Highlands & Hidden Valleys
Ancient traditions in the valleys few travelers reach
Exploring this region
Technical information
Ayacucho 2,761 m / 9,058 ft. Nor Yauyos-Cochas Reserve spans approx. 2,500–5,700 m / 8,200–18,700 ft
- Best time to visit
- Dry season April to November. Ayacucho's Semana Santa (March or April) is one of Peru's most important cultural events.
- Average temperature
- Ayacucho:
Day 23–26°C (73–79°F)
Night 7–11°C (45–52°F).
Huancaya and the high valleys:
Day 18–23°C (64–73°F)
Night -2 to 6°C (28–43°F), near freezing on dry-season nights. - Distance from Lima
- Ayacucho by plane: approx. 1h 10min.
Nor Yauyos-Cochas (Huancaya) by road only: approx. 8 hours (290–322 km)
If you want the Peru few travelers reach, the central highlands hold some of the most striking landscapes in South America. Hike the snowcapped Cordillera Huayhuash in Ancash, or slip into the Nor Yauyos-Cochas Reserve to see the other side of Lima. Further south, Ayacucho is known for its folk art, its festivals, and the ancient terraces of the Sondondo Valley one of the most secluded places where you can spot Andean condors in Peru. And in Apurimac, the stone forest of Pampachiri and the lagoons of the Ampay Sanctuary reward anyone who loves wild country. These are authentic Peru experiences, places you reach on purpose.
