua community, which retains many cultural practices and traditions.
Mestizos
Mestizos, or people of mixed Indigenous and European descent, make up a significant portion of the population, contributing to a blend of cultures.
European Descendants
There is a smaller population of people with European ancestry, primarily descendants of Spanish colonizers and immigrants.
Afro-Peruvians
The Afro-Peruvian population is minor in Urcos but plays a role in the country's cultural fabric and history.
The Soul of Urcos
Discover the essence of Urcos through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer
Soccer is the most popular sport in Urcos, as in much of Peru, with a passionate fan base and local clubs participating in various leagues.
Volleyball
Volleyball is widely played in schools and local communities, especially among women and youth.
Basketball
Basketball enjoys popularity among the younger population, with local courts available for play.
Track and Field
Track and field events are common in schools and during local festivals, showcasing athletic talent.
Cycling
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Urcos, with residents often taking to the surrounding countryside.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Peruvian cuisine traditionally features meat, many restaurants in Urcos offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as quinoa stew, vegetable ceviche, and causa rellena (layered potato dish). Café Andino and Restaurante K'antu are known for their vegetarian offerings.
Gluten-free Options
Travelers with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like ceviche (fish marinated in citrus juices), corn-based tamales, and grilled meats. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly to ensure a safe dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Urcos with these cultural adventures.
