Tourism Archives - Train to Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco | Peru Rail | Deals | Perurail https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/tourism-blog-en/ Tue, 11 Jun 2024 15:47:02 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.1 https://www.perurail.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Tourism Archives - Train to Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco | Peru Rail | Deals | Perurail https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/tourism-blog-en/ 32 32 Cusco Colorful Carnival https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/cusco-colorful-carnival/ https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/cusco-colorful-carnival/#respond Mon, 22 May 2023 14:09:57 +0000 https://pax.perurail.com/desamkt/perurail_betav3/?p=11155 Cusco Colorful Carnival Read More »

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The ancient city of Cusco blooms with color during the Carnival, when locals and tourists are united in an exciting celebration where attendees splash each other with talc and water, among other lighthearted traditions. Keep reading to learn more about these famous festivities.

The main event of Cusco Carnival is held in the city’s Plaza de Armas (Main Square) bringing together an array of public and private organizations to offer an incredible spectacle featuring dances and music performed by different types of troupes known as pandillas and comparsas. Many of these groups have won numerous prizes at the different festivals celebrated in the Sacred Valley and the South Valley.

The Celebration of the Compadres and Comadres
Traditionally, Carnival begins two Thursdays before the main event, with one day dedicated to compadres and the other, to comadres. On these dates, prominent local men visit their female counterparts and vice versa.

One of the defining features of this celebration are the dolls made in the image of well-known public personalities, important workplace figures, and even regional authorities. Some place a humorous emphasis on their subject’s most notable traits, while others carry a powerful symbolic message for society. Whatever the case, these dolls always represent something.

These dolls are generally made from recycled materials such as cardboard, bottles, discarded clothing articles and shoes, plastic, etc. Once they are ready, they are hung from high places as soon as Wednesday ends, the better for all to view them.

Cusco Carnival Main Celebration
The most important day of Carnival is held on Sunday. At this point, everything grows more intense, from the music to the colors, with water, talc, mixtures of the two, and even paint flying everywhere. The winning dolls from the compadre and comadre competitions are paraded through the streets. And of course, you cannot miss the dances performed by numerous public and private organizations.

Traditional Foods at Cusco’s Carnival
With all these lively activities, celebrants’ bellies are sure to require a good meal. Luckily, Carnival comes with its own culinary fair featuring three traditional dishes from Cusco:

  • Kapchi: Also spelled capchi, is a dish made with fresh broad beans, seasoned potatoes, milk, and cheese or mushrooms. It is usually accompanied by a stuffed rocoto chili pepper and a bit of rice.
  • Timpu: Also known as puchero cusqueño, consists of a mouthwatering variety of stewed meats served with potatoes, chickpeas, rice, whole cabbage leaves, sweet potatoes, peaches, yucca, pears, and a local tuber called moraya. There are two different presentations which can be served on separate plates or together in combination.
  • Frutillada: To complement our meal (and quench our thirst) we have the famous frutillada, an iconic drink from the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This beverage is prepared with chicha de jora mixed with boiled strawberries (with lemon verbena and cinnamon). The key step in making frutillada is to leave the chicha to ferment for eight days. By the time Carnival rolls around, it will be ready to drink.
  • Chicha de jora: Chicha de jora is a drink made from fermented purple maize. While it is often used as the main ingredient in more elaborate beverages, it is also popular all on its own.

Octava or Kacharpari
Octava or Kacharpari, is celebrated one week after the main event to cap off Carnival festivities for the year. On this date, we can catch a glimpse of the famous yunza or cortamonte, where people get together to dance around an artificial tree that has been adorned with gifts. During this event, participants move in a circle around the tree, using a machete or ax to strike blows until they overthrow it. After the tree falls, you have better be quick and crafty if you want to grab one of the gifts. As a curiosity, this tradition can be found in various celebrations in different regions of Peru that happen to overlap with Carnival season (February and March).

Kacharpari always marks the end of festivities and Cusco Carnival is no exception, where it wraps up one of Peru’s most important celebrations.

Carnivals in Cusco’s Provinces
The city of Cusco isn’t the only place where Carnival is celebrated; these unforgettable festivities can be found in the different provinces throughout the department, as well. To name just a few, we have:

  • The Sacred Valley of the Incas: Calca, Urubamba, Qoya, Pisac, Lamay, Yanahuara, etc.
  • South Valley: Canchis, Oropesa, and San Jerónimo.
    While these events share many features, each community has its own traditions. For example, women take charge of Carnival in the District of Tinta. Towns such as Calca and Mollepata celebrate a yunza for singles and married couples, very similar to the traditional yunza, where participants take part in chopping down the tree to the beat of traditional songs such as huaynos.

Thinking of visiting Cusco during Carnival season? Then be sure not to miss the view from the PeruRail Vistadome train, which offers exceptional comfort and an unrivaled experience on your journey to Machu Picchu. Get your tickets here.

There is no better way to start off your February than by reveling in Cusco’s incredible Carnival!

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Celebration of Corpus Christi in Cusco https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/celebration-of-corpus-christi-in-cusco/ https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/celebration-of-corpus-christi-in-cusco/#respond Mon, 22 May 2023 14:02:17 +0000 https://pax.perurail.com/desamkt/perurail_betav3/?p=11153 Celebration of Corpus Christi in Cusco Read More »

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Corpus Christi is a very traditional religious celebration in the imperial city of Cusco because it also harbors the customs of several different indigenous peoples in one place and is a beautiful spectacle that amazes visitors as well as the local residents.

Holy Tabernacle in procession for Corpus Christi

Photo 1: Holy Tabernacle in procession for Corpus Christi

History of Corpus Christi
During the time of the Incas, there were many fiestas dedicated to their ancestors and the gods. Among these were the Taita Inti, the goddess Killa, Kuychi, etc., which were very significant to them. Of course, the most important feast of all was the fiesta in honor of the Inti (the Sun) and in ancient times they would carry the mummies of their former rulers in a procession before the big celebration.

The Spaniards were amazed at what they saw and took advantage of the festivity in their process to “evangelize” the people to Christianity. And so, in 1572, they decided to replace the procession of mummies with a procession of the 15 saints and virgins that to this day is known as the Cusquenian Corpus Christi.

When is Corpus Christi held?
Following the church calendar, Corpus Christi is held nine weeks after Maundy Thursday (Holy or Easter Week). This year, in 2022, the festivities will be held on June 16.

Ukuku dancer in Corpus Christi procession

Photo 2: Ukuku dancer in Corpus Christi procession

How is Corpus Christi celebrated?
Preparing for the feast of Corpus Christi

We mentioned that this was a very important festivity and so, quite naturally, the organization prior to the feast day is equally important. The hosts, also known as the carguyoq, are in charge of offering the food, beverages and a band of musicians to accompany the followers when the saints are brought out in procession.

Cusqueño food is certainly a highlight, especially in these festivities. The Chiri Uchu is an iconic dish during Corpus Christi and you won’t want to miss it for the world.

Entry of the saints

On the eve of the eucharist celebration of Corpus Christi, the effigy of each of the saints leaves their church or temple, accompanied faithfully by their followers with dances and music typical of each region. One would think they were all close to the main venue of the event, but many come from as far as 10 kilometers away from the main plaza.

The destination of all the saints is the Arco de Santa Clara (St. Claire’s Arch) and then to the church of San Pedro, where you can see the symbolic handing over of the keys to the cathedral by Saint Peter to Saint Anthony. When all the saints are gathered, the procession then continues towards the entry of the cathedral, in which they will spend a whole week until the Octava, the eighth week after Easter.

Procession of various Saints through Corpus Christi

Photo 3: Procession of various Saints through Corpus Christi

Which are the saints that participate?

  1. San Antonio from the San Cristóbal Parish
  2. San Jerónimo from the District Parish of San Jerónimo
  3. San Cristóbal from the Parish of San Cristóbal
  4. San Sebastián from the District Parish of San Sebastián
  5. Santa Bárbara from the District Parish of Poroy
  6. Santa Ana from the Parish of Santa Ana
  7. Santiago Apóstol from the Parish of Santiago
  8. San Blas from the Parish of San Blas
  9. San Pedro from the Parish of San Pedro
  10. San José from the Parish of Belén
  11. Virgen de la Natividad (Our Lady of the Nativity) from the Parish of Almudena
  12. Virgen de los Remedios (Our Lady of Remedies) from the Church of Santa Catalina
  13. Virgen Purificada (Holy Virgin) from the Parish of San Pedro
  14. Virgen de Belén (Our Lady of Bethlehem) from the Parish of Belén
  15. Virgen de la Inmaculada Concepción (Our Lady of Immaculate Conception) also known as “La Linda” from the Basilica of the Catedral

The Main Feast of Corpus Christi
The celebration of Corpus Christi itself is understood to mean the celebration of the body of Christ at the Eucharist and fidelity to that devotion, and the main event is the mass —which is held in Quechua — with the presence of all the saints.

The event that everyone waits for on that day is the procession of the 15 saints, which are carried to the beat of the festive traditions and the music of innumerable huaynos. The musical arrangements are personalized for the different saints by their followers.

The ceremony generally ends as night falls, when the last effigy has entered the cathedral and each congregation leaves to the rhythm of their dances and to drink until the following day.

Patron San Cristóbal in procession through Corpus Christi

Photo 4: Patron San Cristóbal in procession through Corpus Christi

The Octava of Corpus
The Octava is the date on which the procession of the 15 saints takes place around the main plaza in Cusco. The usual time for the events begin is after lunch, around two o’clock in the afternoon, and it ends close to seven o’clock at night.

Lowering the Saints
This usually starts on the day after the Octava and the ‘lowering’ actually means the return of the sacred images to their respective churches (or temples). However, some of the protocols differ, as is the case with Our Lady of Bethlehem.

Words are not enough to describe the fervor and excitement that this fiesta offers. If you have the opportunity to travel to Cusco for these events, don’t think twice and do it. If it was already in your plans and you have the time available, how about a visit to the Citadel of Machu Picchu? The PeruRail Vistadome train has every comfort to make your trip the best experience of all. Buy your tickets here!

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Five Important Festivities in the Sacred Valley https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/five-important-festivities-in-the-sacred-valley/ https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/five-important-festivities-in-the-sacred-valley/#respond Fri, 21 Apr 2023 23:12:28 +0000 https://pax.perurail.com/desamkt/perurail_betav3/?p=9874 Five Important Festivities in the Sacred Valley Read More »

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If you’re thinking of traveling to Cusco and you would like coincide your arrival with one of the festivities to enjoy in the Sacred Valley, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve listed here the most important festivities held in the Sacred Valley during the year, so that you may choose what appeals to you most.

What mportant festivities are celebrated in the Sacred Valley?
There are close to 15 important festivities held in Urubamba during the year. The following are the most attractive to visitors interested in the Sacred Valley.

Easter Week in Calca

Celebrated on March 29

Location: Province of Calca

Follow the Señor de los Temblores (Lord of Earthquakes) from the Apostol Church during the religious events celebrated during Easter Week. Beginning on Holy Monday, the faithful and public in general come together to process through the streets of the city of Calca.

Torrechayoc Festival

Celebrated for close to a month starting on May 31

Location: Province of Urubamba

This is one of the greatest religious festivities celebrated in Urubamba, dedicated to venerating the Crucified Christ on a huge cross. It is celebrated with mass, firework displays, dances, devotional praying, bullfights and much more. Although the celebrations last throughout the month, the main date is June 9.

Pisac’s Virgin of Carmen Festivity

Celebrated on July 15 to 18

Location: Town of Pisac

Legend has it that, at the end of the 19th century, two images of the Virgin of Carmen appeared in a private hacienda very close to the town of Pisac. They are considered twins and both are taken separately to the Main Square to the beat of troupes of masked dancers and their musical groups, in addition to their sponsors and town authorities. The celebration continues when both virgins meet and walk through the main streets of the town; once the night arrives, the dancers and musical groups establish themselves in certain spaces to continue with the party.

Feast of the Assumed Virgin in Qoya
Celebrated on August 14 to 17

Location: District of Qoya, province of Calca

The story goes back to 1951, when the Virgin of Qoya had her head and hands stolen. Some time passed before a villager recognized these stolen parts in the image of a neighboring town and they were returned after a judicial process. Today, 3 images of the “Mamacha Asunta” (as her faithful affectionately refer to her) are venerated: one restored after the robbery, the one that was rebuilt with the recovered parts and one that was donated in 1960. 4 days are dedicated to her, being the 15th its central day, in which 27 troupes of different dances can be found in Qoya participate.

Anniversary of the Coat of Arms of the Distinguished City of Urubamba

Celebrated on November 8 and 9

Location: Province of Urubamba

The small town of Villa of Urubamba was baptized as the Distinguished City of Urubamba in 1839, and since then the anniversary is celebrated with a great event organized by the provincial municipality in which several organizations and authorities participate (Calca, Chinchero, Maras, etc.). A Te Deum or thanksgiving mass is held early in the morning and the day unfolds with parades, dances and a festive atmosphere that will enchant you.

In Urubamba you never have to wait long to enjoy a fiesta, which makes it a perfect destination for travelers who have no fixed vacation date. We would also like to remind you that there are many more local activities that may attract your interest. For example, there is the Festivity of the Señor de Choquekillka, the Wata Qallariy Raymi Festivity, Pisac Willka Raymi, and the Festivity of the Adoration of the Magi or the Three Kings, and others.

Now that you know Urubamba’s attractions, wouldn’t you like to travel by train? The PeruRail Vistadome train offers you comfort and the best of experiences. And also, if it was already in your plans, you can connect your trip to Machu Picchu. Get your tickets here!

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Yura, the town of medicinal baths https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/yura-the-town-of-medicinal-baths/ https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/yura-the-town-of-medicinal-baths/#respond Fri, 21 Apr 2023 22:42:55 +0000 https://pax.perurail.com/desamkt/perurail_betav3/?p=9858 Yura, the town of medicinal baths Read More »

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he Yura thermal baths have medicinal properties for some diseases such as arthritis, poor blood circulation, skin diseases, among others.

25 kilometers north of the city of Arequipa is Yura, a quiet town with old houses, few people, whose inhabitants go to their farms early and where they carry out cultivation activities as a support for their home.

The Plaza De La Calera, is the main square and attraction of Yura, and the constructions of this town are made of pink sillar, which is a volcanic rock.

This village has not only become known for its pink ashlar buildings, but also for its hot springs. It is said that these were used since the time of the Incas. Also, over time it has been discovered that these thermal springs have medicinal properties that help with the cure of skin diseases, stomach, nerves, stress, among others diseases.

According to the studies carried out by the German expert Tadeo Haenke and the doctor Edmundo Escomel, the water containing sulfur, alkaline water, iron salts, among other minerals, help the healing of rheumatism, arthritis, poor blood circulation, skin diseases, obesity, stomach problems, nervous disorders and stress.

In Yura you can find three baths, of which, those recommended for all tourists are the following:

  • Pozo El Tigre: It has the hottest water, it can reach up to 32 ° C and is for adults only. It has five pools that have sulfur and alkaline water, whose properties cure rheumatism, arthritis, poor blood circulation, skin diseases and obesity.
  • Pozo Zamácola and Pozo Fierro Viejo: It reaches a temperature of up to 28 ° C and is recommended to cure nervous disorders, anemia and stress because its water contains iron. The entrance to this pozo is suitable for the entire public.
  • Pozo Tadeo Haenke: It is the largest well with a water temperature of 28° C, very rich in iron. It was created in 2012.

If you decide to visit the Yura thermal baths, we recommend diving for a maximum of one hour, because if you stay longer than this time, the water temperature can cause dizziness and other symptoms.

It will always be recommended to include Yura in your next trip to Arequipa, the proximity to the city will allow you to enjoy a few hours during the morning and get to visit these medicinal thermal baths.

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Rupac, Lima’s Machu Picchu https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/rupac-limas-machu-picchu/ https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/rupac-limas-machu-picchu/#respond Wed, 19 Apr 2023 23:13:44 +0000 https://pax.perurail.com/desamkt/perurail_betav3/?p=9649 Rupac, Lima’s Machu Picchu Read More »

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If you are in Lima and would like to enjoy an incredible experience outside town, then Rupac, Lima’s Machu Picchu, is the place you are looking for. The archaeological complex is impressive and includes marvelous architecture even now after so many years, with beautiful landscapes, a beautiful sunset and its famous blanket of clouds.

The archaeological site of Rupac is located in the District of Atavillo Bajo, in the Province of Huaral, at 3500 m.a.s.l. and 145 km north of the city of Lima.

How to get to Rupac?

The route is covered in two stages. The first is by car or bus, and the second is on foot. Don’t worry, we’ll give you all the information you need and some tips on trekking if you are not used to it.

Travelling by private car

  • We take the North Pan American Highway to the city of Huaral
  • We take Avenida Los Naturales, which leads towards the mountains
  • After an hour on the road, we reach a toll booth
  • Before the “Ing. Oscar Vargas Avendaño” bridge, there is a turnoff that leads to the La Florida – Pampas tourist area
  • From here, the road becomes difficult, very steep and only one-lane wide. Make sure you fill up your fuel tank before leaving Huaral, because you’ll use more fuel than you might expect during the steep climb
  • After an hour and a half, we arrive at La Florida, where we need to pay the entry fee to Rupac (PEN 10 or USD 2.50)

The route by public transport

  • We take the bus at the Bus Terminal of “Plaza Norte” Mall that will take us to the city of Huaral
  • We then take a colectivo (shared taxi service) to Las Pampas, for which the average fare tends to be PEN 25 (USD 6) per person
  • After a two-hour journey, we arrive at La Florida, where we pay the entry fee to Rupac (PEN 10 or USD 2.50)

Arrival at Las Pampas

  • Ten minutes after paying the entrance fee, whether we are in a car or bus, we arrive at the “Ghost Town” of Las Pampas.

Once in Las Pampas, we can find restaurants and shops where we can stock up on supplies before beginning the trek. The origin of the name of “Ghost Town” comes from the fact that, a long time ago, the people who lived there decided to move elsewhere, leaving the houses intact.

Nowadays, the town looks more like a tourist attraction. The people who live in La Florida climb up to the town and set up their food and tourism businesses there, since the route to Rupac goes through Las Pampas and provides a win-win situation for the townspeople and visitors alike.

Now, without further ado, we come to the walk up to Rupac. You may choose to go on your own or hire a guide, as well as hire donkeys to carry your packs to the city of fire.

Trek and camping at Rupac

The trek will be strenuous, and we always recommend that you make sure you are in good health. It’s a six-kilometer trail, which can take up to three hours, depending on your physical condition, but everything has its rewards.

The route offers extraordinary landscapes and a waterfall. On arrival at Rupac, your reward will be even greater with a beautiful sunset. Remember to rest every so often on the route to keep up the pace.

Waste no time to set up your tent in the camping area, since a surprise rain shower may complicate things.

Rupac lies above the cloud line

The whispy blanket of clouds is, possibly, one of the reasons people visit the archaeological complex at Rupac. The site rises above the cloud line, giving us the sensation of being on top of the sky.

The clouds tend to form more frequently in January and February. Nevertheless, you can visit the area any time of year and equally enjoy the other attractions.

The Rupac Archaeological Complex

The Archaeological Complex at Rupac was built by the Atavillos, one of the most important pre-Inca civilizations in the Province of Lima. It was built as a defense system, above the mountain peaks that rise over 3,500 to 3,800 m.a.s.l.

To this day, so many centuries after the site was built, the buildings remain intact, which is why it has earned the title of “Lima’s Machu Picchu.” The site features kullpis (houses) and chullpas (funeral towers) in the settlement areas. You will also easily identify storage spaces, fireplaces, courtyards and other areas well preserved after so many years.\

If you are wondering why it is called the “city of fire”, the story is that the buildings were painted a bright red that, at sunset, made the citadel appear to be on fire. There are still traces of the paint that would prove the origin of the name.

Lastly, take note of these tips to help you on your journey: leave Lima early to get to Huaral, take warm clothing and mountaineering tents and sleeping bags, have tablets for altitude sickness or soroche, take an umbrella, and enough water for the full route.

And if you are in Cusco, and you like adventure and the possibility of visiting the real Machu Picchu, go for it and travel aboard our PeruRail Expedition train. Book your tickets here!”

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Discover the magic journey on board the PeruRail Vistadome Train https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/discover-the-magic-journey-on-board-the-perurail-vistadome-train/ https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/discover-the-magic-journey-on-board-the-perurail-vistadome-train/#respond Wed, 19 Apr 2023 22:48:21 +0000 https://pax.perurail.com/desamkt/perurail_betav3/?p=9645 Discover the magic journey on board the PeruRail Vistadome Train Read More »

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A unique experience on the way to Machu Picchu

The route to Machu Picchu has many landscapes that transform the journey in a show worth admiring. That’s why the PeruRail Vistadome train, which has panoramic windows in every wagon, is the best option for those people who love to be in touch with nature from the moment they first arrive.

From Poroy Station, located near Cusco city, or Urubamba and Ollantaytambo Stations, both located in the Sacred Valley; begin an adventure full of magic to Machu Picchu on board the PeruRail Vistadome. Sit comfortably and feel the connection with nature. Beautiful landscapes will make the trip an unforgettable experience.

From a full dry pampas panorama, typical peruvian andes, to an intense green view of the jungle. Diverse sensations, a mixture of relaxation and wonder, will take you to a state of tranquility while the trip goes deep into the Inca territory.

While you enjoy a light snack prepared with unique local andean ingredients accompanied by traditional background music, the Vilcanota River, also called by the Incas “Wilkanayu” that means “Sacred driver’’, accompanies the train during much of the tour.

Finally, the adventure to Machu Picchu turns unforgettable when the magic takes in the PeruRail Vistadome train on the outbound journey. Dancers of Saqra, traditional dance of Puaucartambo, Cusco, get on the wagons to spread the typical euphoria of the Andean customs with their joy and dancing steps.

The journey continues with an elegant Fashion show that display on board an exclusive collection of Baby Alpaca, which have been worked in a collaborative way with the andean communities, to promulgate their art and textiles. Then you can buy them at the end of the presentation.

So, if you enjoy nature, landscapes and new experiences, your best alternative to get around the sacred Inca city, Machu Picchu, is on board of the magic experience found in PeruRail’s PeruRail Vistadome train.

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5 typical popular dances in Cusco’s festivities https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/five-typical-folk-dances-at-the-festivities-in-cusco/ https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/five-typical-folk-dances-at-the-festivities-in-cusco/#respond Wed, 19 Apr 2023 21:26:46 +0000 https://pax.perurail.com/desamkt/perurail_betav3/?p=9629 5 typical popular dances in Cusco’s festivities Read More »

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Cusco’s dances date back centuries and have also been renewed over time, such as the traditional dances of the chunchus, the ukukus and kachampa. Others appeared in the Colonial era, blending European and Andean elements to create incredible dances such as the negritos, the zambitos, the collas, the chujchu and others.

Most of these dances are performed during patron saint festivities, carnival, and religious festivities, exhibiting the great vitality of Cusco’s culture. The following are the five dances most frequently performed at festivities in Cusco:

Qhapaq Negro
Qapac Negro, which in Quechua means “rich black man”, is a collective mestizo dance created in the early days of the republic. Its characters represent the black slave and the slavery that existed during the Colonial period, with lyrics about their suffering sung to the Virgin and their devotion to her.

History of the Qhapaq Negro Dance
It is said that black slaves were brought in ancient times from the coast and from Bolivia, to work in the gold and silver mines in Paucartambo, and some brought with them their tradition of worshipping the Virgen del Carmen from Lima.

Characters in the Qhapaq Negro Dance
The dance is made up of a black king, a couple of children and two parallel rows of black soldiers headed by their respective captains. The dance is divided among the dancers, who recite their lyrics and the instrumental group to play the music (harp, quena, violin, accordion, and drums).

Contredanse
The contredanse is a dance about farmlands in which the leader of the troupe introduces the other dancers to the tasks in the field. However, this dance is also seen as a parody of the ballroom dances held by the Spanish elite during the colonial days, and this makes sense considering its name of “contredanse.”

History of the Contredanse
The Contredanse has a history full of triumphs and surprises, having won prizes such as the Department Folklore Dances contest in 1968 and the Inti Raymi Festival in 1991. Its troupe was also the first to be granted its own place in the town and the first to be incorporated, becoming a legal entity registered with the National Institute of Culture (1989).

Characters of the Contredanse
The characters in the Contredanse include the machu (leader), dancers who wear masks made of wire mesh, and a musical group of violins, accordions, quenas and a drums.

Wallata
The Wallata dance represents the courtship of the wallata (male) birds and the wachacha (female) birds by imitating their movements in a choreography. Dancers take their inspiration from the birds’ cries, movements, behavior, coupling, and the dominance of the male. The female dancers perform elegant movements to represent flirtation.

History of the Wallata Dance
The origin of the dance is intimately linked to the farmer in the fields, related to the surrounding nature and wildlife that includes the wallatas, web-footed birds that live in the wetlands and totora reed beds close to these communities.

Characters in the Wallata dance
The male and female dancers represent the courting of the Wallata bird. Men dress in short pants, white shirts, with a short red poncho, a chullo, an ojota sandals and a round hat. Women dress in a wide black skirt with a red border, a short skirt or ikhuna on top, a red jacket, a round hat, an ojota sandals and a shawl or lliclla.

Cholo Qorilazo
The Cholo Qorilazo dance represents the joy of the villagers in the high Andean areas of the Cusco region, in the Province of Chumbivilcas where this beautiful dance was created. It also symbolizes the happiness that the cholo qorilazo feels at having his woman by his side, accompanying him and his faithful horse.

History of the Cholo Qorilazo dance
The word Qorilazo is a fusion of Qori, which means gold or golden in Quechua, and of lazo, which is the Spanish word for lasso. Thus, the dance is about the cholo (or Andean man) with the golden lasso, referring to the local villagers and their tasks or hobbies.

Characters in the Cholo Qorilazo dance
The dance is performed by men and women accompanied by string instruments such as the guitar, the charango, and the mandolin.

Carnaval Cusqueño
The Carnaval Cusqueño dance, a dance performed during the carnival festivities season, is one of the most popular dances in Cusco, with beautifully elegant steps and rhythm that represent young people in love.

The main attraction of the choreography is the tree-chopping sequence, also known as Q’ashwa or more commonly called Yunza, in which young single men dance around a tree festooned with gifts, colorful streamers, balloons, blankets, etc. The objective is to begin chopping the tree down little by little until it falls.

Characters of the Carnaval Cusqueño
As mentioned earlier, this dance is for groups of young men and women. Women’s costumes include brightly colored skirts, white blouses, tall white hats, plaited hair, and a white scarf. Men wear a white shirt, a white kerchief, a black hat, black pants and waistcoat, black shoes, and a white scarf. Both men and women are draped in streamers and have flour on their faces.

This list mentions only a few of the many dances that you can see during your visit to Cusco. Discover them on your travels to this wonderful city and while you are there, visit Machu Picchu aboard our PeruRail Vistadome train! Get your tickets here.

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Get to know the magical route from Cusco to Puno https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/get-to-know-the-magical-route-from-cusco-to-puno/ https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/get-to-know-the-magical-route-from-cusco-to-puno/#respond Wed, 19 Apr 2023 20:49:31 +0000 https://pax.perurail.com/desamkt/perurail_betav3/?p=9625 Get to know the magical route from Cusco to Puno Read More »

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In Peru the route between the cities of Cusco and Puno is as magical as the destinations and traveling aboard the PeruRail Titicaca train is even more so. The experience of a luxury trip not only ensures that you will arrive safely at your destination, but we offer an immersive and exciting adventure on the way.

Getting to know the PeruRail Titicaca train

You will be welcomed by the crew of our PeruRail Titicaca train, bound for the city of Puno in the Highlands or the imperial city of the Incas, Cusco, with an estimated travel time of 10 and a half hours.

Our dining cars have 08 properly marked emergency exits: 02 doors at the front of the car, 02 doors at the back and 04 emergency windows at the sides. In case of any emergency, our first aid kit and fire extinguisher are in the service areas.

Reminder: due to government regulations, smoking is prohibited inside the train. This rule also includes the observatory car.

What is on board the luxury train to Puno?
As we already mentioned, you will be welcomed with a hot drink at the boarding station. In addition, on the way, there will be a fashion show featuring baby alpaca garments, where our friendly hostesses will display the fine and delicate garments such as sweaters, hats, coats, shawls, gloves and much more. Of course, there will also be a fantastic live music show with typical local dances.

The luxury train to Puno would not be one without its respective observatory bar car, located at the end of the convoy. In it you will find cold drinks, hot drinks, cocktails, as well as international drinks and, of course, our flagship drink: pisco sour which we will also teach you to prepare during your train trip.

However, and as the name implies, the privileged Andean mystical landscape that can be seen from here is simply impressive. Imagine being surrounded by windows, on both sides and on the ceiling, and large glass walls from where you will be able to see the beautiful life in the valley. Small villages, cattle feeding from early hours of the day, corn fields, etc. You can witness all types of weathers in a single day! Not only will the landscape alternate between mountains and plains, but you will also be able to experience the different climates on the same trip, including snow. Unbelievable, right?

For this occasion, we have 1 scheduled stop: Abra La Raya, the highest point of the route.

Destinations before stopping at Abra La Raya
The first half of the trip is dominated by the Andes: a large outline of imposing mountains over the deep valleys of the meandering Huatanay River. The train will travel through the Andean plains, which seem never ending, and will offer us the unique opportunity to spot animals such as llamas and alpacas in their natural habitat.

Sicuani
Sicuani, located at 3,552 meters above sea level and 118 km from the city of Cusco, is one of the first towns that the PeruRail Titicaca train will cross. In this part of the journey, we will be listening to typical music of Sicuani to connect even more with this endearing city.

Did you know that it is the second most populated city in the entire department of Cusco? In addition, its main economic activity is growing Andean cereals; more specifically: wheat.

Arrival at Abra La Raya
The PeruRail Titicaca train would be arriving at Abra La Raya, its first stop, after having ascended to 4,319 meters above sea level. This is a cold and remote place where the snow-capped peaks are often covered in fog or drizzle and, for a few moments, the silence at this altitude gives you a little chilling sensation that you won’t experience anywhere else in the world.

Passengers will have about 10 minutes to rest, take photos of the landscape, and relax a little in the small handicrafts market that is located here where you can also buy clothes made by the local communities. In addition, this place has a chapel whose construction dates from the twentieth century and in it we can find an image of the Lord of the Cane.

The story behind the image is worth mentioning because its expression reflects the suffering and sadness of Jesus after he was flogged. This image describes Jesus Christ tied up in front, holding a reed like a scepter and crowned with thorns covered with a mantle.

Every year on May 3rd the Feast of the Lord of the Cane is celebrated, where it is tradition to tie flowers to the image, decorate the altar with paper figures and light beautifully decorated candles. Then fireworks are lit making it a very festive atmosphere. There are people dancing and drinking chicha de jora until the next day, really quite a spectacle.

In addition, the imposing snow-capped Chimboya is located on the left side in the direction of the train, so it would be a good idea to take the opportunity to view it. Something to keep in mind is that the snow-capped mountains of the area have an invaluable spiritual value for the Andean people, since they are the origin of two important rivers: the Vilcanota towards Cusco and the Ramis towards Arequipa.

Ayaviri
When we arrive to the province of Melgar, we will cross its capital: the town of Ayaviri. It is located at an altitude of 3,925 meters above sea level and 96 km from the city of Juliaca. Ayaviri is known for its quality livestock production: llamas, vicuñas, cattle, and sheep. Such is its fame that it has earned the title of the cattle capital of Peru. Followed by the good views, the train journey continues with the exclusive services on board.

Bar class, music, dances, and happy hour
We take this opportunity to mention the short class that is given on board the train. The head of service on board has everything ready to teach the preparation of pisco sour, Peru’s flagship drink.

At a given point during the trip you can enjoy the fun and colorful Happy Hour on board the train to Puno. The dancers will amaze you with their exotic morenadas, diabladas and other typical dances of the region. Do you also want to join them? Of course you can! That’s precisely what this happy hour is about. Don’t worry, they will show you how to dance from the start and it will only take ten seconds before you catch this folkloric rhythm.

Arrival at Puno station
Finally, the last stop of the trip will be Puno station. After this incredible tour, the crew aboard the PeruRail Titicaca train says goodbye to their passengers and wishes them an unforgettable stay in the highland city of Puno.

As we mentioned at the beginning, the route is as important as the destination. And, after living all this experience, you will feel even more motivated than you already were to explore the wonderful City of the Sacred Lake of Puno.


A journey that you will never forget and that you will not want to end. Delicious food, super comfortable seating, onboard staff always at your disposal, amazing scenery, traditional live partying and much more. The PeruRail Titicaca train thus guarantees your luxury service. Ready to get on board? Get your train tickets by visiting our website.

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What you should know about Ollantaytambo Station in Urubamba https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/what-you-should-know-about-ollantaytambo-station-in-urubamba/ https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/what-you-should-know-about-ollantaytambo-station-in-urubamba/#respond Wed, 19 Apr 2023 19:44:49 +0000 https://pax.perurail.com/desamkt/perurail_betav3/?p=9616 What you should know about Ollantaytambo Station in Urubamba Read More »

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The district of Ollantaytambo in the province of Urubamba is strategically located as it is the endpoint of the famous Valle Sagrado (Sacred Valley) and leads the way to the Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Ollantaytambo is located at 2797 m.a.s.l., and its territories offer important Inca sites such as Intihuatana, Casa Real del Sol (the Royal House of the Sun), Baño de la Ñusta (Bath of Ñusta) and much more.

Furthermore, there you can find the Ollantaytambo Train Station which is a railway to Machu Picchu Station in Machu Picchu Town.

How to get to Ollantaytambo Station?
As we mentioned before, Ollantaytambo Station is important because it links to Machu Picchu Station (as well as Poroy Station) by the railroad, but how do we get to Ollantaytambo Station? You can either go by bus, taxi, or private transportation service from Cusco downtown, arriving in one hour, 30 minutes approximately.

For traveling by train from Ollantaytambo Station, we recommend buying the tickets in advance on www.perurail.com. You can also purchase the train tickets at the Ollantaytambo Station ticket office, not later than 30 minutes before departure time.

If you wish to buy tickets at any of our ticket offices in the stations, you can pay either by credit/debit card or cash: in Soles or US Dollars.

Keep in mind that in case you are not sure about which train take, you can always have a look at each train page: the PeruRail Vistadome and the PeruRail Expedition.

From Ollantaytambo Station to Machu Picchu Station
The trip from Ollantaytambo Station to Machu Picchu Station takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes; and services are available year-round, so tourists can enjoy one of the World’s Wonder built by the Incas.

Find out Ollantaytambo’s stunning Inca monuments and have an adventure by train to the wonderful citadel of Machu Picchu!

Sources: Origen andino, PeruRail, and Cuscoperu.com.

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Know Vinicunca, the seven-color mountain of Cusco https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/know-vinicunca-the-seven-color-mountain-of-cusco/ https://www.perurail.com/blog-en/know-vinicunca-the-seven-color-mountain-of-cusco/#respond Wed, 19 Apr 2023 19:22:45 +0000 https://pax.perurail.com/desamkt/perurail_betav3/?p=9612 Know Vinicunca, the seven-color mountain of Cusco Read More »

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Have you ever imagined seeing a rainbow mountain in the middle of the Andes? Nature was very kind to give the region of Cusco the most beautiful sceneries in the world, including Vinicunca. This incredible mountain is also known as “Siete Colores”, “Cerro Colorado” and in English as “Rainbow Mountain”.

The imposing mountain Vinicunca presents this tonality due to the erosion of sedimentary stones, the same ones that are formed without any intervention of the man, are compared with a terrestrial rainbow. It is located within the Vilcanota mountain range; Vinicunca is located between 4,710 and 5,200 meters above sea level.

Location
Vinicunca is located in the district of Pitumarca, in the province of Canchis, very close to the snowy mountain Ausangate (sacred mountain). Its high Andean area makes it be surrounded by camelids like alpacas and vicuñas, an incredible turquoise lagoon and varied fauna. Also, you will be able to appreciate the flight of the majestic condor, an animal in danger of extinction.

Know the route to Vinicunca with us
Wanchaq to Checacupe

From very early (3:30 a.m.) the traveler will depart from the city of Cusco to Avenida Huayruropata in Wanchaq. There you will find a bus station located in front of the Garcilaso Stadium. This bus will transfer you to Checacupe in about two and a half hours.

Approximate cost: S / 7.00 ($ 2.10).

Checacupe to Pitumarca
As soon as you arrive at Checacupe you must embark on the buses that are parked in the city Main Square and travel to Pitumarca. The trip will last 15 minutes and the frequency of departure is every 20 minutes.

Approximate cost: S /. 1.00 ($ 0.30).

Pitumarca to Chillca
The vehicles depart from the main square of Pitumarca to Chillca, the trip will last for two and a half hours approximately.

Approximate cost: S / 15.00 ($ 4.50).

Chillca – Vinicunca
Our destiny is getting closer. To reach this wonderful mountain, you must leave from Chillca in the muleteers service, who know the area very well and will guide you to Vinicunca. After the intense hike of approximately two hours, you will finally have reached the majestic rainbow mountain.

Cost to enter Vinicunca: National S / 5.00 ($ 1.50) – Foreign S / 10.00 ($ 3.00).

Recommendations
It is advisable to travel from April to August.
Take equipment such as: hat, small backpack, comfortable sneakers, jacket to cover, sunscreen, trekking stick, blanket and water to hydrate.
It is important that the traveler acclimate to Cusco and travel a few days before to avoid “soroche” or altitude sickness, here we will give you some tips.

-Buy food in the city of Cusco or Pitumarca, those are the only places where you will find stores to buy groceries or water.
The mountain Vinicunca or mountain of colors has become an important tourist attraction, visited by thousands of national and international tourists. As it is receiving so many travelers a year, a contingency plan is needed to protect it so future generations can enjoy it.

Believe it or not, the rainbow mountain exists and is located in Cusco. Enjoy Vinicunca and its wonderful colors!

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