Apurimac: Full Day Tour in Abancay — An Authentic Peruvian Adventure

If you’re visiting southern Peru and craving a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and a dash of history, this full-day tour in Abancay offers a thoughtfully curated taste of the region. For just $52 per person, you’ll spend roughly 10 hours exploring some of the area’s most iconic sights—from the soothing Santo Tomas hot springs to the panoramic views at Taraccasa.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the visit to the Colonial Bridge of Pachachaca provides a glimpse into Peru’s engineering past and stunning mountain scenery. Second, the thermal baths of Santo Tomas offer a relaxing break amid the spectacular landscapes. The tour’s small-group nature (limited to 10 people) guarantees a more personalized experience, and the inclusion of local tastings and visits to farms make it feel authentic rather than touristy.

A potential consideration is that the entrance fees to certain sites—like Illanya hacienda and the viewpoint—are extra, so budgeting a few soles for these is wise. Also, the tour isn’t suited for pregnant women or those in wheelchairs, given the physical nature of some stops and terrain.

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, cultural insights, and relaxed exploration. If you want to see a mix of natural beauty and local life without rushing, this is a solid choice for your Peruvian itinerary.

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Key Points

Affordable full-day experience with expert guiding and transportation included
Stunning viewpoints like Taraccasa offer panoramic city and mountain vistas
Relaxing hot springs in Santo Tomas provide a welcome break
Cultural visits such as Illanya hacienda deepen understanding of regional traditions
Small group size enhances intimacy and personalized attention
Additional costs for site entrances and lunch should be considered in your budget

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Apurimac: Full-Day Tour in Abancay

Exploring Abancay: A Nearby Gateway to Nature and Culture

This tour packs a lot into one day, making it a practical choice for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Abancay’s highlights without spending multiple days on the road. You’ll start early, with hotel pickup at 8:30 am, which means you get a full 10 hours of exploration and relaxation. The fact that the tour includes round-trip transportation means you won’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads, and you’ll be free to enjoy the scenery instead of stressing over directions.

The guide, who speaks both Sesotho and Spanish, acts as your storyteller and local expert, enhancing your understanding of each site. Their insights can turn a simple view or a stop at a farm into a meaningful encounter. As one reviewer notes, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and friendly, making the day even more enjoyable.”

Itinerary Breakdown and Highlights

Pick-up and Initial Visit to Illanya Hacienda

Your day begins with hotel pickup, setting a comfortable tone for the journey. The first stop, Illanya Hacienda, offers a glimpse into local agricultural life. The tasting here is a highlight, allowing you to sample regional products and learn about farming traditions. It’s a nice way to ease into the day, and the guide often shares interesting stories about the farm.

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Colonial Bridge of Pachachaca

Next, the Pachachaca bridge is a true highlight. Built during colonial times, this sturdy structure stretches over a river and offers fantastic views of the mountains and river valley below. As one traveler said, “The view from the bridge is breathtaking, and you get a real sense of how the old builders crafted such a sturdy structure in a challenging landscape.”

Santo Tomas Hot Springs

Afterward, you’ll head to Santo Tomas, where the thermal baths beckon. Whether you choose to dip in or simply enjoy the scenery, this stop offers a slow-paced, relaxing break. The natural warmth and mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties, making it a genuine treat.

Tasting at Ingenio Espinoza and Lunch at Quinta Espinoza

Following the baths, you’ll visit Ingenio Espinoza, a local sugar mill offering tastings of their products. It’s an excellent way to connect with local industry and flavor the day with authentic tastes. Then, a hearty lunch at Quinta Espinoza is included or available at extra cost, often praised for its regional flavors and generous portions.

Taraccasa Viewpoint and Tamburco Square

The Taraccasa viewpoint provides sweeping views of Abancay and the surrounding mountains—perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery. It’s a refreshing perspective after a day of exploring. The tour ends with a visit to Tamburco square, a lively spot where local life unfolds, offering a final taste of Abancay’s authentic ambiance before heading back to your hotel.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is by comfortable, round-trip vehicle, ideal for small groups of up to 10 participants. This smaller size offers a chance to ask questions, take photos without feeling rushed, and enjoy a more intimate experience.

Cost and Value

At $52 per person, including guide, transportation, and tastings, the tour provides good value. Entrance fees to individual sites like Illanya hacienda and the viewpoint are extra, around S/3 each, so a small cash reserve is helpful. Lunch, which costs around S/30, is optional but highly recommended for a satisfying local meal.

Timing and Flexibility

Starting at 8:30 am and finishing around 5:00 pm, the timing allows a full day of sightseeing without feeling hurried. You can also cancel with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Packing Tips

Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and some cash for extras. Weather is typically warm during the day, but a light jacket might be handy for higher viewpoints.

Authenticity and Travel Experience

Many reviews highlight the genuine nature of this tour. Guests appreciate the chance to see local farms, try regional products, and visit sites with historical significance. The guide’s storytelling often brings the sites alive, making the experience more meaningful than just sightseeing.

The scenic drives through the mountains, combined with the relaxed pace, make it ideal for travelers who want a blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. If you’re tired of crowded tours or cookie-cutter experiences, this tour’s small-group and authentic stops stand out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip that combines scenic vistas, cultural insights, and relaxation, this tour fits well. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy authentic local experiences and want to avoid overly touristy spots. However, travelers with mobility issues might find some stops challenging, given the terrain and site access.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour in Abancay offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, history, and culture—all for under $60. The panoramic views from the Taraccasa viewpoint, the relaxing thermal springs, and the chance to visit a traditional farm make it a well-balanced experience. Coupled with a friendly guide and small-group atmosphere, it becomes a memorable way to see the heart of this lesser-visited part of Peru.

For travelers craving a mix of scenic drives, local flavor, and cultural sights, this tour checks many boxes. It’s a good choice for those who want to deepen their understanding of the region without spending too much time or money, and it promises a day filled with authentic moments and stunning views.

FAQ

What is the price for this tour?
The tour costs $52 per person, which includes transportation, guide, and tastings. Entrance fees to some sites are extra.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending around 5:00 pm.

What is included in the cost?
Included are hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, a professional guide, and a tasting at Illanya Hacienda. Lunch is optional and paid separately.

Are there any additional costs I should prepare for?
Yes, entrance fees to sites like Illanya hacienda and the viewpoint are approximately S/3 each, and lunch at Quinta Espinoza costs around S/30.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
It’s best for those without mobility issues, as some sites involve uneven terrain. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
Guides speak Sesotho and Spanish, so knowledge of these languages will enhance your experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, cash for extras, and comfortable clothing.

Is lunch included?
Lunch at Quinta Espinoza is available for S/30 but is not included in the base price.

This tour offers a well-balanced introduction to Abancay’s natural and cultural highlights. For those interested in authentic experiences, scenic landscapes, and the comfort of small groups, it’s a solid choice that captures the spirit of this charming part of Peru.