Apurimac

Apurímac’s climate varies dramatically due to its diverse geography.

Highlands: The high-altitude areas experience a cold climate, with temperatures dropping significantly at night, even in the summer. Daytime temperatures are typically mild, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while nighttime temperatures can dip below 0°C (32°F).

River Valleys and Tropical Regions: The valley areas experience a warmer climate, especially near the Apurímac River and lowland forests. Daytime temperatures in these areas range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), with cooler evenings.

The best time to visit Apurímac is during the dry season, from May to September, when weather conditions are ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, and sightseeing.

Learn more about Peru’s climate and weather.

Apurímac is located in the southeastern part of Peru and is known for its stunning geographical diversity. The region is part of the Andean Mountain Range and features a wide variety of ecosystems, including high-altitude plains, river valleys, and tropical forests.

Apurímac is bordered by Cusco, Ayacucho, and Arequipa, and it lies in the central southern Andes. The region is home to the mighty Apurímac River, which cuts through deep valleys and canyons, providing a natural boundary between the highlands and the lower jungle region. The Antabamba, Chincheros, and Aymaraes provinces are some of the most important in the region.

The flora of Apurímac ranges from the high-altitude grasslands (puna) to the subtropical cloud forests. Vegetation includes quinoa, potatoes, corn, and coca plants, especially in the lower altitudes. The highlands are home to Andean condors, vicunas, llamas, and alpacas. In the lower regions of the valley, visitors may encounter a wide range of tropical wildlife, including monkeys, macaws, and various species of frogs and butterflies.

Before the Conquest

The Apurímac region was home to various pre-Columbian cultures, notably the Wari civilization, which thrived in the area before the rise of the Inca Empire. The Wari developed impressive agricultural systems, particularly terracing and water management techniques, as seen in the Sayhuite Archaeological Complex. The region was also part of the cultural sphere of the Chanka people, an ethnic group known for their resistance to Inca expansion.

The Chanka people, located in the Apurímac River Valley, famously fought against the Inca forces but were ultimately defeated. This battle is an essential part of Inca history, as it led to the expansion of the Inca Empire into the Apurímac region, marking a significant moment in Peru’s cultural development.

During the Conquest

After the Chanka defeat, the Apurímac region was incorporated into the Inca Empire, known for its sophisticated road systems, terraces, and ritual sites. The Apurímac River played a significant role in trade and communication within the empire. The Incas were able to establish important settlements in the region, leaving behind archaeological remnants such as agricultural terraces and water management systems.

During the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, Apurímac became a focal point of resistance against the Spanish invaders, particularly in the highland areas. Indigenous groups fought fiercely for their independence, but the Spanish eventually established control over the region.

Colonial Times

After the conquest, the Spanish colonizers established mining operations and agriculture in the region. Apurímac became part of the Spanish Viceroyalty of Peru. During colonial times, the region’s economic activities centered around livestock farming, coca production, and silver mining, which had long-lasting effects on its social and economic structures.

The Catholic Church became a dominant institution in the region during the colonial era, leading to the construction of churches and monasteries in cities like Abancay and Chincheros.

Modern Times

After Peru’s independence from Spain in 1821, Apurímac experienced the political and economic changes of the early republic. The region remained largely agricultural, with significant migration from the highlands to urban centers such as Abancay.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Apurímac saw infrastructure improvements, including the construction of better roads and access to modern services. However, the region continues to face challenges related to poverty, rural development, and environmental protection.

Towns:

• Abancay (Capital of Apurímac)
• Antabamba
• Chincheros
• Aymaraes

Nature:

• Huascarán National Park
• Sayhuite Archaeological Complex
• Apurímac River Canyon
• Vilcabamba Mountain Range
• Huancuire Waterfalls

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Apurímac’s cuisine is a reflection of its Andean roots, combining traditional ingredients with flavors from the local culture.

Traditional Dishes:

• Pachamanca: A traditional Andean dish cooked by placing meat, vegetables, and spices in a pit and covering it with hot stones. It’s often made with pork, lamb, chicken, and various local potatoes.
• Cuy Chactado: Fried guinea pig, a typical Andean dish that remains a delicacy in the region. It’s usually served with potatoes and maize.
• Chuño: Dehydrated potatoes, which are a staple in the diet of the highland communities, often served in soups and stews.
• Sopa de Quinua: A healthy, hearty soup made with quinoa, a local superfood rich in protein and nutrients.
• Humitas: Steamed corn dough stuffed with cheese or meat, similar to tamales, served during festivals and family gatherings.

Beverages:

• Chicha de Jora: A traditional fermented corn drink that has been made in the region for centuries.
• Maca: A root native to the Andes, often used in beverages and soups, known for its health benefits.
• Pisco Sour: While Pisco is from the Ica region, the Pisco Sour is popular throughout Peru, including in Apurímac, where it’s often served at festivals.

Festivals:

• Fiesta de la Virgen del Rosario (Abancay): Celebrated every October, this is one of the most important religious festivals in the region, dedicated to the patron saint of Abancay, the Virgin of the Rosary. The festival features parades, traditional dances, and religious ceremonies.
• Carnival in Apurímac: Celebrated in February or March, this festival is marked by colorful parades, traditional dances, and music, and is a joyful expression of local culture.
• Fiesta de la Cruz de Mayo: A traditional celebration held in May, where communities decorate crosses and participate in religious festivities.
• Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun): While it is most famously celebrated in Cusco, many communities in Apurímac also honor the Incan Festival of the Sun during the winter solstice, with rituals and dances dedicated to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the sun god Inti.

Cultural Traditions:

• Textile Weaving: The region is known for its textile production, particularly hand-woven fabrics made from alpaca wool and cotton. Textiles play an important role in rituals and festivals.
• Traditional Music and Dance: The indigenous music of Apurímac features wind instruments like the panpipe and charango, along with drums. The huayno dance is a typical dance form, often performed during festivals and celebrations.

Apurímac is a region that can be easily accessed by road from nearby regions such as Cusco, Arequipa, and Lima.

The Pan-American Highway provides access to the region, and buses are the most common form of intercity transport. Abancay is well-connected by road, and private transport or tour buses can take visitors to natural sites such as Sayhuite and Huascarán National Park.

While there are no major airports in Apurímac, visitors can fly into Cusco or Lima and then take a bus to Apurímac. There are also small airports in nearby towns like Anta and Chincheros, but flights are limited.

Once within the region, local taxis and minivans are available for getting around. For adventure travelers, 4×4 vehicles are recommended to access remote areas such as the Apurímac River Canyon.

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Apurímac is well-connected by road, and traveling by bus is the most common way to get to and around the region. Abancay, the regional capital, is accessible by private car or bus from nearby cities like Cusco and Ayacucho.

The main road routes in the region are winding and sometimes rough, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended for visiting more remote areas like Sayhuite and the Apurímac River Canyon.

While Apurímac does not have a major airport, visitors can fly into Cusco or Lima and then take a bus or private transport to reach Abancay and other towns in the region. There are smaller airports in nearby towns like Anta and Chincheros, but flights are limited.

In Abancay, visitors can use taxis and local minivans to get around. Motorcycles and bicycles are also commonly used in rural areas.
Public transportation is available to reach nearby towns, but road conditions can be challenging, so traveling with a guided tour is often the best option for tourists.

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