With its mountainous terrain, situated at just under 3,500 meters in elevation, the small resort town of Combapata, not far from Cusco, draws adventure enthusiasts. Discover what makes Combapata a must-visit destination.

Green and sporting escape in the mountains of Combapata

The thrill of altitude and a desire to escape civilization for a time draw numerous hikers to Combapata. For those who love via ferrata, climbing and nature, the destination promises extraordinary vacations. It presents itself as a region of valleys and high plateaus, typical of southern Peru. Combining volcanic lakes and lagoons, the region is home to vicuñas (small woolly-haired Andean relatives of the llama) and flamingos. This is an unmissable stop on the road from Cusco, after leaving Raqchi and before heading toward San Pablo and Pomacanchi. The highlight of a visit may not be Inka Pirqa—Combapata's highest peak—but rather the rock carvings of Aymachay and Llamachayuq Qaqa.

Echoes of the past

The town was officially founded on November 22, 1912. That said, Combapata's Spanish origins are traced through its cultural festivals that bring villagers together: the festival of the Virgin of the Rosary in October, Easter celebrations and the feast of Saint John the Baptist.

The modern town

Surrounded by volcanoes and snow-capped peaks, Combapata reflects the world of the Andes. According to the latest 2017 census, Combapata's population is estimated at around five thousand inhabitants, spread across about ten districts. With roughly 28 inhabitants per km², its population density is among the lowest in the country. Quechua resonates throughout the district. Fewer than a quarter of the population speaks Spanish fluently.

Mountain hiking in Combapata

Hiking in Combapata transports you to the heart of the Andean high plateaus. A mountainous territory shared by vicuñas, llamas and shepherds. Here, the number-one pastime is mountaineering.

Venture onto Mount Inka Pirqa and be rewarded with breathtaking views once you reach the summit (5,075 m). The mountain overlooks Combapata and San Pablo. For your pleasure, a wide variety of hiking trails awaits. Flat trails, low-elevation routes that last several days, or challenging but shorter itineraries.

The most popular is undoubtedly the Apu Ausangate trail, which takes 4, 5 or 6 days of hiking. Also worth mentioning is the four-lagoons trail, which passes through the splendid Asnaqocha lagoon, nestled at the foot of an extinct volcano.

Affordable guesthouses have opened near the lagoons, allowing visitors to linger and witness the magic of sunsets and sunrises.

Combapata is also home to two pre-Incan ruins to discover: the Ayamach'ay cave, suspended on a cliff overlooking the Salqa River, near the village of Oroscocha. Inside are rock paintings in the form of geometric lines. West of Aymach'ay, another cave, known as Llamachayuq Qaqa, captures curiosity. Admire the figures of llamas in red ochre that contrast with the white paintings of the previous cave.

Practical information

Best time to visit

Winter is the best season for mountain hiking in Combapata. The ideal period begins in May and ends in September. During this time of year, the weather is clear and warm (18°C to 21°C) with few rainy days.

Combapata is administratively attached to Canchis Province, in the Cusco region. It is located 648 km from Lima, Peru's capital, and 135 km from the historical sanctuary of Machu Picchu. The nearest town is Sicuani, less than 30 km away. Given its remote location, it's best to hire a taxi to reach Combapata.

Nearby attractions

From Combapata, you'll enjoy visiting the ruins of Raqchi (the sanctuary of the god Wiracocha), the colorful mountains of Palcoyo, as well as the apus and picturesque lagoons of Pocamanchi. The towns of Tinta, Checacupe and Tungasuca also hold their own wonders.