Paucartambo, City of Dancers
Guide to enjoy the most colorful fiesta in Peru
Statues of dancers in the main square of Paucartambo
Just two hours driving from Cusco, Paucartambo welcomes you with its standing warm weather, a particular smell of fruits and few but calm people. This very small village near the river of the same name it's famous for its white houses with blue balconies and streets made of stone. It's pretty enjoyable to spend a whole day walking the streets, walking across the stone bridge and hiking the hills to watch the sunset.
Carlos III bridge
The high altitude of Paucartambo allow locals to grow their animals and many vegetables on small farms in a healthy quiet mood.
A view from upstairs
It's easy to enjoy the beauty of nature anywhere you look. During the rainy season is flourishing in a wonderful way.
A pollinating bee with a pink flower
Some things to see in one day are the monumental statues for the workers at the entrance of the city, and in every square. Also, the catholic church of this very religious town.
Statue of a man with coca leaves and woman with corn. The church. Statue of dancers.
This city is well-known for the many thematical dances that are presented during the Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen from July 15th to 18th.
The Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen is the most important festival of the year and attracts a huge number of visitors from different parts of the world because of its colorful dresses, funny masks, and historical themes. The particular interaction with the public makes everyone participate in the celebration.
Typical dress of many types of dancers exhibited at the museum
More typical dress of dancers exhibited at the museum
Another distinctive place in the nearby is the famous spot "Tres Cruces" where people go before dawn to enjoy an astonishing sunrise, but it's 3 hours driving from this city, in case you miss it, do not get sad, you can enjoy a beautiful sunset at top of the hill across the river. The best time to avoid a misty morning is around the winter solstice, between May and July.
Perfect spot for watching the sunsetting
If you are on a road trip, you can continue your journey into the Peruvian rainforest following the same road from Cusco to Paucartambo because it's on the way to the most protected area in Peru, the Manu National Park.
Another part of the village
Old town lost in nature
The Paucartambo river