Discover Abancay: A Full-Day Adventure in Apurímac

Looking for a day trip that combines natural beauty, history, and a taste of local life? This full-day tour of Abancay in Peru’s Apurímac region offers just that. For $52 per person, you’ll spend approximately 10 hours exploring some of the area’s most captivating sights, including the Colonial Pachachaca Bridge, the relaxing Santo Tomas hot springs, and panoramic views from Taraccasa.

What we love about this excursion is how it balances diverse experiences — from enjoying crisp mountain air at the viewpoint to soaking in thermal baths that soothe tired muscles after a morning of exploring. Plus, the visit to Illanya Hacienda provides a glimpse into regional farming life, making the experience both educational and authentic.

One potential consideration is the itinerary’s pace — with many stops packed into the day, you’ll want to be comfortable with a full schedule. Also, keep in mind that some entrance fees aren’t included in the base price, so bringing a bit of cash is wise.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy culture, scenic vistas, and a touch of relaxation, particularly those interested in discovering lesser-visited parts of Peru without sacrificing comfort or insight.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Variety of Experiences — from historic bridges and viewpoints to hot springs and farms.
Authentic Encounters — visit a traditional hacienda and enjoy local cuisine.
Stunning Views — panoramic vistas from Taraccasa and the Colonial Bridge.
Flexible & Convenient — round-trip transportation and a professional guide included.
Affordable Value — full-day adventure for just $52, with options to customize.
Small Group — intimate experience limited to 10 participants.

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A Closer Look at the Abancay Full-Day Tour

Starting the Day: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins promptly at 8:30 am with hotel pickup in Abancay. From there, we appreciate the hassle-free round-trip transportation, which allows us to focus on soaking in the scenery without fussing over directions. The small group size — capped at 10 — means you’re likely to enjoy a more personal experience, with plenty of room for questions and interaction.

Visiting Illanya Hacienda: Farming in Action

Our first stop is the Illanya Hacienda, a traditional farm that offers a peek into regional agricultural practices. For just S/3.00, you can step inside and see how local farmers work the land. This is a quiet, authentic moment that helps you understand rural life beyond tourist spots. Travelers have mentioned enjoying this stop, noting it’s a “nice break to see local farming life.”

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Colonial Pachachaca Bridge: A Historic Marvel

Next up is the Colonial Bridge of Pachachaca, a structure that dates back centuries. The bridge is a relic of colonial craftsmanship and offers great photo opportunities, especially with the mountains as a backdrop. It’s a chance to appreciate engineering from another era and to enjoy views of the surrounding landscape. One reviewer mentioned loving the “beautiful views with mountains standing out,” confirming how photogenic and scenic this stop is.

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Relaxation at Santo Tomas Hot Springs

After a morning of sightseeing, many travelers find the hot springs of Santo Tomas a soothing respite. While optional, most choose to dip in these thermal baths, described as “famous” and perfect for unwinding. Imagine soaking in warm waters while the cool mountain air brushes your face — it’s a highlight for those wanting a relaxing break. Just remember, entrance isn’t included, so bring a few soles for the S/3.00 fee.

Lunch at Quinta Espinoza: Authentic and Delicious

Midday, the tour includes a lunch at Quinta Espinoza, which is praised for its regional flavors and generous servings. For about S/30.00, you can enjoy a hearty meal that fuels you for the rest of the day. Reviewers have said the food is “delicious,” and it offers a good taste of local cuisine, which is often a pleasant surprise compared to touristy spots.

Taraccasa Viewpoint: Panoramic Perfection

After lunch, we ascend to the Taraccasa viewpoint park, where panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains await. It’s the perfect spot to take photos, breathe in the cool air, and appreciate the landscape. The vantage point provides a sweeping vista that makes the whole trip worthwhile, and the S/3.00 entrance fee is a small investment for the stunning scenery.

Wrapping Up: Tamburco Square and Return

The final stops include Tamburco Square, a lively local hub, before heading back to Abancay by around 5:00 pm. Throughout the day, our guide provides insights into local culture, history, and geography, making the experience both fun and informative.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Stunning Views — The tour’s numerous vantage points, especially Taraccasa, offer some of the best panoramic vistas around Abancay. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply want to enjoy spectacular scenery, these stops won’t disappoint.

Authentic Encounters and Local Flavors — Visiting a traditional hacienda and enjoying regional cuisine at Quinta Espinoza make this experience more than just sightseeing. You get a taste of local life and flavors that truly reflect the region’s character.

Relaxing Hot Springs — For many, the thermal baths at Santo Tomas are the highlight. They provide a well-earned break and a chance to cool down or warm up after sightseeing.

Affordable Price & Small Group — At $52, the tour offers excellent value, especially given the diversity of experiences. The limited group size ensures a personalized touch, making it more engaging and flexible.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While this tour packs a lot into a single day, the schedule is quite full. If you prefer relaxed pacing or want more time at each site, you might find it a bit rushed. Entrance fees aren’t included for some attractions, so budgeting a few extra soles is advisable. Also, some stops are unavoidably brief, but that’s the trade-off for seeing so much in a day.

Lastly, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or the visually impaired, due to the nature of some locations and terrain.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who love natural scenery, small-group intimacy, and authentic local experiences. If you’re eager to see scenic viewpoints, soak in thermal baths, and learn about rural life in Apurímac without the hassle of planning, this tour fits well. It’s especially good for those who want a full day of diverse sights, good food, and culture.

The Sum Up

In the end, this full-day tour in Abancay offers a well-rounded taste of the area’s best features — stunning mountain views, historic bridges, relaxing hot springs, and regional cuisine. For $52, you get a comprehensive, guided experience that balances scenic beauty with authentic local culture, all within a small, friendly group. It’s a smart choice for travelers wanting to deepen their understanding of this beautiful part of Peru without overextending their schedule.

If you’re looking for a practical, engaging day that combines relaxation, history, and breathtaking vistas, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

What is the starting time for the tour?
The tour begins around 8:30 am, but check availability for specific starting times as they may vary.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 10 hours, from hotel pickup to return.

Are entrance fees included?
No, some entrance fees like the Illanya hacienda and viewpoint are not included and cost S/3.00 each.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash for entrance fees or extras.

Is lunch included?
No, but lunch at Quinta Espinoza costs about S/30. It’s recommended for a satisfying regional meal.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s best suited for those who are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or visually impaired visitors.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, to secure your spot, especially during busy periods. You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your plans.

In summary, this tour combines scenic beauty with cultural authenticity, offering a rich taste of Abancay’s highlights. It’s a well-organized, value-packed experience that’s perfect for curious travelers eager to explore beyond the usual tourist routes.