Spend time with Andean shepherds from the Quishuarani communityto learn about why llamas, alpacas, and sheep play a central role in the Andean rural communities. You'll get to go along with the locals as they herd their animals, learn more about this community's history and experience a taste of their daily lives. For a relaxing break, you'll also have the opportunity to visit local hot springs in Lares.
Speaks: English, Spanish and Other Local Language
07:00AM Pick up from the hotel and depart to the community of Quishuarani. Learn from the guide about the rural reality of Quishuarani and the principles of responsible tourism. You will pass through high Andean mountains of more than 4000 meters about see level. Along the way, you will see various natural and cultural attractions (waterfalls, herds of llamas, and snow-capped mountains such as the Abra del Pitusiray). 10:30AM Arrival and welcome ceremony by the community. Departure by foot towards the beautiful waterfalls of "Canchis Paqcha" and the "Qoyalay Qocha" lagoon, accompanied by the guide and a herd of llamas. 12:00PM Arrival at the lagoon of "Qoyalay Qocha". Stop at a pastor's house and have a dialogue on the role of the pastor in the Andean world and the daily life in a Quechua community. 2:00PM After returning to Quishuarani there will be a typical country lunch in a family home. 3:00PM Departure to the thermo-medicinal baths of Lares, which offer 4 swimming pools and small water falls allowing you to relax, enjoy nature and see wonderful views inside pools of hot water (between 36° C and 48° C) with healing properties. 6:00PM Return to Quishuarani and have dinner and an overnight stay in a family home. At night there will be the possibility of sharing stories in Quechua around a campfire with the villagers.
07:00AM Hot country-style breakfast with the family at home. 08:30AM Small demonstration of the process of textile craftsmanship and weaving in sheep fiber, alpaca or llama. Talk about the difference in fibers and the importance of the wool trade for the Quishuarani community and its families.
10:30AM Farewell ceremony by the community and departure towards Cusco, Ollantaytambo or another destination, depending on your travel plans.
Locally Owned Nonprofit
CBC Tupay offers travelers the opportunity to connect with indigenous communities in the Sacred Valley through unique and immersive experiences. These tours are organized by Centro Barolomé de las Casas, a nonprofit organization focused on the study and support of Andean cultures. The goal of these tours is to provide visitors with an authentic cultural experience, allowing them to learn about the friendly and welcoming nature of the people of Peru, the stunning natural beauty of the Southern Peruvian Highlands, and the unique customs and traditions of the rural areas of Cusco. Through these tours, visitors can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich and diverse culture of the region, while also supporting the preservation of these cultural traditions.